Erimo

Erimo is a coastal town in the Horoizumi district of southern Hokkaido, shaped by strong winds and extensive kelp harvesting operations along its shoreline. The landscape is open and windswept, with settlements centered around fishing and seaweed processing activities.

The area was once known as Erimo Desert, a barren zone created by intensive deforestation. A community-led restoration spanning four decades brought back native plants and transformed the landscape.

Kelp harvesting shapes daily life here, with local families continuing traditional methods during the summer months. This work defines the community and its relationship to the sea.

The best way to reach the town is by car via Route 336, known as The Golden Road, taking about four hours from Sapporo or two and a half hours from Obihiro. This road cuts through the area and is the main access route for visitors.

The House of Wind Museum displays how wind patterns shape the area through eight large windows and provides chances to spot Kurile seals resting on nearby rocks. These seals are an unexpected feature of this windswept coast.

Location: Horoizumi district

Inception: April 1, 1906

Reference: 016098

Shares border with: Samani, Hiroo

Website: https://town.erimo.lg.jp

GPS coordinates: 42.01631,143.14842

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:51