Cape Erimo, located in Erimo Town, Hokkaido, is often associated with the memorable phrase "The spring with nothing" from Shinichi Mori's song. This cape attracts tourists from various prefectures who come to witness the breathtaking scenery that evokes a sense of being at the end of the earth.
Known for its strong winds blowing at speeds of 10 m/s or more for over 260 days a year, Cape Erimo features tourist facilities like the Wind Museum and the Erimo Cape Tourism Center. Additionally, visitors can spot spotted seals resting along the nearby coastline, offering a glimpse of their adorable appearances.
A monument dedicated to the song Cape Erimo also stands on the cape, allowing visitors to feel as though they are stepping into the world described in its lyrics.
This time, we will introduce the charm of Cape Erimo, how to access it, and the gourmet and sightseeing spots around the area.
Location and Access to Cape Erimo
Cape Erimo is approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport via the Hidaka Expressway and National Route 235 (refer to the map above). If traveling by highway bus from Sapporo, you will need to transfer at Urakawa and Samani. From New Chitose Airport, transfers are required at Tomakomai and Shizunai. However, if using highway buses, even if you leave early in the morning, you may not arrive until late afternoon. It is recommended to find a hotel in the Shizunai or Urakawa area for an overnight stay.
Alternatively, you can also access Cape Erimo from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport. It is approximately 102 km from the airport, taking about 2 hours to reach the cape.
Head to the Tip of Cape Erimo
If you’ve made it all the way to Cape Erimo, it’s highly recommended to venture to its very tip. As the endpoint of the Hidaka Mountain Range, you’ll witness a stretch of rocky reefs extending for 2 kilometers. This breathtaking view truly gives you the feeling of standing at the edge of Hokkaido.
The Cape Erimo Lighthouse Watching Over Passing Ships
Built in 1889, the Cape Erimo Lighthouse is recognized as one of the "50 Best Lighthouses in Japan." It ensures the safety of ships navigating the frequently foggy waters off Cape Erimo. Standing 13.7 meters tall, the lighthouse's beam reaches as far as 41 kilometers.
Two Song Monuments Standing Side by Side
There are two songs titled "Cape Erimo," and both have monuments at this site. The monument on the left was erected in 1997 for Shinichi Mori's "Cape Erimo," while the one on the right, established in 1971, is dedicated to Chiyoko Shimakura's "Cape Erimo.
If You Visit Erimo, Stop by the Wind Museum
Located near the song monuments at Cape Erimo, the "Wind Museum" is a must-see attraction. The highlight is an experience corner where you can feel the powerful winds that define Cape Erimo, often described as the "extreme of wind." The exhibition area offers insights into Erimo's reforestation projects and the wildlife inhabiting Erimo Town. There’s also a section where you can observe seals via monitors.
Additionally, original goods exclusive to Erimo are popular among visitors, as noted in reviews.
Name: Cape Erimo "Wind Museum"
Address: 366-3 Toyo, Erimo Town, Horoizumi District, Hokkaido
Official Website: https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kaze/
Winter Closure: Closed during December, January, and February (except New Year's Day).
Admission Fee: Adults: 300 yen, Elementary/Junior/High School Students: 200 yen, Preschool Children: Free
Stop by the Erimo Cape Tourism Center
Located in front of the bus stop for Hiroo and Samani routes, the "Erimo Cape Tourism Center" offers delicious menu items such as sea urchin rice bowls and seafood ramen. Among the unique options is the "Mystery Ramen," where the ingredients are a surprise.
The center also has a wide variety of souvenirs, making it a satisfying stop for visitors.
Name: Erimo Cape Tourism Center
Address: 181 Erimo Cape, Erimo Town, Horoizumi District, Hokkaido
Recommended Nearby Sightseeing Spot: Toyoni Lake
Located off a side road as you travel toward Obihiro from Cape Erimo, Toyoni Lake is a heart-shaped lake when viewed from above. Since 2015, helicopter tours have been offered in the autumn, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning combination of vibrant fall foliage and the uniquely heart-shaped lake. This experience has received high praise in reviews for its beauty.
Recommended Nearby Sightseeing Spots: Yushun Sakura Road and Nijukken Cherry Tree Avenue
The Hidaka region of Hokkaido is famous not only for thoroughbred horses but also for its cherry blossoms. Two major attractions are the "Yushun Sakura Road" in Urakawa Town, which features over 1,000 cherry trees spanning about 3 kilometers, and the "Nijukken Cherry Tree Avenue" in Shinhidaka Town (Shizunai).
These cherry blossoms, heralding the arrival of spring in the north, attract visitors from all over Japan, including those from outside Hokkaido, who travel specifically to see them.
A Cape That Heals Sorrow
As described in the lyrics of Shinichi Mori's song Cape Erimo, the cape is often referred to as having nothing. However, this can also be interpreted as a place where all sadness thrown into the metaphorical fireplace has been completely burned away, leaving "nothing" behind.
Cape Erimo's winds seem to carry away the struggles and sorrows of daily life. It’s a destination worth visiting to experience this sense of renewal for yourself.