Hanasaki Lighthouse Kurumaishi

A massive and unusual rock formation on a cape at Nemuro’s Hanasaki Port, known for Hanasaki crab. The stone, which reaches up to 6 meters in diameter, is basalt with a radial jointing structure, and its distinctive wheel-like shape has the powerful presence of an artwork. This kind of shape and size is rare worldwide and is designated a National Natural Monument. Smaller “kurumaishi” stones measuring 1–3 meters in diameter are also scattered around, so take a walk along the maintained wooden path and have a look.

Hanasaki Lighthouse, where the stone is located, is a historic lighthouse first lit in 1890, and the current lighthouse features a red-and-white two-tone color scheme and a square form. From the cape, you can take in views of Hanasaki Port—one of Japan’s top fishing ports by catch—and the rough waves of the Pacific Ocean. At Hanasaki Port, salmon, trout, and Pacific saury fishing boats come and go, and it’s fun to see the lively fishing harbor. On a clear day, you can also look out from the cape toward Yururi Island, a breeding ground for the tufted puffin.