Hokkaido's vast landscapes are home to a rich natural environment, teeming with a diverse array of life. This inspired us to launch a new series, "Hokkaido's Miniature Marvels of Nature." From the perspective of a still and video photographer who travels all over Hokkaido, we'll introduce you to the great outdoors of Hokkaido and the wildlife that inhabits it.

Our first feature is the orca, also known as the killer whale. In the Ainu language, orcas are called "Repun Kamuy," which means "God of the Open Sea."

Hokkaido offers many opportunities to see wild orcas. They can be spotted off the coasts of Tomakomai, Kushiro, and Abashiri, but they are most commonly seen in the waters of Rausu (the Nemuro Strait). In Rausu, you can go whale watching on tour boats from around spring to summer each year. The photos in this article were also taken in the seas of Rausu.

The town of Rausu visible in the distance

Do you imagine orcas as "ferocious creatures" that attack large whales and mammals? While some orcas do have this side to them, research has revealed that there are various types: some prefer whales, some prefer marine mammals, and others prefer fish. In the seas of Rausu, orcas have been observed swimming alongside minke whales, making predatory moves towards seabirds, and even carrying whales in their mouths. This suggests that various types of orcas migrate through these waters.

An orca surfacing to breathe

Depending on the sunlight, their blow (breath) can sometimes look like a rainbow

This behavior is called spy-hopping. Perhaps the orcas are observing us humans?

A jump called breaching. It's not a very common sight.

The circle of life in this remote corner of Hokkaido is something you can only understand by going there. If you're intrigued by the idea of an encounter in the seas of Rausu, try searching for "Rausu whale watching"!