Road signs are something we see every day without much thought. Among them, the “Animal Crossing” sign (officially, “Animals May Jump Out”) varies in design depending on the region. A peculiar sign in a certain Hokkaido town has become a hot topic.

Recreating “A Herd of Deer Stampeding Out”

This impressive sign, featuring four deer jumping out, makes you do a double-take. It is installed on National Route 240, which runs through Akan-cho in Kushiro City, Hokkaido. While the first animal crossing sign is common in Hokkaido, the one with four deer crowded together truly conveys the imminent danger of a “herd of deer stampeding out.”

The post received voices of surprise and agreement, with comments like, “That's definitely accurate,” “They come in herds,” and “This is no laughing matter.” The last comment is a pun in Japanese, playing on the words “shika” (deer) and “shikatanai” (it can't be helped).

Not Just Deer! Rare Regional Animal Crossing Signs

Hokkaido has other impressive animal crossing signs as well.

A sign depicting a red fox and a green tanuki (raccoon dog)! This sign, reminiscent of a certain famous brand of cup noodles, can be seen on the northbound Do-O Expressway, near the Takikawa IC.

It seems there are many other designs unique to nature-rich Hokkaido. When you're driving, you might have the extra fun of spotting a sign you've never seen before!