Okushiri Island, floating in the southwest of Hokkaido, is renowned for its stunning blue seas and famous for seafood like sea urchin and abalone. It's often mentioned as one of Hokkaido's remote islands to visit someday. We spoke with Yuki Kojima, an "Onsen Sommelier" who fell in love with Okushiri's great nature and hot springs and moved to the island in 2020, to ask about her personal "treasures" of Okushiri Island.

An Onsen Sommelier's Seal of Approval! The Island's Hidden Hot Spring

A Special "Place": Kamuiwaki Onsen Hoyojo (Municipal Recreation Center)

Accessible by crossing the mountains from the ferry terminal, this is the island's only hidden hot spring with 100% pure, free-flowing spring water. The water temperature is quite high, warming your entire body, making it a perfect "warming bath" for winter with excellent heat-retaining effects. The water quality is a chloride spring containing salt components, but it is also a "Moor" onsen, known as a beautifying bath, which contains plant-derived components.

This onsen truly symbolizes Okushiri Island, blending the essences of the sea (salt) and the mountains (plants). Please enjoy being soothed by the hot spring while gazing out at the sea.

A Famous Restaurant Where You Can Savor the Island's Seasonal Best in Japanese and Italian Styles

A Special "Food": Kano-zushi

This sushi restaurant, located in the island's dining district, is bustling all year round. In addition to the sushi crafted by the master chef, another attraction is the seasonal and limited-quantity dishes featuring ingredients from Okushiri, such as seafood, wild vegetables, and wagyu beef. The chef's son, who has experience training in Italian cuisine and is a certified wine sommelier, offers a popular service of recommending wines that pair well with your meal. Be sure to indulge in Okushiri's gourmet offerings from their extensive menu.

An Island Souvenir Filled with the Passion of a SUP Guide, Thoughtfully Made for the Island

A Special "Souvenir": Guesthouse imacoco

The "Marine Debris Coasters" can be purchased at this community-oriented guesthouse, which offers nature experiences in addition to lodging. The owner, who guides people through the "Okushiri Blue" waters daily, took notice of the marine debris problem and began upcycling ocean plastics.

In addition to the coasters born from marine debris, various other one-of-a-kind items are also a draw. Be sure to look for your very own coaster stamped with "OKUSHIRI"!