A single white road stretches straight through lush green meadows.
Following it to the end reveals the deep blue sea...

This incredibly magical landscape is found in Wakkanai, the northernmost city in Japan.
The White Road continues for 3 kilometers, delighting the eyes of all who visit.
How did such a unique road come to be?

And what is the secret behind its white color?
We decided to investigate these intriguing questions.

The White Road is part of the "Soya Hills Course" on the "Wakkanai Footpath."
A footpath is a trail for walking, and "footpath walking" originated in the UK. Footpaths have been developed throughout Hokkaido, and the Wakkanai Footpath was created in the Soya Hills of Wakkanai. The White Road makes up the final 3 kilometers of this Soya Hills Course.
As you walk along the White Road, you'll encounter various sights: a massive wind farm with 57 turbines, Soya Black Cattle grazing peacefully, and delicate alpine plants. Even just experiencing this 3-kilometer path will allow you to fully appreciate the natural splendor of the gently rolling Soya Hills.
Now, for the secret of its white color—a closer look at your feet will reveal the answer. It's made of crushed scallop shells. The scallops harvested in this area are a local specialty, certified as a Wakkanai Brand product. However, their shells had no use and were disposed of as waste. In 2011, in an effort to make effective use of them, the shells were crushed and spread on the path, marking the beginning of the White Road.

(Photo courtesy of Wakkanai Tourist Association)

Spreading the shells not only reduced the strain on walkers' feet but also proved effective in suppressing weeds. Above all, the White Road creates a magical scene and has now become a popular tourist spot. Be sure to add this extraordinary experience to your travel itinerary. However, please note that the road is closed when it snows.

＜Interview Cooperation & Thumbnail Photo Provided by＞
Wakkanai Tourist Association
Location: 1F KITAcolor, 3-6-1 Chuo, Wakkanai, Hokkaido
Phone: 0162-24-1216
Official Website: http://www.welcome.wakkanai.hokkaido.jp