The oldest temple in the east of Hokkaido, Kokutaiji, is nestled on Barasan Cape. The reason why the temple has been famous for its cherry blossoms since ancient times may be due to the fact that Cape Barasan protected the temple from the wind and waves of the North Sea.
Barasan means "wide fence" in Ainu language, and is also said to mean "a trap called Hiraodoshi for catching wild beasts". Legend has it that because the rock formations on this cape resemble a heiawase, demons were kept away from the tribe on Atsukishi.
To reach Barasan Cape, climb up from the premises of Kokutai-ji Temple. The view from the cape is excellent, but be careful as the road is rough.