Harbor Seals
Observe Harbor Seals in Their Habitat at Cape Erimo
Cape Erimo is home to one of Japan’s largest resident populations of harbor seals, which can be observed throughout the year.
Cape Erimo, located at the southern tip of Erimo Town, is home to about 1,000 harbor seals inhabiting its rocky reefs. They can be observed year-round on the rocks extending from the cliffs, which also serve as a resting area for the seals. The species takes its Japanese name, “Zenigata,” from the coin-like markings on its body.
From the observation deck at the Cape Erimo Wind Museum, visitors can use the installed telescopes to observe the seals resting on the reefs. From spring to early summer, the seals enter their birthing season, and pups can be seen moving with their mothers on the rocks. Seasonal changes in their behavior and ecology can also be observed.
While concerns were once raised over population decline due to environmental changes, numbers have recovered through long-term conservation efforts. At Cape Erimo, visitors can learn about the ecology of harbor seals in their natural environment, the history of local conservation and coexistence efforts, and the relationship between wildlife and nature.
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- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒058-0343
- Address
- 北海道幌泉郡えりも町字東洋366-3
- Telephone Number
- 01466-3-1133（Cape Erimo Wind Museum）
- Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
