Journeys in Japan S2015E19 - Shakotan Blue: The Ocean's Beauty and Bounty

The Shakotan Peninsula lies on the west coast of Hokkaido, jutting out into the Sea of Japan. Its rugged coastline is lined with steep cliffs eroded by the waves. Many parts of this scenic peninsula have been designated as part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park. US radio journalist John Matthews discovers the peninsula both on land and by sea. He rides through lush birch woods on his bicycle, and then goes out on a sea kayak to view the dynamic geology of the cliffs. He also explores below the surface, snorkeling in the beautiful sea known for its "Shakotan blue" color. He is welcomed by a family of fishermen, who have lived off the bounty of the sea for several generations. He also meets with a group of divers who have been working in cooperation with the fishermen to protect and restore the seabed and its complex ecosystem.