By 街撮りch
This walking tour video offers viewers an on-the-ground look at Tomakomai, a significant port city and transportation hub in southern Hokkaido, Japan. The video begins with the creator recounting their journey to Hokkaido via an 18-hour ferry ride, which highlights Tomakomai’s importance as one of the main points of entry to Japan’s northernmost island. Tomakomai Station (苫小牧駅), a key stop for travelers arriving by rail or ferry, serves as the main focal point of this walk.
After filming in Hakodate and traveling through Muroran, the creator spends a weekday in Tomakomai, working from a café near the station before heading out in the evening to explore the local streets. Despite being a Monday—and in contrast to a previous visit during the subdued atmosphere of the COVID-19 pandemic—the city shows more activity than expected. The video captures the presence of street touts and a lively urban environment that marks Tomakomai as a vibrant gateway to Hokkaido.
Along this tour, viewers can expect to see the area surrounding Tomakomai Station, local businesses, and the characteristic ambiance of a Japanese city after dark. The video illustrates how Tomakomai balances its role as both an industrial port and a bustling waypoint for travelers throughout Hokkaido. Also notable are the easily accessible workspaces, like cafés with power outlets, which cater to digital nomads and business travelers.
For those planning to travel to Hokkaido, Tomakomai is strategically located for exploring other regions—such as Hakodate and Muroran—and offers direct connections via ferry and train. The city is known for its seafood, outdoor recreation opportunities, and as an essential entry point to the vast landscapes of Hokkaido.