This detailed walking tour documents a June 2025 visit to Muroran Station (室蘭駅), a significant stop in the southern region of Hokkaido, Japan. The video is part of a broader journey around Hokkaido that began with a lengthy 18-hour ferry ride arriving in Tomakomai, one of the island’s key industrial towns and transport hubs. The filmmaker’s trip also included a stop in Hakodate—the southernmost point of Hokkaido—before arriving in Muroran for this tour.

Muroran, located on the coast and known for its industrial heritage, presents a much quieter side in this walking tour. The video captures the subdued ambiance around Muroran Station, highlighting a few students waiting for trains and an overall sense of emptiness. Despite being early evening, the surrounding streets—including the local drinking district—feature only a handful of locals, painting a picture of tranquil everyday life that is noticeably more subdued than typical city scenes elsewhere in Japan.

What stands out is the visible change in Muroran’s cityscape over recent years, as commented on by the filmmaker. Several buildings that existed on the last visit four years prior have now been demolished, with others appearing abandoned or falling into disrepair. The local shopping street, a core feature of many Japanese towns, feels particularly desolate, contributing to an impression of urban decline often seen in regional cities facing population shifts.

For travelers interested in Hokkaido beyond its famous tourist spots, Muroran offers a real look at the day-to-day life and challenges of regional Japan. The proximity to Tomakomai and Hakodate makes Muroran a practical stop for those exploring southern Hokkaido, especially for railway enthusiasts and those seeking a less crowded, more contemplative urban experience. Although the streets are quieter and some areas are in decline, traditional izakaya and local establishments still provide insight into the enduring resilience of this port city.