Hokkaido, the land of snow and ice, is a place that many Japanese people simply cannot bear to live in. And let me tell you, I don’t blame them one bit.
First off, the climate is just plain unbearable. Imagine waking up to temperatures that are colder than your ex’s heart. That’s what it’s like in Hokkaido. Just to put things in perspective, the average lowest temperature in Naha, Okinawa is a balmy 20.8℃, while in Tokyo it’s a chilly 13℃. But in Asahikawa, Hokkaido? A teeth-chattering 2.7℃. And that’s just the average. It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop well below freezing in the winter. And let’s not forget about the snow. Oh, the snow. It falls from the sky like a never-ending blizzard, burying everything in its path. It’s like living in the middle of a winter wonderland, except it’s not so wonderful when you can’t feel your toes.
But it’s not just the cold that makes Hokkaido a tough place to live. It’s also the fact that it’s located “across the sea” from the rest of Japan. What does that mean exactly? Well, for starters, it means that if you want to order something online, you’re going to have to fork over extra money for shipping because they have to send it to you by air. And if you want to visit your family or friends in other parts of the country, you’re looking at a long and grueling journey. It’s like living in the boondocks, except the boondocks are an entire island.
And let’s not forget about the fact that Hokkaido is the countryside. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “But wait, isn’t that a good thing? Fresh air, open spaces, and all that?” Well, yes, it is a good thing. But the problem is that the countryside is suffering from an outflow of young people. Everywhere you look, you see empty houses and deserted streets. And it’s not just in Hokkaido, it’s happening all over the world. Young people are moving to the cities in droves, leaving the countryside to wither and die. And there’s no reason to think that Hokkaido will be any different.
So there you have it, folks. The three main reasons why Japanese people are reluctant to settle in Hokkaido. The cold, the isolation, and the lack of opportunities. It’s a harsh and unforgiving land, and I for one am happy to stay far away from it. But hey, if you’re into that sort of thing, then by all means, knock yourself out. Just make sure to pack a heavy coat and a good pair of thermal socks.
