On March 12, 2025, Yoshizumi Ishihara takes viewers on yet another exhilarating adventure through Japan's stunning landscapes as he hosts the latest episode of the television show "Zawatsuku! Kin曜日." This time, he embarks on the fourth installment of his "business trip travel" project, aptly named "Zawatsuku! Kin曜日 Shucchojo Yoshizumi to Sekai Isan Shiretoko no Kai." Ishihara visits Shiretoko, recognized as "Japan's Last Secret Frontier" and designated as a World Natural Heritage site since 2005.
Located at the northernmost reaches of Japan, Shiretoko is characterized by its breathtaking landscapes which prominently feature untouched forests and diverse ecosystems. Ishihara, sharing his adoration for the region, walks through snow-covered terrains, experiencing the blend of snow, sea, and the forest. He captures not just the raw beauty of Shiretoko, but also the unique charm of the area's frozen scenery.
This trip marks the first time Ishihara has visited Shiretoko during the winter season since he filmed there for a drama nearly 37 years ago. His excitement is palpable as he recounts the thrill of witnessing extraordinary natural phenomena. Among the highlights of the show is the elusive “drift ice gyre” phenomenon, which is rarely observed, with Ishihara noting it has only been captured on camera about twice before.
With great anticipation, Ishihara boards a Cessna plane for the unique opportunity to document drifting ice swirling counterclockwise, creating mesmerizing whirlpools on the Sea of Okhotsk. He is clearly captivated, exclaiming, "I never get tired of watching it!" as he shares the stunning footage of this remarkable occurrence.
While Ishihara basks in the atmospheric beauty of the region, he also encounters some environmental anomalies. He expresses concern about the absence of drift ice reaching the shores of Shiretoko, noting the unusual weather patterns observed during his late-February visit, when the sea is typically blanketed with drift ice starting from January.
Throughout the episode, Ishihara shares anecdotes and historical insights, enhancing the viewer's connection to Shiretoko. He visits notable landmarks including the "Road to Heaven," admired for its scenic beauty, and reflects on heritage sites like the unmanned station used as the backdrop for the famous movie "Abashiri Prison," featuring actor Ken Takakura.
Perhaps one of the most nostalgic moments for Ishihara surfaces during discussions about his late uncle, the famed actor Yujiro Ishihara. He fondly recalls how his uncle was often associated with rain, playfully dubbing it “Yujiro's rain” whenever the weather would turn gloomy upon his arrival. This personal story adds warmth and relatability to the natural wonders surrounding him.
Concluding the episode, Ishihara reflects gravely on the impacts of climate change. He highlights the need for awareness, as he notes, "This flow of ice shapes the nature of the Sea of Okhotsk and Shiretoko, but if it starts to be disrupted, I find it terrifying.” His passionate remarks offer viewers not only beautiful scenery but also encourage them to ponder the environmental shifts happening around them.
The program, “Zawatsuku! Kin曜日 Shucchojo Yoshizumi to Sekai Isan Shiretoko no Kai,” is airing from 7:00 to 9:00 PM on TV-Asahi, tantalizing audiences with its visual feast and rich storytelling. Fans of the show can also catch past series on platforms like TVer and TELASA.