Kuki

Herring is the fish once brought Hokkaido the enormous wealth. The coastal area of the Sea of Japan used to bustle with herring fishing　in early spring. However, the thriving herring fishing that began in the middle of 19 century came to an end in 1950s because of the fish's disappearance. No one can tell the exact reason why the herring disappeared. From the past few years, herring began to come to Otaru's shore even though it is very small amount. "Kuki" is the word in Japanese to express the state that the school of herring coming to the shore for spawning. Last week, the media　covered the Kuki at the coast of Otaru. You can tell where the herring is by the color of the sea water that looks like milk. You may happen to see Kuki if you travel by train or bus between Sapporo and Otaru at this time of year. I haven't see it in person yet, though..