In 1980, eight-meter-long, four-ton sea cow fossils were discovered in the riverbed of the Sorachi River. As you walk along the banks of the Sorachi River, it might be good to imagine a sea cow swimming leisurely in the Takikawa River 5 million years ago, when it was still an ocean.
The Takikawa sea cow’s skeletal specimen is on display at Takikawa Museum of Art and Natural History in Takikawa City. Please check the opening information before going to see it.
If you drive for about 20 minutes from here to the hilly area of Ebeotsu, you can see canola fields in full bloom. The contrast with the snow-covered mountains of the Shokanbetsu mountain range is fantastic.
Why don’t you visit the Ebetsu Shrine? You will be greeted by cute komainu (guardian dogs) smiling at you.

Information board of the fossils discovery site

The Sorachi River in spring, dazzling with fresh greenery

I can’t help but wonder if this is where the fossils were found

Shokanbetsu mountain range with lingering snow and canola fields

Let’s enjoy this beautiful scenery with moderation to protect it

Isn’t it cute? It helps me relax

Ebeotsu Shrine and laughing komainu