Migratory white-fronted geese peak at Izunuma Pond in Miyagi

The arrival of migratory white-fronted geese has peaked at Izunuma Pond in Miyagi Prefecture, with at least 100,000 birds spotted wintering there this season. The pond, along with adjacent Uchinuma, is registered under the Ramsar Convention on wetlands conservation and is known as one of Japan's largest wintering stopovers for migratory birds.

White-fronted geese soar above Izunuma Pond, which spans the cities of Kurihara and Tome in Miyagi Prefecture, under the morning sunshine. The arrival of these migratory birds is now at its peak, with at least 100,000 spotted wintering there this season.

Izunuma Pond, together with the adjacent Uchinuma Pond, is registered under the Ramsar Convention on wetlands conservation. These ponds are recognized as one of the largest wintering stopovers for migratory birds in Japan. Each year, white-fronted geese migrate from regions like Siberia and Alaska to spend the winter in this area.

This gathering highlights the richness of the wetland ecosystem and serves as a popular spot for birdwatching. Local efforts continue to preserve this natural asset.

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Snowy Tokyo polling station on election day, with bundled voters queuing and workers clearing snow amid falling flakes.
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Heavy snow impacts Japan's lower house election

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A powerful winter pressure system has brought snow to Tokyo and other areas on the day of Japan's House of Representatives election on February 8, 2026, potentially hindering access to polling stations. Local governments are rushing snow removal efforts and delaying voting start times. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported about 3 centimeters of snow in central Tokyo.

As the new year begins, Tsurui Village in Hokkaido is drawing a surge of visitors to see the red-crowned crane, a national Special Natural Monument. On Saturday, about 100 cranes arrived at the Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary, raising their beaks and crying out. Residents and tourists were captivated, saying, “Cranes are auspicious” and “They’re impressive.”

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In Shizuoka City's Sumpu Castle Park, small pink flowers of the early-blooming Toi-zakura cherry trees have reached their peak, signaling an early arrival of spring. Warbling white-eye birds perch and chirp on the branches. On Sunday, many visitors came to the park to enjoy this sight.

An event featuring hellebore flowers, known as the 'ladies of winter,' took place in Shibata, Miyagi Prefecture. Around 700 pots of the plant, cultivated by local farms, were displayed for visitors to admire. Prices were set about 30% lower than market rates.

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Heavy snow lashing Japan's Sea of Japan coast since Tuesday has killed four people in Niigata Prefecture and injured 26 others. The Japan Meteorological Agency warns of continued heavy snowfall, especially in Tohoku and Hokuriku regions, through Saturday.

Bear sightings near human areas in Japan have persisted into the new year, defying the usual winter hibernation period. Reports, mainly from the Tohoku region, include vehicle collisions and property damage such as a broken office window. The Environment Ministry recorded 47,038 Asian black bear sightings nationwide from April to November last year, doubling the previous annual record.

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The Japan Meteorological Agency forecasts warning-level heavy snowfall in mountainous areas and flatlands mainly on the Sea of Japan side from northern to western Japan through around Sunday, due to a continuing strong winter pressure pattern. The agency and the Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ministry issued a joint emergency announcement on Monday, urging caution against public transportation disruptions and refraining from nonessential outings. Akita Shinkansen services have been suspended due to the snow.

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