Black-tailed Gulls of Hachinohe
The Aomori Shrine Where “Umineko” Soar is a recent episode from an NHK series entitled Document 72 Hours.
These gulls, known in Japanese as Umineko – ‘sea cats’ – due to their cat-like calls, return every year to nest around Kabushima Shrine in Hachinohe, Japan. In this half-hour program, locals and visitors to the shrine reflect on what the gulls mean to them.
Despite getting a bit corny at times, there are some profound and moving moments that may surprise you.
I found it so refreshing to witness people showing empathy and respect toward gulls. It’s not something I see much of here in Vancouver.
Check it out if you’ve got half and hour to spare, but take note that it’s only available until December 12th, 2023.
I recommend taking a look at some of the other episodes from Document 72 Hours, there are some charming and eccentric topics.