Black-tailed Gulls of Hachinohe

- 1 min read
Umineko - Black-tailed Gull

Umineko - Black-tailed Gull

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.