Deer spotted near polling station in Susukino green space

Hokkaido is home to the **Ezo sika deer**, a subspecies native to Japan’s northernmost island. These deer have lived in Hokkaido for centuries and hold cultural significance, often appearing in Ainu folklore. Today, they are a popular sight in places like Nara Park and Shiretoko National Park, where they roam freely.

“Minami 8 Nishi 1” (南8条西1丁目) is a district in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan, known for its grid layout based on the city’s numbered street system. The area is part of Sapporo’s historic urban planning, developed during the Meiji era (late 19th century) as one of Japan’s first modern planned cities. Today, it is a lively neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural spots, reflecting Sapporo’s blend of tradition and modernity.

Chuo Ward (中央区, *Chūō-ku*) is one of the 23 special wards of Tokyo, Japan, known as the city’s financial and commercial heart. Historically, it was part of the old Edo downtown area and includes famous districts like Ginza (a luxury shopping hub), Tsukiji (former site of the world-famous fish market), and Nihonbashi (a historic merchant district dating back to the 17th century). Today, Chuo Ward blends modern skyscrapers, high-end retail, and traditional cultural sites, reflecting Tokyo’s dynamic past and present.

Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost prefecture, and is famous for its annual Snow Festival, beer industry, and vibrant urban culture. Founded in 1868 during the Meiji Restoration, it developed rapidly as a modern city and hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics. Key attractions include Sapporo Beer Museum, Odori Park, and the historic Clock Tower, reflecting its blend of modernity and tradition.