Russian interpreter Oshima Tsuyoshi, 69, focuses on training the next generation in Sapporo.

Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan, known for its modern urban design and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival. Originally developed in the late 19th century as a planned city under the guidance of American advisors, it has grown from a small settlement into a major cultural and economic hub. Key attractions include the Sapporo Beer Museum, Odori Park, and the historic Clock Tower, which reflect the city’s blend of Western and Japanese influences.

The Northern Territories, also known as the Kuril Islands dispute, refers to a group of four islands—Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai Islets—located off the coast of Hokkaido, Japan. Historically, Japan claimed sovereignty over these islands until they were seized by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II in 1945, leading to a territorial dispute that continues to this day. The unresolved issue has prevented the signing of a formal peace treaty between Japan and Russia.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, has a distinct history as a frontier region, originally inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before Japanese colonization began in earnest during the Meiji era (late 19th century). Known for its vast natural landscapes, national parks, and cold winters, it developed through agriculture, mining, and tourism. Today, Hokkaido is famous for its ski resorts, lavender fields, and seafood, blending modern culture with its unique natural heritage.

Sapporo is the capital city of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, and is known for its modern urban planning and natural beauty. Originally an Ainu settlement, it was developed by Japanese colonists in the late 19th century, inspired by Western grid-style city layouts. The city gained international fame for hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics and is celebrated for its annual Sapporo Snow Festival, beer, and ramen.

The Northern Territories, also known as the Kuril Islands dispute, refers to a group of four islands claimed by both Russia and Japan. The islands were annexed by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II in 1945, and the dispute has prevented the two countries from signing a formal peace treaty. The ongoing territorial disagreement remains a significant issue in Russo-Japanese relations.

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island, was historically known as Ezo and was primarily inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people before large-scale Japanese settlement began in the late 19th century during the Meiji era. Its development accelerated after the establishment of the Hokkaido Development Commission in 1869, which transformed the region through agriculture, mining, and infrastructure projects. Today, Hokkaido is renowned for its natural beauty, including national parks, ski resorts, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival.</div