Sardines and mackerels blanket beach in Hokkaido; local fishermen shocked

Sardines and mackerels are seen washed up on a beach in Hakodate, Hokkaido, on Dec 7. - PHOTO: THE JAPAN NEWS/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK

HAKODATE, Hokkaido (Japan News/ANN): Thousands of sardines and mackerels washed up ashore near Toi fishing port in Hakodate, Hokkaido, confirmed a city official on the morning of Dec 7. It has prompted speculation that the fish was suddenly deprived of oxygen.

The Hakodate city government and the Hokkaido prefectural government are investigating the cause and considering how to clear away the fish.