Ishon

Ishon (いしょん冐; i-shon-sha) is a village located in Katouko-do, Shinsu Prefecture. As of 2018, it has an estimated population of around 3,000. It is known for being a secluded and isolated place, especially in winter, when heavy snow can block roads and prevent residents from leaving the village.

Ishon-sha was originally part of a larger settlement, Isuda-wan; the town became underpopulated and eventually devolved into a singular village.

Historically, the residents of Ishon has relied on fishing for self-sustainment. In recent years, the village has seen a major drop in population as its younger residents move to larger, urban areas such as Haiwa and Akadan; in this way the traditional skills and crafts of the area are slowly being lost. Nowadays, Ishon's main source of income comes from its small, mostly privately-owned fish-farming businesses.