Located near the northern extremity of Japan, Hamatonbetsu is the town where the second discoverer lives. The lake and swamp around the town are very important for waterfowl, and this site has been registered with the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramusar Convention). The name also honors the inhabitants of the town, who have supported the astronomical activities of the discoverers. (M 22509; M 22519) _ _.