Shintoku Town, a quiet gem in Hokkaido. This area was developed during the Meiji era and once thrived as a settlement for the Ainu people. Today, it is known for its active agriculture, particularly famous ski resorts that are loved by tourists. However, the charm of Shintoku Town goes beyond that. The residents coexist with nature and form a strong community. The Hokkaido dialect is spoken, and seasonal festivals and events have become the local culture of Shintoku Town. In summer, a spectacular fireworks festival is held, and in winter, a snow festival takes place, providing year-round enjoyment. We introduce you to a familiar aspect of Japan through the rustic charm and warm community of Shintoku Town. Among the agricultural products of this region, tomatoes are particularly noted for their vibrant color and sweetness, making them popular not only among locals but also with tourists visiting from afar. Additionally, the people of Shintoku Town deepen their community bonds through seasonal festivals and events while cherishing coexistence with nature, passing down the region’s history and culture to the next generation.
Culture and Customs
Shintoku Town in Hokkaido is a region where life coexists with rich nature. It was developed during the Meiji era and was once known as a settlement for the Ainu people. Currently, Shintoku Town is active in agriculture, particularly known for its delicious rice and vegetables. Moreover, the winter ski resorts are famous, attracting tourists from all over the country in search of fresh snow. The charm lies in experiencing the magnificent nature of Shintoku Town while enjoying skiing. The lifestyle is closely connected to nature, and a strong community is bonded together to overcome the long winter. Additionally, a unique Hokkaido dialect is spoken in Shintoku Town, allowing visitors to feel the warmth of the local people. Seasonal festivals and events are actively held in Shintoku Town. Particularly in summer, a large-scale fireworks festival is held, and in winter, the entire town comes alive with a snow festival. These festivals represent the unity of the Shintoku Town community and convey its charm to visiting tourists. Shintoku Town is a wonderful place where one can feel the depth of community bonds and a life lived in harmony with nature. The lives of the people living there are deeply intertwined with the seasonal landscapes. Furthermore, the regional characteristics have given rise to a unique dialect that adds color to the daily conversations of the locals.
Local Specialties
- Shintoku Sheep Farm: A representative sheep farm in Hokkaido, offering fresh lamb and opportunities to interact with animals.
- Shintoku Town Wine: Wine produced from grapes unique to Shintoku Town, characterized by its distinctive flavor and popular among locals.
- Shintoku Town Timber: Producing and selling high-quality timber from Hokkaido, used for construction materials and furniture manufacturing.
- Vegetables from Shintoku Town: Vegetables grown in cold climates are rich in nutrients and have a rich flavor, with potatoes and cabbages being particularly popular.
- Diamond Dust from Shintoku Town: The diamond dust phenomenon, visible in winter in Shintoku Town, is a natural spectacle where fine ice crystals dance and shine, making it a tourist attraction.
Annual Events
- Shintoku Festival: A summer festival held every August, where traditional cultural activities such as Bon Odori and fireworks can be enjoyed.
- Northern Cross-Country Race: A ski competition where runners from both domestic and international backgrounds gather to enjoy the snowy landscape.
- Sakura Festival: Celebrating the arrival of spring, held at cherry blossom spots within Shintoku Town. The sight of pink petals dancing in the wind is breathtaking.
- Shintoku River Salmon Festival: Celebrating the arrival of autumn with the salmon run. An event where fresh salmon caught locally can be enjoyed.
- Shintoku Snow Festival: A festival to enjoy winter in Shintoku, filled with winter-specific activities such as snow sculpture making and snowmobile experiences.
Access Methods
- Flights from New Chitose Airport: Numerous flights are available to New Chitose Airport from all over Japan. The journey from New Chitose Airport to Shintoku Town takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- Train Travel: From New Chitose Airport, take the JR New Chitose Airport Line to Sapporo Station, and then transfer to the JR Nemuro Main Line to reach Shintoku Station.
- Bus Travel: Direct express buses from New Chitose Airport to Shintoku Town are also available, taking approximately 3 hours.
- Car Rental: There are many car rental companies at New Chitose Airport, allowing for flexible travel. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to drive to Shintoku Town.
- Taxi Use: Taxis can also be used from New Chitose Airport. However, the fare can be high, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Tourist Attractions
- Shintoku Onsen – A hot spring area that can be enjoyed in a nature-rich environment.
- Kamui Mintara Park – A park where beautiful scenery and nature can be enjoyed.
- Shintoku Ski Resort – A popular ski resort where powder snow can be enjoyed.
- Tokachidake Onsen – A hot spring with beautiful mountain scenery.
- Shintoku Town Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Shintoku Town.
