In the far northern land of Hokkaido, Higashikawa Town. This town, rich in history since the pioneer era and revitalized by the opening of the railway in the Taisho era, boasts a quiet rural landscape where agriculture remains the main industry. The local specialties, soybeans and potatoes, are flavorful products born from the harsh cold and short summers. Life in this nature-rich town allows residents to enjoy the seasonal beauty, with skiing becoming popular in winter. Additionally, the local dialect influenced by Hokkaido’s unique culture and customs reflects the history of pioneering. Furthermore, festivals such as the soybean festival in summer and the snow festival in winter are held as part of community revitalization, showcasing the town’s charm. Higashikawa Town captivates visitors with its history, culture, and rich nature coexisting harmoniously. The lives of the people here are colored by agricultural work and interactions with nature throughout the seasons, and by utilizing the local dialect for communication, they deepen community bonds. Various festivals are held throughout the year, offering enjoyment that highlights the characteristics of each season. These combined elements create a lifestyle that deeply attracts visitors, making them want to set foot in this land.
Culture and Customs
Higashikawa Town in Hokkaido retains strong remnants of the pioneer era. Although urbanization has progressed since the opening of the railway in the Taisho era, agriculture still plays a major role in the local economy. In particular, soybeans and potatoes are representative local specialties, and the “Summer Soybean Festival,” which celebrates their abundance, is a major event enjoyed not only by locals but also by tourists. In this town, rich in natural environment, one can enjoy the seasonal landscapes, especially in winter when skiing is popular and the “Winter Snow Festival” attracts many tourists. Thus, the lives of the townspeople are intertwined with nature, and as a result of valuing the sense of the seasons, unique customs and culture have taken root here. Language is also one of these aspects, featuring unique vocabulary and expressions that reflect the history of pioneering while being influenced by the Hokkaido dialect. These words serve as a mirror reflecting the hearts of the local people and provide visitors with clues to deeply appreciate the charm of the area. We will continue to share the allure of Higashikawa Town through our blog. Additionally, there are many traditional festivals and events that evoke the town’s history, seamlessly blending into the lives of the local people. These provide visitors with a valuable opportunity to directly experience the local atmosphere.
Local Specialties
- Hokkaido Soybeans from Higashikawa Town: The soybeans grown in this area are large and sweet, thanks to the rich soil and cool climate, and are used in various processed products such as tofu and natto.
- Herbs from Higashikawa Town: Grown using the high altitude and pure air, these herbs are highly valued for their aroma and efficacy, and are processed into soaps and tea bags for sale locally.
- Higashikawa Agricultural Products Direct Sales Center “Agricultural Products Ichiba”: A direct sales center where fresh local vegetables and fruits gather, allowing visitors to taste the town’s specialties all in one place.
- Higashikawa Onsen: A natural hot spring with flowing spring water, known as a relaxing spot after skiing or snowboarding in winter.
- Landscape Photo Collection of Higashikawa Town: A popular specialty featuring a collection of landscape photographs showcasing the beautiful scenery of Higashikawa Town throughout the year.
Annual Events
- Daisetsuzan Winter Mountain Festival: Held every February, this event offers various snow mountain experiences and workshops, enjoyable for beginners to advanced participants.
- Spring Festival: Held during the Golden Week in May, visitors can enjoy local ingredients while appreciating the fresh greenery of Daisetsuzan. Local performances are also showcased.
- Higashikawa Music Festival: A summer music festival where artists from all over the country gather, allowing attendees to enjoy music and nature across various genres.
- Daisetsuzan Autumn Foliage Festival: Held during the autumn foliage season from September to October, visitors can admire the beautiful autumn colors of Daisetsuzan. The nighttime illumination is also a highlight.
- Higashikawa Onsen Snow Light: Held in winter, this event features countless candles placed on the snow, creating a fantastical snowy landscape that warms the winter nights.
Access Methods
- By Air: Approximately a 2-hour drive from New Chitose Airport by rental car or bus. There are many direct flights from major cities, making it convenient.
- By Bus: Accessible from Sapporo Station via Hokkaido Chuo Bus, taking about 2 hours to reach Higashikawa Town. The number of buses varies by time of day.
- By Train: Travel from JR New Chitose Station to Asahikawa by limited express train, then take a bus to Higashikawa Town. Enjoy the scenery from the train window.
- By Car: About a 2-hour drive from Sapporo City and about 1 hour from Asahikawa City. Using the Doto Expressway is convenient.
- By Bicycle: It is also possible to access Higashikawa Town while cycling along nature-rich roads. However, it is recommended for those confident in their distance and stamina.
Tourist Attractions
- Daisetsuzan – A representative mountain of Hokkaido. Enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
- Biei Hills – A landscape of Biei’s artistic works spreads across the hills.
- Biei Art Museum – A museum displaying works of Biei’s artistic creations. Enjoy beautiful scenery.
- Blue Pond – A mysterious blue pond that has also inspired Biei’s artistic works.
- Charle – A farm with beautiful scenery that has also inspired Biei’s artistic works.
