We would like to introduce the charming town of Hamatonbetsu in Hokkaido. Since its founding in 1880, this town has undergone many changes. After reaching its peak in the 1950s, the town has now become active in industries centered around dairy farming, and agriculture has also become a significant industry not to be overlooked. One of the attractions is the simple and nature-rich lifestyle, with an abundance of seafood that allows you to enjoy fresh flavors. The local people speak the Hokkaido dialect and actively participate in local festivals and events. In particular, the Hamatonbetsu Onsen Snow Festival and the Hamatonbetsu Citizens’ Festival are not to be missed. Throughout the year, you can feel the charm of the town alongside its diverse landscapes. We will convey the allure of Hamatonbetsu to you, so please enjoy it to the fullest. Additionally, there are old buildings that evoke the town’s history and various natural landscapes scattered throughout, allowing visitors to experience the seasonal beauty. Don’t miss out on the gourmet food made from locally sourced fresh ingredients. We invite you to visit Hamatonbetsu, a town filled with these attractions.
Culture and Customs
Hamatonbetsu in Hokkaido was founded in 1880 and reached its peak in the 1950s. Dairy farming is thriving, with many dairy farmers scattered throughout the area, making fresh dairy products a local specialty. Agriculture is also one of the main industries, allowing you to enjoy seasonal flavors throughout the year. The living environment is rich in nature, and seafood is abundant. Local restaurants offer dishes made with fresh seafood. Meanwhile, the Hokkaido dialect is predominant, and the town is vibrant with local festivals and events. In particular, the Hamatonbetsu Citizens’ Festival and the Hamatonbetsu Onsen Snow Festival are cherished events where you can experience the town’s culture. At the Hamatonbetsu Onsen Snow Festival, snow sculptures are displayed, allowing you to enjoy beautiful sights. Thus, Hamatonbetsu is a town where nature and people’s lives are closely intertwined, filled with regional charm. We will continue to promote the allure of Hamatonbetsu. Among the local people, the culture of “ama,” or sea women who harvest the blessings of the sea, is passed down, and their way of life offers fresh surprises to visiting travelers. Additionally, you can see buildings that evoke the town’s history and paintings depicting seasonal landscapes, providing deep emotional experiences for visitors.
Local Specialties
- Hamatonbetsu Melon: A melon unique to Hamatonbetsu, characterized by its sweetness and aroma. It is cherished as a summer delicacy and is popular as a gift.
- Hamatonbetsu Milk: Fresh Hamatonbetsu milk produced by local dairy farmers. It is extracted from dairy cows raised in beautiful nature and a clean environment.
- Hamatonbetsu Seafood: Fresh seafood such as scallops and crabs delivered directly from the production area. The local seafood is of high quality and is recognized for its deliciousness nationwide.
- Hamatonbetsu Soybeans: Locally grown soybeans known for their rich flavor and nutrition, nurtured in a climate with significant temperature differences.
- Hamatonbetsu Wine: Wine made from locally produced grapes. It is a flavorful wine born from grapes grown in Hokkaido’s unique climate.
Annual Events
- Hamatonbetsu Winter Festival: Held every February, featuring ice sculptures and snow art displayed throughout the town. It is an event enjoyable for both children and adults.
- Akasha Festival: Held on the first Saturday of May, during the peak bloom of the natural monument Akasha flowers, featuring local product sales and entertainment.
- Hamatonbetsu Summer Festival: Held in August, where you can enjoy summer festivities such as fireworks and community dances.
- Hamatonbetsu Coming-of-Age Ceremony: An event where new adults gather to celebrate their transition into adulthood, deepening community bonds.
- Hamatonbetsu Hometown Festival: Held every November, featuring local specialty sales and tastings of local gourmet food, packed with regional charm.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is Asahikawa Airport, which has direct flights from across the country. From the airport, you can reach Hamatonbetsu by rental car or taxi.
- By Shinkansen/Train: Travel by JR Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, then take the limited express train “Super Okhotsk” to Hamatonbetsu Station.
- By Bus: Hokkaido Chuo Bus operates from Asahikawa City, taking about 3 hours to reach Hamatonbetsu. Note that there are only a few buses per day.
- By Car: Head north on the Dōō Expressway, passing through the Asahikawa-Muroran Expressway to reach Hamatonbetsu. It takes about 5 hours of driving.
- By Ferry: Ferries operate from Tokyo and Yokohama to Hakodate. From Hakodate, you can use trains or buses to reach Hamatonbetsu.
Tourist Attractions
- Garinko II – A large sightseeing icebreaker where you can enjoy drifting ice tourism.
- Kitan no Ebisu Shrine – A historic shrine located in the center of Hamatonbetsu.
- Hamatonbetsu Onsen – A hot spring area where you can enjoy views of the beautiful sea.
- Okhotsk Tower – An observation tower with a panoramic view of the Sea of Okhotsk.
- Hamatonbetsu Town Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the town’s history and culture.
