Bihoro Town in Hokkaido is surrounded by beautiful nature and possesses the strength to endure harsh winters. With a history from the pioneer era, the spirit of that time still lives on throughout the town. In particular, the opening of Bihoro Pass greatly contributed to the town’s growth and development. The main industry in the town is agriculture, especially the production of dairy products. Life in nature-rich Bihoro allows residents to experience the pleasant changes of the seasons, but in winter, they must endure severe cold. The local dialect features characteristics of Hokkaido dialect, and a lifestyle utilizing local products is widely practiced. Additionally, unique local festivals such as the Bihoro Pass Festival and the Bihoro Onsen Snow Festival are held, conveying their fun and charm to visitors. Bihoro Town, where the warmth of nature and people intersect, has an unforgettable charm that stays with you once you visit. A little away from the town center, vast nature spreads out, offering encounters with wildlife. The local people live in harmony with nature, enjoying dishes made with fresh local products. When you visit this area, you can feel the warmth and sincerity of the people along with the seasonal landscapes.
Culture and Customs
Bihoro Town in Hokkaido has a history from the pioneer era and has grown through the opening of Bihoro Pass. From this history, the town’s industry is mainly supported by agriculture, particularly the production of dairy products. Life in Bihoro Town is surrounded by rich nature, allowing residents to experience its unique landscapes daily. On the other hand, winter brings severe cold, and while enjoying each season, residents must learn to cope with the cold. In Bihoro Town, the Hokkaido dialect is commonly spoken. The cuisine, which utilizes local products, is also distinctive, incorporating the blessings of the region into daily life. Local festivals unique to Bihoro, such as the Bihoro Pass Festival and the Bihoro Onsen Snow Festival, are vibrant and embody the town’s customs and culture, creating unforgettable memories for visiting tourists. Bihoro Town can be said to possess a unique charm through its history, customs, industries, and lifestyle. Don’t miss the dishes made with fresh seafood that reflect the local climate. Additionally, communication among residents is conducted in a local dialect, deepening the bonds within the community.
Local Specialties
- Bihoro Onsen: Bihoro Onsen, located in Bihoro Town, Hokkaido, is loved for its beautiful scenery and high-quality hot spring water. The skin-friendly water quality has received high praise from travelers.
- Salmon and Trout: Bihoro Town is also known as a production area for salmon and trout, making it an essential destination for visitors seeking fresh fish. Among them, the salmon caught in autumn is particularly exquisite.
- Bihoro Timber: Blessed with beautiful nature, Bihoro Town is also a source of high-quality timber, often used in furniture making and construction.
- Bihoro Beer: Gaining popularity with the craft beer boom, Bihoro Beer is characterized by its deep flavor made from barley grown in rich nature.
- Bihoro Azalea: The iconic Bihoro Azalea blooms beautifully from May to June each year. Its beauty is worth seeing.
Annual Events
- Bihoro Onsen Snow Festival: A winter festival held every February at Bihoro Onsen, featuring snow sculpture making and local gourmet food.
- Bihoro Town Spring Festival: Held in May, this local festival gathers stalls from various regions within the town.
- Bihoro Flower Festival: A flower festival held throughout Bihoro Town in June, where the streets are adorned with colorful flowers.
- Bihoro Ohashi Summer Festival: A summer festival held in August at Bihoro Ohashi, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
- Bihoro Town Autumn Festival: A festival in October celebrating the rice harvest, allowing visitors to enjoy the food culture of nature-rich Bihoro Town.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is Asahikawa Airport. It takes about an hour and a half flight from Tokyo to arrive.
- By Train: The nearest station is JR Bihoro Station on the Kushiro Main Line. A train journey from Asahikawa takes about three and a half hours.
- By Bus: There are buses operated by Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa. It takes about four hours to reach Bihoro Town.
- By Rental Car: You can rent a car from Asahikawa Airport and drive for about three hours to reach Bihoro Town.
- By Private Car: Using Route 39 from Asahikawa, it takes about three hours to arrive. Snow measures are necessary during the winter months.
Tourist Attractions
- Bihoro Pass – A scenic spot with beautiful landscapes.
- Bihoro Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by nature.
- Bihoro Dam – A magnificent dam located in the great outdoors.
- Bihoro Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history of Bihoro Town.
- Bihoro Pass Observatory – Offers a panoramic view of the stunning Bihoro Pass.
