Welcome to Bifuka Town in Hokkaido, where you can experience the remnants of the pioneering era that opened up this untamed land, including the opening of Bifuka Station, which tells the story of its history. Bifuka Town is primarily an agricultural area, particularly known for its thriving dairy farming. The people here love to live in harmony with nature and enjoy the seasonal landscapes. Additionally, when you talk to the locals, you will notice the influence of the Hokkaido dialect. Within this, you can see the spirit of perseverance and pioneering that has been passed down from their ancestors. By participating in local festivals such as the Bifuka Snow Lantern Festival and the Bifuka Summer Festival, you can interact with the people of the area and gain a deeper understanding of the community. Furthermore, the town is dotted with restaurants and cafes that make use of delicious locally sourced ingredients, inviting visitors on a culinary journey. Bifuka Town also boasts facilities for enjoying nature, such as Bifuka Forest Park and Bifuka Ski Resort, making it a great recommendation for outdoor enthusiasts.
Culture and Customs
Bifuka Town, as its name suggests, is a place in Hokkaido that deeply impresses with its beauty. It still retains strong remnants of the pioneering era, and the opening of Bifuka Station has improved transportation access. The local industry is primarily agriculture, which endures the harsh cold, especially thriving in dairy farming. Residents lead lives in harmony with nature and enjoy the seasonal landscapes. Here, the Japanese language is influenced by the Hokkaido dialect, but what stands out even more is the spirit of pioneering. They inherit the strength to survive in a harsh natural environment and a heart of gratitude for the rich natural resources. The festivals in Bifuka Town also reflect this spirit. The “Bifuka Snow Lantern Festival,” held every February, elegantly decorates the town with lanterns made of snow. In summer, the “Bifuka Summer Festival” takes place, attracting many people from inside and outside the town to enjoy the arrival of summer. Bifuka Town is a beautiful place where the spirit of pioneering and respect for nature thrive. Its charm is sure to captivate all who visit. The landscapes allow for full enjoyment of the beauty of each season. In the harsh winter, the snowy scenery adorns the town, while in spring, summer, and autumn, the rich agricultural products color the area, and the residents live in harmony with nature, receiving the blessings of each season.
Local Specialties
- Bifuka Daikon: A large, white radish particularly produced in Bifuka Town. It is resistant to cold, sweet, and used in stews and as grated radish.
- Bifuka Salmon: Salmon caught in the rivers around Bifuka Town is highly valued locally for its freshness and high-quality fat content.
- Bifuka Rice: Rice grown in the cold and fresh air of Hokkaido is known for its large grains and strong sweetness.
- Bifuka Melon: Melons grown in Hokkaido have high sugar content due to long hours of sunlight and cool nights.
- Bifuka Wine: Wine made from local grapes is characterized by its rich flavor and smooth texture, gaining support from wine enthusiasts.
Annual Events
- Bifuka Snow Festival: Held in January, this festival allows local residents and tourists to enjoy making snow sculptures together.
- Bifuka Safari Park Opening Festival: Held in May, this special day allows close observation of natural monuments like the large-horned sheep.
- Vegetable Day Festival: Held in July, featuring sales of fresh local vegetables and cooking classes.
- Bifuka Town Cultural Festival: Held in September, showcasing local culture and arts through exhibitions and performances.
- Winter Stargazing Event: Held in December, allowing participants to enjoy the beautiful starry sky of Bifuka Town with expert commentary.
Access Methods
- By Air: Direct flights operate from all over the country to New Chitose Airport. From the airport, you can travel to Bifuka Town by express bus or train.
- By Train: The nearest station is Bifuka Station on the JR Soya Main Line. Taking the limited express “Soya” from Sapporo takes about 4 hours.
- By Bus: There are also express buses that go directly from New Chitose Airport to Bifuka, taking about 4.5 hours.
- By Car: You can access Bifuka Town via the Dōō Expressway and the Dōhoku Expressway. Traveling by car offers high flexibility and allows for nearby sightseeing.
- By Ferry: Ferries operate from Tomakomai Port to Wakkanai Port, and from Wakkanai, you can travel to Bifuka Town by car or bus. This is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy sightseeing in Hokkaido from the sea.
Tourist Attractions
- Bifuka Town Bifuka Art Museum – An art museum showcasing works by local artists.
- Bifuka Ski Resort – A ski resort enjoyable for beginners to advanced skiers.
- Bifuka Town Library – A public library where you can learn about local culture.
- Bifuka Town Rural Park – A vast park where you can enjoy nature.
- Bifuka Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history of Bifuka Town.
