| Population | 3,920 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 636.88 km² |
| Population Density | 6.16 people/km² |
Oumu Town, located at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido, is a unique area rich in history, industry, lifestyle, dialect, and festivals. Historically, this place was once a thriving center of Ainu culture, and those customs continue to influence the local customs and language today. The primary industry here is fishing, particularly scallop farming, which boasts the largest scale in Japan. The fresh seafood is an essential part of the residents’ diet, making it a place where one can live in harmony with nature. Additionally, local festivals such as the Oumu Onsen Snow Lantern Festival and the Oumu Town Beach Opening Festival are held grandly, allowing visitors to experience the local charm. Let’s experience the allure of Oumu Town in Hokkaido and discover its unique wonders. The Hokkaido dialect spoken by the locals vividly reflects the regional characteristics. Furthermore, during the Edo period, Ainu culture flourished, and its traditions are still passed down today. This unique cultural background leaves a deep impression on visitors, creating unforgettable memories.
Culture and Customs
Oumu Town, located at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido, is a region where rich nature and historical background coexist. Once flourishing during the Edo period, Ainu culture has left its mark on the customs and language that still thrive today. In this town where the Hokkaido dialect is spoken, life in harmony with nature is characteristic, and this lifestyle is reflected in the food culture that incorporates fresh seafood, including the local specialty scallops, into daily meals. Fishing is the main industry in Oumu Town, particularly scallop farming, which is deeply rooted in the lives of the residents. Moreover, if you visit this town, you should definitely experience the local festivals. The “Oumu Onsen Snow Lantern Festival,” which brightens the cold winter, and the “Oumu Town Beach Opening Festival,” which celebrates the arrival of summer, provide a valuable opportunity to feel the culture, customs, and daily life of this area. Additionally, the town’s traditional craft of wood carving is not to be missed. The uniquely designed pieces influenced by Ainu culture make for wonderful souvenirs for visiting tourists. And for a perfect way to relax after a day, Oumu Onsen is highly recommended. You can experience the simple life of Hokkaido while interacting with the locals.
Local Specialties
- Oumu Curry: A special curry made entirely from local products of Oumu Town. It uses plenty of fresh seafood and specialty vegetables.
- Smoked Oysters: Smoked oysters made from the abundant oysters of Oumu Town. The fragrant aroma of the smoke and the umami of the oysters blend perfectly.
- Hokkigai (Surf Clam) Jerky: Jerky made from fresh surf clams. Its flavor and texture are unforgettable once tasted.
- Seafood Set: A set filled with seafood from Oumu Town. Fresh seafood is beautifully arranged, providing a visual delight.
- Oumu Town Norokko Beans: Norokko beans grown in the rich soil of Oumu Town. They are characterized by their flavorful sweetness.
Annual Events
- Oumu Spring Festival: This festival celebrating the arrival of spring is lively with local dishes made from fresh ingredients and parades.
- Oumu Onsen Summer Festival: Held every summer, this festival allows locals and tourists to enjoy Bon Odori dancing together.
- Oumu Autumn Festival: As the harvest season arrives, dishes made from local agricultural products and various entertainment are featured.
- Oumu Winter Festival: This winter festival held in the beautifully snowy Oumu Town features snow sculpture making and snow events.
- World Natural Heritage Symposium: A symposium aimed at protecting the natural environment of Oumu Town, which is home to the World Natural Heritage site of Shiretoko.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is Hakodate Airport. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car from there to Oumu Town.
- By Shinkansen: Take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, and then transfer to a bus or car.
- By Bus: You can access Oumu Town using the Donan Bus Oumu Line. The travel time from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By Car: Use the Dōō Expressway to reach Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto IC, then take National Route 278 to Oumu Town.
- By Ferry: Use the Seikan Ferry from Hakodate Port, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car to Oumu Town.
Tourist Attractions
- Oumu Onsen – A hot spring area where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
- Oumu Cape – A popular spot for beautiful sunsets.
- Sea of Okhotsk – A beautiful sea where drift ice can be seen in winter.
- Oumu Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy flowers in every season.
- Oumu Port – A lively fishing port with fresh seafood.
