| Population | 3,482 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 110.63 km² |
| Population Density | 31.47 people/km² |
Welcome to Shikabe Town in Hokkaido, Japan, where beautiful nature and history come alive. This area is heavily influenced by Ainu culture and has a rich history of development from the Meiji era. The main industry is agriculture, particularly dairy farming. Daily life is luxuriously intertwined with rich nature, enjoying fresh seafood for personal consumption. The locals speak the Hokkaido dialect and are enthusiastic about preserving Ainu culture. Throughout the year, various festivals are held, with the “Shikabe Town Summer Festival” and seafood festivals being particularly popular among residents and tourists. Let me introduce you to the charming Shikabe Town. “Shikabe Mountain,” which offers a panoramic view of the town, is known as a scenic spot for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Additionally, the “Shikabe Town Ainu Cultural Museum,” which displays traditional Ainu crafts, conveys the depth of Ainu culture to visitors. Furthermore, there are restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with local agricultural products, allowing visitors to experience the town’s charm through all five senses.
Culture and Customs
Shikabe Town in Hokkaido is an attractive town that retains a strong influence of Ainu culture and has a history of development since the Meiji era. The main industry in the town is agriculture, with dairy farming being particularly active. Fresh milk and dairy products are a source of local pride, and their deliciousness is known nationwide. Moreover, living in harmony with nature is the norm here. Fresh seafood obtained from the sea is enjoyed as part of daily life, which is reflected in the local food culture. The Hokkaido dialect used by the locals and the preservation of Ainu culture form the region’s identity, enhancing the uniqueness of Shikabe Town. Various festivals are held throughout the year, with the Shikabe Town Summer Festival and seafood festivals being particularly noteworthy. These festivals deepen community bonds and nurture the town’s culture and community. Shikabe Town is a region where rich nature, history, and culture thrive. Its charm captivates visitors, making it a place they want to return to time and again. Additionally, the lives of the townspeople are deeply connected to the seasonal landscapes, with the rich nature of each season adding color to their lives. There are also many museums and historical buildings where visitors can learn about the town’s history and culture, leaving a profound impression on those who visit.
Local Specialties
- Shikabe Town Radish: A radish characterized by its crunchy texture and sweetness, produced in this region’s unique cool climate.
- Shikabe Milk: Fresh milk produced from cows raised in Shikabe Town. It is delicious whether consumed directly or used in cooking.
- Shikabe Honey: Fragrant honey harvested from the rich natural environment around Shikabe Town. It is also popular as a health food.
- Shikabe Mountain Vegetables: In spring, bamboo shoots and wild vegetables are abundant, while in autumn, mushrooms are plentiful.
- Shikabe Wine: Wine made from 100% grapes grown in Shikabe Town. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in cooking.
Annual Events
- Shikabe Local Festival: Held every July, this festival showcases local traditional culture and performing arts, widely introducing the charm of the area to tourists.
- Genghis Khan Festival: Held every August, this event allows visitors to enjoy Hokkaido’s famous Genghis Khan dish, paired with delicious local ingredients from Shikabe Town.
- New Rice Thanksgiving Festival: Held every October, this event celebrates the harvest of new rice, allowing visitors to enjoy dishes made with locally produced new rice.
- Shikabe Snow Festival: Held every February, this event decorates the town with snow sculptures and illuminations, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of winter in Shikabe.
- Cherry Blossom Festival: Held every April at Shikabe Town’s famous cherry blossom spots, visitors can enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms with the arrival of spring.
Access Methods
- Bus from New Chitose Airport: Direct route buses operate from New Chitose Airport to Shikabe Town. Travel time is approximately 2 hours.
- Bus from JR Tomakomai Station: Direct buses operate from Tomakomai Station to Shikabe Town. The travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- Car: About 1 hour by car from Sapporo City. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from New Chitose Airport, accessible via major roads.
- Taxi: Taxis are also available from New Chitose Airport. However, be aware that the fare can be high.
- Rental Car: There are many rental car shops around New Chitose Airport and Tomakomai Station, allowing for flexible travel.
Tourist Attractions
- Shikabe Town Local Museum – A museum where you can learn about local history and culture.
- Shikabe Town Coastal Park – A park where you can enjoy beautiful coastlines and playground equipment.
- Shikabe Town Rural Park – A place to enjoy seasonal flowers and nature.
- Shikabe Town Nature Experience Park – A park where you can play while interacting with nature.
- Shikabe Town Onsen – A hot spring with skin-beautifying effects where you can relax.
