| population | 30,764 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 444.21 km² |
| population density | 69.3 peoples/km² |
Date City, located along Uchiura Bay in southern Hokkaido, is a place that captivates everyone who visits. With its mild climate, rich natural surroundings, and deep historical roots, the city has developed into a unique blend of cultures. It was once inhabited by the indigenous Ainu people, who lived in harmony with nature, and later became home to settlers from the Date clan of Sendai during the Meiji era. Today, Date thrives as a hub of agriculture, dairy farming, fisheries, and tourism. Visitors are drawn to its scenic landscapes, including Mount Usu and Showa-shinzan, its relaxing hot springs such as Otaki and Kitayuzawa, and cultural attractions like Umegrove Park, famous for its 30,000 plum trees. With its mix of history, culture, food, and natural beauty, Date City offers a truly rewarding experience for both residents and travelers.
Culture & Traditions
The culture of Date City is deeply influenced by the Ainu heritage as well as the traditions brought by settlers from the Date clan of the Tohoku region. The Ainu left behind place names and customs that remain woven into daily life, while the 19th-century settlers introduced advanced agricultural techniques and established a community that prospered in the fertile lands of southern Hokkaido. This fusion of cultures created a unique regional identity, reflected in the city’s dialect, customs, and festivals.
Local festivals embody this blend of history and nature. The Date Samurai Festival in August is the largest event of the year, featuring a spectacular warrior parade with people in armor and performances of matchlock gun firing. In winter, the Date Snow Festival brightens the season with snow sculptures, ice displays, and delicious local foods. In spring, the Plum Festival celebrates the blooming of tens of thousands of plum trees at Umegrove Park, while in autumn the Agricultural Festival showcases the city’s abundant harvest. These events highlight how Date citizens continue to live in harmony with nature, honoring both their history and their environment.
Local Specialties
- Date Vegetables: Fresh produce such as tomatoes, spinach, and lettuce grown in the fertile volcanic soil and mild climate. Known for their sweetness and quality, they are shipped throughout Hokkaido and beyond.
- Date Rice: High-quality rice cultivated in fertile paddies along Uchiura Bay. Its sweet, firm grains make it a popular choice in households and restaurants alike.
- Date Wine: Produced from grapes grown in volcanic soils around Mount Usu. The wines have a rich aroma and complex flavors, attracting wine enthusiasts and tourists to local wineries.
- Date Dairy Products: Fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt from local dairy farms are prized for their rich taste and creamy texture.
- Seafood: The nearby bay provides scallops, surf clams, and hairy crabs, which are celebrated for their freshness and served at local markets and eateries.
Annual Events
- Date Samurai Festival: Held every August, featuring a warrior parade in full armor, matchlock gun demonstrations, and historical performances. A must-see cultural highlight.
- Date Snow Festival: Every February, the city is decorated with snow and ice sculptures. Visitors can enjoy winter activities and local cuisine.
- Plum Festival: From late April to early May, Umegrove Park bursts into bloom with about 30,000 plum trees, making it one of the largest plum groves in Hokkaido.
- Date Agricultural Festival: Held in September, this event celebrates the harvest season with local produce, food stalls, and farm experiences.
- Mount Usu Disaster Prevention Festival: A unique event dedicated to learning about the eruptions of Mount Usu and promoting disaster awareness through exhibits and workshops.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, about 1.5 hours from Date by car.
- By Train: JR Muroran Main Line serves Date-Mombetsu Station. It takes around 1.5 hours from Sapporo by limited express.
- By Car: Easily accessible via the Hokkaido Expressway, with the Date IC providing direct access to the city. About 2 hours from Sapporo.
- By Bus: Highway buses connect Date with Sapporo, Muroran, and other major cities.
Tourist Attractions
- Mount Usu – An active volcano with a ropeway offering panoramic views of its crater and Lake Toya.
- Showa-shinzan – A volcanic lava dome formed in 1944, now designated a Special Natural Monument.
- Otaki Onsen – A hot spring resort surrounded by forests, known for its healing waters and quiet atmosphere.
- Kitayuzawa Onsen – A popular hot spring area with diverse mineral waters and scenic riverside views.
- Date Umegrove Park – Home to 30,000 plum trees, it becomes one of Hokkaido’s most beautiful flower-viewing spots each spring.
