Betsukai Town, located at the eastern edge of Hokkaido, is known for its vast dairy farming areas and abundant natural resources. With an area exceeding 1,320 km², it is the third largest town in Japan by land area. Much of the terrain consists of gentle hills and plains, developed into expansive pastures. Today, more than 110,000 cows—about eight times the human population—are raised here, making Betsukai the leading producer of raw milk in Japan. Along the coastal areas such as Odaitō, fishing is a vital industry, with salmon, scallops, and Hokkai shrimp among the main catches. The town also retains strong cultural ties to the indigenous Ainu people, with many place names and traditions reflecting this heritage. Natural attractions such as Notsuke Peninsula and Lake Furen draw visitors year-round. Combining agriculture, fisheries, culture, and breathtaking scenery, Betsukai represents the essence of Hokkaido’s charm.
Culture and Traditions
Betsukai Town preserves a unique blend of Ainu heritage and settler culture from the early development of Hokkaido. The town’s name is believed to derive from the Ainu word “pet-kai,” meaning “bend in the river,” referring to the curves of the Nishibetsu River. Many Ainu-origin place names remain today, reflecting the deep respect for rivers and natural landscapes.
Dairy farming, the backbone of Betsukai’s economy, developed rapidly in the 1950s with support from the World Bank through the “Nokkon Pilot Farm Project,” transforming the region into one of Japan’s largest dairy areas. Meanwhile, fishing along the coast of Odaitō remains central, with specialties such as Hokkai shrimp and scallops. Local festivals like the “Odaitō Shrimp Festival” and “Shellfish Gathering Festival” celebrate this marine bounty, drawing both residents and tourists.
In winter, the “Bekkai Snow Festival” showcases the town’s heavy snowfall with large snow sculptures and community events. The use of Hokkaido dialect in daily life and the continued influence of Ainu culture give the town its distinct identity. Betsukai is a place where tradition and modern life coexist, offering visitors a chance to experience both cultural depth and natural beauty.
Local Specialties
- Betsukai Milk and Dairy Products: With an annual raw milk output of over 430,000 tons, the town leads Japan in dairy production. Butter, ice cream, and cheese made from local milk are highly regarded. The “Betsukai Dairy Industry Association” provides milk for schools and welfare programs.
- Hokkai Shrimp: Harvested in Odaitō during summer, these prized shrimp are known as “phantom shrimp” for their limited availability and rich flavor.
- Scallops: Grown in the cold northern seas, Betsukai scallops are thick and sweet, enjoyed raw as sashimi or grilled with butter.
- Salmon (Aki-aji): Returning in autumn, salmon is one of Betsukai’s most iconic fish. The “Nishibetsu River Salmon Festival” offers fresh salmon dishes and local products.
- Dairy-based Sweets: Soft-serve ice cream and pudding made from Betsukai milk are popular with tourists.
Annual Events
- Betsukai Odaitō Shellfish Gathering Festival (May–June):
A family-friendly event where visitors can gather clams such as surf clams and asari directly from the shore. - Odaitō Shrimp Festival (late June):
Celebrates Hokkai shrimp with seafood stalls, open-air grilling, and local entertainment. - Betsukai Industry Festival (mid-September):
Features agricultural and dairy products, with local foods and exhibitions showcasing the town’s industries. - Nishibetsu River Salmon Festival (mid-October):
Marks the autumn salmon run with fresh salmon dishes and community festivities. - Bekkai Snow Festival (February):
Winter celebrations featuring snow statues, ice slides, and local food stalls.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport, with direct flights from Tokyo (Haneda). The town center is about 50 minutes by car from the airport.
- By Bus: Nemuro Kotsu and Akan Bus operate routes connecting Betsukai with Nakashibetsu, Kushiro, and Sapporo. The overnight highway bus “Aurora-go” links Sapporo with Betsukai.
- By Car: About 2.5 hours from Kushiro and approximately 6 hours from Sapporo. National Routes 243 and 244 serve as main highways.
Tourist Attractions
- Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center – Gateway to the Hokkaido Heritage sites Todowara and Narawara. Offers visitor information and guided tours.
- Lake Furen – A Ramsar wetland home to migratory birds. Ideal for birdwatching and nature walks.
- Roadside Station Odaitō – Provides panoramic views of Notsuke Peninsula and Kunashiri Island, along with local specialty shops.
- Oku-yukiusu Ekitei Station – A designated cultural property showcasing Hokkaido’s pioneer history.
- Betsukai Town Museum – Exhibits Ainu heritage, local history, and artifacts from the development era.
