| 人口 | 56,262人 |
|---|---|
| 面積 | 119.05 km² |
| 人口密度 | 473 人/km² |
Kitahiroshima City in Hokkaido is located between Sapporo and New Chitose Airport, offering excellent accessibility and surrounded by rolling hills and rich natural landscapes. Although the city itself was officially established in 1996, its origins date back to 1884 when settlers from Hiroshima Prefecture founded “Hiroshima Village.” Since then, agriculture, dairy farming, and manufacturing have played central roles in its development. Today, Kitahiroshima serves as both a residential area within the Sapporo metropolitan region and a growing tourist destination.
With just a 15-minute train ride from New Chitose Airport, Kitahiroshima attracts both new residents and visitors. Winters bring heavy snow, making snow clearing a daily routine, while summers are refreshing and ideal for farming and outdoor activities. In 2023, the opening of “ES CON Field HOKKAIDO,” the new home stadium of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, further boosted the city’s appeal as a hub for tourism and leisure. Blending history with modern development, Kitahiroshima is a city filled with future potential.
Culture & Traditions
Kitahiroshima traces its roots to the Hiroshima immigrants who settled here in 1884. With the city’s incorporation in 1996, it has continued to grow as a key community adjacent to Sapporo. Winters are marked by heavy snow and daily snow clearing, reflecting the distinct lifestyle of northern Japan. Local dialects of Hokkaido can still be heard, adding to the region’s cultural character.
Annual events are a major part of community life. The “Kitahiroshima Fureai Snow Festival” in February features snow and ice sculptures as well as fun winter activities. In summer, the “Kitahiroshima Furusato Festival” brings together food stalls, stage performances, and fireworks, drawing large crowds. The city also hosts sports events such as the “Tour de Kitahiro” cycling race and the “Kitahiroshima 30 km Road Race.”
Another cultural highlight is the Old Shimamatsu Station, where Dr. William S. Clark famously declared “Boys, be ambitious!” before leaving Sapporo Agricultural College. This mix of historical heritage and vibrant modern culture continues to shape Kitahiroshima’s identity.
Local Specialties
- Akage Rice: Kitahiroshima is the birthplace of rice cultivation in Hokkaido, with the historic success of red-haired rice. Today, high-quality brands such as “Hirokko Taishi” are produced locally.
- Maruhiro Daikon: A local variety of radish known for its large size and juicy freshness, often used in pickles and simmered dishes.
- Local Sake “Taishi (Ambitious)”: Brewed using rice produced in Kitahiroshima, symbolizing the city’s agricultural tradition.
- Fresh Vegetables: Cabbage, onions, and asparagus are widely grown, and can be purchased at local farm stands and direct-sale markets.
- Dairy Products: With nearby dairy farming, cheese and yogurt are popular items showcasing Hokkaido’s rich flavors.
Annual Events
- Kitahiroshima Fureai Snow Festival (February): Features large snow and ice sculptures, with activities for families and visitors to enjoy.
- Spring Events: Cherry blossom viewing and outdoor gatherings take place in local parks, welcoming the new season.
- Kitahiroshima Furusato Festival (August): The city’s largest summer festival, including food stalls, traditional dance, stage shows, and fireworks.
- Sports Events (June–September): The “Tour de Kitahiro” cycling event and the “30 km Road Race” highlight the city’s active lifestyle.
- Kitahiroshima Cultural Festival (November): Local residents present arts, crafts, music, and performances, celebrating regional creativity.
Access
- Air: New Chitose Airport is only 15–30 minutes away by train or car.
- Train: The JR Hokkaido Chitose Line stops at Kitahiroshima Station, 20 minutes from Sapporo and 15 minutes from New Chitose Airport.
- Bus: Hokkaido Chuo Bus and JR Hokkaido Bus operate routes connecting the city with Sapporo and Chitose.
- Car: Accessible via the Kitahiroshima Interchange and Watsu Smart IC on the Hokkaido Expressway.
- Taxi: Direct taxis are available from both New Chitose Airport and Sapporo city center.
Sightseeing Spots
- Old Shimamatsu Station – Historic site where Dr. Clark delivered his famous words of inspiration.
- ES CON Field HOKKAIDO – The new home stadium of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, part of the Hokkaido Ballpark F Village.
- Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima – The largest outlet shopping mall in Hokkaido.
- Kururu no Mori – Agricultural experience facility with hands-on farming and fresh produce markets.
- Kitahiroshima Recreation Forest – A forest park ideal for hiking, picnics, and outdoor activities.
- Kitahiroshima Nature Forest Campground – A popular camping site for families and outdoor lovers.
- Takeyama Kogen Onsen – A hot spring surrounded by seasonal landscapes.
- Dynasty Ski Resort – A ski area catering to both beginners and advanced skiers.
