| population | 2,763 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 225.11 km² |
| population density | 12.3 peoples/km² |
Nestled in the northern part of the Kamikawa region of Hokkaido, Wassamu Town lies at the southern edge of the Nayoro Basin, surrounded by gentle hills and pristine natural scenery. This small rural community is famous for its extremely cold winters, often appearing on national weather reports as one of Japan’s coldest places. Influenced by Ainu heritage and developed through Meiji-era pioneers, Wassamu has built a lifestyle rooted in harmony with nature. Agriculture is the foundation of the local economy, particularly the production of winter-stored cabbages and pumpkins, which are celebrated throughout Japan for their sweetness and freshness. With rich farmland, clear air, and vibrant seasonal festivals, Wassamu embodies the authentic charm of rural Hokkaido—a place where nature and people coexist beautifully.
Culture and Traditions
The culture of Wassamu reflects both the spiritual heritage of the Ainu people and the endurance of settlers who braved Hokkaido’s harsh winters. The town’s residents live in close connection with nature, following a rhythm shaped by the four distinct seasons. Agriculture defines daily life, and the cold climate has inspired unique crops such as winter cabbages—stored under snow to enhance their sweetness—and pumpkins, which thrive in the fertile soil.
The local dialect, part of the broader Hokkaido linguistic culture, is warm and expressive, reflecting the hospitality of the townspeople. Annual festivals such as the “Don’tokoi! Wassamu Summer Festival” and the “Wassamu Extreme Cold Festival” bring the community together in joyful celebration. Visitors can experience traditional foods, performances, and winter sports that highlight the region’s strong cultural identity. Wassamu’s harmony between agriculture, nature, and community spirit creates a distinct way of life that continues to inspire visitors from across Japan.
Local Specialties
- Winter-stored Cabbage: The town’s signature product, these cabbages are stored under snow during winter, developing a rich sweetness and tender texture. They are a must-try local delicacy available at markets and winter festivals.
- Pumpkins: Wassamu is Japan’s leading pumpkin producer by acreage. Its pumpkins are famous for their natural sweetness and firm texture, celebrated annually during the Wassamu Pumpkin Festival.
- Mushrooms: Together with neighboring Aibetsu, Wassamu is one of Kamikawa’s key mushroom producers. Locally cultivated shimeji, nameko, and maitake mushrooms are widely used in regional dishes.
- Wassamu Rice: Developed from cold-resistant varieties, this rice is known for its plump grains and subtle fragrance—an agricultural success story born from perseverance in a northern climate.
- Wassamu Farmers Market: View on Google Maps. A popular roadside market offering fresh vegetables, pumpkins, cabbages, onions, and other local products. Handmade foods and souvenirs highlight the town’s rich agricultural culture.
Annual Events
- Mikasayama Night Cherry Blossom Festival: Held in mid-May at Mikasayama Fureai no Mori. Visitors enjoy cherry blossoms under lights while savoring grilled “Jingisukan” lamb barbecue.
- Don’tokoi! Wassamu Summer Festival: Takes place on the last Sunday of July. Families gather to enjoy games, kabutomushi (rhinoceros beetle) fishing, local food stalls, and live performances.
- Wassamu Pumpkin Festival: Celebrated in early October at Mikasayama Park, featuring pumpkin lantern carving, stage shows, and a farmers’ market of local produce.
- Wassamu Shrine Annual Festival: Wassamu Shrine hosts this event every August 24–26, including sacred dances, mikoshi (portable shrine) processions, and traditional ceremonies.
- Wassamu Extreme Cold Festival: A unique winter event held in early February. Featuring snow sculptures, sledding, “cabbage-eating contests,” and local dishes like hotpot and grilled skewers. A perfect showcase of how Wassamu celebrates its frigid winters.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Asahikawa Airport. The town is about 1.5 hours away by car or bus.
- By Train: JR Wassamu Station on the Sōya Main Line provides direct access from Asahikawa (approx. 1 hour).
- By Bus: The “Express Nayoro” bus line connects Sapporo and Wassamu, stopping at the central Wassamu Bus Stop.
- By Car: Accessible via the Wassamu Interchange on the Dōō Expressway. About 1 hour from Asahikawa via National Route 40.
- By Bicycle: Touring cyclists can enjoy scenic routes through gentle hills and farmlands between Nayoro and Wassamu.
Tourist Attractions
- Minamioka Forest Park – A peaceful recreation area featuring canoeing, camping grounds, and walking trails amid lush greenery.
- Mikasayama Nature Park – Offers motocross tracks, playgrounds, a children’s park, and a park golf course, making it a favorite for families.
- Shiokari Pass Memorial Museum (Ayako Miura House) – Dedicated to the author of the novel “Shiokari Pass.” A literary landmark for visitors interested in Hokkaido’s history and faith.
- Wassamu Higashiyama Ski Area – A local ski hill known for nurturing Japan’s top cross-country ski athletes. Also hosts summer hill climb races.
- Wassamu Local History Museum (D51 Steam Locomotive) – Features a preserved D51 locomotive and exhibits on the town’s railway and agricultural heritage.
