| population | 5,631 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 259.19 km² |
| population density | 21.7 peoples/km² |
Welcome to Shihoro Town, located in the northern part of the Tokachi region of Hokkaido. This town was developed during the Meiji era by settlers from Gifu Prefecture, and its pioneering spirit still lives on today. The town center is traversed by the Otofuke River, and its fertile plains—part of the vast Tokachi Plain—support extensive agricultural activity. Agriculture is the backbone of Shihoro’s economy, with potatoes, wheat, sugar beets, and dairy products among its major outputs. The town is also home to large-scale processing facilities such as starch plants, potato chip factories, and Shihoro beef feed centers, which sustain its regional industry.
Life in Shihoro revolves around harmony with nature. Each season brings a distinct charm—from the lush green fields of summer to the snow-covered landscapes of winter. Local residents cherish strong community ties, expressed through seasonal festivals and cooperative events that reflect their deep connection to the land. Shihoro is a place where nature, history, and the warmth of people coexist beautifully.
Culture and Traditions
Shihoro Town preserves the pioneering spirit of its ancestors while fostering a vibrant and cooperative community culture. Rooted in agriculture, many of its traditions revolve around harvest celebrations and community gatherings that strengthen local bonds.
The “Shihorocchi Summer Festival” and the “Shihoro Harvest Festival” are highlights of the year, featuring stalls with local produce, live performances, and activities for all ages. In winter, the “Shihoro Winter Festival” transforms the town into a snowy wonderland, with snow sculptures, illuminations, and fireworks lighting up the cold nights.
The local dialect, influenced by the Hokkaido vernacular, gives conversations a warm and familiar tone. Visitors can also experience traditional farming culture at the Shihoro Traditional Agriculture Heritage Museum (Mino House), where old farming tools and household items from the early settlement period are displayed. Local cuisine is another expression of this heritage, with dishes featuring Shihoro’s potatoes, cheese, and other fresh ingredients served in restaurants and roadside stations throughout the town.
Local Specialties
- Potatoes: Shihoro’s potatoes thrive in the mineral-rich soil of Tokachi. They are known for their high starch content and natural sweetness. Locally processed products such as potato chips are popular souvenirs.
- Shihoro Beef: This premium local beef is raised on the vast grasslands surrounding the town. Its tender texture and rich flavor make it a favorite at restaurants and at Michi-no-Eki Pia 21 Shihoro.
- Cheese and Dairy Products: Fresh milk, butter, and cheese produced by the Shihoro Agricultural Cooperative (JA Shihoro) are renowned for their quality and freshness, embodying the flavor of Tokachi.
- Mini Tomatoes: The long daylight hours and large temperature difference between day and night create a perfectly balanced sweetness and acidity in Shihoro’s tomatoes. They are sold fresh at local farmers’ markets.
- Sea Buckthorn (Seaberry): A rare fruit rich in vitamin C, grown in the cool Hokkaido climate. It is often processed into juice and jam and valued for its health benefits.
Annual Events
- Shihoro Winter Festival: Held every February, this festival features snow sculptures, ice candles, and a fireworks display that brighten the long winter nights.
- Shihorocchi Summer Festival: Taking place in late July or August, this lively festival includes Bon dances, food stalls, and live music, uniting the entire community.
- Shihoro 7000-Person Festival: A unique community event that gathers residents for group activities and performances, emphasizing unity and teamwork.
- Shihoro Harvest Festival: Held in October, this celebration showcases local agricultural products, stage events, and tasting booths featuring autumn delicacies.
- Hotaru Firefly Festival at Nupuka no Sato: Early summer brings the magical sight of fireflies dancing over the fields—an event beloved by families and photographers alike.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Obihiro Airport, about 90 minutes by car from central Shihoro.
- By Train: There are no railway lines in Shihoro today. The nearest station is JR Obihiro Station, accessible via bus or car from the town.
- By Bus: Tokachi Bus and Takushoku Bus operate regular routes connecting Obihiro and Shihoro. The ride takes about one hour.
- By Car: From the Doto Expressway (Otofuke-Obihiro IC), take Route 241 north for approximately 40 minutes. The drive offers scenic views of the Tokachi Plains.
Tourist Attractions
- Shihoro Onsen Plaza Ryokufu (Michi-no-Eki Shihoro Onsen) – A natural hot spring resort with both day-use and lodging options. The in-house restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients.
- Nupuka no Sato Highland – Located at the foot of Mt. Higashi-Nupukausi-Nupuri, this scenic area offers cottages, campsites, and panoramic views of the Tokachi Plains.
- Michi-no-Eki Pia 21 Shihoro – A popular roadside station selling local produce, sweets, and souvenirs. It also serves as an information center for travelers.
- Shihoro Traditional Agriculture Heritage Museum (Mino House) – Exhibits traditional farming tools and household goods, showcasing the agricultural history and the sister-city relationship with Mino, Gifu Prefecture.
- Shihoro Seiryu Park Golf Course – A riverside park golf course along the Otofuke River, open to locals and visitors alike.
