| population | 4,309 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 286.89 km² |
| population density | 15 peoples/km² |
Located in the eastern part of Hokkaido’s Okhotsk region, Koshimizu Town is a coastal community rich in nature and agricultural heritage. Established during Japan’s Meiji-era development of Hokkaido, the town has since flourished as one of the region’s most productive agricultural areas. Vast farmlands stretch across the landscape, producing potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat, while the coastline faces the beautiful Sea of Okhotsk. Koshimizu is also home to scenic natural attractions such as the Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden and Lake Tofutsu, which offer stunning views throughout the four seasons. The local community remains vibrant, with residents communicating in the Hokkaido dialect and celebrating seasonal festivals such as the “Koshimizu Furusato Festival” and the “Okhotsk Koshimizu Drift Ice Balloon Festival.” Visitors to Koshimizu can experience a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and the warmth of the people, surrounded by the fresh air and abundant landscapes of northern Japan.
Culture and Traditions
Koshimizu Town embodies a lifestyle in harmony with nature. The town’s development began in the late 19th century, and agriculture has remained its economic backbone ever since. Major industries include crop farming and dairy production, with potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat as primary crops. Local dairy farmers supply high-quality milk to the Megmilk Snow Brand Koshimizu Plant, which distributes products across Japan. The community is tightly knit, and regional events play a vital role in strengthening local connections. Residents commonly use the Hokkaido dialect in daily life, creating a friendly and approachable atmosphere. Notable festivals include the Koshimizu Furusato Festival in August and the Okhotsk Koshimizu Drift Ice Balloon Festival in February, where visitors can enjoy food stalls, performances, and hot-air balloon rides. Through these traditions, Koshimizu continues to express its deep connection to both the land and its people, offering a heartwarming cultural experience to all who visit.
Local Specialties
- Koshimizu Potatoes: Renowned throughout Hokkaido for their fluffy texture and natural sweetness. Locally grown potatoes are used in various processed foods such as potato chips and croquettes.
- Sugar Beets: A signature crop of northern Hokkaido, cultivated in Koshimizu’s fertile fields and used to produce Japan’s high-quality beet sugar.
- Milk and Dairy Products: Fresh milk produced by local dairy farmers is collected at the Megmilk Snow Brand Koshimizu Factory. Its rich, creamy flavor represents the freshness of Hokkaido’s environment.
- Scallops: Harvested from the Sea of Okhotsk, Koshimizu’s scallops are thick, sweet, and ideal for grilling or sashimi.
- Koshimizu Rice “Nanatsuboshi”: Grown in clean, mineral-rich water and fertile soil, this premium rice variety is prized for its luster and sticky texture when cooked.
Annual Events
- Okhotsk Koshimizu Drift Ice Balloon Festival (February): One of Japan’s most unique winter festivals, featuring the nation’s largest hot-air balloon “Earth We Love.” Visitors can enjoy rides and illuminated night shows against a snowy backdrop.
- Koshimizu Furusato Festival (August): A lively summer event with fireworks, local cuisine, and traditional Bon dancing. It brings together residents and tourists in a festive celebration of local pride.
- Koshimizu Industry Festival (November): A harvest festival showcasing local produce, dairy products, and seafood. Visitors can meet local producers and experience Koshimizu’s agricultural culture firsthand.
- Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden Opening (June): Marks the start of summer when colorful flowers such as beach roses and lilies bloom across the coastal meadows, attracting photographers and nature lovers alike.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Memanbetsu Airport, about a 40-minute drive from Koshimizu. Rental cars and airport buses are available.
- By Train: The JR Senmō Main Line runs through the town, with stations at Hama-Koshimizu, Shiribetsu, and Genseikaen. Trains connect to Abashiri and Shari.
- By Bus: Operated by Abashiri Bus, routes connect Koshimizu to nearby cities such as Abashiri and Shari. In summer, there are also direct buses to Memanbetsu Airport.
- By Car: Easily accessible via National Routes 244 and 334. Approx. 40 minutes from Abashiri City and 25 minutes from Shari Town. Scenic drives along the Okhotsk coast are highly recommended.
Tourist Attractions
- Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden – A coastal nature park featuring more than 40 wildflower species. Walking trails and observation decks offer panoramic views of both the Sea of Okhotsk and Lake Tofutsu.
- Lake Tofutsu – A Ramsar Convention wetland famous for migratory birds such as swans and red-crowned cranes. Ideal for birdwatching and photography throughout the year.
- Mount Mokoto – Standing 1,000 meters high, this mountain offers breathtaking views of the Okhotsk coastline and surrounding peaks. Popular for hiking in summer and autumn.
- Roadside Station Hanayaka (Hanana-Koshimizu) – A local hub featuring farm produce, souvenirs, and a café. Conveniently located next to Genseikaen Station.
- Koshimizu Town Historical Museum – Exhibits documents and artifacts that trace the town’s development from the pioneering Meiji period to the present day.
