Suttsu Town, located at the edges of Hokkaido, is a small town overflowing with multifaceted attractions such as its history, culture, industry, lifestyle, language, customs, and festivals. Heavily influenced by Ainu culture, the town has developed unique industries such as seafood processing and agriculture, nurtured by its history centered around fishing. Additionally, the lifestyle that coexists with nature is reflected in the local diet that utilizes local seafood. The regional dialect of Hokkaido and Ainu cultural customs intersect, enhancing the town’s vibrancy through festivals like the Suttsu Shrine Grand Festival and the Suttsu Port Festival. The more you learn about this town’s depth, the more you will surely be drawn to its charm. Furthermore, visitors to the town will be moved by its beautiful landscapes and rich nature. The scenery changes with the seasons, fresh air flows, and wildlife lives freely, making it an ideal place to refresh both body and mind away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The warmth and kindness of the townspeople, along with local dishes and sweets that can only be tasted here, also delight visitors.
Culture and Customs
Suttsu Town in Hokkaido is a region where rich nature and history intersect. The town’s history dates back to the era influenced by Ainu culture and thriving fishing. Seafood processing and agriculture have flourished as major industries, and a lifestyle coexisting with nature is maintained. The diet of the townspeople often features seafood, with an abundance of fresh local catches available. Suttsu Town is home to unique customs and culture. The Hokkaido dialect spoken by the locals can be seen as part of the town’s identity. Additionally, Ainu cultural practices are also part of the town, with their influence evident in food culture and religious ceremonies. The town’s festivals vividly express its regional characteristics. The Suttsu Shrine Grand Festival and the Suttsu Port Festival are popular events among travelers visiting the town. These festivals celebrate abundance and strengthen the bonds among the townspeople. Suttsu Town boasts a diverse landscape woven from nature, history, and culture. Be sure to experience its charm. Furthermore, the winter snow festival, which can be considered a symbol of the town, evokes the strong bonds and vitality of the locals who overcome the harsh cold. The community center, which serves as a place for local children to learn traditional crafts, plays an important role in passing down the region’s culture to the next generation.
Local Specialties
- Suttsu Sōta Bonito: The larger bonito caught in Suttsu Town is called “Sōta Bonito.” Its thick, fatty flesh is a pride of Suttsu Town.
- Suttsu Scallops: Suttsu Town is also known as a scallop-producing area. Especially, fresh scallops are packed with sweetness and umami, allowing you to enjoy the bounty of the sea.
- Suttsu Seaweed: The seaweed from Suttsu Town is rich in minerals and nutrients. The seaweed harvested from the clean sea is delicious even when eaten raw.
- Suttsu Tsutsui Water: This delicious water, grown without pesticides in Suttsu Town, is rich in minerals. Drinking this water can lead to a healthy lifestyle.
- Suttsu Kombu: Suttsu Town is known for producing high-quality kombu in Hokkaido. It adds richness and depth, especially when used in soups and stews.
Annual Events
- Suttsu Town Fish Festival: Held at the end of July each year, this festival allows you to enjoy dishes made with fresh fish caught locally.
- Suttsu Town Snow Lantern Festival: Held in mid-February, this enchanting event decorates the entire town with snow lanterns.
- Suttsu Town Spring Festival: Held on May 5, the townspeople come together to celebrate the arrival of spring. The highlight is the portable shrine procession.
- Suttsu Town Summer Festival: Held in the last week of July, this festival features a fireworks display and a community dance by the townspeople.
- Suttsu Town Ocean Opening Festival: Held in mid-July, this festival celebrates the arrival of the season and offers various marine sports.
Access Methods
- By Plane: Departing from New Chitose Airport, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to arrive at Hakodate Airport. From the airport, you can use buses or taxis.
- By Train: Take the Limited Express “Super Hokuto” from JR Osaka Station, arriving at Hakodate Station in about 5 hours. From there, you can take a bus to Suttsu Town.
- By Bus: From Hakodate Station, the Donan Bus operates, taking about 1.5 hours to reach Suttsu Town. The number of buses is limited.
- By Car: Using the expressway, it takes about 5.5 hours from central Sapporo and about 5 hours from New Chitose Airport.
- By Ferry: Use the Seikan Ferry to cross from Aomori to Hakodate. From Hakodate, you can reach Suttsu Town by car or bus.
Tourist Attractions
- Suttsu Art Museum – A museum showcasing works by local artists
- Suttsu Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy flowers throughout the seasons
- Otamoi Falls – A waterfall where you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery
- Suttsu Onsen – A hot spring area reputed for its skin-beautifying effects
- Suttsu Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about local history and culture
