| 人口 | 6,353 人 |
|---|---|
| 面積 | 774.33 km² |
| 人口密度 | 8.2 人/km² |
Welcome to Teshikaga Town, a hidden gem in eastern Hokkaido located within Akan-Mashu National Park. This town is blessed with magnificent natural landscapes, including the world-famous Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo, both caldera lakes formed by ancient volcanic activity. Deeply rooted in Ainu heritage, Teshikaga preserves its indigenous traditions and language through cultural sites like the Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum. Surrounded by pristine air, clear lakes, and warm hot springs, life here is closely intertwined with nature. Tourism and dairy farming form the backbone of the local economy, while the town’s scenic countryside—with its rolling pastures and steaming onsen—symbolizes the harmony between humans and nature. Annual events such as the “Mashu Lake Ice Fireworks Festival” and “Teshikaga Onsen Festival” bring vitality and joy to the community, inviting visitors to experience the authentic spirit of Hokkaido.
Culture and Traditions
Teshikaga’s culture is a blend of Ainu traditions and the pioneering lifestyle of Hokkaido’s settlers. The town’s name originates from the Ainu word “Tes-ka-ka,” meaning “the river crossing over rock,” referring to the rocky landscape through which the Kushiro River flows. Ainu traditional dance, preserved by local cultural associations, is recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan. The everyday use of Hokkaido dialects adds a warm and familiar touch to local conversations.
The town’s hot spring culture is deeply ingrained in daily life. Both Kawayu Onsen and Mashu Onsen are beloved by locals and travelers alike. Even in the bitterly cold winters, with temperatures dropping below –30°C, these steaming onsen provide comfort and healing.
Major local festivals include the “Teshikaga Onsen Festival,” featuring performances and local food markets, and the “Matagi Festival,” which honors ancient hunting traditions and the relationship between people and nature. Together, these cultural expressions reveal the deep respect the townspeople have for their history, environment, and way of life.
Local Specialties
- Dairy Products: Thanks to the fertile land and cool climate near Lake Mashu, Teshikaga produces rich, high-quality milk. Locally made cheese, butter, and soft-serve ice cream such as the famous “Mashu Ruby Soft” are popular with visitors.
- Mashu Soba (Buckwheat Noodles): Grown in the clear air and rich soil of the Mashu region, this soba boasts a delicate aroma and flavor. It can be enjoyed at many local restaurants and at the Michi-no-Eki Mashu Onsen roadside station.
- Onsen Eggs: Hot spring–boiled eggs made using natural geothermal heat from the area’s many springs are smooth, flavorful, and uniquely soft.
- Akan Malt (Craft Whisky): A locally produced craft whisky made with pure spring water and locally sourced barley, praised for its mellow, refined taste.
- Teshikaga Ramen: A well-known local brand featuring rich broth made from pork bones and seafood, enhanced by pure Mashu spring water.
Annual Events
- Mashu Lake Ice Fireworks Festival: A spectacular winter event held on the frozen surface of Lake Mashu, where fireworks illuminate the icy night sky.
- Diamond Dust in Kawayu (January–February): A winter illumination event celebrating the natural wonder of “diamond dust,” the glittering ice crystals that form in subzero air.
- Lake Mashu Waterfront Festival: A summer event featuring outdoor concerts and local food stalls along the lakeside, celebrating the beauty of nature.
- Teshikaga Marathon: A scenic marathon through the vast 900 Sogen Ranch and around Lake Mashu, attracting runners from all over Japan.
- Teshikaga Snow Festival: A winter celebration in the Mashu Onsen area, with snow sculptures and illuminations creating a magical atmosphere.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kushiro Airport, about 90 minutes away by car or bus. Flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport take around 1 hour 45 minutes.
- By Train: The Mashu Station and Kawayu Onsen Station on the JR Senmo Line connect Teshikaga to Kushiro. The scenic route passes through the Kushiro Marshlands.
- By Bus: Akan Bus operates local routes connecting Mashu Onsen, Lake Kussharo, and major sightseeing spots.
- By Car: About 2 hours from Kushiro City or 90 minutes from Nakashibetsu. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area, but winter driving requires caution and snow tires.
- By Ferry: From Honshu, ferries connect Tomakomai Port to Kushiro Port, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Teshikaga.
Tourist Attractions
- Lake Mashu – A crystal-clear caldera lake often shrouded in mist, known as “the Foggy Lake of Mashu.”
- Lake Kussharo – Japan’s largest caldera lake, featuring attractions like Sunayu Hot Sand Bath and Wakoto Peninsula.
- Mt. Iou (Atosanupuri) – A steaming active volcano offering close-up views of geothermal activity.
- Kawayu Onsen – A famous sulfur hot spring resort located near Mt. Iou.
- Wakoto Onsen – A natural open-air bath on the shore of Lake Kussharo, known for its scenic lake view.
- Kussharo Kotan Ainu Museum – A cultural center showcasing Ainu crafts, music, and history.
- Taiho Sumo Museum – A museum honoring legendary Yokozuna Taiho, born and raised in Teshikaga.
- 900 Sogen Ranch – A vast town-operated ranch offering panoramic views of Lake Mashu and grazing cattle.
