| population | 10,844 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 992.07 km² |
| population density | 10.9 peoples/km² |
Hidaka Town, located in the northern part of the Hidaka Subprefecture of Hokkaido, is a beautiful area where the Pacific Ocean meets the majestic Hidaka Mountains. Once inhabited by the Ainu people, the town’s identity was shaped by both Ainu cultural traditions and the Meiji-era frontier development. In 2006, the former Hidaka Town and Monbetsu Town merged to form the present municipality. The Monbetsu district thrives on horse breeding, agriculture, and fisheries, while the inland Hidaka district is surrounded by forested mountains and sustained by forestry and farming. Residents live in harmony with nature, cherishing a lifestyle that values the bounty of both the sea and the land. The region is widely known across Japan as a center for racehorse breeding, having produced numerous famous thoroughbreds. The local dialect, called “Hidaka-ben,” along with traditional Ainu customs, continues to color daily life. Through seasonal festivals and community traditions, the people of Hidaka Town preserve and celebrate their deep connection to the land and its culture — making it one of the most authentic and spiritually rich regions in all of Hokkaido.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Hidaka Town is deeply rooted in a culture of coexistence with nature. Influenced by the Ainu heritage, traditional rituals and respect for the environment remain a part of daily life. Since the Meiji period, agriculture, horse breeding, and fishing have become the pillars of the town’s development, supporting a community that lives in harmony with the changing seasons.
Agriculture and horse breeding are the main industries. “Hidaka horse meat” is prized nationwide for its tenderness and rich flavor. The Monbetsu district is home to one of Japan’s largest thoroughbred breeding areas, where world-famous racehorses like Maurice were born and raised. Locals speak the warm and rhythmic Hidaka dialect, a variant of Hokkaido Japanese with its own charm.
The town’s spiritual and cultural identity is reflected in its local festivals such as “Hidaka Kagura” and “Umaoi Kagura,” both traditional Shinto performances featuring masked dances accompanied by flutes and drums. These festivals pray for good harvests and family safety, embodying the deep reverence for nature that defines Hidaka’s way of life. The blending of history, spirituality, and natural beauty gives Hidaka Town an atmosphere that captivates every visitor.
SPECIALTIES
- Hidaka Kombu (Kelp): Harvested along the Pacific coast, this premium kelp is known throughout Japan for its deep umami flavor and tender texture. It is widely used for making dashi (broth). Visitors can learn about its history at the Hidaka Kombu Museum.
- Thoroughbreds: The Monbetsu Racecourse is a leading center of Japan’s horse industry. Surrounded by stud farms, it has produced countless champion racehorses. Visitors can watch night races and experience the excitement of the “northernmost night racing course” in Japan.
- Hidaka Beef: Raised in the lush natural environment of Hidaka, this Japanese Black beef is renowned for its soft texture and naturally sweet fat. Local restaurants serve it as steak, yakiniku, or shabu-shabu.
- Surf Clams (Hokkigai): Caught in the cold waters off the Hidaka coast, these large and sweet clams are a popular ingredient in sushi and grilled dishes, appreciated for their rich, oceanic flavor.
- Hidaka Shishamo (Willow Leaf Fish): The Monbetsu area conducts hatching and release programs to preserve natural shishamo populations. During late October, the Shishamo Festival offers visitors a chance to enjoy freshly grilled fish straight from the local catch.
ANNUAL EVENTS
- Hidaka Spring Festival: Held in early May to celebrate the end of winter. Residents decorate the town with flowers and host local food markets and parades that welcome the arrival of spring.
- Thoroughbred Festival: Every August, the Monbetsu Racecourse becomes the venue for a major celebration of Hidaka’s proud horse breeding heritage. Events include parades, riding experiences, and farm tours.
- Hidaka Crab Festival: Taking place in October, this seafood festival showcases the fresh crab harvested from Hidaka’s coastal waters. Visitors can enjoy local seafood cuisine and participate in tasting competitions.
- Hidaka Snow Festival: Hosted at the Hidaka International Ski Resort in mid-February, featuring snow sculptures, ski events, and local delicacies that make winter a joyful season.
- Hidaka Fireworks Festival: In late July, over 3,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky above the Monbetsu River, attracting crowds of locals and visitors to celebrate summer’s peak.
ACCESS
- By Air: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport. Car rental is the most convenient option, following Route 235 and the Hidaka Expressway.
- By Train: The former JR Hidaka Line was discontinued in 2021. Travelers can now take a train to Mukawa Station and transfer to a bus bound for Hidaka (approx. 40 minutes).
- By Bus: The Express Pegasus Bus connects Sapporo and Hidaka in about 3.5 hours. The town’s community bus network connects major areas within Hidaka.
- By Car: Roughly 2.5–3 hours from Sapporo via the Dō-Ō Expressway and Hidaka Road. From Tomakomai, it’s about 90 minutes. Scenic routes offer panoramic views of the Pacific coast.
- By Bicycle: The Pacific Coastal Cycling Route runs through Hidaka. The Michi-no-Eki Jukai Road Hidaka rest area is a popular stop for long-distance cyclists.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Monbetsu Racecourse – The northernmost night racing venue in Japan, offering a unique atmosphere for both locals and tourists.
- Sarugawa Onsen – A serene hot spring resort surrounded by forest and river scenery, perfect for relaxation after outdoor adventures.
- National Hidaka Youth Nature Center – A national educational facility offering camping, hiking, and nature study programs.
- Hidaka International Ski Resort – A ski area nestled in the Hidaka Mountains, known for excellent powder and family-friendly slopes.
- Sarugawa Auto Campground – A popular site for camping, fishing, and canoeing amid beautiful natural surroundings.
