Aibetsu Town, located in the northern land of Japan, Hokkaido, is filled with unique charm in its history, industry, lifestyle, culture, and festivals. This town, where the history of pioneering lives on, rapidly developed with the opening of the railway, and its remnants are conveyed to this day. The town’s industry is centered around agriculture, which takes advantage of the beautiful natural environment. In particular, high-quality dairy products are highly regarded nationwide. Life here coexists with the harsh cold of winter while enjoying the seasonal nature. The local dialect, rich in Hokkaido dialect, and dishes made with local products reflect the region’s unique atmosphere. Additionally, seasonal festivals such as the Aibetsu Summer Festival and the Winter Snow Festival enhance the town’s vibrancy. All of these aspects of Aibetsu Town come together to create a great allure that captivates visitors. It also showcases its charm as a tourist destination, offering outdoor experiences in the vast nature with seasonal landscapes and the enjoyment of flavorful local gourmet food. Here, you can feel the true lifestyle of Hokkaido while interacting with the local people.
Culture and Customs
Aibetsu Town in Hokkaido is surrounded by rich nature and has a history that dates back to the pioneering era. Its beginnings can be traced back to this era, and remnants of it can still be seen today. The opening of the railway greatly contributed to the town’s development. In particular, agriculture is the main industry of the town, and the production of dairy products is highly regarded nationwide. Life progresses in harmony with nature. Winters can be harsh, but the local people accept this and incorporate it into their lives. The town’s dialect is influenced by the Hokkaido dialect, and many dishes made with local products exist. These local customs are passed down as part of the town’s culture. Various festivals are held throughout the year in Aibetsu Town. In particular, the “Aibetsu Summer Festival” and the “Winter Snow Festival” attract many visitors and provide events where one can experience the town’s charm. These festivals vividly reflect the town’s history and culture, offering a special experience for those who visit. Dishes that utilize local products convey Aibetsu Town’s rich food culture to visitors. Additionally, among those who speak the dialect, many cherish unique words and expressions, and their distinctive sounds captivate visitors.
Local Specialties
- Aibetsu Milk: Milk produced from cows raised in the rich natural environment of Aibetsu Town, characterized by its nutritious and creamy flavor.
- Aibetsu Rice: Koshihikari rice grown in the vast rural areas with attractive landscapes within the town, known for its sweetness and chewy texture.
- Aibetsu Asparagus: Fresh asparagus harvested from early spring to early summer, known for its delicate flavor and tender texture.
- Aibetsu Pork: Meat sourced from pigs raised in Aibetsu Town, characterized by its tenderness and sweetness, with quality recognized nationwide.
- Aibetsu Honey: Honey produced by bees using pollen collected from the town’s rich natural environment, offering a unique sweetness and flavor.
Annual Events
- Aibetsu Spring Festival – Held every May, this spring festival brings together the townspeople for a celebration. Enjoy stalls and mini-concerts under the fresh greenery.
- Aibetsu Summer Festival – This festival, held in July, features a bon dance as the main event, fostering a sense of community among the townspeople.
- Aibetsu Fireworks Festival – One of the summer festivals held in August, showcasing luxurious fireworks, including star mines, that light up the night sky.
- Aibetsu Autumn Festival – Held in October, this festival displays local agricultural products as a harvest thanksgiving event, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious dishes.
- Aibetsu Winter Festival – Held in February, this festival is packed with winter fun, including snow sculptures and ice slides. The illuminated snowy scenery is particularly enchanting.
Access Methods
- By Air: New Chitose Airport is the nearest airport, providing access from across the country. You can travel from the airport by rental car or bus.
- By Train: Take the JR Hakodate Main Line from Sapporo Station, transfer at Yubari Station, and it takes about 3 hours to reach Aibetsu.
- By Highway Bus: There are highway buses from Sapporo using the Dōō Expressway, taking about 2 hours.
- By Car: It takes about 90 minutes from Sapporo via the Dōō Expressway and about 60 minutes from Asahikawa via National Route 12.
- By Bicycle: Enjoying the rich nature along the way, using cycling routes is also an option, though it requires time and stamina.
Tourist Attractions
- Aiyama Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy flowers in every season.
- Aibetsu Dam – A dam with beautiful lake surfaces and surrounding nature.
- Aibetsu Onsen – A natural hot spring area reputed for its skin-beautifying effects.
- Aibetsu Ski Resort – A ski resort that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced skiers.
- Aibetsu Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the region’s history and culture.
