In the distant northern land, Matsumae Town, which is part of Hokkaido. It flourished as a castle town of the Matsumae Domain that bears its name, and at the same time, it was a center of Ainu culture. The people born and raised in this land live in harmony with nature and lead lives nurtured by the blessings of the sea. While fishing is a thriving industry, apple cultivation is also known as a major industry, and the food culture developed from these products has flourished. Here, a unique dialect called Matsumae-ben is spoken, and the influence of Ainu culture can be seen vividly in daily life. The annual “Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival” and “Matsumae Fishing Port Festival” attract not only locals but also tourists from afar, creating a lively atmosphere. You can feel the lives, culture, and customs of the people living in this town every time you visit. Here, you can enjoy the rich nature of the four seasons and incorporate seafood-based dishes into your daily meals. Additionally, the locals cherish Ainu traditions and customs, which are reflected in the regional lifestyle and language, forming a unique culture.
Culture and Customs
Matsumae Town in Hokkaido is a center of Ainu culture and was once a flourishing castle town of the Matsumae Domain. The lives of the people in Matsumae Town are filled with nature, and the town’s industries are mainly supported by fishing and apple cultivation. In particular, apple cultivation is one of the main industries in this region, allowing you to enjoy delicious apples. The local dialect, Matsumae-ben, has distinct characteristics that differ from standard Japanese, showing the influence of Ainu culture. Additionally, the food culture utilizing seafood is rich, allowing you to savor fresh catches from the sea. Various festivals are held throughout the year in Matsumae Town. In spring, the “Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival” celebrates the beautiful cherry blossoms, while in summer, the “Matsumae Fishing Port Festival” is held to celebrate fishing, allowing you to experience the local culture and customs. These elements blend together to create a rich natural environment and culture unique to Matsumae Town. It is an attractive region that leaves a deep impression on visitors. In autumn, the “Matsumae Apple Festival” is held to celebrate the harvest, featuring sweet apples harvested locally in the market. In winter, the “Matsumae Snow Lantern Festival” showcases beautiful snowy landscapes, with snow lanterns illuminating the town in a fantastical manner.
Local Specialties
- Matsumae-zuke: A traditional specialty of Matsumae Town, made by pickling seaweed and vegetables with seafood broth. It has a deep flavor and pairs excellently with sake.
- Matsumae Seafood Bowl: A seafood bowl made with fresh catches from the sea. It features seasonal seafood such as surf clams, squid, and sea urchin caught in the waters of Matsumae Town.
- Momotaro Brand Apples: Apples are also produced in Matsumae Town, and the “Momotaro” brand apples are particularly renowned for their balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Matsumae Kelp: A type of kelp unique to Matsumae Town, known for its rich flavor and beloved nationwide as a broth ingredient.
- Matsumae Spicy Pickles: A traditional spicy pickle made in Matsumae Town for many years. It consists of seafood and vegetables pickled with mustard and soy sauce, characterized by its sharp spiciness.
Annual Events
- Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival: This festival heralds the arrival of spring, showcasing about 10,000 cherry trees in full bloom, creating a beautiful landscape.
- Matsumae Fishing Port Festival: This event, filled with the excitement of summer, allows you to enjoy the blessings of the local sea while celebrating with fireworks and bon odori dances.
- Matsumae Castle Autumn Festival: Under the clear autumn sky, you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves of Matsumae Castle along with local traditional arts and culture.
- Matsumae Salmon Festival: This festival begins with the arrival of winter, where you can savor fresh salmon dishes and deepen your connections with the locals.
- Matsumae Grand Fishing Festival: This event, which wraps up the year, features a grand fireworks display to pray for a bountiful catch in local fisheries and express gratitude for the year.
Access Methods
- By Air: You can access Hakodate Airport by plane from all over the country. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Matsumae Town.
- By JR: Take the Limited Express “Hakodate Liner” from Hakodate Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line and get off at Goryokaku Station. From there, it takes about 2 hours by bus.
- By Bus: Hakodate Bus operates services from Hakodate City to Matsumae Town. You can also enjoy the scenery from the bus window.
- By Car: Proceed from the Dōō Expressway towards Hakodate and exit at Matsumae Interchange. It takes about 30 minutes to reach Matsumae Town from there.
- By Ferry: Ferries operate from Hakodate Port to Matsumae Port, and you can take your car along as well.
Tourist Attractions
- Matsumae Castle – Japan’s first Western-style fortress, where you can feel the history.
- Matsumae Park – A famous spot where beautiful cherry blossoms bloom in spring.
- Ezo Fuji Viewing Park – On clear days, you can view Tsugaru Fuji.
- Matsumae Giant Tree – Home to a large yew tree over 400 years old.
- Matsumae Furusato Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of the Matsumae Domain.
