| Population | 4,371 people |
|---|---|
| Area | 449.78 km² |
| Population Density | 9.72 people/km² |
Rankoshi Town, part of Hokkaido, has a history of development dating back to the Meiji era and became an independent municipality in 1970. The main industry in this town is agriculture, particularly the production of potatoes. Life in the town is supported by a nature-rich environment and an active local community. The unique dialect of Hokkaido is spoken, and local festivals and events preserve regional traditions. In summer, the Rankoshi Festival is held, and in autumn, the Potato Festival takes place, allowing residents and visitors to feel the town’s vibrancy throughout the year. The charm of Rankoshi Town is encapsulated in its history, nature, community bonds, and delicious potatoes. Additionally, the area boasts beautiful landscapes, allowing enjoyment of the changing seasons. Particularly in winter, the entire town is covered in snow, bustling with people enjoying winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The warmth and hospitality of the local people create unforgettable memories for visitors.
Culture and Customs
Rankoshi Town, located in Hokkaido, was developed during the Meiji era and became an independent town in 1970. This area is primarily agricultural, with a strong emphasis on potato production. Walking through the town, one is overwhelmed by the vast fields and the beauty of nature that stretches endlessly. The living environment is rich in nature, and the active local community is also a notable feature. People live in harmony, helping each other, and warm conversations infused with the Hokkaido dialect abound. Moreover, local festivals and events are held grandly in Rankoshi Town, reflecting regional traditions. The summer Rankoshi Festival and the autumn Potato Festival are particularly unmissable. During the summer festival, the entire town comes together, and in the autumn festival, the joy of harvest is shared. Among Japan’s regional cities, Rankoshi Town embodies a sense of harmony between nature and its people. It is a place where the unique climate and traditions of Hokkaido thrive, along with the daily lives of its residents. The rich natural environment and the vibrancy of the community blend beautifully, resulting in the local dialect being deeply rooted in everyday life. Throughout the year, various festivals and events are held, each vividly reflecting the region’s traditions and culture.
Local Specialties
- Lavender: Rankoshi Town in Hokkaido is known for its lavender production, with beautiful purple flower fields blooming every summer.
- Milk: The town has numerous dairy farms producing fresh milk, making high-quality dairy products a symbol of the town.
- Fresh Seafood: The town faces the Sea of Japan, providing an abundance of fresh seafood. Crabs and squid are particularly popular.
- Hops: Rankoshi Town is known as a center for beer production in Japan, especially for hop cultivation.
- Rankoshi Rice: Delicious rice known as “Rankoshi Rice” is produced from the town’s vast rice paddies. Its flavor and texture are unforgettable once tasted.
Annual Events
- Rankoshi Summer Festival: Held every August. Local people gather to enjoy grand fireworks and traditional local cuisine.
- Rankoshi Snow Lantern Festival: Held in February during winter. Snow lanterns and art installations illuminate the town, creating a magical landscape.
- Rankoshi Spring Festival: Held in May. A festival celebrating the arrival of spring amidst beautiful scenery surrounded by fresh greenery.
- Rankoshi Forest Marathon: Held every July. Participants run along a course that circles the town, enjoying the beautiful nature.
- Rankoshi New Rice Festival: Held in September. A food festival where visitors can enjoy dishes made with freshly harvested rice from the town.
Access Methods
- From New Chitose Airport: It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport to Rankoshi Town. Rental cars and taxis are available.
- From Sapporo City: Using the JR Muroran Main Line, it takes about 2 hours to reach the nearest station, Nagamube Station. From there, it takes about 10 minutes by taxi to Rankoshi Town.
- By Car from Sapporo City: If driving from Sapporo City, it takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to arrive. The route uses the Dōō Expressway and National Route 230.
- Using Limited Express Trains: You can also take the Limited Express Super Okhotsk and get off at Nagamube Station. The travel time is about 2 hours and 40 minutes.
- By Bus: It is also possible to travel from Nagamube to Rankoshi using the Dōnan Bus on the Muroran Main Line. The travel time is about 20 minutes.
Tourist Attractions
- Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort – A popular ski resort where you can enjoy powder snow
- Kutchan Onsen – A hot spring area known for its skin-beautifying effects
- Rankoshi Town Museum – A museum where you can learn about the region’s nature and history
- Kutchan River – A river where you can enjoy beautiful scenery
- Niseko View Plaza – A direct sales store where you can buy fresh local vegetables
