Shakotan Town in Hokkaido, as its name suggests, is characterized by its beautiful stacked “tan” (red) landscapes. This area is heavily influenced by Ainu culture and is also a thriving fishing town. The seafood processing industry flourishes here, and dishes made with fresh seafood are a source of local pride, captivating tourists with their deliciousness. A lifestyle in harmony with nature paints a rich landscape in daily life. Additionally, Shakotan Town preserves its ancient Ainu culture and continues to use the local dialect unique to Hokkaido. Once a year, events such as the Shakotan Shrine Festival and the Shakotan Port Festival are held, allowing visitors to feel the local charm, filling them with joy. Shakotan Town is an unmissable spot in Hokkaido where rich natural landscapes, Ainu culture, and warm-hearted people intersect. The tourism industry is also one of the elements that enhance the appeal of this region. Hiking courses that allow enjoyment of seasonal landscapes and winter ski resorts are must-visit spots for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. Through these activities, visitors can experience a life in harmony with nature and engage with the culinary culture that celebrates fresh seafood.
Culture and Customs
Facing the beautiful sea of Hokkaido, Shakotan Town is alive with a lifestyle in harmony with nature, heavily influenced by Ainu culture. The town’s life is primarily supported by fishing and seafood processing, allowing residents to enjoy fresh seafood at their daily tables. The tourism industry is also vibrant, attracting many visitors throughout the year. In Shakotan Town, the Hokkaido dialect is widely used, with a particular emphasis on preserving Ainu culture. It is not uncommon to hear the Ainu language when visiting the town. The festivals also breathe life into the town’s traditions and culture. During the Shakotan Shrine Festival and the Shakotan Port Festival, local people come together to enliven the town. These festivals convey the town’s charm to those who visit. Shakotan Town is a unique place where nature, culture, and history merge. Once you experience its charm, you are sure to fall in love with it wholeheartedly. Here, dishes that utilize the blessings of the sea and land add color to daily meals. Additionally, interacting with local people provides many opportunities to encounter the region’s unique words and customs, offering new discoveries to visitors.
Local Specialties
- Shakotan Blue: A vibrant blue local pottery inspired by the beautiful sea of the Shakotan Peninsula.
- Shakotan Kinki: Kinki fish raised in the cold waters of Shakotan are thick and bursting with flavor.
- Shakotan Adzuki Beans: Due to the climate, Shakotan adzuki beans require careful cultivation and are characterized by their sweetness and flavor.
- Shakotan Wine: Wine made from local grapes features a refreshing quality unique to Hokkaido.
- Shakotan Glass: Handmade glass products are colorful and express the nature of Shakotan.
Annual Events
- “Shakotan Blue Sea Kayak”: This event, held every summer, allows participants to enjoy kayaking in the clear blue sea. You can fully enjoy the Shakotan Blue while becoming one with nature.
- “Shakotan Blessings Festival”: At this festival, you can savor dishes made with fresh seafood and agricultural products from the Shakotan region. It is a wonderful culinary experience that expresses gratitude for local blessings.
- “Shakotan Onsen Snow Lanterns”: This winter event in Shakotan features snow lanterns that beautifully illuminate the hot spring town. The contrast between the cold snow and the warm hot springs creates a stunning scene.
- “Shakotan Sunset Marathon”: This marathon allows participants to run along the beautiful coastline of Shakotan at sunset. The sunset and sea views inspire the runners.
- “Shakotan Ocean Day Festival”: Held on Ocean Day, this festival offers opportunities to learn about marine education and ocean conservation. While interacting with the sea, you can reaffirm the importance of marine protection.
Access Methods
- By Plane: It is convenient to take a flight to New Chitose Airport. From the airport, it takes about 2 hours by car or bus to reach Shakotan Town.
- By Train: Take the JR Hakodate Main Line and get off at Yoichi Station. From there, transfer to a bus, which takes about an hour to reach Shakotan Town.
- By Bus: Use the express bus “Shakotan Blue” from Sapporo Station, which takes about 2 hours to reach Shakotan Town.
- By Ferry: Ferries also operate from Muroran Port to Shakotan Port. However, there may be days when services are not available due to seasonal or weather conditions, so prior confirmation is necessary.
- By Car: It takes about 2 hours from Sapporo and about 1.5 hours from New Chitose Airport. Travel time may vary depending on road conditions.
Tourist Attractions
- Cape Kamui – A scenic spot with the beautiful sea known as Shakotan Blue.
- Shakotan Blueberry Park – A nature-rich farm where you can enjoy blueberry picking.
- Shakotan Town Local Museum – A museum where you can learn about local history and culture.
- Shakotan Onsen – A hot spring area said to have skin-beautifying effects.
- Shakotan Marine Park – An experiential park where you can interact with marine life.
