| population | 14,990 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 422.86 km² |
| population density | 35.4 peoples/km² |
Located in the Ishikari Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Tōbetsu Town lies about 30 kilometers northeast of central Sapporo. It is a town where urban convenience and rich nature coexist in harmony. The northern area features the “Forest of Hokkaido Citizens” and Lake Fukurō (created by the Tōbetsu Dam), surrounded by vast forests and mountains. Influenced by Ainu culture and developed during the Meiji era, Tōbetsu preserves traces of the pioneering spirit brought by samurai settlers from the former Date domains of Iwadeyama and Uwajima. Agriculture remains the foundation of the local economy, with rice, vegetables, flowers, and dairy products among its specialties. The town is also famous for its collaboration with Hokkaido University of Science and Health and for initiatives promoting community wellness. Residents live closely with nature, enjoying fresh local food and celebrating the four seasons through festivals such as the Tōbetsu Snow Lantern Festival and the Tōbetsu Summer Festival. A place where history, culture, and community intertwine, Tōbetsu is a peaceful gateway to experience authentic Hokkaido life.
Culture and Traditions
Tōbetsu Town preserves the cultural blend of the indigenous Ainu heritage and the Meiji-era pioneering history. In 1872, Date Kuninao, the former lord of Iwadeyama Domain, led samurai settlers to develop this land, establishing the foundation of modern Tōbetsu. The town’s historical sites, such as the Date Memorial Museum, commemorate this pioneering past. Agriculture shapes the town’s lifestyle, with residents cherishing harmony with nature and sustainability in everyday life. Local dialects reflect the warmth of Hokkaido’s people, while cultural ties to the Ainu are evident in local festivals and crafts. Every February, the Tōbetsu Snow Lantern Festival transforms the town into a wonderland illuminated by thousands of handmade snow candles. In summer, the Tōbetsu Summer Festival brings lively parades, fireworks, and local food stalls, drawing many visitors. Tōbetsu also enjoys a sister-city relationship with Leksand, Sweden. Within the Sweden Hills residential area, visitors can experience Scandinavian-style homes, enjoy Midsummer festivals, and explore northern European culture. The coexistence of history, nature, and global friendship makes Tōbetsu a truly distinctive and welcoming community.
Local Specialties
- Tōbetsu Rice: One of the major rice-producing areas in the Ishikari region. The town’s clear rivers and fertile plains nurture premium varieties such as “Nanatsuboshi” and “Yumepirika,” widely praised for their aroma and texture.
- Sweden Hills Cheese: Crafted using fresh local milk and Swedish techniques, this cheese is well-known for its smooth richness and deep flavor, often paired with Hokkaido wines.
- Royce’ Chocolate (Royce’ Town Factory): The Royce’ Confect Factory in Futo-mi, Tōbetsu produces the world-famous “Nama Chocolate” and other high-quality sweets, attracting chocolate lovers from Japan and abroad.
- Flower Cultivation: The town’s floral farms produce sunflowers, lilies, and lisianthus, creating colorful summer scenery. The sunflower fields, in particular, have become a symbol of Tōbetsu’s vibrant agricultural landscape.
- Wheat and Local Produce: Tōbetsu’s wheat is used in artisan bread and pasta, appreciated by chefs across Sapporo. At Roadside Station Nordic Wind (Michi-no-Eki Tōbetsu), visitors can buy freshly harvested vegetables, dairy, and handmade goods.
Annual Events
- Tōbetsu Snow Lantern Festival (February): The town center glows with thousands of snow lanterns made by residents. The warm light against the winter night sky creates a magical atmosphere loved by photographers. View on Google Maps.
- Tōbetsu Friendship Festival (August): The largest summer event in town, featuring music performances, food stalls, and fireworks. Locals and visitors gather to celebrate community and enjoy the midsummer night.
- Midsummer Festival at Sweden Hills (June): A traditional Scandinavian celebration held at Sweden Hills. Participants wear flower crowns, dance to folk music, and enjoy Swedish cuisine in a joyful, multicultural atmosphere.
- Tōbetsu Industrial Festival (October): A lively event showcasing local agriculture, crafts, and food products. It reflects the pride of Tōbetsu’s farmers and producers.
- Tōbetsu Fireworks Festival (Mid-August): Spectacular fireworks light up the clear Hokkaido night sky, reflected beautifully on the surface of the Tōbetsu River.
Access
- By Air: From New Chitose Airport, it takes about one hour by car via the Dōō Expressway (through Ebetsu Nishi Interchange). Convenient access from major cities nationwide.
- By Train: The JR Gakuentoshi Line (Sasshō Line) connects Sapporo and Tōbetsu directly in about 40 minutes. Key stations include Royce’ Town Station, Futo-mi Station, and Hokkaido Medical University Station.
- By Bus: Regular buses operate from Sapporo Station to Tōbetsu (approx. 50 minutes). Replacement buses also connect Tōbetsu with Tsukigata and Shinshinotsu villages.
- By Car: Ideal for travelers exploring rural Hokkaido. Drive routes from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport offer scenic views of farmlands and forests.
- By Taxi: From Sapporo’s northern district, it takes about 30 minutes by taxi to reach Tōbetsu. The average fare is around ¥7,000 depending on time of day.
Tourist Attractions
- Date Memorial Museum & Former Date Residence – Exhibits documents and relics from the pioneering period led by the Date clan. A must-see for history enthusiasts.
- Tōbetsu Dam (Lake Fukurō) – A scenic lake surrounded by forests. Popular for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
- Roadside Station Nordic Wind (Michi-no-Eki Tōbetsu) – A modern facility offering local produce, sweets, and cultural exhibits. It serves as the town’s main tourist hub.
- Sweden Hills – A picturesque residential area modeled after a Swedish town, complete with Scandinavian-style houses and panoramic views of the Ishikari Plain.
- Nakagoya Onsen – A tranquil hot spring nestled in the mountains, perfect for relaxation after exploring the “Forest of Hokkaido Citizens.”
