The moment you step into Tsukigata Town in Hokkaido, Japan’s northern land, a pleasant breeze welcomes you. The rich nature coexists with the indigenous Ainu culture, which has thrived by embracing its blessings. The landscapes shaped by its history and traditions deeply move those who visit. This area is known for its active agriculture, particularly in the dairy industry, with local products that symbolize the town’s unique flavors. The locals converse in the Hokkaido dialect and live while inheriting the customs of Ainu culture. Unique festivals such as the Tsukigata Festival and the Snow Festival are held throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience the town’s vibrancy and identity. Why not feel the breath of nature and people that can only be experienced in Tsukigata Town? The beautiful scenery is adorned with a variety of crops. Various vegetables, fruits, and grains flourish in the vast fields that spread from the town center, supporting the dietary needs of the local residents. Additionally, the festivals held in different seasons evoke the town’s history and culture, allowing visitors to feel the ever-changing nature and seasonal transitions of Hokkaido.
Culture and Customs
Tsukigata Town in Hokkaido is characterized by its rich nature and mild climate, making it an active agricultural region. Its development is deeply connected to the influence of the Ainu culture that originally inhabited this area. The town’s agriculture significantly contributes to the dairy industry, with fresh dairy products being one of Tsukigata’s attractions. The lifestyle in Tsukigata Town revolves around coexistence with nature. Locally harvested agricultural products are essential in daily meals, with many being used in local dishes and sweets. Some residents still speak the Hokkaido dialect, valuing the region’s traditions. Moreover, the customs of Ainu culture are respected, and numerous festivals showcase this heritage. Among them, the “Tsukigata Festival” is cherished as a summer tradition, while the “Snow Festival” symbolizes the strength to overcome the harshness of winter. In this way, Tsukigata Town thrives with a unique culture and customs that emphasize coexistence with nature, the use of local products, respect for Ainu cultural practices, and traditional festivals. Additionally, the crafting of furniture and crafts using local timber is also active, and these products are popular among tourists as local specialties. Events such as agricultural experiences and dairy production workshops held throughout the year convey the town’s charm to visitors and contribute to the local economy.
Local Specialties
- Tsukigata Town’s specialty potatoes: Known as Hokkaido’s number one agricultural product, potato production is active, especially the “Kogane-mochi,” which is characterized by its sweetness and umami.
- Horse meat ham: Made from horses raised in Tsukigata Town, this horse meat ham features a unique aroma and deep flavor, making it an unforgettable delicacy.
- Tsukigata-grown Koshihikari rice: Grown in Hokkaido’s cold climate and clear streams, Koshihikari rice is attractive for its glossy appearance and chewy texture.
- Tsukigata wine: Wine made from grapes cultivated in Tsukigata Town is popular for its fruity and elegant taste.
- Butter: Dairy farming is also active in Tsukigata Town, and the butter produced here enhances many dishes with its creamy taste and rich aroma.
Annual Events
- Tsukigata Winter Festival: Held every February, this festival features beautiful snow sculptures and local gourmet food, enveloping the entire town in winter charm.
- Sakura Festival: In spring, the town’s famous cherry blossom spots are beautifully adorned, attracting both locals and tourists. It is an event that signals the arrival of spring.
- Friendship Summer Festival: In the height of summer, colorful fireworks light up the night sky, entertaining people gathered from within and outside the town.
- Tsukigata Agricultural Harvest Festival: In autumn, the harvest of fresh agricultural products is celebrated with tastings and sales of dishes made from local ingredients.
- Hometown Thanksgiving Festival: At the end of the year, the townspeople gather to hold a festival expressing gratitude for the year, featuring local traditional performing arts.
Access Methods
- By airplane: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, which has numerous direct flights from across the country. From the airport, you can travel to Tsukigata Town by rental car or taxi.
- By train: Transfer from JR Sapporo Station to the JR Hakodate Main Line and get off at Tsukigata Station. It is also accessible by Shinkansen, allowing for relatively short travel times from the city center.
- By car: Use the Dōō Expressway, heading north on National Route 36 from Chitose IC. It takes about an hour’s drive to reach Tsukigata Town.
- By bus: Direct buses operate from New Chitose Airport. Although the number of services is limited, they are reservation-based, ensuring reliable transportation.
- By taxi: Taxis are available from New Chitose Airport or Tsukigata Station. While the fare is high, it allows for travel without worrying about time.
Tourist Attractions
- Tsukigata Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Tsukigata Town Local Museum – A museum where you can learn about local history and culture.
- Tsukigata Stone Buddha Group – A group of stone Buddhas that evokes ancient Buddhist culture.
- Tsukigata Town Rural Park – A park where you can enjoy flowers in every season.
- Tsukigata Town Nature Experience Center – A facility where you can enjoy interacting with nature.
