| population | 4,422 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 190.95 km² |
| population density | 23.2 peoples/km² |
Kunneppu Town, located in the central part of the Okhotsk region of Hokkaido, is a peaceful rural community blessed with rich natural surroundings. Its name originates from the Ainu word “Kunne-p,” meaning “black river.” Surrounded by mountains, the town sits in a basin area known for its sharp temperature differences, which help produce crops with exceptional sweetness. Agriculture and dairy farming form the backbone of the local economy, with major products including melons, potatoes, wheat, sugar beets, and onions. The renowned “Kunneppu Melon” has become a symbol of the town, even inspiring the melon-shaped streetlights along its main roads. Community ties in Kunneppu are strong, and residents take pride in their cooperative lifestyle. The town’s dialect, festivals, and traditions reflect Hokkaido’s regional character. Seasonal festivals such as the “Samusamu Festival” in winter and the “Kunneppu Furusato Festival” in summer showcase the warmth and unity of the townspeople. Kunneppu Town is a place where nature, history, and human kindness harmonize, offering visitors a genuine taste of Hokkaido’s countryside charm.
Culture & Traditions
Kunneppu Town was developed during the Meiji era and officially became a town in 1951. Agriculture has long been its lifeline, taking advantage of the fertile soil and sharp seasonal contrasts to cultivate high-quality produce. Melons, potatoes, onions, sugar beets, and wheat are among the main crops, and Kunneppu is known across Hokkaido for the quality of its agricultural products. The people of Kunneppu speak the Hokkaido dialect and continue to preserve local customs through community events and festivals. The winter “Samusamu Festival” features snow sculptures and light displays, while the summer “Kunneppu Furusato Festival” and “Shibazakura Festival” attract large crowds with fireworks, food stalls, and live entertainment. One cultural highlight is the Kunneppu Town Library, which once recorded the highest book lending rate per capita in Japan for seven consecutive years (1987–1993). Even today, it remains a cultural hub where residents borrow an average of over 14 books per year, reflecting the town’s deep appreciation for learning.
Local Specialties
- Kunneppu Melon: Known for its rich sweetness and juicy texture, this premium melon brand represents the pride of the town. During summer, local events and gift fairs celebrate the harvest season.
- Kunneppu-Style Katsudon: A unique variation of Japan’s classic pork cutlet bowl. Instead of being simmered with egg, it is served with a special soy-based sauce that enhances its savory flavor.
- Potatoes, Wheat, Onions & Sugar Beets: The fertile land and wide temperature range yield some of Hokkaido’s finest produce, widely shipped throughout Japan for both household and industrial use.
- Dairy Products: Fresh milk and yogurt made from locally raised cows are praised for their creamy, full-bodied taste, reflecting the town’s strong dairy tradition.
Annual Events
- Samusamu Festival (February): The signature winter event featuring snow sculptures, slides, and illumination displays. It showcases the residents’ creativity and resilience during the coldest season.
- Shibazakura Festival (June): Held at the Kunneppu Recreation Park, where pink moss phlox blooms into a breathtaking carpet of color.
- Kunneppu Furusato Festival (July): The town’s largest summer event with parades, fireworks, and local food vendors filling the streets with energy and excitement.
- Kunneppu Friendship Festival (November): A cozy community gathering where locals share dishes made from seasonal produce and sell handmade crafts, celebrating the harvest season.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Memanbetsu Airport (Ōzora Town), about a 40-minute drive from Kunneppu. Direct flights connect from major Japanese cities such as Tokyo and Sapporo.
- By Train: The town no longer has a railway, but the nearest station is JR Kitami Station, about a 25-minute drive away.
- By Bus: Hokkaido Kitami Bus operates regular routes between Kitami City and Kunneppu Town, taking about 40 minutes.
- By Car: Kunneppu is about 25 km southwest of Kitami via Route 50. The Kunneppu Interchange on the Tokachi-Okhotsk Expressway provides direct access.
Tourist Attractions
- Kunneppu Onsen Recreation Center – A relaxing natural hot spring popular among locals and travelers alike. Features both indoor and open-air baths.
- Kunneppu Town Library – Famous nationwide for its lending record, this library symbolizes the town’s dedication to culture and education.
- Kunneppu Recreation Park – A large public park featuring seasonal flowers, open fields, a park golf course, and camping areas.
- Kunneppu Sports Center – Equipped with gymnasiums, the “KAPPA” heated pool, and multi-purpose arenas for sports and events.
- Kunneppu Town Hall – The administrative heart of the town, providing information on community activities and local services.
