| population | 10,532 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 203.93 km² |
| population density | 51.6 peoples/km² |
Located in the southern part of Sorachi Subprefecture, Kuriyama Town lies at the heart of Hokkaido, about an hour’s drive from Sapporo, New Chitose Airport, and Tomakomai Port. The area was once home to the Ainu people and later became one of Hokkaido’s early frontier settlements, developed by samurai from the former Kakuda Domain of Sendai. The town’s name originates from the Ainu word “Yam-ni-ushi,” meaning “a place where chestnut trees grow thickly,” reflecting its deep ties to nature.
Today, Kuriyama thrives as an agricultural community known for dairy products, potatoes, and corn. The town center features historical architecture, including the Kobayashi Sake Brewery, alongside modern community spaces such as the Kuriyama Brick Warehouse Kurifuto and the scenic “Renga Street.” Each season paints a different picture — cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant greenery in summer, colorful harvests in autumn, and a magical white landscape illuminated by winter lights.
Culture & Traditions
Kuriyama Town preserves both the legacy of the Ainu people and the pioneering spirit of the Meiji settlers. Local residents maintain a lifestyle rooted in agriculture and community, where Hokkaido dialects still echo through everyday conversation. Festivals and cultural events play a central role in uniting the community and celebrating its identity.
During the long winter, the Kuriyama Snow Light Festival fills the town with warm candlelight, while the Kuriyama Summer Festival in July brings fireworks, food stalls, and joyful celebration. Cultural landmarks such as the Izumi Memorial Museum and the historical buildings of Kobayashi Brewery—registered as part of Japan’s Heritage of “Coal, Iron, and Ports”—offer glimpses into the region’s industrial and social history.
Local Specialties
- Kuriyama Potatoes: Grown in fertile volcanic soil, these potatoes have a rich flavor and fluffy texture. They are a staple in local home cooking and popular for croquettes and stews.
- Kuriyama Sweet Corn: Harvested in midsummer, Kuriyama’s corn is famous for its natural sweetness and crisp texture, enjoyed boiled, grilled, or in soups and salads.
- Kuriyama Milk: Produced by local dairy farms, this milk is fresh, creamy, and used in making cheese, butter, and ice cream sold throughout Hokkaido.
- Kuriyama Apples: Harvested in autumn, these apples balance sweetness and tartness perfectly and are often baked or used in local desserts.
- “Kita no Nishiki” Sake: Brewed by Kobayashi Brewery, this signature sake has a rich aroma and smooth taste made with local rice and pristine spring water. Tastings and tours are available year-round.
Annual Events
- Kuriyama Spring Festival (early April): A celebration welcoming spring, with outdoor performances and food stalls at Kuriyama Park.
- Kuriyama Summer Festival (late July): The highlight of summer featuring fireworks, local foods, and parades—beloved by both residents and visitors.
- Kuriyama Autumn Festival (mid-September): A harvest celebration offering fresh produce, live performances, and traditional entertainment.
- Snow Light Festival (early February): Candle lanterns and snow sculptures create a dreamlike winter scene throughout the town.
- Winter Illuminations (December–February): Streets and parks, especially Kuriyama Park, sparkle with festive lights during the cold season.
Access
- By Air: Fly into New Chitose Airport, then drive about 40 minutes to Kuriyama.
- By Train: Take the JR Muroran Line to Kuriyama Station, approximately 70 minutes from Sapporo via Iwamizawa.
- By Bus: The Hokkaido Chuo Bus “Highway Kuriyama Line” connects Sapporo directly in about 70 minutes.
- By Car: Accessible via the Dōō Expressway—about one hour from Sapporo, Tomakomai, or Chitose.
- By Taxi: Local taxis such as Kuriyama Hire offer convenient transportation from the station or airport.
Sightseeing Spots
- Kobayashi Brewery & Kita no Nishiki Memorial Hall – A historic sake brewery with tours, tastings, and cultural exhibits.
- Kobayashi Family House – The brewery founder’s home, preserved as a museum and tea house featuring antique tableware.
- Kuriyama Park – A popular park featuring cherry blossoms, a petting zoo, campsites, BBQ areas, and hiking trails.
- Omurasaki Nature Museum – A facility dedicated to the coexistence of people and nature, showcasing the life of Japan’s national butterfly, the Great Purple Emperor.
- Kuriyama Brick Warehouse “Kurifuto” – A revitalized red-brick warehouse complex with a café, maker space, and community event hall.
- Kuri-no-Ki Farm – A private baseball field built by former Nippon-Ham Fighters manager Hideki Kuriyama together with local residents.
- Izumi Memorial Museum – Honors pioneer Rintaro Izumi, who led the area’s early development.
- The Weeping Tree Site – A legendary sacred tree that once stood along National Route 234, now memorialized with a replanted sapling.
