| population | 5,660 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 293.25 km² |
| population density | 19.3 peoples/km² |
Located at the southwestern tip of the Oshima Peninsula, Matsumae Town (Matsumae-chō) is the southernmost municipality in Hokkaido, Japan. Once the seat of the Matsumae Domain, it flourished as the political and cultural hub of northern Japan during the Edo period. Deeply influenced by Ainu culture, the town preserves its historical character while embracing a vibrant mix of tradition and nature. Today, Matsumae is widely known as one of Japan’s top cherry blossom destinations. Every spring, over 10,000 cherry trees of 250 varieties bloom around Matsumae Castle, attracting visitors from across the country. Fishing and apple cultivation are the main industries, with prized products such as tuna, squid, and the locally branded “Momotarō Apples.” Residents speak a distinctive Matsumae dialect with traces of Ainu linguistic heritage. Throughout the year, festivals such as the Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival, Hydrangea Festival, and Autumn Harvest Festival bring the community to life and celebrate the town’s cultural richness.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Matsumae Town prospered as the castle town of the Matsumae Clan, which ruled Hokkaido’s southern region for centuries. The town’s historic streets, temples, and shrines still reflect its feudal-era heritage. One of its most notable cultural assets is the Matsumae Kagura, a Shinto dance and music performance designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property by Hokkaido. This sacred performance, passed down through generations, is still offered at local shrine festivals today. The local dialect—Matsumae-ben—contains words and rhythms influenced by Ainu language and culture.
The town’s economy centers on fishing and agriculture, especially seafood and apples. Locally caught squid, scallops, and tuna are renowned for their freshness. In spring, the Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the castle grounds into a sea of pink blooms. Summer brings the Matsumae Hydrangea Festival and Matsumae Port Festival, where people celebrate the bounty of the sea. In autumn, locals and visitors alike enjoy the Matsumae Apple Festival, while winter’s Snow Lantern Festival lights up the town with warm illumination. Together, these events weave a cultural tapestry that gives Matsumae its nickname, “The Little Kyoto of the North.”
LOCAL SPECIALTIES
- Matsumae-zuke: A traditional delicacy made by marinating dried squid, kelp, and herring roe in a rich soy-based sauce. Famous throughout Japan, it is known for its savory umami and subtle stickiness—perfect with rice or sake.
- Matsumae Tuna: Fresh bluefin tuna caught in the Tsugaru Strait. Its high-fat content and refined flavor make it one of the finest seafoods in Hokkaido. The town hosts seasonal tuna fairs featuring local fishermen’s catches.
- Momotarō Brand Apples: Locally grown apples celebrated for their sweetness, crispness, and well-balanced acidity. The cool climate and sea breezes produce apples of exceptional quality, especially the “Fuji” and “Tsugaru” varieties.
- Matsumae Kelp (Kombu): Harvested off the coast near Cape Shiragami, this premium kelp is prized by chefs across Japan for its clear, elegant broth.
- Matsumae Ika Shiokara (Salted Squid): A local homemade favorite using freshly caught squid fermented with salt. It pairs excellently with Japanese sake and embodies the authentic coastal flavor of Matsumae.
ANNUAL EVENTS
- Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival: Held from late April to mid-May in Matsumae Park, this is one of Japan’s northernmost flower-viewing events, featuring about 10,000 cherry trees and the iconic Matsumae Castle backdrop.
- Matsumae Hydrangea Festival: Taking place in July, the park blooms with thousands of hydrangeas. Photography enthusiasts visit to capture the vivid contrast between flowers and the blue sea.
- Autumn Harvest Festival: Celebrated in late September and October, this event showcases local seafood, fresh produce, and handmade specialties, offering a taste of the region’s seasonal bounty.
- Matsumae Apple Festival: A joyful autumn event celebrating the apple harvest, where visitors can taste freshly picked apples and enjoy apple-based sweets and products.
- Snow Lantern Festival: In winter, snow lanterns illuminate Matsumae Castle and surrounding streets, creating a magical, serene atmosphere under the northern sky.
ACCESS
- By Air: Fly to Hakodate Airport from major cities. From there, take the Hakodate Bus “Matsumae Line” (approx. 3.5 hours) directly to the town center.
- By Train: Take the Hokkaido Shinkansen or the South Hokkaido Railway to Kikonai Station. From the station, a bus ride to Matsumae takes around 90 minutes.
- By Bus: Regular buses run from Hakodate (via Goryokaku) to Matsumae along National Route 228, offering scenic views of the coastline.
- By Car: About 2.5 hours from Hakodate via Route 228. The drive along Cape Shiragami is renowned for its spectacular ocean views.
- By Ferry: Passenger ferry service between Hakodate and Matsumae once operated but has since been discontinued. Access is now primarily by road and bus.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Matsumae Castle (Fukuyama Castle) – Japan’s northernmost castle, originally built in the Edo period. The current keep was reconstructed in 1960 and stands as a proud symbol of the town.
- Matsumae Park – The most famous cherry blossom park in northern Japan, with over 250 varieties of trees and historical monuments scattered throughout the grounds.
- Hōdō-ji Temple – The family temple of the Matsumae Clan, preserving important historical structures and Buddhist statues.
- Ryūun-in Temple – A temple associated with the Matsumae family, housing several buildings designated as cultural properties.
- Matsumae Folk Museum – Exhibits artifacts from the Edo period and documents the town’s trade, culture, and samurai history.
- Cape Shiragami – The southernmost point of Hokkaido, offering panoramic views of the Tsugaru Strait and Aomori Prefecture across the sea.
