| population | 4,970 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 585.71 km² |
| population density | 8.49 peoples/km² |
Located in southern Hokkaido along the Pacific Ocean, Niikappu Town is a peaceful community known for its deep connection to Ainu culture and its development during Japan’s pioneering era in the Meiji period. It is one of Japan’s leading thoroughbred horse breeding regions and home to the famous Niikappu Record Museum, which houses over 600,000 vinyl records. Agriculture and livestock farming also thrive here, with rice cultivation, dairy production, and horse breeding forming the backbone of the local economy. The people of Niikappu maintain their traditions, speaking the Hokkaido dialect and preserving Ainu cultural heritage. Throughout the year, seasonal festivals and community events fill the town with color—snow-lit winter nights and vibrant summer celebrations highlight the town’s harmony between nature, history, and music. Niikappu truly represents the spirit of coexistence between people and nature.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Niikappu Town blends Ainu heritage with the pioneering spirit of Meiji-era settlers, creating a unique cultural landscape. Its name originates from the Ainu word “Ni-kap,” meaning “bark of a tree,” symbolizing harmony with nature. The town is blessed with rich natural features such as the Niikappu Mud Volcano and fertile plains nourished by the Niikappu River. Agriculture, dairy, and horse breeding are the town’s main industries, taking advantage of Hidaka’s relatively mild coastal climate.
The town’s dialect retains traces of the Ainu language, and community bonds are strong. Traditional Ainu dances are still performed by the Niikappu Folk Culture Preservation Society, designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. Major annual events such as the “Niikappu Furusato Festival” and “Koma Festival” (Horse Festival) bring residents together to celebrate local life. During winter, the “Snow Lantern Night” transforms the town into a glowing landscape of hand-made snow lanterns. Local schools integrate cultural lessons about Ainu traditions and horse culture, ensuring that these unique customs are passed on to younger generations.
SPECIALTIES
- Niikappu Wagyu Beef: Raised in the lush pastures of Hidaka, Niikappu beef is renowned for its tenderness and rich marbling. It’s served in local restaurants and shipped nationwide.
- Niikappu Rice: Grown in the fertile fields nourished by the Niikappu River, this rice features a subtle sweetness and plump texture, making it a regional favorite.
- Niikappu Melons: Sweet and aromatic melons harvested in summer, popular as premium gifts across Japan.
- Niikappu Herbs: Locally grown herbs are used in teas and aromatherapy products, loved for their soothing scent and natural healing qualities.
- Record Museum Souvenirs: Exclusive goods such as music-themed T-shirts, record-shaped items, and CDs can be purchased only at the Niikappu Record Museum.
ANNUAL EVENTS
- Niikappu Furusato Festival: Held every July, this major summer festival features bon dances, live performances, food stalls, and fireworks lighting up the seaside sky.
- Koma Festival: Taking place in September, this event honors Hidaka’s horse culture with parades, horseback riding, and local market booths.
- Niikappu Mud Volcano Tour: A guided nature event where participants explore the rare geological phenomenon designated as a Natural Monument of Hokkaido.
- Niikappu Cultural Festival: Every November, residents display local arts, crafts, and musical performances, celebrating community creativity.
- Evening of Records: A special night at the Niikappu Record Museum, where guests enjoy analog music playback from the town’s vast vinyl collection.
ACCESS
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, about 1 hour 40 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda). From there, Niikappu is about a 2-hour drive.
- By Rail: The former JR Niikappu Station on the Hidaka Line was discontinued in 2021; bus and car are now the main transportation methods.
- By Bus: Donan Bus operates “Pegasus Express” (Sapporo–Urakawa route) and “Tokkyu Tomamo-go” (Tomakomai–Urakawa route), both stopping in Niikappu.
- By Car: About 2.5 hours from Sapporo via National Route 235. The extension of the Hidaka Expressway will further improve access in the future.
- By Rental Car: Approximately 120 km from New Chitose Airport, offering scenic coastal drives along the Pacific shoreline.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Niikappu Record Museum – Houses over 600,000 vinyl records and vintage audio systems. A must-see destination blending music and local culture.
- Niikappu Onsen “Record no Yu” – A seaside hot spring offering panoramic ocean views and beautifying mineral waters. Hotel Hills next door provides comfortable lodging.
- Hangankan Forest Park – A scenic park with campsites and walking trails surrounded by lush greenery and cherry blossoms in spring.
- Taiyo no Mori Dimaggio Art Museum – A former school transformed into an art space featuring massive works by French artist Gérard Di-Maccio.
- Niikappu Mud Volcano – A rare natural wonder designated as a Hokkaido Natural Monument, where bubbling mud formations emerge from underground gases.
