MENU
北海道と青森県市町村完全制覇！！岩手県へ突入中！！
  1. Home
  2. Hokkai-do
  3. Complete Guide to Rikubetsu Town, Hokkaido | Tourism, Culture, Local Products, and Access Information

Complete Guide to Rikubetsu Town, Hokkaido | Tourism, Culture, Local Products, and Access Information

Hokkai-do
このサイトにはPRが含まれています。
北海道陸別町の風景
population 2,064 peoples
area 608.90 km²
population density 3.39 peoples/km²

Located in northeastern Hokkaido, Rikubetsu Town is widely known as the coldest inhabited place in Japan. During winter, temperatures can drop below −30°C, and the extreme cold has become a defining characteristic of the region. The town’s history is rooted in early agricultural settlement, and the opening of the old Furusato Ginga Railway played a significant role in the area’s development. Today, Rikubetsu thrives mainly on agriculture—especially dairy farming—producing high-quality milk and agricultural products nurtured by its pristine natural environment.

Surrounded by mountains and situated within a basin, the town experiences large temperature swings, resulting in cool summers and severely cold winters. Rikubetsu is also renowned for its exceptionally clear night skies, and the Ginga-no-Mori Observatory has become one of its key attractions. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, while historic facilities, local museums, and the preserved “Rikubetsu Railway” provide opportunities to explore the town’s culture and past. Rikubetsu’s blend of nature, climate, and community makes it a uniquely memorable destination.

タップできる目次

Culture & Traditions

Rikubetsu’s culture has been shaped by its pioneering settlers and by generations of residents who have learned to live in harmony with harsh winter conditions. One of the town’s most iconic events, the “Shibare Festival,” celebrates Rikubetsu’s extreme cold with attractions such as an ice-cold experience booth that recreates −30°C conditions, ice candles, and winter fireworks. This festival is a symbol of the town’s identity and attracts visitors from across Japan.

Food culture in Rikubetsu centers around dairy and agricultural products. Local milk, cheese, and ice cream are particularly well-regarded for their richness and flavor, thanks to the clean air and cool climate. Hearty dishes made with potatoes, beans, and other locally grown ingredients reflect the region’s simple yet nourishing culinary tradition. The local dialect follows the intonation patterns of eastern Hokkaido, lending a warm and familiar tone to everyday conversations.

Community-based events are held throughout the year, strengthening the bond among residents and preserving traditional customs. The town’s culture embodies resilience and cooperation—values that have helped generations thrive despite Rikubetsu’s challenging winters. Together, these elements form a unique cultural landscape found only in Rikubetsu.

Local Specialties

  • Rikubetsu Lavender: Cultivated in small quantities but renowned for its rich fragrance and vibrant color. Lavender products such as potpourri and essential oils are popular souvenirs.
  • Rikubetsu Potatoes: Grown in a climate with large temperature variations, producing potatoes with natural sweetness and a fluffy texture. Highly valued within the region.
  • Locally Grown Soybeans: Known for their strong flavor and high nutritional value. Often used in miso, tofu, and traditional soybean products.
  • Rikubetsu Milk: Produced by local dairy farms, this milk is rich and creamy, forming the foundation of many local dairy items.
  • Local Honey: Produced from wildflowers such as lavender and clover, resulting in delicate, aromatic honey.

Annual Events

  • Shibare Festival (February): The town’s signature winter event, showcasing ice lanterns, fireworks, and the unique “−30°C experience room” that lets visitors feel true Rikubetsu-style cold.
  • Rikubetsu Railway Driving Experience: Held throughout the year on selected dates, allowing visitors to drive actual preserved railcars from the former Furusato Ginga Line.
  • Star-Gazing Events at Ginga-no-Mori Observatory: Seasonal events held during clear summer nights. Rikubetsu has some of Japan’s best observing conditions.
  • Local Produce Fair: A market-style event featuring fresh vegetables, dairy products, mountain vegetables, and homemade goods from local farmers.
  • Autumn Harvest Festival: A celebration of fall harvests with local food stalls, new-crop potatoes, beans, and pumpkins.

Access

  • From New Chitose Airport: The most practical route is via Obihiro or Memanbetsu airports, followed by rental car or bus service to Rikubetsu.
  • By Rail (JR): Rikubetsu currently has no active rail line. The nearest major stations are Obihiro Station and Kitami Station, both connected by bus or car.
  • By Highway Bus: Tokachi Bus and Hokkaido Kitami Bus operate routes connecting Obihiro, Kitami, and Rikubetsu.
  • By Rental Car: Renting a car from Obihiro, Kitami, or the airports is the most convenient option for exploring the area.
  • By Bicycle: During summer, the area’s gentle hills and scenic nature make for enjoyable cycling routes.

Tourist Spots

Links

List of Major Cities in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Major Cities – Overview Page

Tokachi General Subprefecture List

Tokachi General Subprefecture Overview
Back to Hokkaido Top
＊ 記事内容は公開当時の情報に基づくものです。
Hokkai-do
en hokkaido tokachi-Subprefecture
保存してあとでチェック
タップできる目次