| population | 3,710 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 364.30 km² |
| population density | 10.2 peoples/km² |
Located in the southern part of Hokkaido within the Hidaka Subprefecture, Samani Town (Samani-chō) is a coastal community where magnificent nature and Ainu heritage coexist. The entire town is part of the Apoi Geopark, which has been recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Centered around Mount Apoi, the area features unique alpine plants, striking coastal cliffs, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Historically, the town developed through both fishing and agriculture, earning its reputation as a place “where the blessings of the sea and mountains meet.” Ainu traditions, including the preservation of Ainu classical dance—a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property—continue to be passed down through generations. Local dialects blend Hokkaido expressions with traces of Ainu words, reflecting a deep cultural identity. Seasonal festivals such as the Samani Spring Festival and Mount Apoi Opening Festival bring vitality to the community. With its beautiful coastline, rich food culture, and the warmth of its people, Samani leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Samani is a place where Ainu heritage and pioneer history coexist in harmony. The Ainu Traditional Dance has been preserved by the Samani Folk Culture Preservation Society and is officially designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. The residents value the spirit of living together with nature, relying on both the mountains and the sea for their livelihoods. Fishing has long been the backbone of the town, producing abundant catches of salmon, octopus, sea urchins, and kelp from the fertile waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Annual events such as the Samani Spring Festival, the Mount Apoi Opening Celebration, and the Samani Fureai Summer Festival allow locals and visitors alike to enjoy traditional food, music, and nature. The gentle tone of the Hokkaido dialect mixed with Ainu-origin words conveys a sense of local warmth and belonging. Despite the severe winters, the people of Samani embrace the seasons and live in tune with nature’s rhythm—a lifestyle that continues to teach the value of coexistence and resilience.
LOCAL SPECIALTIES
- Hidaka Kelp (Mitsuishi Kombu) – Harvested along the Samani coast, this high-quality kelp is soft, rich in umami, and prized nationwide as one of Japan’s finest soup stocks.
- “Ginsei” Autumn Salmon – A premium brand of wild Pacific salmon from the Hidaka area, caught by fixed nets and known for its firm flesh and delicate fat balance.
- Octopus, Sea Urchin, and Whelk Shellfish – The confluence of the Tsugaru and Kuril currents creates an abundant fishing ground. Especially in summer, fresh sea urchin (uni) is a seasonal delicacy.
- Summer Strawberries (“Suzuakane” variety) – Cultivated in the cool climate shared with nearby Urakawa Town, these bright-red strawberries are sweet and refreshingly tangy.
- Samani Rice and Dairy Products – Grown in mineral-rich soil and nourished by clear spring water, the town’s rice and dairy goods support the local food culture.
ANNUAL EVENTS
- Samani Spring Festival (May) – Celebrates the arrival of spring and the start of the mountain-climbing season. Local delicacies, folk dances, and markets are held near the Apoi Geopark Center.
- Mount Apoi Opening Festival (June) – Marks the official opening of Mount Apoi’s hiking season. Participants enjoy trekking through rare alpine flower zones with panoramic ocean views.
- Samani Fureai Festival (August) – The town’s biggest summer event featuring seafood stalls, local crafts, live performances, and a fireworks display over the coastline.
- Samani Onsen Festival (September) – A celebration of the town’s relaxing hot springs. Visitors enjoy seasonal cuisine and therapeutic bathing experiences.
- Winter Illumination (December – February) – The area around Samani Station and the Apoi Geopark Center lights up with warm, colorful illuminations, creating a magical winter scene.
ACCESS
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport. It takes about 3.5 hours (approx. 190 km) by car or rental car to reach Samani via National Route 235.
- By Bus: The Samani Bus Terminal connects with Sapporo, Tomakomai, and Hiroo via the “Tokkyū Tomamo” and “Highway Erimo” bus lines.
- By Car: From Sapporo, drive along Route 235 for about 3.5 hours; from Obihiro, take Route 236 through Erimo Town (approx. 3 hours). Roads may freeze in winter, so caution is advised.
- By Rail: The former JR Hidaka Main Line was discontinued in 2021. Replacement buses (“Hidaka Line Substitute Bus”) now serve the same route.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
- Mount Apoi – Standing 810 meters tall, this mountain is home to rare alpine flora designated as a Special Natural Monument. Its summit offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Enrumu Cape – A dramatic headland extending into the sea, offering panoramic views of the port and coastline.
- Oyako-iwa Beach Campground – A family-friendly beach and campsite where visitors can enjoy swimming, camping, and sunsets over the Pacific in summer.
- Shiogama Candle Rock – A natural sea stack whose shape resembles a burning candle, glowing orange at sunset—a symbolic landmark of Samani’s coast.
- Samani Local History Museum – Exhibits artifacts from the Ainu culture, local fishing history, and early settlement life, offering insights into the town’s rich heritage.
