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

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population 4,871 peoples
area 402.88 km²
population density 12.1 peoples/km²

Located in the heart of Hokkaido’s Tokachi region, Shikaoi Town is known for its magnificent natural landscapes, rich history, and strong cultural heritage influenced by the indigenous Ainu people. The town’s name originates from the Ainu phrase “Kuteku-Usi,” meaning “a place with a deer-hunting fence,” reflecting the area’s long-standing connection with hunting culture. To the north lies the mountainous area of Daisetsuzan National Park, while the southern region opens into fertile agricultural plains nourished by the pristine waters of Lake Shikaribetsu. Dairy farming, field crops, and environmentally-conscious agricultural programs form the foundation of the town’s economy, and its biomass energy projects have made Shikaoi a leading model of sustainable rural development. Community life is closely tied to nature, with strong local bonds nurtured through cultural events and volunteer activities. Seasonal festivals such as the Shikaribetsu Lake Kotan and the Shirahime Princess Festival attract visitors from across Japan. Shikaoi beautifully combines nature, history, and culture, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking authentic Hokkaido experiences.

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Cultural Traditions

Shikaoi Town preserves many elements of Ainu cultural heritage. The town’s name itself reflects Ainu hunting practices, and many mountains, rivers, and lakes retain Ainu-language names. The community continues to value harmony with nature, a philosophy that shapes both its agricultural life and its tourism development. Local residents maintain a strong sense of community, participating actively in festivals, arts programs, and local preservation activities. Major cultural highlights include the Shirahime Festival, inspired by local folklore, and the Shikaribetsu Lake Kotan, where a village made entirely of snow and ice appears each winter on the frozen lake. These traditions express Shikaoi’s identity as a town deeply connected to its environment. The artistic legacy of painter Nissho Kanda, who lived and worked in the area, also plays an important role in shaping regional culture and educational programs.

Local Specialties

  • Shikaoi Soba (Buckwheat): A signature product of the town. The cool climate and rich soil produce buckwheat with a strong aroma and excellent flavor, available at local soba shops and farmer’s markets.
  • Oshorokoma (Dolly Varden Trout): A rare freshwater fish inhabiting Lake Shikaribetsu. Designated a Hokkaido Natural Monument, it is protected, but visitors can learn about it at local facilities.
  • Azuki Beans and Other Pulses: Tokachi is famous for high-quality legumes, and Shikaoi is no exception. These beans are used in traditional sweets and processed foods.
  • Corn: The large temperature difference between day and night produces exceptionally sweet corn, sold in local shops and at summer festivals.
  • Woodcrafts and Shikaoi Pottery: Wood and ceramic artworks produced by local artisans reflect the town’s natural environment and cultural identity.

Annual Events

  • Shikaribetsu Lake Kotan (January–March): A one-of-a-kind winter attraction where an “ice village” made of snow and ice appears on frozen Lake Shikaribetsu. Highlights include an ice bar, snow domes, and an outdoor hot bath.
  • Shirahime Festival (Early July): A traditional summer celebration featuring folklore-based performances and fireworks.
  • Shikaoi Summer Fireworks (Late July): A major seasonal event where residents and visitors gather to enjoy large-scale fireworks displays.
  • Shikaoi Flower Festival (July): A celebration showcasing Shikaoi’s floral landscape, with garden displays and hands-on activities.
  • Shikaoi Soba Festival (Early October): Held during the new soba season. Visitors can enjoy freshly made soba and soba-making workshops.

Access

  • By Air: From New Chitose Airport, Shikaoi is approximately a 2-hour drive. Using expressways ensures stable travel time and is the most common access method.
  • By Train: The nearest station is JR Shintoku Station (Sekisho Line / Nemuro Line). Shikaoi Town is about 30 minutes by car from the station.
  • By Bus: From Obihiro Station, Hokkaido Takushoku Bus offers direct services to Shikaoi, taking about 1 hour.
  • By Car: About 3 hours from Sapporo via National Route 274 and regional highways.

Tourist Attractions

  • Nissho Kanda Memorial Museum – A museum dedicated to the works of Nissho Kanda, a renowned painter who lived in Shikaoi.
  • Lake Shikaribetsu – The only natural lake in the Tokachi region, known for its clear waters and serene mountain scenery.
  • Lake Shinonome – A hidden lake accessible only on foot. Its untouched natural beauty makes it a prized hiking destination.
  • Fukuhara Mountain Villa – Open to the public for only one month in autumn, famous for its breathtaking fall colors.
  • Tokachi Shikaoi Geopark Center – A facility where visitors can learn about the geological history of the region, recognized as a Japanese Geopark.

Related Links

List of Major Cities in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Major Cities – Overview Page

Tokachi General Subprefecture List

Tokachi General Subprefecture Overview
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