| population | 19,943 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 1147.55 km² |
| population density | 17.4 peoples/km² |
Located in the southern part of Hokkaido within the Hidaka Subprefecture, Shinhidaka Town was established in 2006 through the merger of the former Shizunai and Mitsuishi towns. Facing the Pacific Ocean and backed by the Hidaka Mountains, this region offers a landscape where nature and human life coexist in harmony. The urban area spreads along the Shizunai and Mitsuishi rivers, and every spring, the Nijukken Road Cherry Blossom Avenue forms a breathtaking tunnel of flowers. Shinhidaka has long prospered from dairy farming, fishing, and horse breeding — it is widely known as the “Home of Thoroughbreds.” Its local cuisine combines the blessings of both land and sea, featuring specialties such as Mitsuishi Kombu (kelp), Whey Pork, and premium rice brands like “Manbaken.” Seasonal festivals and local events are abundant throughout the year, reflecting the warmth of the townspeople and the natural beauty that make Shinhidaka truly captivating.
Cultural Traditions
Shinhidaka Town is a rare place where the horse culture of the Hidaka region and the coastal fishing culture coexist. Each season brings traditional celebrations such as the Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, the Shinhidaka Summer Festival in August, and the Winter “Illumination de Light” Festival during the cold months. The famous Nijukken Road Cherry Blossom Avenue has been designated a Hokkaido Heritage site and selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. In the former Mitsuishi area, the Hōraisan Festival celebrates local traditions with folk performances such as the Awaji Hōnenmasu Dance. The town also preserves traces of Ainu culture — visitors can explore this heritage at the Shizunai Ainu Folk Museum. The people of Shinhidaka are known for their kindness and hospitality, welcoming visitors as friends. Its deep-rooted customs, vibrant festivals, and close-knit community embody the true spirit of Hidaka.
Local Specialties
- Mitsuishi Kombu (Hidaka Kelp) – Harvested along the Mitsuishi Coast, this top-grade kelp is prized for its rich umami flavor and is used in high-end Japanese cuisine nationwide.
- Whey Pork – A local brand of pork raised on whey, a byproduct of cheese-making. It has a sweet, tender flavor and is excellent for cutlets and shabu-shabu.
- Mitsuishi Beef / Kobu-Kuro Beef – Premium Wagyu cattle raised on a diet including Hidaka Kombu. The result is deeply flavorful, marbled meat loved by chefs across Japan.
- Manbaken & Tokino Minoru Rice – Locally produced rice varieties grown in Shizunai’s cool, clear-water environment. Known for their aroma, sweetness, and stickiness.
- Mitsuishi Yokan & Kombu Monaka – Traditional sweets made in local confectioneries, popular souvenirs among tourists.
- Mitsuishi Kombu Shochu – A unique distilled spirit made with kelp, offering a subtle sea aroma and smooth finish.
Annual Events
- Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival (Early May): Held along the 7-km Nijukken Road Cherry Avenue. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriages and nighttime illuminations. View on Map
- Mitsuishi Hōraisan Festival (July): A mountaintop festival that prays for a good harvest, featuring folk dances and fireworks. Location
- Shinhidaka Summer Festival (August): The town’s largest event, held in downtown Shizunai with fireworks, bon dances, and local food stalls.
- Shinhidaka Autumn Festival (September): A harvest celebration showcasing local produce, crafts, and live performances.
- Winter “Illumination de Light” (December–February): A dazzling winter illumination that transforms central Shizunai into a wonderland of light.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport. About 2.5 hours by car (approx. 150 km) to Shinhidaka.
- By Bus: Direct highway buses such as “Pegasus” and “Erimo” connect Shinhidaka with Sapporo and New Chitose Airport. Donan Bus Official Site
- By Train: The JR Hidaka Main Line once ran through the town but was discontinued in 2021. Bus routes now operate as substitutes. Former Shizunai Station
- By Car: From Sapporo, drive south along National Route 235. The partially completed Hidaka Expressway will soon improve access to the planned Shizunai IC.
- By Ferry: Travelers from Honshu can arrive via Tomakomai Port, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Shinhidaka.
Tourist Attractions
- Nijukken Road Cherry Blossom Avenue – One of Japan’s most stunning cherry blossom roads, stretching 7 km with 3,000 trees.
- Shizunai Onsen – A serene hot spring surrounded by forested hills, beloved by locals.
- Mitsuishi Onsen Kurazo – A seaside spa hotel with ocean-view open-air baths and on-site dining.
- Mitsuishi Seaside Park – A large recreational park featuring a campground and ocean-view picnic areas.
- Shinhidaka Town Local Museum – Exhibits on regional archaeology, Ainu culture, and local history.
- Ryūtoku-ji Temple – The 29th temple on the Hokkaido 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, known for its peaceful gardens.
- Takami Dam – One of Hokkaido’s largest dams, surrounded by scenic trails ideal for nature walks.
