| population | 1,392 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 82.27 km² |
| population density | 16.9 peoples/km² |
Tomari Village, located in the Furu District of the Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, is a quiet fishing community facing the Sea of Japan. It is also known as the site of Hokkaido’s only nuclear power facility, the Hokkaido Electric Power Tomari Nuclear Power Plant. The village’s name comes from the Ainu words “Moire-Tomari,” meaning “calm harbor.” Since the late 16th century, Tomari has flourished as a fishing settlement—especially during the herring boom era. Surrounded by mountains and sea, the villagers have lived in close harmony with nature, developing a culture deeply tied to the ocean. The local seafood industry remains active, featuring scallops, sea urchins, salmon, and kelp, all proudly representing Tomari’s culinary identity. Festivals and traditional events bind the community together; among them, the annual “Tomari Festival” celebrates safety at sea and abundant harvests. This small coastal village radiates both tranquility and vitality—an enduring harmony of nature, history, and culture.
Culture and Traditions
Tomari Village preserves the heritage of both Ainu and maritime cultures. By the end of the 16th century, large-scale herring fishing supported the local economy, and a number of wooden fishermen’s lodges, known as “Nishin Goten Tomari,” stood along the coast. Today, the historic Former Kawamura Family Herring Lodge still stands as a nationally registered cultural property, offering a rare glimpse into the prosperous fishing life of that era. Daily life in Tomari is centered on coexistence with nature—the sea provides food and work, while the forests and mountains protect the settlement. Locals speak the Hokkaido dialect, which adds a friendly and warm tone to everyday communication. Among the many annual events, the “Tomari Festival” held at Tomari Inari Shrine is the most famous, featuring portable shrines, taiko performances, and fireworks. The community also organizes cultural workshops honoring Ainu heritage and environmental education for children, helping future generations appreciate their roots. In winter, the “Snow Lantern Night” turns the entire village into a glowing landscape of light and snow—symbolizing the harmony between people and nature that defines Tomari.
Local Specialties
- Tomari Sea Urchin (Ezo-Bafun-Uni): Harvested from the rough northern seas, Tomari’s sea urchins are prized for their rich sweetness and creamy texture. Best enjoyed fresh in summer as uni-donburi (sea urchin rice bowl).
- Tomari Scallops: Cultivated in Sabetsu Bay, these thick, succulent scallops are known for their natural sweetness and springy bite. They are available at local seafood markets year-round.
- Tomari Kelp: Grown in nutrient-rich coastal waters, the kelp of Tomari produces a deep umami flavor, perfect for dashi broth or simmered dishes.
- Tomari Salmon: Each autumn, salmon return to the rivers of Tomari. Locals prepare them grilled, simmered, or served as ikura-don (salmon roe rice bowl).
- Tomari Daikon (Radish): Locally grown daikon is juicy and sweet, making it ideal for pickles and winter stews. It reflects the purity of the local soil and water.
Annual Events
- Tomari Festival (Late July): Held at Tomari Inari Shrine, this summer celebration includes parades, drums, and fireworks, attracting both locals and visitors.
- Sabetsu Onsen Festival (Mid-August): Taking place at Sabetsu Onsen, guests can enjoy outdoor hot-spring baths and regional dishes in a relaxing mountain setting.
- Autumn Harvest Thanksgiving (Late September): A market event offering freshly caught seafood, agricultural produce, and local delicacies to celebrate the harvest season.
- Snow Lantern Night (Early February): Snow lanterns line the streets of the village, creating a magical winter scene beneath the starry sky.
- Tomari Hometown Gourmet Festival (Throughout the Year): A recurring food event that showcases Tomari’s seasonal flavors—from seafood in summer to hearty stews in winter.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airports are New Chitose Airport and Okadama Airport (Sapporo). From either airport, rental cars provide the most convenient access (approx. 3 hours).
- By Train: There is no railway in Tomari. The closest station is JR Ozawa Station (Republic Town), about 40 minutes by car.
- By Bus: The “Shiokaze Line” coastal bus, connecting Iwanai, Kyōwa, and Kamiyoi, stops in Tomari and serves as regional public transport.
- By Car: About 2 ½ hours from Sapporo via National Route 229. The scenic coastal road around the Shakotan Peninsula makes for a rewarding drive.
Tourist Attractions
- Nishin Goten Tomari (Former Kawamura Family Herring Lodge) – A well-preserved 19th-century fishermen’s residence that documents Hokkaido’s herring-fishing golden age.
- Sabetsu Onsen Resort – A peaceful hot-spring retreat surrounded by forested hills, featuring open-air baths and small inns.
- Kabuto Cape (“Kabuto Misaki”) – A dramatic cape overlooking the Sea of Japan, famous for its sunset views and coastal hiking trails.
- Tomari Kabuto Line Park – A recreation park with lookout points and walking paths, popular for family picnics and scenic photography.
- Ōkawa Falls – A picturesque waterfall nestled in the forest, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
- Tomari Energy PR Center (Tomarin-kan) – An educational facility explaining how nuclear energy is produced and used in Hokkaido.
