| population | 4,469 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 133.74 km² |
| population density | 33.4 peoples/km² |
Welcome to Yuni Town, a beautiful agricultural community located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, about 42 km east of Sapporo and only a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Umaoi Hills and the flow of the Yūbari River, Yuni offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful rural life. The town’s name originates from the Ainu word “Yuunni,” meaning “a place with hot springs,” which reflects the area’s natural thermal resources. Established as a village in the late 19th century and officially becoming a town in 1950, Yuni has preserved its traditions and community spirit while embracing modern development. Locals continue to speak the Hokkaido dialect, and community festivals and events play an important role in town life. The summer “Yuni Festival” and the autumn “Furusato Thanksgiving Festival” are particularly lively, featuring local delicacies and performances that draw both residents and visitors alike. Known for its high-quality agricultural products such as potatoes, onions, rice, and melons, Yuni is a town where the richness of nature and the warmth of its people coexist harmoniously. Each season paints the landscape in new colors — from spring blossoms and summer greenery to breathtaking autumn foliage and tranquil winter snows — making Yuni a perfect place to experience the timeless charm of Hokkaido.
Cultural Heritage and Local Traditions
Yuni Town has developed alongside the pioneering spirit of Hokkaido’s early settlers. Blessed with fertile soil and a cool climate, agriculture remains the cornerstone of its economy, with potatoes, onions, rice, and melons being the key crops. During harvest season, the town comes alive with activity and celebration. Community ties in Yuni are strong — neighbors know one another well, and events that strengthen these bonds are held throughout the year. The town’s warm hospitality and down-to-earth communication style reflect its close-knit culture. In July, the annual “Yuni Festival” lights up the town with bon dances, fireworks, and traditional food stalls. In February, the “Yuni Winter Festival” transforms the town into a snowy wonderland with illuminations, ice sculptures, and performances by local children. Yuni also promotes tourism rooted in its natural and cultural assets. Yuni Garden, a vast English-style herb and flower park, attracts thousands of visitors each year. The park’s restaurant serves dishes made from local produce, embodying the town’s “farm-to-table” philosophy. Through such initiatives, Yuni continues to thrive as a town that harmonizes tradition, community, and nature.
Local Specialties
- Yuni Melons: Grown under Hokkaido’s generous sunshine and crisp air, Yuni’s melons are prized for their rich aroma and exceptional sweetness. The locally branded “Yuni Melon” is a favorite summer treat and a popular Furusato Tax return gift.
- Kita-Hikari Rice: A representative rice variety of Hokkaido, cultivated in Yuni’s fertile fields nourished by the Yūbari River. It has a soft texture, natural sweetness, and an appealing fragrance when freshly cooked.
- Yuni Onions: Known for their mild flavor and natural sweetness developed under the cool climate. Excellent for stews and sautés, they are one of the top-selling items at the Yuni Garden Market.
- “Akaoni” Craft Beer: A locally brewed beer with a bold hop aroma and refreshing bitterness. Limited batches are available at local restaurants and souvenir shops — a must-try for beer lovers.
- Yuni Carrots: Carrots from Yuni develop a distinctive sweetness as they grow in the cold air. Perfect for fresh juice or warm soups, they are appreciated for their vibrant flavor and color.
Annual Events
- Yuni Winter Festival: Held every February around Yuni Garden, featuring snow sculptures, illumination displays, and performances by local schoolchildren. It’s one of the most heartwarming winter events in southern Sorachi.
- Yuni Cherry Blossom Festival: From late April to early May, Yuni Park becomes a spectacular tunnel of cherry blossoms. Visitors can enjoy picnics, light-ups, and local street food beneath the blooms.
- Yuni Festival: The major summer celebration held in July. Traditional mikoshi (portable shrines), bon dances, and a large fireworks display make this festival one of Yuni’s highlights.
- Yuni Potato Stew Festival: Every September, residents gather for a giant open-air “Imoni-kai,” enjoying potato stew made with freshly harvested local ingredients. A cozy event that celebrates the taste of autumn.
- Furusato Thanksgiving Festival: In November, the town expresses its gratitude for the harvest. Local products, crafts, and farm goods are showcased and sold, accompanied by music and stage performances.
Access
- By Air: New Chitose Airport is about a 20-minute drive from Yuni. Direct flights connect from major cities across Japan, making access smooth and convenient.
- By Train: Take JR’s Muroran Main Line to Yuni Station. The ride from Sapporo via Iwamizawa takes roughly 90 minutes.
- By Bus: Regular routes operated by Hokkaido Chuo Bus link Yuni with nearby towns such as Kuriyama, Naganuma, and Iwamizawa.
- By Car: From central Sapporo, follow National Route 274 toward Yuni — about a one-hour scenic drive through the Sorachi countryside.
- By Taxi: Local taxi company Yuni Hire operates within the town and from New Chitose Airport, offering direct transfers to accommodations or attractions.
Tourist Attractions
- Yuni Garden – One of Hokkaido’s largest English-style gardens, filled with seasonal flowers and herbs. The on-site restaurant and café serve fresh local cuisine in a picturesque setting.
- Yunni no Yu (Yuni Onsen) – A natural hot spring renowned for its “beautiful skin” effects. The sodium chloride spring and open-air bath offer panoramic views of Yuni’s hillsides.
- Yumekku-kan – A combined library and museum that displays mammoth and giant-deer fossils unearthed locally. A great spot to learn about Yuni’s ancient natural history.
- Yuni Forest Park – Featuring walking trails, campgrounds, and seasonal flowers, this vast park is ideal for hiking, picnics, and family camping.
- Yuni Town Historical & Folk Museum – Exhibits the development of Yuni through the Meiji era and showcases farming tools, crafts, and daily life artifacts.
