Assabu Town, a picturesque town in Hokkaido. Heavily influenced by Ainu culture, its history connects the spirit of the Ainu with the development of mining, leading to today’s Assabu Town. The town’s main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of dairy products. Life here coexists with nature, showcasing resilience in overcoming harsh winters. The Hokkaido dialect is used in daily life, and there is a strong commitment to preserving Ainu culture. The charm of Assabu Town lies in its festivals: the “Assabu Town Snow Festival,” which blows away the winter cold, and the “Assabu Town Summer Festival,” where the entire town comes together. Both provide unforgettable experiences for visitors. Additionally, to experience the local flavors, trying dishes made with fresh dairy products is highly recommended. During the summer festival, numerous local dishes made from agricultural products and dairy delight the taste buds of visitors. Furthermore, the townspeople cherish Ainu traditions and language, actively engaging in activities to pass them on to the next generation.
Culture and Customs
Assabu Town, located in central Hokkaido, Japan, is surrounded by rich nature. Its culture is significantly influenced by Ainu culture and the development of mining. Particularly, traces of Ainu culture can be seen in the town’s traditions and customs, deeply rooted in the lives of its residents. The main industry in Assabu Town is agriculture, especially the production of dairy products. As a result, the town’s landscape is filled with lush pastures where cows and sheep coexist with nature. In contrast, during the harsh winter, the area is covered in thick snow, and residents live while battling the cold. The spoken language is the Hokkaido dialect, particularly a dialect derived from the Ainu language, which is used in daily life. There is also a strong emphasis on preserving Ainu culture, with local schools providing education in the Ainu language. Various festivals are held throughout the year, but the “Assabu Town Snow Festival” and the “Assabu Town Summer Festival” are particularly significant events, attracting many visitors from afar as well as local residents. These festivals symbolize the culture of Assabu Town and convey its charm to those who visit. Additionally, the remnants of mining sites that tell the town’s history are popular tourist attractions. The development of mining had a significant impact on the town’s economy and way of life, and traces of that history can still be seen today.
Local Specialties
- Assabu Fuki-no-Tou: In Assabu Town, the vegetable “fuki-no-tou,” which heralds the arrival of spring, is known as a local specialty. Grown under the sunlight, fuki-no-tou is characterized by its unique bitterness and aroma, used in various dishes.
- Assabu Handmade Soba: This region is known for its exceptional soba, nurtured by fresh water and harsh cold. Particularly, handmade soba enhances its flavor even more.
- Assabu Haskap: Haskap berries cultivated by local farmers are characterized by their refreshing sweetness, tartness, and rich aroma. They are used in various processed foods such as jams and juices.
- Assabu Tea: Tea made from tea leaves grown in the Assabu region offers a deep aroma and mellow flavor. It is a rare tea available only locally, making it popular among tourists.
- Assabu Black Wagyu Beef: Assabu Town is also known for raising black Wagyu beef, recognized for its excellent meat quality and deliciousness. It is especially enjoyed as steak or in grilled dishes.
Annual Events
- Assabu Furusato Summer Festival: Held every August, this summer festival features local performances, food stalls, and a fireworks display, making it very popular among tourists.
- Assabu Manmaru Snow Festival: A winter festival held in February, where large snow sculptures and snow lanterns decorate the town, and visitors can learn about Ainu culture.
- Assabu Snow Akari Festival: Held at the end of February, this festival showcases fantastical snow lanterns floating on the snow and Ainu dances performed by local people.
- Assabu River Cherry Blossom Festival: Held every April, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms blooming along the riverbank and foraging for wild vegetables. Many local specialties are also sold.
- Assabu Art Festival: Held every October, this festival features works by local artists and craftsmen, with opportunities to purchase art pieces.
Access
- By Plane: There are flights to New Chitose Airport from various locations, and it takes about 2 hours by rental car from there.
- By Train: From JR Sapporo Station, it takes about 30 minutes by express train to Otaru, and then transfer to a local train to reach Assabu Town.
- By Bus: Direct buses operate from Sapporo City, and it is also possible to check the schedule and use them.
- By Car: It takes about 2 hours by car from Sapporo City and about 1 hour from Muroran City.
- By Bicycle: Cycling along nature-rich paths is recommended as a means of transportation, as long as time and stamina allow.
Tourist Attractions
- Assabu Ski Resort – A ski resort enjoyable for beginners to advanced skiers.
- Assabu Onsen – A hot spring area reputed for its skin-beautifying effects.
- Assabu Town Library – A library where you can learn about local culture.
- Assabu Town Art Museum – Exhibiting works by local artists.
- Assabu Town Museum – A museum where you can learn about the town’s history.
