Kitami’s Hokuryu Town, located in the heart of Hokkaido, has been known for its rich natural environment and vibrant community since its establishment in 1967. The town’s main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of soybeans, which has earned it the nickname “Soybean Town.” Throughout the year, various seasonal customs exist, and the daily life filled with the Hokkaido dialect vividly reflects the local culture and history. Additionally, events such as the annual Hokuryu Summer Festival and Soybean Harvest Festival are popular as symbols of the town’s charm. Enjoy this article filled with the attractions of Hokuryu Town. Furthermore, the town’s unique dialect and customs are alive in everyday life. The festivals, which are enthusiastically supported by the local community, will surely create special memories for visitors. These are part of the allure of this place that captivates all who come.
Culture and Customs
Hokuryu Town in Hokkaido, established in 1967, is located in the central part of Hokkaido. Due to its location, agriculture has become the main industry, with soybean production being particularly active. The living environment in Hokuryu Town is characterized by its rich nature and active community. The Hokkaido dialect is commonly spoken, and various seasonal customs exist. Together, these elements play a role in deepening community bonds. Moreover, various festivals are held in Hokuryu Town to convey local customs and the town’s charm. Among them, the “Hokuryu Summer Festival” and “Soybean Harvest Festival” are enjoyable events for both local residents and tourists from outside the prefecture. Hokuryu Town values its natural beauty and community ties while passing down seasonal customs to the next generation. The locals eagerly anticipate the Soybean Harvest Festival, where delicious soybean dishes are offered. The Hokuryu Summer Festival, which allows visitors to experience the town’s history and culture, also attracts many tourists each year, further enhancing the town’s vibrancy. Through these festivals, it is possible to understand the town’s history and culture and deepen community bonds.
Local Specialties
- Sunflowers: Hokuryu Town in Hokkaido is Japan’s top sunflower-producing area, with about 2 million sunflowers blooming in the summer.
- Sunflower Oil: The sunflower oil made from the town’s specialty sunflowers is a flavorful oil perfect for salads and cooking.
- Sunflower Honey: The honey harvested from Hokuryu Town’s sunflowers is characterized by its unique sweetness and aroma, making it perfect for healthy desserts.
- Hokuryu Melon: The large, sweet, and fragrant Hokuryu Melon is a top-quality product resulting from the town’s unique climate conditions and meticulous cultivation techniques.
- Buckwheat: The buckwheat grown in Hokuryu Town’s fertile land boasts a proud texture and aroma. Dishes made with fresh buckwheat captivate visitors.
Annual Events
- Hokuryu Spring Festival: A festival celebrating the arrival of spring held in late March each year. Local specialties gather, and there are plenty of fun events.
- Sunflower Festival: Held from late July to early August. One of Hokkaido’s largest sunflower fields spreads out, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful scenery.
- Hokuryu Summer Festival: The most bustling summer festival of the year. Visitors can experience local traditional culture through Bon Odori dances and fireworks.
- Hokuryu Autumn Festival: A festival celebrating the autumn harvest held in late September. Fresh agricultural products are sold, and meals are served, allowing visitors to enjoy local delicacies.
- Winter Lantern Festival: In winter, lanterns illuminate the beautiful snowy landscape. It is a warm festival celebrating the quiet winter nights.
Access Methods
- By Plane: Direct flights to New Chitose Airport are available. The travel time from New Chitose Airport to Hokuryu Town is about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
- By Train: The nearest station is Washibetsu Station on the JR Shin-Hakodate Line. It is convenient to use a taxi or rental car from Washibetsu Station to Hokuryu Town.
- By Bus: It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Sapporo by Dōō Bus. Take the bus bound for Nayoro and get off at the Road Traffic Center bus stop.
- By Car: Use the Dōō Expressway, and after exiting at Nayoro Interchange, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Hokuryu Town.
- By Bicycle: For those who want to enjoy the rich nature of Hokkaido, traveling by bicycle is also recommended. However, it is necessary to check road conditions and weather.
Tourist Attractions
- Hokuryu Town Sunflower Park – In summer, beautiful sunflowers bloom all over.
- Hokuryu Onsen – A relaxing hot spring area surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Hokuryu Park – Enjoy seasonal flowers and nature.
- Hokuryu Town Furusato-kan – A facility where you can learn about local history and culture.
- Hokuryu Town Rural Park – A vast area where you can relax and spend time leisurely.
