Iwanai Town, a quiet port town facing the Sea of Japan in the northwestern part of Hokkaido, has a history deeply influenced by Ainu culture, with a strong legacy of the pioneering history from the Meiji era. Agriculture and dairy farming are the main industries of the town, where a lifestyle in harmony with nature thrives, and fresh seafood can be enjoyed abundantly. The local dialect, a type of Hokkaido dialect, is commonly spoken, and Ainu cultural practices are still integrated into daily life. Additionally, seasonal festivals such as the Iwanai Festival and the Iwanai Onsen Snow Candle Festival, which are enthusiastically supported by the local community, should not be missed. Iwanai Town is a magnificent corner of Hokkaido where history, nature, tradition, and modernity harmonize. Furthermore, Iwanai Town is also known for its delicious gourmet food utilizing local specialties. Seafood bowls made with fresh catches and dairy products like cheese, butter, and yogurt produced locally are loved by many tourists. The rich natural environment surrounding the town is also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, providing both healing and adventure to visitors.
Culture and Customs
Iwanai Town is a region where distinctive landscapes and cultures blend, retaining a strong influence from Ainu culture and a sense of the pioneering history from the Meiji era. In terms of industry, agriculture is the mainstay, particularly dairy farming, which is renowned for its delicious dairy products. The lifestyle is characterized by living in harmony with nature and enjoying fresh seafood. The people of Iwanai Town speak a type of Hokkaido dialect. Ainu cultural practices are still alive today, adding color to the community. The festivals in Iwanai Town are worth seeing. In particular, the “Iwanai Festival” and the “Iwanai Onsen Snow Candle Festival” are very lively. Iwanai Town is a wonderful place where you can feel the region’s traditions, coexistence with nature, fresh seafood, and the influences of Ainu culture and pioneering history. Additionally, this area is attractive for its beautiful scenery and seasonal flowers, making it a popular tourist destination. The warmth and hospitality of the local people leave a deep impression on visitors. Within the lives of such people, the local language and unique customs that have been passed down through generations thrive, further enhancing the charm of this town.
Local Specialties
- Iwanai Wine: A wine produced in Iwanai Town, recognized as Japan’s first designated wine grape cultivation area, characterized by its rich fruity flavor and delicate aroma.
- Iwanai Melon: A sweet and juicy melon grown in the unique climate of Iwanai Town, known by the trademark “Iwanai Melon.”
- Iwanai Oysters: Farmed in the clear seawater of the Saru River, Iwanai Oysters are large, meaty, and known for their rich flavor.
- Asparagus: Delicious asparagus with excellent crunch and sweetness, grown in the fertile soil and cool climate of Iwanai Town.
- Salmon and Rainbow Trout: Salmon and rainbow trout raised in the clear streams of Iwanai Town are highly regarded for their freshness and taste.
Annual Events
- Iwanai Port Festival: Held every summer, this is the largest festival in Iwanai Town, featuring activities like catching yamame (sweetfish) and iwana (char) and a parade by the townspeople.
- Iwanai Seafood Festival: Held every autumn, this festival is bustling with people seeking fresh seafood, showcasing handmade seafood products by the townspeople.
- Iwanai Local Festival: Celebrating the history and culture of Iwanai Town, this festival is held every summer, featuring a parade of participants in traditional costumes.
- New Year’s First Market: Held shortly after the New Year, this event sees townspeople and tourists participating to wish for happiness in the coming year, with local agricultural products and handicrafts on display.
- Iwanai Onsen Snow Candle Festival: A winter festival where the area around Iwanai Onsen is beautifully illuminated with snow and candlelight, creating a warm and enchanting scene that makes you forget the cold.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, which is accessible from all over the country, and from there, you can travel by car or train.
- By Car: Use the Dō-Ō Expressway and exit at Iwanai IC to arrive in Iwanai Town. Traveling by car offers great freedom.
- By Train: The nearest station is Iwanai Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line. You can also travel directly by train from New Chitose Airport.
- By Bus: There are direct buses operating from New Chitose Airport to Iwanai Town. While there are time restrictions, it is a cost-effective option.
- By Ferry: You can take a ferry from Tomakomai Port to Niigata Port, and then drive to Iwanai Town from Niigata Port. This is another way to enjoy the sea route.
Tourist Attractions
- Iwanai Onsen – A hot spring area where you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea.
- Iwanai River – A place for outdoor activities such as fishing and canoeing.
- Iwanai Fruit Park – A park where you can experience picking various fruits.
- Iwanai Sake Brewery – You can observe the sake production process made locally.
- Iwanai Coast – A popular spot for beautiful sunsets.
