Kamikawa Town, where the rich nature and history of Hokkaido intersect. Here, the influence of Ainu culture remains strong, and one can glimpse the history of pioneering during the Meiji era. Agriculture is the main industry, particularly known for its active production of dairy products. The people live in harmony with nature, enjoying their unique lifestyle while enduring the harsh cold of winter. The local language and customs are deeply rooted, featuring a unique charm that blends Hokkaido dialect with Ainu cultural practices. Throughout the year, various festivals are held, with the Kamikawa Daisetsu Festival in winter and the Kamikawa Town Fireworks Festival in summer leaving a strong impression on visitors. Additionally, locals can enjoy a rich gourmet experience utilizing fresh local ingredients. In particular, dishes made with locally sourced fresh vegetables and dairy products are exquisite, captivating all who visit. Furthermore, visitors to the town can experience Ainu culture at various facilities and feel the history through old buildings reminiscent of the pioneering era.
Culture and Customs
Kamikawa Town in Hokkaido is a region where rich nature and history thrive. The town’s culture has been shaped by the influence of Ainu culture and the pioneering spirit of the Meiji era. Ainu cultural practices have been incorporated into the local language and lifestyle, providing a wide range of influences. Moreover, the diligence and sustainability of the pioneers are reflected in the town’s industries and way of life. The main industry in Kamikawa Town is agriculture, particularly the production of dairy products. Living in harmony with nature is a daily routine, and agriculture takes advantage of the open natural environment. However, during winter, the harsh cold arrives, and life adapts accordingly. The spoken language is the Hokkaido dialect, showing influences from the Ainu language. In Kamikawa Town, many festivals and events, such as the Kamikawa Daisetsu Festival and the Kamikawa Town Fireworks Festival, are held to celebrate the town’s culture and community bonds. These festivals are a source of enjoyment not only for locals but also for tourists. While locals enjoy meals that utilize the blessings of nature, they also show ingenuity to cope with the winter cold. Additionally, facilities where tourists can experience Ainu culture are available, allowing them to feel the history and traditions.
Local Specialties
- Kamikawa Beef: Black-haired Wagyu cattle raised in Kamikawa Town, known for its high-quality meat and fine fat.
- Kamikawa Dali: A local specialty made from naturally flavored soybeans, resembling ground meat products.
- Kamikawa Honey: A product that captures the essence of local flowers, offering a natural sweetness.
- Kamikawa Vegetables: Vegetables grown in cold regions, developing unique sweetness and flavor due to the harsh environment.
- Kamikawa Genghis Khan: Genghis Khan made from carefully selected lamb from Kamikawa Town, boasting a deep flavor.
Annual Events
- Kamikawa Snow Sculpture Contest: Held every February, this festival allows locals and tourists to create snow sculptures, enjoying the beauty of snow creations and the unique atmosphere.
- Sunflower Festival: The largest summer festival in Kamikawa Town, held from July to August. The sight of sprawling sunflower fields is breathtaking.
- Kamikawa Star Festival: An event for stargazing held every August, providing a natural experience that maximizes the beauty of Hokkaido’s night sky.
- Kamikawa Dosojin Festival: A traditional festival held every October, honoring the local deity and praying for a good harvest and good health.
- Kamikawa Local Cuisine Festival: A culinary festival held every November, showcasing dishes made from local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy local flavors while experiencing Kamikawa Town’s food culture.
Access Methods
- By Air: After arriving at New Chitose Airport or Asahikawa Airport in Hokkaido, you can travel to Kamikawa Town by rental car or taxi. If there are no direct flights, transfers from various locations in Japan are necessary.
- By Train: Transfer from JR Asahikawa Station to the JR Furano Line and get off at Kamikawa Station. After that, take a bus or taxi to Kamikawa Town.
- By Car: Located about 2.5 hours by car from New Chitose Airport and about 1 hour from Asahikawa City. You can also enjoy the scenery along the way.
- By Bus: Direct buses operate from Asahikawa City to Kamikawa Town. Depending on the time of day, the bus may be crowded, so advance reservations are recommended.
- By Ferry: Ferries to Hokkaido are also an option for access from Honshu. Travel by car from Tomakomai Port or Hakodate Port to Kamikawa Town.
Tourist Attractions
- Daisetsuzan – Hokkaido’s highest peak, offering beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.
- Biei Hills – A hill with beautiful scenery, showcasing seasonal landscapes.
- Asahiyama Zoo – A popular zoo where you can observe the ecology of winter animals.
- Biei Kenzo Forest Museum – An art museum where nature and art merge, featuring works by Kenzo.
- Kamikawa Town Star Station – A facility for stargazing, also featuring a planetarium.
