Hokkaido’s Kamishihoro Town is known for its rich natural environment and high-quality dairy products. This area has a history of pioneering settlement, with people living here since the Meiji era. As a testament to this, Kamishihoro Station was opened, playing a significant role in the town’s growth. However, the charm of this town lies in its simple living environment. Surrounded by picturesque nature throughout the four seasons, visitors can enjoy skiing in winter. Additionally, local cuisine that utilizes locally sourced ingredients and the unique Hokkaido dialect enhance the town’s appeal. The annual Kamishihoro Summer Festival and Winter Snow Festival are important events that celebrate the town’s industry and culture. The primary industry, agriculture, brings new vitality to the town. Crops grown using the rich land are widely recognized for their freshness and depth of flavor, especially the locally produced dairy products, which are rated as top quality. As a result, they support the town’s economy and enrich the lives of its residents.
Culture and Customs
Kamishihoro Town in Hokkaido has a history of pioneering settlement dating back to the Meiji era and has developed with the opening of Kamishihoro Station. Here, agriculture is the main industry, with a particular focus on dairy production. Life is conducted in a rich natural environment, and skiing becomes a popular activity in winter. Additionally, local people use the Hokkaido dialect and enjoy meals made with locally sourced ingredients as part of their daily customs. In summer, the “Kamishihoro Summer Festival” is held, bringing the entire town together in celebration. In winter, the “Winter Snow Festival” allows visitors to fully enjoy the town’s charm. To experience the allure of Kamishihoro Town, be sure to visit at least once. The people of this region cherish the changing of the seasons and lead lives that appreciate the beauty of each season. They also value communication with close friends and actively participate in various community activities to deepen their bonds.
Local Specialties
- Kamishihoro Town’s Hokkigai: The Hokkigai (surf clams) caught in the cold seas of Kamishihoro Town are thick and packed with flavor, offering a unique texture.
- Kamishihoro Town Jungle Milk: Fresh milk produced from locally raised cows. It is rich in natural nutrients and has a rich flavor.
- Kamishihoro Town Wagyu: Known for its tender meat quality, sweetness, and aroma, Kamishihoro Town’s Wagyu is perfect for meat dishes.
- Kamishihoro Town Potatoes: Potatoes grown in the town’s climate, which has significant temperature differences, are sweet and have a unique flavor.
- Kamishihoro Town Asparagus: Known for its thick stalks and delicate flavor, Kamishihoro Town’s asparagus is vibrant green and visually beautiful.
Annual Events
- “Shishamo Festival”: Held on the third Sunday of May each year, this festival allows visitors to taste fresh shishamo (smelt) from Kamishihoro Town. Enjoying freshly grilled shishamo lets you feel the town’s rich nature.
- “Kamishihoro Onsen Snow Akari”: During the winter season, snow lanterns set up in the Kamishihoro hot spring area create a fantastical snowy landscape. The handmade snow lanterns from the locals warmly welcome visitors.
- “Autumn Arts Festival”: Held every October, this cultural event gathers many artists from inside and outside the town. A variety of works, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, are displayed.
- “Sunflower Festival”: Held every August, the sunflower fields cultivated by local residents reach their peak bloom. The vast fields of sunflowers turn the landscape yellow, heralding the arrival of summer.
- “Kamishihoro Dam Festival”: Held every July, this festival attracts locals and tourists alike. Events include boat races known as Dam Cup and sales of local products.
Access Methods
- By Air: Fly from New Chitose Airport to Asahikawa Airport or Obihiro Airport, and then take a bus or rent a car to head to Kamishihoro Town. It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour from the nearest airport.
- By Train: Use the Nemuro Main Line from JR Obihiro Station and get off at Shintoku Station. From there, take a bus or taxi to Kamishihoro Town. The travel time is about 2 hours.
- By Bus: Buses from Obihiro Station are convenient; take the bus bound for “Kamishihoro” from Obihiro Bus Terminal, which goes directly to Kamishihoro Town. The travel time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- By Car: If using a car, take the Dōō Expressway and exit at Obihiro IC. From there, head to Kamishihoro Town via National Route 38 and National Route 274. The travel time is about 3 hours.
- By Bicycle: For those who want to enjoy the rich natural scenery while traveling, accessing by bicycle is also recommended. However, since the distance is long, please plan with enough physical strength and time.
Tourist Attractions
- Kamishihoro Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Tokachi River Source – A source point of a river rich in nature with clear streams.
- Penguin Walkway – A unique tourist spot where penguins walk freely.
- Kamishihoro Dam – A large dam facility where you can enjoy magnificent views.
- Kamishihoro Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the region’s history and culture.
