Welcome to the beautiful town of Kyowa in Hokkaido. This town has been deeply influenced by Ainu culture since ancient times, and its diverse customs and languages continue to thrive. Additionally, Kyowa has developed a fishing industry, where people live in harmony with nature, utilizing fresh seafood in their daily meals. At the same time, the winter events such as the “Kyowa Snow Light Festival” and the “Kyowa Onsen Festival” further enhance the town’s charm. The town’s industries include agriculture and fisheries, which support the local economy. Conversations in the Hokkaido dialect and Ainu cultural practices blend into daily life, forming a unique culture. Kyowa is a region where history, culture, and climate intertwine to create a rich living environment. Its charm is also reflected in the various traditional crafts nurtured by the local people and in dishes made with fresh local produce. Moreover, visitors can enjoy the seasonal landscapes, especially in autumn when the beautiful foliage captivates those who come. The local dialects and unique lifestyles born from this environment leave a deep impression on visitors, providing memorable experiences.
Culture and Customs
Kyowa in Hokkaido retains a strong influence of Ainu culture within its customs and traditions. As a result of the development of the fishing industry, a lifestyle utilizing abundant seafood has been established. The local people value living in harmony with nature, and the consumption of fresh seafood has become a part of daily life. The main industries are agriculture and fisheries, centered around the unique natural environment of the region. Additionally, the local dialect, known as the Hokkaido dialect, and Ainu cultural practices continue to thrive. In Kyowa, the “Kyowa Snow Light Festival” is held with the arrival of winter, beautifully illuminating the snowy landscape. In summer, the “Kyowa Onsen Festival” takes place, bustling with tourists and locals alike. These cultures and customs shape the charm and individuality of Kyowa, leaving a profound impression on visitors. Furthermore, as a seasonal highlight cherished by the local people, the “Sakura Festival” is held in spring, allowing enjoyment of the beautiful cherry blossoms. In autumn, the “Seafood Festival” showcases dishes made with fresh seafood, delighting visitors.
Local Specialties
- Kyowa’s premium salmon “Kyowa Silver Salmon”: A high-quality salmon raised in an environment specialized in water temperature and quality management, known for its rich fat content.
- “Kyowa Marigold”: Marigolds grown in the fertile soil unique to Kyowa, characterized by their vibrant colors and large blooms.
- “Kyowa Blueberries”: Known for their rich anthocyanin content, these blueberries are sweet, tart, and juicy.
- “Kyowa Natural Honey”: A health food made from honey collected by bees from local flowers, bottled without any additives and with a mild sweetness.
- “Kyowa’s Earthly Bounty Vegetables”: Fresh local vegetables grown with organic fertilizers, focusing on safety and quality.
Annual Events
- Winter Festival “Kyowa Illumination Festival”: The entire town of Kyowa transforms into a world of light, creating a fantastical landscape. This is a winter tradition where each household and the town as a whole participates.
- “Kyowa Cherry Festival”: A festival celebrating the harvest of delicious cherries, a specialty of Kyowa. Visitors can enjoy tastings at local farms and purchase seasonal fruits.
- “Kyowa Winter Festival”: A festival that enlivens winter in Kyowa, featuring a snow sculpture contest and various snow events, very popular with families.
- “Kyowa Bon Odori Festival”: A graceful event where locals gather to enjoy summer nights with traditional Bon dancing. It is a grand festival uniting the townspeople.
- “Kyowa Autumn Festival”: A festival celebrating the autumn harvest, featuring exhibitions and sales of local agricultural products along with various events. It is a festival for community interaction and rediscovering the charm of Kyowa.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is Asahikawa Airport. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Asahikawa Airport to Kyowa.
- By Train: JR Asahikawa Station is the nearest station, and you can transfer to a bus to reach Kyowa.
- By Bus: You can take the Norokko train from Asahikawa Station, which takes about 1 hour to reach Kyowa.
- By Car: From Sapporo, it takes about 3 hours using the new road (Dōō Expressway), and from Asahikawa, it takes about 1 hour using National Route 12.
- By Bicycle: On clear days, you can enjoy cycling while taking in the beautiful nature of Hokkaido. However, due to the long distance, proper planning is necessary.
Tourist Attractions
- Biei Blue Pond – A natural pond characterized by its beautiful blue color. Enjoy the seasonal landscapes.
- Biei Hills – A scenic spot with breathtaking views of Biei’s landscapes, perfect for photography.
- Biei Kenzo Museum – An art museum showcasing works by Kenzo, allowing visitors to experience his world.
- Biei Kenzo Road – A driving course featuring the landscapes of Kenzo. Enjoy the seasonal views.
- Biei Kenzo Forest – A natural forest showcasing the landscapes of Kenzo, ideal for walking and picnicking.
