Makubetsu Town, boasting beautiful nature and a rich history in Hokkaido. The history of the pioneering era is alive, and after the development of the Showa era, dairy farming and dairy product manufacturing have flourished as the main industries of the town, shaping its cultural life. The townspeople lead an agriculture-centered life in a nature-rich environment, speaking the unique dialect of Hokkaido while enjoying seasonal customs. The town’s festivals, filled with its charm, are also not to be missed. The Makubetsu Onsen Festival celebrates the town’s hot spring resources, and the Makubetsu Milk Festival allows visitors to fully enjoy the appeal of leading dairy products. Makubetsu Town is a place where history, industry, life, customs, and festivals coexist, and once you visit, you will be drawn in by its charm. Visitors can savor delicious local produce that the locals have carefully nurtured. Additionally, while strolling through the town harmonized with nature, one can feel the seasonal landscapes and the lives of the local people. Furthermore, by listening to the dialect spoken by the locals, one can gain a deeper understanding of the region’s characteristics and culture.
Culture and Customs
Makubetsu Town is a beautiful town in Hokkaido where the history from the pioneering era and the development of the Showa era can be seen. The town’s industry is primarily centered around dairy farming and dairy product manufacturing, with delicious milk and cheese as local specialties. Life is rich in nature, centered around agriculture, and customs rooted in the changing seasons are prevalent. The locals also speak a dialect characterized by a strong accent unique to Hokkaido. Moreover, the charm of this town is reflected in its festivals. The Makubetsu Onsen Festival and the Makubetsu Milk Festival are loved by both locals and tourists, further enhancing the town’s vibrancy. Especially at the Makubetsu Milk Festival, dishes made with fresh milk produced locally are served, allowing one to experience the deliciousness and pride in dairy farming. Makubetsu Town has grown in harmony with nature, and we wish to convey its beauty and charm. Additionally, when facing the harsh winter, there is a custom where locals come together to shovel snow. This event not only deepens bonds among each other but also symbolizes a strong will to confront the harsh natural environment.
Local Specialties
- Asparagus from Makubetsu Town: Producing about 1,700 tons annually, it accounts for about 10% of the national asparagus production. It is characterized by its deep green color, thickness, and sweetness.
- Makomo: Wild Ezo Engosaku berries harvested locally. After removing the bitterness, they are used in stews and pickles.
- Makubetsu Milk: Fresh milk obtained from dairy cows raised on the vast pastures of Makubetsu Town. It is highly nutritious and is used not only for drinking but also in cooking.
- Ishihoku Herbs: Herbs cultivated in Makubetsu Town are known for their strong aroma due to the easy-growing climate and are used in many dishes and herbal teas.
- Moon and Sun Cheese: Cheese made from fresh milk produced in Makubetsu Town. As the name suggests, it features a design inspired by a white moon and a yellow sun.
Annual Events
- Makubetsu Onsen Snow Festival: Held every February, it is a beautiful winter event featuring local snow and ice sculptures.
- Community Sports Festival: An event in April where residents of Makubetsu Town gather to deepen their interactions through sports.
- Makubetsu Town Fireworks Festival: This festival, held every summer, colors the night sky of Makubetsu Town and captivates visitors.
- Makubetsu Town Festival: A major event held at the end of August where locals and tourists enjoy dancing and music.
- Makubetsu Town Agricultural Festival: This festival held in November gathers fresh local agricultural products and offers tastings of local cuisine.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is Obihiro Airport. Direct flights are available from across the country, and it takes about 30 minutes by taxi or rental car to reach Makubetsu Town.
- By Train: From JR Obihiro Station, take the Nemuro Main Line and get off at Makubetsu Station. The travel time is about 30 minutes.
- By Bus: Take the bus to “Makubetsu Town” from Obihiro Bus Terminal and get off at the last stop. The travel time is about 1 hour.
- By Car: Use the Dōō Expressway, and head to Makubetsu Town via Route 38 from Obihiro IC. The travel time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By Bicycle: Some roads from Obihiro City are designated as bicycle paths, allowing for safe travel to Makubetsu Town. The travel time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Tourist Attractions
- Tokimeki Hill Park – A park where you can enjoy beautiful scenery and playground equipment.
- Makubetsu Onsen – A hot spring area with excellent relaxation effects.
- Peyang Factory – You can observe the manufacturing process of the popular instant noodles “Peyang.”
- Makubetsu Town Local Museum – A museum where you can learn about the history and culture of Makubetsu Town.
- Makubetsu Town Rural Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy seasonal landscapes.
