Mukawa Town, a beautiful place in Hokkaido, has inherited the pioneering spirit of the Meiji era while being influenced by Ainu culture. This town values a lifestyle that coexists with nature. Agriculture is the main industry, and it is particularly renowned for its dairy production. Dishes made with fresh ingredients satisfy the hearts of visitors. The local dialect, Hokkaido dialect, is deeply rooted in daily life, and the inheritance of Ainu culture can also be observed. Throughout the year, many festivals are held, especially the “Mukawa Spring Festival” and “Mukawa Autumn Festival” in spring and autumn, which are not to be missed. All of these elements form the charm of Mukawa Town and draw us in. Its allure goes beyond just local products and climate. When you visit the town, you encounter dialects and customs that are new to you, overflowing with new discoveries. And the vast nature that envelops it all provides peace and inspiration to those who visit.
Culture and Customs
The culture and customs of Mukawa Town in Hokkaido are deeply engraved with the influence of Ainu culture and the history of Meiji-era pioneering. As a result, the lives of the townspeople maintain a stance of coexistence with nature, and there is an abundance of dishes that utilize fresh ingredients. In terms of industry, agriculture is the mainstay, particularly the production of dairy products. The fresh dairy products made in this area are indispensable in local cuisine, and their rich flavors are highly regarded. Additionally, the local dialect, Hokkaido dialect, is used, and the inheritance of Ainu culture can be seen. Ainu words and expressions are sometimes woven into daily conversations, allowing one to feel the region’s history and culture. Throughout the year, seasonal festivals such as the Mukawa Spring Festival and Mukawa Autumn Festival are held and loved by the local people. These festivals serve as a platform for promoting local specialties and strengthening community bonds, playing a significant role in widely conveying their charm. How about the customs and culture of Mukawa Town in Hokkaido? Living in harmony with nature, enjoying rich ingredients, and inheriting a historic language and culture, the way they convey the region’s charm paints a unique cultural landscape that can only be found here.
Local Specialties
- “Mukawa Melon”: This melon, a specialty of Mukawa Town, is characterized by its sweetness and aroma. The sweetness brought about by the temperature differences between day and night unique to cold regions is unforgettable once tasted.
- “Mombetsu Ware”: Known for its pottery produced in Mukawa Town, Mombetsu Ware features beautiful colors and designs using traditional techniques.
- “Cherries”: One of the specialties of Mukawa Town, the balance of sweetness and acidity is exquisite. Its deliciousness is gaining attention not only in Japan but also overseas.
- “Barley”: Adapted to Hokkaido’s cold climate, barley is a specialty of Mukawa Town. Its high quality is utilized as a raw material for beer and bread.
- “Milk”: Fresh milk production is active in Mukawa Town, and its deliciousness and high nutritional value are widely known. Dairy products such as cheese and yogurt are also gaining attention.
Annual Events
- “Mukawa Spring Festival”: Held in April, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring. The beautiful cherry blossoms deepen the bonds among the townspeople.
- “Cherry Picking”: Held from June to July, visitors can enjoy picking and tasting the locally grown cherries.
- “Mukawa Summer Festival”: Held on the last weekend of July, this festival allows you to enjoy the delights of summer, including bon odori and fireworks.
- “Michi no Eki Mukawa Park Festival”: Held in August, this festival allows you to enjoy local foods and crafts.
- “Mukawa Winter Festival”: Held in February, this festival is filled with winter-only fun, including snow sculptures, ice candles, and snowmobile experiences.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport. From the airport, you can travel to Mukawa Town by rental car or bus.
- By Train: It takes about an hour from JR New Chitose Airport Station to Mukawa Town via the Super Ozura limited express. The nearest station is Tomakomai Station.
- By Bus: There are direct buses from New Chitose Airport. The travel time is about 2 hours, and prior reservation is required.
- By Rental Car: You can reach Mukawa Town in about 1 hour and 30 minutes via National Route 36 from New Chitose Airport.
- By Bicycle: For those with strong legs, it is also possible to access Mukawa Town by bicycle from New Chitose Airport in about 5 hours.
Tourist Attractions
- Mukawa Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy flowers throughout the seasons.
- Sunpia Mukawa – A hot spring facility beloved by locals.
- Mukawa Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A facility where you can learn about the history and culture of Mukawa Town.
- Mukawa Wiener – Delicious wieners made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Mukawa Town Sunflower Park – In summer, sunflowers bloom all over the area.
