| people | 7,302 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 711.36 km² |
| population density | 10.3 peoples/km² |
Mukawa Town, located in the eastern part of the Iburi General Subprefectural Bureau of Hokkaido, is widely known across Japan as the “Town of Shishamo.” The Mukawa River, which runs through the town, nurtures abundant water resources that have long supported both fishing and agriculture. Especially in the lower reaches, the “Mukawa Shishamo” is regarded as a symbolic specialty of the town. In addition, the inland Hobetsu area is famous for numerous fossil discoveries, including the full skeleton of the “Mukawa Dragon,” one of the largest dinosaurs ever found in Japan. Within this environment where nature and history intertwine, people harmonize traditional culture with modern life. The spirit of Ainu culture is still present, reflected in local dialects and festivals. Visitors can enjoy a lifestyle blessed with nature and rich food culture while experiencing the deep history and traditions of the region.
Culture & Traditions
Mukawa Town has been deeply influenced by Ainu culture since ancient times, and its legacy is still preserved in daily life and local festivals. After the Meiji era, agriculture and dairy farming flourished, creating a way of life in harmony with nature and supported by abundant local ingredients. The Hokkaido dialect is spoken in daily interactions, adding warmth and character to communication. Cultural highlights include the “Mukawa Shishamo Festival” and the “Hobetsu Melon Festival,” where visitors can taste local specialties and feel the pride of the community. In addition, Ainu traditional dance has been designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset and is carefully preserved by the local preservation society. Life in Mukawa Town remains rooted in history and nature, offering visitors a glimpse into an authentic and enduring landscape of Japan.
Local Specialties
- Mukawa Shishamo: The town’s most iconic product, available fresh during the fishing season and widely shipped nationwide as dried or processed goods.
- Hobetsu Melon: A premium melon grown in the Hobetsu area, highly popular as a summer delicacy and one of the town’s leading agricultural products.
- Rice, Vegetables & Dairy Products: Grown in fertile soil with clean water, rice, vegetables, milk, and dairy items are central to the local food culture.
Annual Events
- “Mukawa Shishamo Festival”: A famous autumn event featuring fresh shishamo dishes, direct sales, and community celebrations.
- “Hobetsu Melon Festival”: Held in summer, offering melon tasting and sales of the seasonal specialty.
- “Mukawa Town Festival”: A community-based summer festival with parades and stage performances enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Access
- By Air: About 60–90 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport.
- By Train: JR Hidaka Main Line operates up to Mukawa Station. The section beyond was discontinued in 2021 and replaced by bus services.
- By Bus: Route buses such as Donan Bus connect Mukawa with Sapporo and Tomakomai.
- By Car: Approximately 2 hours from Sapporo via the Dō-Ō Expressway, with convenient access from Mukawa-Hobetsu IC or Mukawa IC.
Tourist Attractions
- Mukawa Town Hobetsu Museum – Known for its displays of dinosaur fossils, including the Mukawa Dragon, and other prehistoric life.
- Mukawa Onsen Shiki-no-Yakata – A hot spring and accommodation facility that also serves as a hub for community exchange.
- Former Tomiuchi Station – A preserved railway station from the former JNR Tomiuchi Line, designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
- Mukawa Great Catch Jizō Statue – A locally revered cultural property worshipped as the guardian deity of fishermen.
- Hobetsu Geo Experience Center – A hands-on learning facility for earth sciences and natural history.
