| population | 1,269 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 594.74 km² |
| population density | 2.13 peoples/km² |
Nakagawa Town, located in the northernmost part of Kamikawa Subprefecture, Hokkaido, is a community embraced by the rich natural environment of the Teshio River basin. The town is widely known as the “Town of Fossils,” due to numerous discoveries of ammonites and plesiosaurs since the Meiji period. Nakagawa’s foundation rests on dairy farming and forestry, while the cultural identity of the region continues to be shaped by its Ainu heritage, literary traditions, and local festivals. Since its establishment as a town in 1964, Nakagawa has strived to live in harmony with nature, creating a lifestyle that balances industry, environment, and community.
Harsh winters, heavy snowfall, and long daylight hours in summer define Nakagawa’s climate. These unique natural conditions support both agriculture and forestry, producing fresh dairy products and sustainably managed timber. Residents maintain their cultural ties through the use of Hokkaido dialects, as well as through festivals that celebrate local traditions. Events such as the Autumn Salmon Festival, the “Kikori (Lumberjack) Festival,” and the Nakagawa Short Poetry Festival, inspired by the poet Mokichi Saito’s stay, give the town a strong sense of identity and community. Visitors can enjoy both the natural beauty and cultural richness that Nakagawa has to offer.
Culture and Traditions
The culture of Nakagawa Town is strongly tied to its environment and history. The Ainu people lived along the Teshio River, leaving behind traces of language and traditions that remain part of local culture. In the modern era, the town embraces both its natural bounty and literary heritage. The visit of renowned poet Mokichi Saito in 1932 left a lasting cultural mark: during his stay, he composed numerous tanka poems, and his influence is still honored through the annual Nakagawa Tanka Festival.
Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, forms the backbone of everyday life. The dairy products are recognized for their quality, while forestry has long sustained the town’s economy. Local residents preserve unique dialects and cultural expressions, reinforcing a strong community identity. Festivals highlight this spirit: the Nakagawa Autumn Salmon Festival celebrates seasonal harvests and fishing, while the Kikori Festival in winter symbolizes the importance of forestry. These traditions weave together the town’s past and present, offering both residents and visitors an authentic cultural experience.
Local Specialties
- Dairy Products: Fresh milk, yogurt, and butter produced in Nakagawa are highly regarded for their flavor and quality.
- Forestry Products: Sustainably managed timber and wooden crafts reflect the town’s long forestry tradition.
- Wild Edible Plants: Seasonal mountain vegetables such as fukinotou (butterbur sprouts) bring the taste of early spring to local dining tables.
Annual Events
- Nakagawa Shrine Festival (August 2–4): The largest summer festival in town, with traditional processions and food stalls.
- Nakagawa Autumn Salmon Festival (September): A harvest celebration featuring local salmon dishes, held together with the Log-Pushing Sumo Tournament.
- Kikori Festival (February): A forestry-themed winter event highlighting Nakagawa’s long-standing timber culture.
- Nakagawa Tanka Festival (September): A literary event commemorating Mokichi Saito’s legacy, showcasing contemporary tanka poetry.
Access
- By Train: JR Hokkaido Soya Main Line, Teshiō-Nakagawa Station, serves as the town’s main gateway.
- By Car: Approximately three hours from Asahikawa City and two and a half hours from Wakkanai via National Route 40.
- By Air: Accessible from both Wakkanai Airport and Asahikawa Airport, with rental cars available for onward travel.
Tourist Attractions
- Ponpira Onsen – A riverside hot spring facility loved by locals and travelers alike.
- Nakagawa Eco-Museum Center – An exhibition center showcasing fossils, geology, and natural history.
- Mokichi Park – A literary park displaying tanka works and monuments honoring Mokichi Saito.
- Michi-no-Eki Nakagawa – A roadside station offering local specialties and visitor services.
