| population | 3,834 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 292.58 km² |
| population density | 13.1 peoples/km² |
Located in the southwestern part of the Tokachi Plain in Hokkaido, Nakasatsunai Village is a community where agriculture, art, and tourism coexist in harmony. The village is a proud member of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Japan” Association, recognized for its “Rural landscape protected by windbreak forests” and “Art and culture coloring the northern land.” Situated just 10 minutes by car from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport, the village combines easy accessibility with stunning natural scenery. Its economy is supported mainly by dairy farming and bean production, while attractions such as Hanabatake Farm, Rokka-no-Mori, and the Nakasatsunai Art Village welcome visitors from across Japan and abroad. Residents place great importance on living in coexistence with nature, and this spirit is reflected in agriculture, art, and everyday life. Seasonal events further enrich the village, offering a unique blend of local tradition and hospitality that draws travelers into its charm.
Culture and Traditions
The culture and traditions of Nakasatsunai Village are deeply rooted in its agricultural lifestyle and pristine natural surroundings. In 1985, the village declared itself the “Village of Organic Agriculture,” promoting the philosophy that “what comes from the soil should return to the soil.” This sustainable approach has become a defining element of community identity, influencing both farming practices and daily living. Local farmers embrace organic cultivation, producing beans, vegetables, eggs, and dairy products that are widely recognized for their high quality.
Another unique characteristic of Nakasatsunai is its close relationship with art. The Rokka-no-Mori gardens and the Nakasatsunai Art Village feature galleries dedicated to artists such as Naoyuki Sakamoto, Kyuichi Aihara, and Junsaku Koizumi. Visitors can enjoy paintings, sculptures, and photography exhibits set amidst lush gardens and forest paths. This integration of art and nature represents the “Art and culture coloring the northern land,” one of the officially recognized local resources.
Throughout the year, residents celebrate their ties to nature and agriculture through events such as the “Yamabe Fish Release Festival,” the “Flower Festa,” and the “Roadside Station Fair.” These events encourage intergenerational participation and foster exchanges between locals and tourists. In this way, Nakasatsunai has built a cultural identity where agriculture, art, and community are closely intertwined, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Local Specialties
- Nakasatsunai Edamame and Soybeans: Large-grained, flavorful beans. At the Beans Museum (Beans House), visitors can learn about the history and cultivation methods.
- Nakasatsunai Vegetables: Corn and potatoes grown in a climate with large temperature differences are known for their sweetness and rich taste.
- Nakasatsunai Eggs: Produced under the “Nakasatsunai Tamago” brand, these free-range eggs feature a rich, golden yolk and high nutritional value.
- Dairy Products: Cheese and caramel from Hanabatake Farm and Tokachino Fromage are beloved nationwide.
- Haskap Berry Products: The purple haskap berries are turned into jams, jellies, and sweets popular with both locals and visitors.
Annual Events
- Yamabe Fish Release Festival (early July): Families release yamabe fish into local rivers, celebrating the bond between people and nature.
- Nakasatsunai Flower Festa (late July–early August): Originating from a gardening contest, this festival decorates the village with colorful flowers and displays.
- Roadside Station Fair (early October): A harvest-themed fair showcasing local beans, vegetables, and other seasonal specialties.
- North Land Biennale: A contemporary art event held every two years, featuring artists from Japan and abroad at the Art Village.
- Village Landscape Photo Contest: A photography competition capturing the beautiful scenery and rural life of Nakasatsunai.
Access
- By Air: Tokachi-Obihiro Airport is just 10 minutes by car from the village, with direct flights from Tokyo and other major cities.
- By Train: The nearest station is Obihiro Station on the JR Nemuro Main Line. From there, take a bus or rental car (about 30 minutes).
- By Bus: Tokachi Bus operates routes connecting Nakasatsunai with Obihiro City, Sarabetsu Village, Taiki Town, and Hiroo Town.
- By Car: Approximately 30 minutes from Obihiro City center. The Obihiro-Hiroo Expressway provides direct access via the Nakasatsunai IC.
Tourist Attractions
- Michi-no-Eki Nakasatsunai – Roadside Station with the Beans Museum, local farm product shop, and rest facilities.
- Rokka-no-Mori – A garden and museum complex created by Rokkatei, featuring nature trails and the works of Naoyuki Sakamoto.
- Hanabatake Farm – Famous for fresh dairy products, cheese, and the iconic raw caramel sweets.
- Nakasatsunai Art Village – A cluster of museums dedicated to modern Japanese artists such as Aihara and Koizumi, set in a natural forest.
- Pyotan Falls – A scenic waterfall near the Satsunai River Dam, offering picturesque views throughout the year.
