Would you like to visit the beautiful landscape of Nanae Town in Hokkaido? This town retains a strong influence of Ainu culture and evokes the footsteps of the Meiji era’s pioneering spirit. The abundant nature and the fresh seafood derived from its blessings are deeply connected to the lives of the townspeople. The main industry is agriculture, and the rural scenery, with its seasonal crops, tells the story of the town’s charm. Recently, tourism has also developed. Life in Nanae Town, where time flows leisurely, allows visitors to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and provides them with tranquility. Additionally, the unique Hokkaido dialect and the preservation of Ainu culture are not to be overlooked. Furthermore, the Nanae Town Cherry Blossom Festival and the Nanae Town Snow Lantern Festival, organized by the local community, convey the town’s charm to visitors without reservation. Please do visit Nanae Town, where nature, history, and culture coexist. There are also restaurants and cafes scattered throughout the area that offer dishes made with fresh local ingredients, providing visitors with the opportunity to savor the local bounty. Moreover, there are well-maintained hiking trails and campgrounds where one can enjoy the seasonal landscapes and the joy of interacting with nature.
Culture and Customs
Nanae Town in Hokkaido is a region where you can see both the influence of Ainu culture and the commemoration of the Meiji era’s pioneering efforts. As a result, its culture and customs exhibit diverse characteristics. In terms of industry, agriculture has developed as the main industry, but tourism has also flourished due to the beautiful scenery and rich natural environment, attracting many tourists. Additionally, in the lives of the townspeople, the consumption of fresh seafood stands out, taking advantage of the bountiful natural environment. In the town’s communication style, the Hokkaido dialect is commonly used. Furthermore, the active preservation of Ainu culture means that its customs and traditions have become a part of the region. Throughout the year, various festivals are held in Nanae Town. In spring, the “Nanae Town Cherry Blossom Festival” takes place, and in winter, the “Nanae Town Snow Lantern Festival” is held, both of which enhance the region’s charm. These elements combine to form the unique culture and customs of Nanae Town. By deeply understanding its regional characteristics, you can further appreciate the allure of Nanae Town. The local people live in harmony with nature, enjoying the blessings of each season. Therefore, there are many dishes made with fresh local ingredients, particularly those featuring seafood.
Local Specialties
- Nanae Town Radish: Nanae Town is known for its radish production, especially the radishes harvested in winter, which are sweet and suitable for cooking.
- Nanae Town Onions: Among the town’s specialties, onions are particularly famous, and the onions grown in Nanae Town, nurtured over time, are sweet and can be enjoyed raw.
- Nanae Town Potatoes: Among Hokkaido potatoes, those from Nanae Town are considered especially delicious and are used in dishes like baked potatoes and croquettes.
- Nanae Town Wheat: Nanae Town is also known as a wheat-producing area, and the bread and sweets made from its wheat are flavorful and highly regarded.
- Nanae Town Cherry Blossoms: The cherry blossoms in Nanae Town herald the arrival of spring and are popular as a tourist attraction. Visitors can also enjoy gourmet food made with local specialties during cherry blossom viewing.
Annual Events
- “Nanae Town Snow Festival”: Held every February, this festival features various events at a packed ski resort. Snowmobile experiences are also popular.
- “Nanae Strawberry Festival”: This festival, held with the arrival of spring, offers tastings and sales of fresh strawberries grown in the town.
- “Nanae Town Hiking Competition”: This event, which allows participants to enjoy the lush natural surroundings, is held every May and is suitable for beginners to advanced hikers.
- “Nanae Town Hometown Festival”: Held every summer, this festival features exhibitions and sales of Nanae Town’s food and crafts, as well as performances of local traditional arts.
- “Nanae Town Industry Festival”: This autumn festival showcases local agricultural products and specialties for tasting and sale, highlighting the region’s vibrancy.
Access Methods
- Rental Car from New Chitose Airport: By renting a car from New Chitose Airport, you can reach Nanae Town in about 90 minutes. Using the Dohoku Expressway allows for smooth travel.
- JR Shinkansen: Take the JR Shinkansen “Hayabusa” and get off at Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, then transfer to a taxi or bus to Nanae Town.
- Donan Bus: Donan Bus operates from Hakodate City, taking about an hour to reach Nanae Town. Buses depart from in front of Hakodate Station.
- Flights from Tokyo: Use a direct flight from Tokyo to New Chitose Airport, and then rent a car or take a bus to Nanae Town.
- Private Car: If using a private car, you can reach Nanae Town in about 3 hours via the Dohoku Expressway from Sapporo City.
Tourist Attractions
- Lake Toya – A beautiful lake where you can enjoy seasonal scenery.
- Mount Usu – An active volcano with breathtaking views from the summit.
- Hokkaido Nanae Town Forest Park – A nature-rich park perfect for walking and picnicking.
- Niseko Anbetsu River Onsen – A hot spring where you can enjoy beautiful views while soaking.
- Niseko Panorama Line – A popular driving route with stunning scenery.
