| population | 159,700 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 619.34 km² |
| population density | 258 peoples/km² |
Located in southeastern Hokkaido, Obihiro City serves as the administrative center of the Tokachi region. The city was founded in 1883 when a pioneering group led by Benzo Yoda from Shizuoka Prefecture established the Bansei-sha colony. Since then, Obihiro has flourished as the agricultural and livestock hub of eastern Hokkaido. Today, it stands as the cultural, economic, and transportation core of the Tokachi Plain, renowned for its fertile lands, advanced agricultural practices, and strong environmental initiatives. Designated as an “Environmental Model City,” Obihiro promotes sustainable living while preserving its natural beauty. The Tokachi River, flowing through the city, symbolizes the harmony between people and nature. Known as Japan’s “Sweet Capital,” Obihiro is also home to famous confectionery makers such as Rokkatei and Ryugetsu. Visitors can enjoy rich seasonal scenery, local delicacies, and the warm hospitality that defines life in this northern agricultural city.
Culture & Traditions
Obihiro developed as the heart of the Tokachi agricultural kingdom during the Meiji era. Blessed with vast farmland, the city’s economy revolves around large-scale crop and dairy farming. Wheat, beans, potatoes, and dairy products are among its most important outputs, shipped throughout Japan. The spirit of coexistence with nature shapes daily life, as residents take pride in cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The regional dialect known as “Tokachi-ben” reflects the friendliness and warmth of its people.
Festivals and seasonal events play a key role in preserving Obihiro’s community identity. The “Obihiro Heigen Festival” and the “Kachimai Fireworks Festival” are highlights of the summer, filling the streets with vibrant parades and dazzling fireworks. In winter, the “Obihiro Ice Festival” and “Sairinka at Tokachigawa Onsen” illuminate the snow-covered city with art and light displays. These events not only showcase the creativity of its citizens but also demonstrate how tradition and modern life coexist harmoniously in Obihiro.
Local Specialties
- Butadon (Pork Bowl): A beloved Obihiro specialty featuring grilled pork glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce over rice. Local favorites include “Pancho” and “Tonta,” famous for their authentic flavor.
- Tokachi Wine: Produced at the Wine Castle in nearby Ikeda, Tokachi Wine is widely enjoyed in Obihiro. Made from locally grown grapes, it offers a refined, fruity aroma.
- Confectioneries by Rokkatei and Ryugetsu: Rokkatei’s “Marusei Butter Sandwich” and Ryugetsu’s “Sanporoku” are iconic Hokkaido sweets originating in Obihiro.
- Obihiro Dairy Products: The city’s fresh milk, butter, and cheese—made from pasture-raised cows—are known for their rich flavor and high quality.
- Potatoes and Beans: Tokachi’s fertile soil yields premium potatoes, soybeans, and red beans. These are sold at local markets and the “Tokachimura” direct-sales facility.
Annual Events
- Obihiro Ice Festival: Held every January–February at Midorigaoka Park. The festival features ice sculptures, snow slides, and illuminated displays that capture the beauty of winter.
- Obihiro Heigen Festival: A large summer celebration in August featuring parades, live performances, and Bon Odori dances in the downtown area.
- Kachimai Fireworks Festival: Held along the Tokachi River. This is one of Hokkaido’s most spectacular fireworks displays, synchronized with music and lights.
- Sairinka at Tokachigawa Onsen: A February illumination event at Tokachigawa Onsen, where colorful lights and ice sculptures create a dreamlike winter scene.
- Tokachi Marche: A gourmet festival held in September around JR Obihiro Station, offering Tokachi-grown produce, sweets, and wines from across the region.
Access
- By Air: Tokachi-Obihiro Airport (OBO) connects to Tokyo (Haneda) via JAL and AIRDO flights, taking about 1 hour 40 minutes. The city center is a 40-minute drive from the airport.
- By Train: The JR Obihiro Station is accessible from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo by the Limited Express “Super Ozora” in approximately 2.5 hours.
- By Car: About 3 hours from Sapporo via the Doto Expressway. Exit at Obihiro-Kawanishi IC for easy access to the city.
- By Bus: The “Potato Liner” highway bus connects Sapporo and Obihiro in about 4 hours, offering a comfortable and economical option.
- Nearby Destinations: Obihiro is an excellent base for exploring Tokachigawa Onsen, Nakasatsunai, Furano, and Biei, all reachable by car or local tour services.
Tourist Attractions
- Tokachigawa Onsen – A famous “moor hot spring” known for its plant-derived minerals and skin-beautifying effects. Many hotels and spas line the riverbank.
- Obihiro Racecourse (Banei Tokachi) – The only racecourse in the world hosting “Banei Horse Racing,” where draft horses pull heavy sleds in thrilling competitions.
- Manabe Garden – Japan’s first conifer garden featuring plants from around the world. A scenic spot showcasing seasonal landscapes.
- Midorigaoka Park – A vast green space in the city center that includes the Obihiro Centennial Hall and the Obihiro Zoo.
- Kofuku & Aikoku Stations – Former railway stations named “Happiness” and “Love of Country.” Visitors can buy lucky tickets and enjoy nostalgic photo spots.
