Obihiro City, located in the southeastern part of Hokkaido, was once the center of the pioneering era and flourished through the shipping on the Tokachi River. You can still feel that history today. This area is known for its active agriculture, particularly as a center for livestock farming. As residents, they value coexisting with nature and lead lives that utilize fresh ingredients. Living among people who speak the Tokachi dialect allows one to feel the local color. In winter, snow measures are necessary, but these responses have become a natural part of local life. Throughout the year, many festivals are held in Obihiro City, with the “Obihiro Festival” and the “Tokachi River Fireworks Festival” being particularly popular not only among locals but also tourists. Obihiro City is a place filled with various attractions, including history, industry, lifestyle, dialect, and festivals. Additionally, there are gourmet spots where you can enjoy dishes made with fresh local ingredients, widely enjoyed by both locals and tourists. You can also spend pleasant time strolling along the Tokachi River while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Culture and Customs
Obihiro City was once the center of the pioneering era, with active trade through shipping on the Tokachi River. Today, against this historical backdrop, agriculture is thriving, especially livestock farming centered around cattle, pigs, and chickens. As a result, it is common for citizens to incorporate fresh ingredients into their daily meals while coexisting with nature. The unique “Tokachi dialect” is spoken, and during winter, strict snow measures are necessary, reflecting the local lifestyle habits. Moreover, Obihiro City hosts festivals such as the “Obihiro Festival,” where citizens come together, and the “Tokachi River Fireworks Festival,” which vividly reflects the region’s culture and customs. These festivals are a source of pride for the citizens and enhance the region’s charm. Furthermore, local restaurants offer dishes that make use of fresh local products, with specialties like Genghis Khan (grilled mutton) and Butadon (pork rice bowl) being particularly beloved. You can also enjoy the seasonal landscapes, with the autumn foliage being especially stunning and popular among tourists.
Local Specialties
- Tokachi Pork: A brand of pork from Obihiro City, Hokkaido, known for its tender meat and distinctive sweetness and flavor.
- Tokachi Wine: Wine carefully crafted in Obihiro City using selected Hokkaido-grown grapes.
- Obihiro Yakisoba: A nutritious and hearty local specialty. It features a perfect combination of special sauce and cabbage.
- Obihiro Confectionery “Apple Tree”: A Western-style confectionery from Obihiro that harmonizes the tartness and sweetness of apples.
- Obihiro Milk: Fresh milk sourced from local dairy cows. It is exquisite whether consumed directly or used in sweet dishes.
Annual Events
- Obihiro Racecourse Opening Commemorative Race: A major horse racing event held every August. The performance of locally bred horses draws attention, and the excitement among spectators rises.
- Obihiro Citizen Festival: Held on the last weekend of July, this large festival announces the arrival of summer. It features parades, food stalls, and fireworks, making it popular among families.
- Tokachi River Onsen Snow Light Festival: A winter tradition held every February in the Tokachi River Onsen area. Beautiful art made of snow and ice creates a magical night.
- Obihiro Agricultural Festival: A festival of agricultural products held in October. It features the sale of fresh vegetables and fruits, along with food booths, allowing visitors to enjoy local food culture.
- Obihiro Forest Art Exhibition: An outdoor art exhibition held from May to June each year. Artworks set against nature captivate visitors.
Access Methods
- By Air: You can fly directly to Obihiro Airport. Airlines such as All Nippon Airways and Skymark operate flights.
- By Train: From JR New Chitose Airport Station, it takes about 2.5 hours to reach Obihiro Station via the Limited Express Super Ozora. You can also enjoy beautiful scenery from the train window.
- By Car: From Sapporo, you can use the Dōō Expressway and arrive in Obihiro City in about 3 hours. Renting a car is also an option.
- By Bus: Using an intercity bus from Sapporo City, you can reach Obihiro City in about 4 hours at a reasonable fare.
- By Ferry: You can travel by ferry from Tomakomai Port to Kushiro Port, and then take a bus or drive to Obihiro City.
Tourist Attractions
- Tokachi River Onsen – A healing hot spring area surrounded by beautiful nature.
- Tokachi Safari Park – A zoo where you can enjoy interactions with animals.
- Obihiro Forest Park – A vast park where you can enjoy flowers in every season.
- Obihiro Racecourse – A mecca for local horse racing, where exciting races unfold.
- Tokachi Millennium Forest – A beautiful forest park where nature and art merge.
