Saroma Town, located in the northern land of Japan, Hokkaido. This area, rich in the history of Meiji-era development and heavily influenced by Ainu culture, primarily focuses on agriculture, especially renowned for its dairy production. The lifestyle nurtured in this rich natural environment values coexistence with nature, and the local community is vibrant. Daily conversations are filled with Hokkaido dialect, and the inheritance of Ainu culture is not forgotten. The town’s festivals are where this culture comes to fruition, with events like the Saroma Town Big Catch Festival and the Saroma Town Snow Light Festival showcasing the town’s charm all in one place. Now, let me guide you through the attractions of Saroma Town. Let’s start our journey together. Here, the stunning scenery of the four seasons is beautifully displayed. In summer, dairy cows dot the lush pastures, while in winter, the snow lights illuminate the snowy landscape, each season beautifully coloring the town. Additionally, there are shops selling traditional Ainu crafts and direct sales outlets offering fresh local agricultural products, allowing visitors to feel the local climate. Furthermore, community activities that deepen the bonds among residents are active, with everyone supporting each other to lead a rich life.
Culture and Customs
Today, I will write about the culture and customs of Saroma Town in Hokkaido, Japan. This town is a unique area with a strong influence from Ainu culture and a history of development from the Meiji era. Agriculture is the main industry, particularly active in dairy production. The dairy products made from cows raised in this rich natural environment are renowned for their deliciousness. The lifestyle of the townspeople emphasizes coexistence with nature. The local community is active, and people are closely connected to one another. Hokkaido dialect is used, and Ainu culture is also inherited. Local festivals are not to be missed. The Saroma Town Big Catch Festival is an annual event celebrating the abundance of fishing. Additionally, the Saroma Town Snow Light Festival is a winter event that allows people to enjoy the seasonal beauty, with the entire town enveloped in a fantastical snowy landscape. The charm of Saroma Town lies in its diversity. The rich nature, historical background, unique local culture, and local industries blend together to captivate visitors. Notably, there are many local dishes that utilize locally sourced ingredients. Dishes made with fresh seafood and sweets using dairy products delight the taste buds of visitors. Moreover, when visiting the town, I recommend interacting with the locals. Their warmth and kindness further enhance the charm of Saroma Town.
Local Specialties
- Saroma Town’s “Lotus Root”: Grown in the town’s cool climate and pure waters, the locally produced lotus root is popular for its crunchiness and sweetness.
- “Saroma Beef”: Saroma beef, raised in Hokkaido’s vast natural environment, is characterized by its tenderness and flavor, being a breed of black-haired wagyu.
- “Saroma Craft Beer”: A craft beer that offers a unique flavor utilizing local ingredients, including potatoes and lotus root.
- “Saroma Rose Hip Jam”: Jam made from wild rose hips, featuring a sweet and sour flavor, perfect for breakfast or baking.
- “Seafood from Saroma Town”: Fresh seafood such as scallops, crabs, and rockfish, abundant in Hokkaido, can be enjoyed right on the spot.
Annual Events
- Saroma Town Spring Festival: Held when the cold eases and spring arrives, this festival is conducted to pray for a good harvest and good health.
- Saroma Town Fireworks Festival: A summer tradition where fireworks bloom in the summer night sky. Many people visit to create summer memories.
- Saroma Town Joppare Festival: A gourmet event where visitors can taste dishes made with local seafood. Enjoy dishes made with fresh ingredients.
- Saroma Town Industry Festival: An event showcasing and selling various local specialties, including agricultural products and crafts from Saroma Town.
- Saroma Town Snow Festival: A winter event to enjoy the harsh cold, featuring snow sculpture creation and snow play.
Access Methods
- By Plane: About 2.5 hours by car from New Chitose Airport to Saroma Town. Renting a car from the airport is convenient.
- By Train: About 1 hour by bus from JR Abashiri Station to Saroma Town. Abashiri Station is served by shinkansen and limited express trains.
- By Bus: About 6 hours by express bus “Abashiri-go” from Sapporo to Abashiri. From there, transfer to a bus heading to Saroma Town.
- By Car: About 5.5 hours by car from Sapporo. You can enjoy Hokkaido’s vast scenery, but be cautious of road conditions in winter.
- By Ferry: Use the Tsugaru Strait Ferry from Aomori to Hakodate. From there, it’s about a 6-hour drive.
Tourist Attractions
- Saroma Lake – A beautiful lake where you can enjoy fishing and boating.
- Saroma Onsen – A hot spring area surrounded by nature for a relaxing time.
- Saroma Town Historical and Folklore Museum – A museum where you can learn about the town’s history and culture.
- Saroma Town Library – A library with a rich collection and a quiet reading space.
- Saroma Town Hall – A facility providing administrative services for the town.
