| population | 16,164 peoples |
|---|---|
| area | 1,119.22 km² |
| population density | 14.4 peoples/km² |
Located in the northern part of the Kamikawa region of Hokkaido, Shibetsu City is a beautiful town shaped by history, nature, and agriculture. Its name comes from the Ainu word “Shipe,” meaning “a great river,” referring to the Teshio River that flows through the city. Originally established as one of the last tondenhei (military settler) villages in the late 19th century, Shibetsu developed as a major agricultural center. Today, it is widely known as the “Town of Sheep,” where visitors can experience pastoral landscapes at attractions like Hitsuji to Kumo no Oka (Hill of Sheep and Clouds) and the city-run sheep farm. The area’s cool climate also makes it a popular training site for university and corporate sports teams in summer. Winters are harsh, often blanketed with deep snow, but the people of Shibetsu have built a life that harmonizes strength, warmth, and community spirit. With its rich nature and distinct four seasons, Shibetsu offers an authentic Hokkaido experience throughout the year.
Culture and Traditions
Founded in 1899 as the final tondenhei settlement, Shibetsu has grown through agriculture and livestock farming. Today, sugar beet cultivation, dairy production, and sheep farming form the backbone of its economy. Local dialects reflect the warmth and humor of Hokkaido culture. Residents have adapted to the region’s cold climate with creative lifestyles—developing traditional preservation foods and well-insulated wooden houses designed for long winters. Annual festivals such as the Shibetsu Cherry Blossom Festival at Shirakaba Park and the Shibetsu Snow Festival brighten the city each season, bringing the community together. The Suffolk Land Shibetsu Half Marathon combines sport and local identity, celebrating the city’s strong connection to its iconic Suffolk sheep. In every aspect—from food to festivities—Shibetsu reflects the essence of life in northern Hokkaido.
Local Specialties
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Shibetsu Suffolk Lamb:
Known nationwide, Shibetsu’s Suffolk sheep produce tender, flavorful meat with minimal odor. Visitors can taste fresh lamb dishes such as jingisukan (grilled mutton) at Hitsuji to Kumo no Oka, where sheep graze freely against scenic hills. -
Shibetsu Dairy Products:
The city’s rich milk, cheese, and ice cream come from cows raised in pristine natural surroundings. Locally made “Shibetsu Suffolk Cheese” is a popular souvenir. -
Sugar Beet (Tensai):
Processed at the Nippon Beet Sugar Factory in Shibetsu, sugar beets are one of the area’s most important agricultural products and have supported the local economy since the early 20th century. -
Rice and Barley:
Grown in the fertile Nayoro Basin, varieties like “Nanatsuboshi” and “Yumepirika” are prized for their flavor. Locally produced barley is used in craft beer and spirits. -
Suffolk Senbei and Local Sweets:
Produced by Torita Seika, these cookies are embossed with a sheep motif—an adorable and unique treat available only in Shibetsu.
Annual Events
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Shibetsu Cherry Blossom Festival (Late May):
Held at Shirakaba Park, the event celebrates the full bloom of cherry trees with stage performances, local food stalls, and nighttime illuminations. -
Shibetsu Summer Festival (Late July):
A lively citywide celebration featuring bon odori dancing, food stalls, and fireworks that light up the summer sky. -
Suffolk Land Shibetsu Half Marathon (Mid-August):
Runners from across Japan participate in this scenic marathon that winds through the hills near Hitsuji to Kumo no Oka, embodying Shibetsu’s unity of sport and nature. -
Shibetsu Snow Festival (Early February):
Taking place around the Shibetsu Civic Culture Center, this winter celebration features snow sculptures, ice carvings, and a spectacular fireworks show.
Access
- By Air: The nearest airport is Asahikawa Airport, about 90 km (1.5 hours by car) from Shibetsu. Rental cars and express buses are available.
- By Train: JR Shibetsu Station on the Sōya Main Line. From Asahikawa, take the “Soya” or “Sarobetsu” limited express (approx. 70 minutes).
- By Highway Bus: The “Kousoku Nayoro” express bus runs directly from Sapporo to Shibetsu in about 4.5 hours.
- By Car: From Sapporo, take the Dō-Ō Expressway to Shibetsu-Kenbuchi IC (approx. 3.5 hours), then drive 10 minutes to the city center.
Tourist Attractions
- Hitsuji to Kumo no Oka (Hill of Sheep and Clouds) – The city’s most iconic site featuring panoramic views, open pastures, and a restaurant serving local lamb dishes.
- Lake Iwaonai – A dam lake at the headwaters of the Teshio River, ideal for camping, fishing, and canoeing in summer.
- Kawanishi Hill – A picturesque ridge east of Shibetsu-Kenbuchi IC, famous for its sunset views and seasonal misty landscapes.
- Shibetsu City Museum – Exhibits artifacts from the tondenhei era and the city’s agricultural heritage.
- Sanboudai Schanze – A ski jump hill and observation point offering panoramic views of the Shibetsu Basin.
- Michi-no-Eki Hitsuji no Machi Samurai Shibetsu – Opened in 2021 as the 129th roadside station in Hokkaido. Features local produce, souvenirs, and tourist information.
