Shikotsu Village, located in the southern part of Hokkaido, is a region full of charm, with its history, industries, lifestyle, dialects, and festivals. It became a direct-controlled area of the Hokkaido Development Commission in 1869 and later gained independence as Shikotsu Village in 1970. The main industry here is agriculture, particularly the production of dairy products and beef cattle. Additionally, residents can enjoy a life rich in nature, although harsh cold weather arrives in winter. The local dialect is Hokkaido dialect, and visitors can savor dishes that have a unique local flavor. The Shikotsu Festival (summer) and the Snow Festival (winter), which are enjoyed by the local community, are highlights that color each season. Let’s take a closer look at the attractions of Shikotsu Village in Hokkaido. As a tourist resource, the beautiful natural environment is a major draw, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal landscapes. In particular, the autumn foliage is stunning and captivates those who visit. There are also restaurants that utilize fresh local ingredients, providing visitors with a taste of the region.
Culture and Customs
Shikotsu Village, located in the southern part of Hokkaido, is a place that combines the charm of rural life with the convenience of urban living. This village has a history of becoming a direct-controlled area of the Hokkaido Development Commission in 1869 and gained independence as Shikotsu Village in 1970. Its main industry is agriculture, particularly the production of dairy products and beef cattle. Life in Shikotsu Village is rich in nature, yet the winter brings harsh cold. However, to overcome this cold, the villagers have created unique dishes using delicious local ingredients. The Hokkaido dialect spoken in the village also reflects the region’s characteristics. Festivals are another charm of this village. The “Shikotsu Festival” is held in summer, and the “Snow Festival” takes place in winter, providing enjoyment for both locals and tourists. These festivals offer a great opportunity to experience the village’s history and culture. Experience the charm of Shikotsu Village in Hokkaido that captivates visitors. Additionally, Shikotsu Village offers a variety of outdoor activities that take advantage of its rich natural environment. You can enjoy hiking, camping, and in winter, skiing and snowboarding, all while taking in the seasonal landscapes. There are also workshops where visitors can experience making local traditional crafts, providing an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the village’s culture.
Local Specialties
- Shikotsu Cave: A limestone cave located in Shikotsu Village, it is a tourist spot where you can feel the beauty of natural formations.
- Shikotsu Highball: A whiskey-based drink made using the region’s pure water, known for its refreshing taste.
- Shikotsu Haskap: Grown in Hokkaido’s cool climate, haskap is characterized by its vibrant color and rich flavor.
- Shikotsu Village Soybeans: High-quality soybeans are produced here, and their taste is highly regarded in various regions.
- Shikotsu Grilled Corn: A specialty product that is sweet and stands out for its deliciousness when grilled.
Annual Events
- Shikotsu Snow Festival: A winter festival held in Shikotsu Village, where a world of silver spreads out. Enjoy ice and snow sculptures and motorsports.
- Tanabata Festival: Held every summer, this traditional event features dolls of Orihime and Hikoboshi made by villagers parading through the village.
- Shikotsu Hometown Festival: A festival where local specialties are sold, various exhibitions are held, and delicious local food can be tasted.
- Potato Harvest Festival: A festival celebrating the harvest of potatoes, a specialty of Shikotsu Village, where participants can experience digging up their own potatoes.
- Shikotsu Cosmos Festival: An event where you can enjoy the sight of pink cosmos flowers spreading across the landscape in autumn.
Access Methods
- By Air: The nearest airport is New Chitose Airport, located about a 3-hour drive from the airport.
- By Bus: From New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido Chitose Bus operates services that take about 4 hours to reach Shikotsu Village.
- By Train: Take the JR train from New Chitose Station towards Obihiro and get off at Shikotsu Station. The travel time is about 3.5 hours.
- By Car: If driving from New Chitose Airport, it takes about 2.5 hours via the Dōō Expressway.
- By Taxi: Taking a taxi from New Chitose Airport will take about 2.5 hours to reach Shikotsu Village.
Tourist Attractions
- Shikotsu Forest Park – A nature-rich park where you can enjoy hiking and barbecuing.
- Shikotsu Dam – A dam overlooking a beautiful lake, with campgrounds nearby.
- Shikotsu Onsen – A clean hot spring facility, perfect for relaxation and health improvement.
- Shikotsu Mountain – A popular mountain among hiking enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views from the summit.
- Shikotsu Cultural Center – A facility where you can learn about local culture and history, with a rich collection of exhibits.
