Teshio Town, located in the northern part of Hokkaido, is a beautiful coastal area rich in “sea salt,” as its name suggests. This region retains a strong influence of Ainu culture and allows visitors to feel the history of development from the Meiji era. The town’s main industry is agriculture, particularly the processing of delicious seafood, which captivates many with its wonderful taste. Additionally, life in this area coexists with nature, and the local people cherish their beautiful natural environment. The community is very active, with the Hokkaido dialect being used daily, and efforts are made to preserve Ainu culture. Local festivals, such as the Teshio Salmon Festival and the Teshio River Onsen Festival, further enhance the town’s vibrancy throughout the year. The beautiful sea, rich nature, deep history and culture, and warm community are the charms of Teshio Town. Moreover, the town’s specialty, Teshio salmon, is known for its freshness and flavor, delighting gourmets across the country. It is also blessed with natural hot springs, providing a healing experience for visitors.
Culture and Customs
Teshio Town in Hokkaido is an attractive town that is heavily influenced by Ainu culture while also possessing a history of development from the Meiji era. Blessed with rich nature, agriculture is the main industry. In particular, the processing of exceptionally fresh seafood is active, and its high quality is recognized nationwide. The lifestyle coexists with nature, and the local community is very vibrant. People speak the Hokkaido dialect and are proactive in preserving Ainu culture. These elements make life in Teshio Town rich and appealing. Additionally, Teshio Town hosts many festivals featuring local specialties. Among them, the “Teshio Salmon Festival” and the “Teshio River Onsen Festival” are very popular with tourists. At the Salmon Festival, visitors can enjoy fresh salmon as well as dishes and crafts made from local ingredients. The Onsen Festival offers not only the enjoyment of local hot springs but also the chance to taste fresh local produce. Teshio Town in Hokkaido is a special place in Japan where nature, history, and culture intertwine. Come and experience its charm for yourself.
Local Specialties
- Teshio Town Seafood: Located in the northern part of Hokkaido, Teshio Town is rich in seafood. It is particularly known for its fresh seafood, such as crabs, sea urchins, and hokke (a type of fish).
- Teshio Town Kelp: Kelp produced in Hokkaido is recognized for its quality throughout Japan, and delicious kelp is harvested in Teshio Town.
- Teshio Town Lamb: Teshio Town is an active region for sheep meat production, and lamb is especially popular for its tenderness and juiciness.
- Teshio Town Potatoes: Hokkaido is also known for potato production, and Teshio Town produces particularly delicious potatoes.
- Teshio Town Soybeans: Hokkaido is a region where soybean production is active, and Teshio Town is known for various processed products made from soybeans.
Annual Events
- “Teshio Salmon Festa”: Held every summer, this festival allows visitors to savor fresh salmon. Local people come together to participate, and there are competitions for salmon dishes.
- “Spring Smelt Festival”: This event is held with the arrival of spring, allowing visitors to enjoy smelt fishing on the snow accumulated during winter. It is a popular event for families.
- “Teshio River Onsen Festival”: This festival, held in a hot spring area, features local dishes made from local ingredients, onsen table tennis, and a fireworks display.
- “Teshio Town Fireworks Festival”: Held every summer, the spectacular fireworks launched along the Teshio River are a sight to behold, providing a visually and emotionally moving night.
- “Teshio Town Winter Festival”: Celebrating the arrival of winter, this festival is filled with winter-specific activities such as snow sculpture making, snowmobile races, and ice fishing.
Access Methods
- By airplane: Fly to Asahikawa Airport from various locations across the country, and then drive for about two and a half hours to reach Teshio Town.
- By JR train: Get off at “Teshio River Onsen Station” on the JR Soya Main Line, and use a taxi or rental car to move to the town center.
- By car: Head north on National Route 40, which continues from the Dōō Expressway, towards Teshio Town.
- By bus: It takes about three hours to travel from Asahikawa to the “Teshio River Onsen” bus stop via Hokkaido Chuo Bus.
- By bicycle or motorcycle: In the summer, it is also possible to visit Teshio Town while riding along nature-rich roads.
Tourist Attractions
- Teshio River – A river with beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for fishing and canoeing.
- Teshio Town Local Museum – A worthwhile museum to learn about local history and culture.
- Teshio Onsen – A relaxing hot spring reputed for its skin-beautifying effects.
- Teshio Ohashi Bridge – A beautiful bridge over the Teshio River, popular as a scenic spot.
- Teshio Town Comprehensive Park – A vast park facility where you can enjoy flowers in every season.
