The 48th Kashiwabayashi Park Festival was held! On Sunday, September 22, the 48th Kashiwabayashi Park Festival took place. Despite the unfortunate rain, many guests attended. Thank you very much!

Taiki Town Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Commerce Festival and the Town Bon Odori Dance again this year! [62nd Commerce Festival] Date and time: Thursday, August 15, 11:00 AM Location: Taiki Town Economic Center Event Plaza (behind Roadside Station Cosmall Taiki) [51st Taiki Town Citizens’ Bon Odori Dance] Date and time: Thursday, August 15, 6:00 PM Location: Kotobuki Fureai Street, Taiki Town (the road facing the back of Roadside Station Cosmall Taiki) Please come and join us!

August 4 (Sunday) Rekifune River Clear-Stream Festival takes place! The summer highlight of Taiki Town, the Rekifune River Clear-Stream Festival, will be held on August 4. During the day, enjoy a character show, prize draws, food stalls, gold panning experiences, yamabe (landlocked salmon) fishing, and many other fun activities! In the evening, the festival builds to its climax with the Perpune Fire Festival, where towering columnar bonfires seem to reach the sky, followed by an impressive fireworks display. Date and time: Sunday, August 4, 11:00– Venue: Rekifune River, riverbank upstream of Taiki Bridge Stage event schedule 11:00–11:10 Opening ceremony 11:20–11:50 Taiki Town street dance circle 12:00–12:50 Kamen Rider Gatchard & Geats 13:00–14:10 Taiki Town Japan-Taiwan Friendship Association Lychee Seed Spitting Contest 14:20–15:10 Kamen Rider Gatchard & Geats 15:40–16:20 Keishi Tanaka acoustic live performance 16:30–17:30 Prize draw 18:00–19:10 Houto (ceremonial lanterns) and Perpune Fire Festival 19:10–19:20 Hikata River Taiko drumming 19:30–21:00 Doshin Fireworks Display

🌿 Haskap picking has begun 🫐 Haskap picking started on June 20 at Mukai Haskap Orchard in Taiki Town! Many berries are still unripe, so they should peak for picking toward July.✨ For details, visit Taiki Town’s tourism site Visit! Taiki.

Cherry blossoms around town are now at their best. You can see them in full bloom all over town, at places like Moiwa-yama Forest Park, Hakurin Park, and Taiki Shrine. Come and enjoy the cherry blossoms alongside the carp streamers✨

🎏 Announcement: Rekifune River Clear-Stream Koinobori Display 🎏 The 2024 Rekifune River Clear-Stream Koinobori display is open from April 19. Display period: from Friday, April 19 to Monday, May 6. The Rekifune River Clear-Stream Koinobori is a spring tradition in Taiki Town that stretches colorful carp streamers across the full width of the Rekifune River each year from late April to early May. This year we increased the number of koinobori, letting them swim from one bank of the Rekifune River across the river and up over the riverbed. On Sunday, May 5 a mini event for children will be held. Enjoy a bouncy dome, maze, smart-ball games, a balloon kite exhibit, a dance performance by the Taiki Town street dance circle, a Mölkky experience, plenty of fun activities, and delicious food! We look forward to your visit! Date and time: Sunday, May 5, 10:00–14:00 Location: Taiki Bridge Riverscape Plaza

- Outdoor Field in Taiki Town - A video showcasing Taiki Town’s natural beauty and outdoor activities, produced mainly by the local revitalization team in charge of outdoor promotion, has been completed! It introduces a variety of activities you can enjoy in Taiki Town year-round, including birdwatching, fishing, gold panning, and wakasagi (pond smelt) fishing. The video is posted on Taiki Town’s official YouTube channel, so please search for it!

Deep Spots in Taiki Town 📍Site of the Former JNR Hiroo Line Taiki Station In Taiki Town, you can still find the remains of the station building from the Hiroo Line, the railway that linked Obihiro and Hiroo and ran until 1987. Taiki Station opened in 1930, and at its peak it reportedly handled more than 1,000 passengers a day. The former track area is now a plaza called Taiki Traffic Park, but the station building still stands. You cannot enter the building, but looking through the windows you can see the ticket gate and waiting room still preserved inside. The platform area still shows the station sign and a signal lever. In Hakubayashi Park, north of Taiki Town Hall, a steam locomotive, No. 59611, which served around Hokkaido and ran on the Hiroo Line until 1975, is on display. It was installed thanks to efforts by local steam locomotive enthusiasts. Why not come and feel the traces of the railway that once ran through Taiki Town?

Want to try gold panning in Taiki Town? Gold panning, recently talked about because of the hit movie Golden Kamuy, can still be experienced the old-fashioned way on the Rekifune River in Taiki Town! The peak period for gold recovery on the Rekifune River is said to have been from the 1890s into the Taisho era, roughly the same time when the bullion battles in Golden Kamuy take place. Taiki Town also provided some cooperation for the movie’s gold panning scenes. See if you can spot Taiki Town in the end credits! This year’s gold panning season is scheduled to start around Golden Week. Come and give it a try!

Recent view of Rekifune River It is mid to late January, and the cold has deepened in Taiki Town. The Rekifune River running through Taiki Town has frozen over considerably 🧊 I compared photos of the Rekifune River seen from Furusato Bridge from last autumn and from this month. Temperatures will drop further, and the frozen sections are expected to grow! Will it freeze over completely…?

Happy New Year 2024! Happy New Year!🌅 We look forward to your continued support in 2024! On January 1st, we saw the first sunrise of the year through gaps in the clouds at Bansei Onsen✨ Afterward, the Hidaka Mountain Range came into clear view on a beautiful day🏔 We hope many people will come visit Taiki Town again this year!

Announcement: Bansei Onsen Open on New Year’s Day♨️ Bansei Onsen will be open on January 1, 2024 for New Year’s Day hours! If the weather is clear, you can soak in the hot springs while watching the first sunrise rise from the Pacific Ocean 🌅 How about starting the new year with your first bath at Bansei Onsen, with a sea view? The waters at Bansei Onsen are highly concentrated iodine springs, among the strongest in Japan. Iodine is found in mouthwash, dietary supplements, and antiseptics, and is said to have antibacterial and moisturizing effects. The hot water is also praised for keeping the body warm for a long time and for making it hard to catch a chill after bathing. Spend the New Year healthy by taking a bath at Bansei Onsen! Open from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM (dining hall open from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM; last order at 2:00 PM). ＜New Year Holiday Hours＞ 2023 (Reiwa 5): Open through Saturday, December 30 ※Dining hall and lodging available through Thursday, December 28 2024 (Reiwa 6) January 1 (Monday): Open 6:00 AM–3:00 PM (dining hall 7:00 AM–3:00 PM; last order 2:00 PM) ※Complimentary shuttle bus will not operate January 2 (Tuesday): Open January 3 (Wednesday)–January 8 (Monday): Regular hours January 9 (Tuesday)–January 12 (Friday): Closed January 13 (Saturday) onward: Regular hours (closed every Tuesday through March) Bansei Onsen Address: Bansei 2, Taiki Town Phone: 01558-7-8161 Hours: April–September: 8:00 AM–9:00 PM (last admission 8:00 PM) October–March: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (last admission 8:00 PM) Closed: April–September: No closures October–March: Tuesdays closed

🌊Have you heard of a “torchka”?🌊 “Torchka” comes from the Russian word for “point” or “position.” It refers to small reinforced defensive emplacements made of concrete and other materials to protect militarily important sites. The torchkas along Taiki Town’s Pacific coast were built in large numbers near the end of the Pacific War to prepare for a possible US landing on the home islands, but they were never used and the war ended. Many remain today because they were built solidly with concrete. Despite erosion from waves, rain, and wind, they survive as historically valuable war relics. You can find them along the shore, partially buried in sand, and inland in various locations. The torchka known as “Asahihama Torchka,” set within a windbreak forest, has been developed for visitors and is open for viewing, so please consider visiting. ⚠️The areas around torchkas often include sandy beaches and rough terrain, so please take care when driving there.

Autumn colors around Taiki Town are at their peak✨ From popular spots like Sakashita Senkyo and Keiseki Bridge to other areas around town, the fall foliage is in full splendor. You might spot unexpectedly beautiful scenes even during a casual drive! Come and experience the beauty of autumn🍁

🚘 How to get to Keiseki Bridge 🚘 Here’s how to reach Keiseki Bridge, a little-known autumn foliage spot in Taiki Town that only those in the know visit! Keiseki Bridge is the only steel arch bridge in Taiki Town, spanning the Nubinai River. It’s a soothing spot where you can enjoy the beautiful river, the bridge, and the fall colors. There is a place beside the bridge where you can park your car, so you can take your time and breathe in the natural air. Be sure to take a drive and check it out!

🍁Taiki Town's Recommended Autumn Spots🍁 When it comes to places to feel autumn in Taiki Town, the stunning autumn leaves at Sakashita Senkyo stand out. It's tucked away a bit, so here are directions on how to get there! 1. On the Shimizu–Taiki Line (Hokkaido Route 55), you'll see a sign on the right if you come from Kamifutsunai, and on the left if you come from Taiki. Follow the arrow and turn. (Photo 2) 2. You will see the orange bridge “Bikei Bridge” ahead; continue across it. (Photo 3) 3. The paved road changes to gravel along the way. Keep going and you will pass the orange bridge “Sakashita Ohashi.” (Photo 4) 4. After passing another gray bridge you will spot a dairy farm. Go past the farm a short distance until the road splits left and right, then follow the left sign. The sign reads “Rekifune River Tributary Forest Road,” and this is where the forest road begins. (Photos 5–6) 5. Continue along the forest road for a while. Some sections get muddy after rain and fallen branches may block the way, so proceed slowly. (Photo 7) 6. You will arrive at Higata Bridge, which spans Sakashita Senkyo. (Photo 8) There is a small space on the right after crossing the bridge where you can park or make a U-turn. For more detailed directions, see the Visit Taiki topic article “How to Get to Sakashita Senkyo.” Use it as a reference and go enjoy the autumn scenery!

Today, September 12, is Space Day 🚀🌕 At the Space Exchange Center SORA in Taiki Town, you can learn in depth about the roughly 30-year history of the town’s ventures into space and the future of this space-focused community 💫 This year the center plans to remain open through the end of October. Come visit us!

🌳 Six days until the Hakurin Park Festival 🌳 Here’s a look at the events taking place at the Hakurin Park Festival! 🥩 Taiki Town Wagyu Festival The popular Taiki-produced beef direct-sale event, the Wagyu Festival, draws long lines every year. For the first time in four years, visitors can enjoy beef barbecue on site. We will offer free rental barbecue grills, so you can come empty-handed! (The number of grills available for rent is limited.) In addition, we will provide free charcoal to those who bring their own grills! We will also sell meat for hamburgers and other cuts, making great souvenirs. *Photos are from past Hakurin Park Festivals.*

Introducing the events at Hakurin Park Festival! 🐟 Akiaji Catching by Hand Taiki Town thrives not only on dairy farming but also on fishing, bringing in delicious seafood year-round, with the autumn salmon standing out as its main catch. Akiaji (aki-salmon) does not mean horse mackerel; it refers to the salmon (sockeye/white salmon) that return to their home rivers in autumn to spawn. Akiaji has firm flesh and a clean, mild flavor. At the Hakurin Park Festival, we will hold an Akiaji catching event for up to 100 children in elementary school or younger (planned). Distribution of participation tickets begins at 9:00 by the fountain. This event is a perennial favorite! Additionally, akiaji soup will be on sale at the venue. Enjoy the taste of autumn in Taiki Town! ※The photo is from a past Hakurin Park Festival.

🍂 Announcement: Kashirin Park Festival 🍂 On September 17th, the 47th Kashirin Park Festival will take place! The Kashirin Park Festival is an autumn industry fair where you can savor Taiki Town’s fall flavors. It features many popular annual events such as a direct sale of Taiki beef, on-site barbecues where you can cook the beef you buy, and a salmon-catching experience. There is even more to enjoy, including specialty product sales from Taiki’s sister and friendship cities, live song performances on the outdoor stage, and a lucky-draw raffle. Please come and join us! *The photos show last year’s event.*

Introducing the post of the "Taiki Tourism Association" COOL JAPAN VIDEOS official social media account! Hokkaido Taiki Town is a town located in the eastern part of Hokkaido. Since around 1985, we have been conducting various initiatives such as aerospace-related experiments with the goal of "space urban development." There are also plenty of attractive sightseeing spots such as "Space Exchange Center SORA" and "Kamui Kotan Park Campground". The specialties of Camembert cheese, autumn salmon and whey pork are exquisite.

The cosmos garden is in full bloom! The cosmos garden beside Taiki Lifelong Learning Center, where town residents sowed seeds in June, has reached its peak bloom. Cosmos, which also means "universe" in English, is the town flower of Taiki, the town of space! The cosmos swaying in the breeze are truly beautiful, so please come and see them!

Hidden Gem in Taiki Town📌 A larch planted in 1906 at Hokai Shrine in the Kaishin district of Taiki Town to commemorate victory in the Russo-Japanese War still stands today as a designated commemorative protected tree. It reaches about 27 meters in height and 80 centimeters in diameter. This larch, alive for nearly 120 years, is well worth a visit! Please note that the surrounding area is farmland and pasture, so do not enter the fields.

Hello to everyone watching Cool Japan! We are the Taiki Tourism Association. On this account, we will share appealing information to make you want to visit Taiki Town in Hokkaido. We look forward to connecting with you! In this first post, we introduce Taiki Town and share tourist information. Taiki Town, Hokkaido, lies in eastern Hokkaido in the southern Tokachi region. It is a town of 5,437 residents (as of January 2023), where the breath of nature meets historical charm. The name "Taiki" comes from the Ainu word "Taikiushi," meaning a place where large trees grow in clusters. Taiki Town is dotted with beautiful natural scenery and historic sites. Next, we introduce some of Taiki’s attractive sightseeing spots. ● Space Exchange Center SORA Since around 1985, Taiki has pursued "space town development" and hosted aerospace-related experiments. Space Exchange Center SORA displays materials and models from experiments conducted in Taiki by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and rocket developer Interstellar Technologies, among others. Admission is free and no reservation is required. ● Roadside Station Cosmos Mall Taiki Roadside Station Cosmos Mall Taiki is a place to feel the charm of Taiki, offering local specialties and souvenirs. At the specialty corner you can taste natural cheeses from Handa Farm and Cowbell Ice made with Taiki ingredients like corn and pumpkin. The facility also features a space-food and space-goods shop and a shopping center stocked with daily necessities. Nearby flows the Rekifune River, once chosen as Japan’s clearest stream. Next, here is some leisure information! ◎ Horokayanto Smelt Fishing Smelt fishing on Horokayanto opens around the end of December and runs through late February, offering a winter fishing experience. Bansei Onsen sits close to Horokayanto, making it ideal for warming up after a chilly day of smelt fishing. ◎ Kamui Kotan Park Campground Kamui Kotan Park Campground, on the scenic Kamui Kotan in Tokachi, is a recommended spot for outdoor lovers. This auto campground is surrounded by rich nature. Visitors can enjoy river play, fishing, forest walks, and even gold panning. (If you wish to try gold panning, please register with the tourism association in advance.) Taiki’s events are not to be missed. ◎ Rekibune River Clear Stream Carp Streamer This mini event takes place on May 5, Children’s Day. Each year from late April to early May, carp streamers spread across the river’s width, fluttering in the breeze as a springtime tradition. ◎ Rekifune River Festival The Rekifune River also hosts the Rekifune River Festival and the Perupune Fire Festival in August. The Rekifune River Festival began in 1989 as Taiki’s major summer event after the river was recognized by the Environment Agency as Japan’s cleanest river. The festival culminates with the Perupune Fire Festival and a fireworks display. Towering flaming torch pillars reaching toward the sky are a sight to behold. It’s a luxurious way to enjoy a summer night. Next, here is Taiki’s gourmet information! Taiki’s cuisine offers a rich variety, from local specialties like Camembert cheese, autumn salmon, and whey-fed pork to fresh seafood dishes and vegetable dishes that celebrate the bounty of the land. A popular local dish is the Taiki Cheese Salmon Bowl, made with cheese and autumn salmon. Savor dishes that make generous use of local ingredients and enjoy the unique flavors of Taiki, Hokkaido. Taiki’s hometown tax program offers fresh seafood and carefully prepared processed goods as gifts. Popular returns include "Rich Fresh Milk Cowbell Ice Cream," "Handa Farm Homemade Cheese Set," and a whey-fed pork bowl set. Enjoy Taiki’s distinctive tastes through the hometown tax program. For access to Taiki from outside Hokkaido, use Tokachi Obihiro Airport. By car, Taiki is about 40 minutes from Tokachi Obihiro Airport; by bus it is about 70 minutes. From Sapporo, the fastest train route takes about 2.5 hours from Sapporo Station to Obihiro Station, and buses take about 3.5 hours. From Obihiro Station, buses reach Taiki in about 1 hour 40 minutes. Although Taiki faces the sea, the area experiences large temperature variations. Summer’s average temperature is around 20°C, with highs up to about 34°C, while winter temperatures can drop to minus 20°C. Because winter temperatures can change rapidly in a short time, please take care with your clothing when traveling. Please come and experience the charms of Taiki Town in Hokkaido for yourself. We will continue sharing Taiki’s attractions, so thank you for your support!