Nice to meet you! We are the Kimobetsu Tourism Association. We would like to share the many charms of Kimobetsucho in Hokkaido with everyone watching Cool Japan videos. This is our first post, so we will briefly introduce Kimobetsu’s history, sightseeing spots, and local specialties. In future posts we will provide detailed information on events and hidden gem attractions, so please stay tuned. Kimobetsu has a long history and retains strong influences from Ainu culture. The town’s name comes from the Ainu word Kim-o-pet, meaning “river with many mountains.” As the name suggests, Kimobetsu is crossed by 41 rivers of various sizes, including the Shiribetsu River and Kimobetsu River. The town lies at the foothills of MtYotei, a 1,898-meter peak nicknamed Ezo Fuji for its resemblance to Mt. Fuji, and is a nature-rich town about a 1 hour 30 minute drive from Sapporo City. The annual average temperature is a relatively cold 5.9°C, and the area receives heavy snowfall—sometimes nearly 150 cm. The large day–night temperature swings create a fertile environment for agriculture, and crops grown here are shipped across Japan. Kimobetsu has developed into one of Hokkaido’s leading agricultural regions. In particular, asparagus is known as one of the places where commercial cultivation began in Japan. Its generous size, crisp yet tender texture, and natural sweetness are exquisite, so be sure to try it. Other recommended souvenirs include high-quality Baron potatoes and sweet corn. At Nakayama Pass, Roadside Station Boyou Nakayama offers specialties like age-imo (deep-fried potato) and a restaurant serving dishes made with local ingredients, as well as a shop selling regional products. From Kimobetsu Town Park you can view both MtYotei and MtShiribetsu and fully experience Kimobetsu’s great outdoors. Kimobetsu also actively operates an empty house bank as part of municipal initiatives to encourage relocation. This program makes effective use of vacant homes in town and is available to people hoping to move here, settle permanently, or stay regularly, contributing to local revitalization. If you are considering relocating to a place with abundant nature, please check Kimobetsu’s official website. Kimobetsu combines rich nature, tourist attractions, and history, and offers a sense of slow, peaceful time. You can find a pleasant respite away from the daily hustle and bustle. Unknown beautiful landscapes, new experiences, and fresh encounters await you in Kimobetsu, Hokkaido. We will continue to share Kimobetsu’s charms, so please come and visit Kimobetsu!