Nice to meet you! Tsubetsu Tourism Association is pleased to introduce itself.
Tsubetsu Town in Abashiri District, Hokkaido, with a population of about 4,100 people (as of 2023), lies in eastern Hokkaido and is a nature-rich town where about 80% of the town’s area is covered by forest.
In this first post for the Cool Japan video series, we present the charms of Tsubetsu Town, blessed with vast natural landscapes!

Tsubetsu’s climate features hot summers and very cold winters influenced by drifting sea ice.
The town sees low precipitation and ranks among the nation’s leaders in clear days and sunshine hours.

Here is how to access Tsubetsu Town.
By plane, it takes about 1 hour 50 minutes from Haneda Kuukou to Memanbetsu Airport. From New Chitose Airport, the flight to Memanbetsu Airport takes about 45 minutes.

If you use the JR limited express, travel from JR Hokkaido Sapporo Station to Kitami Station takes about 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours.
By bus, the Highway Bus Dreaming Okhotsk runs from Sapporo Station to Kitami Station in about 5 hours.
By car, it takes about 5 hours from Sapporo Station to Tsubetsu Town.

Surrounded by abundant forest, Tsubetsu Town is certified as a Forest Therapy BaseⓇ in recognition of the scientifically proven healing effects of forests!
The Tsubetsu Townspeople's Forest Natural Park, affectionately known by residents as Nonno-no-mori, allows forest walks year-round.
Adjacent to Nonno-no-mori, the Nonno-no-Mori Nature Center offers various guided tours where visitors can easily experience Forest TherapyⓇ and other activities. (Reservations required)

Tsubetsu Town has many popular tourist spots; here are some especially recommended highlights!

Lake Kussharo, a caldera lake formed when a volcano erupted and created a large depression that later filled with rainwater, is a must-see.
On the outer rim of the Kussharo caldera sits Tsubetsu Pass; the Tsubetsu Pass Observatory, at 947 meters elevation, is the highest observation facility in the area and offers spectacular views not only of Lake Kussharo but also the Sea of Okhotsk, the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, and sea-of-clouds scenery.
The season to see the sea of clouds runs from June through autumn.
Many photographers visit to capture the beautiful panorama of sunrise and the sea of clouds.

Aioi Railway Park, created from the former site of Former Kitami Aioi Station, preserves rare historic rolling stock such as KiHa 22 and Suhafu 16, making it a delight for railway enthusiasts.
The old station building houses Ekishacafe Horoka, where visitors can enjoy freshly roasted coffee and sweets made with local ingredients.

Roadside Station Aioi Aioi Bussankan, set in the forest, is ideal for savoring local cuisine and finding lovely souvenirs.
The adjoining Kumayaki House sells freshly baked local specialty Kumayaki and can draw queues on holidays.
Inside the Roadside Station, the Product Promotion Center offers Tsubetsu specialties and handmade goods such as handcrafted tofu and 100% buckwheat soba. Cute Kumayaki merchandise is also available.

Tsubetsu Town offers a variety of campgrounds where you can fully enjoy nature.
21st Century Forest Campground, close to the town center, features spacious grassy campsites.
With many playgrounds for children, it’s popular with families. The Tsubetsu River runs through the area, offering fishing and water play.
A one-night stay costs 500 yen per tent. Other fees may apply depending on conditions, so please check the official website before visiting.
The season runs from May 1 to October 31 (may vary depending on weather and other conditions).

Chimikeppu Lake Campsite is a free campground on the shores of Lake Chimikeppu, surrounded by primeval forest.
On the north side of Lake Chimikeppu is a Wild Bird Park, where birdwatching is possible. In the surrounding area you’ll also find a Bird Observation Center, an arboretum, hotels, and walking trails.
The season runs from mid-May to the end of October (may vary depending on weather and other conditions. Note that auto camping is not permitted).

Next, we introduce Tsubetsu Town’s proud local foods!
Tsubetsu focuses on specially cultivated and organic onions.
When cooked, these onions become sweeter and are less likely to fall apart, which characterizes Tsubetsu-grown onions.
Tsubetsu Wagyu is a celebrated local beef brand. Raised on rice straw and barley straw, Tsubetsu Wagyu has well-balanced marbling and a juicy flavor; recommended preparations include yakiniku and sukiyaki.
Onions and Tsubetsu Wagyu are also available through Tsubetsu Town’s hometown tax donation program.

Tsubetsu Town offers many comfortable hotels where you can relax amid beautiful nature.

With lakes, forests, and mountains, Tsubetsu Town lets you enjoy the blessings of Hokkaido’s nature.
Come and experience the unique charms of Tsubetsu Town and create unforgettable travel memories.
We will continue to bring you more information about Tsubetsu Town in the future.
Thank you for your attention!