Ishikari
Ishikari is a small yet historically rich city located on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. The city’s name is closely linked to the famous Ishikari River, which has been a cultural and economic lifeline for the region. With its stunning natural beauty, fresh seafood, and the traditional dish „Ishikari nabe,” the city is one of the most attractive destinations in Hokkaido. For those who love nature and rural Japanese life, Ishikari is the perfect choice.
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I once read that Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is sometimes compared to an “Ishikari nabe,” a type of hotpot. This comparison is due to Hokkaido’s distinctive shape, which resembles a pot or bowl.
History
The history of Ishikari traces back to the Ainu people, who inhabited the Hokkaido region for centuries. In the 19th century, Japanese settlement began, and Ishikari grew from a small fishing village into an important trading hub for the region. Agriculture and fishing remain vital to the city’s economy today, but tourism and hospitality are becoming increasingly significant.
Attractions
Ishikari River: The heart of the city is the beautiful Ishikari River, Japan’s third-longest river. Scenic walks along its banks offer a peaceful escape, and the river is famous for its salmon. Don’t miss out on tasting the local specialty, “Ishikari nabe.” In the spring, cherry blossoms make the landscape truly picturesque.
Ishikari Racetrack: A must-see for sports enthusiasts, this racetrack has a history of over a century. Besides the exciting races, visitors can enjoy delicious meals at the nearby restaurants.
Ishikari Lighthouse: Not only does this lighthouse hold historical significance, but it also offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan. It is one of the most iconic landmarks along Japan’s coast.
Hokkaido Centennial Memorial Tower: Built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Hokkaido, this monument offers visitors insight into the island’s history and culture.
Ishikari Dunes: Located near the city, the Ishikari Dunes form one of Japan’s largest dune systems. This natural wonder is perfect for hiking, photography, and birdwatching.
Sapporo
Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, is the gateway to Japan’s northern island and one of its most popular tourist destinations. The city is renowned for winter sports, the Sapporo Beer Festival, and its stunning natural beauty. It offers a vibrant blend of modern and traditional Japanese culture, with bustling markets and famous dishes like miso ramen and fresh seafood. Sapporo has something special for visitors in every season, but it’s particularly popular during the winter months, thanks to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
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History
Sapporo’s history is relatively young, as the city was officially established in the mid-19th century. During the Meiji era, when Hokkaido’s settlement and development began, Sapporo was chosen as the island’s administrative center. Its American-influenced urban design, with wide streets and parks, made the city unique. Sapporo experienced significant growth in the 20th century, especially after hosting the 1972 Winter Olympics, which put it on the international map.
Attractions
Clock Tower: Located near Sapporo and Odori Stations, the Sapporo Clock Tower is a small building dwarfed by the surrounding office towers. Built in 1878, it is one of Sapporo’s earliest buildings and Japan’s oldest clock tower. Inside, visitors can learn more about the tower and Sapporo’s early history.
Odori Park: This long park in the heart of Sapporo is the central site of the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. In summer, colorful flower beds and outdoor events make it a popular spot. The park also features the Sapporo TV Tower, which offers fantastic city views.
Sapporo Beer Museum: The cradle of Japanese beer brewing, where visitors can learn about the history of Sapporo Beer and enjoy a tasting. The museum is housed in a historic brewery building, which is a spectacle in itself.
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Mount Moiwa: One of the best viewpoints in Sapporo, offering stunning panoramas of the city and surrounding mountains. Visitors can reach the summit by cable car or hike, with the nighttime view providing a memorable experience.
Shiroi Koibito Park: A magical, chocolate-themed park where you can learn about the history of Shiroi Koibito, one of Hokkaido’s most famous sweets. Visitors can even make their own chocolate at the park.
Sapporo Dome: For sports fans, Sapporo is home to the famous Sapporo Dome, hosting football and baseball games, as well as concerts and events.
Specialties and Highlights
Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen, one of the most iconic dishes in local cuisine. There are numerous ramen shops throughout the city where you can savor these rich, flavorful soups. Additionally, fresh seafood plays a major role in Sapporo’s gastronomy, particularly shellfish, crabs, and sea urchins.
The „Ishikari nabe,” the city’s most well-known dish, is a miso-based hotpot made with salmon, vegetables, and tofu. The local fishing industry ensures that the ingredients are always of the highest quality. Ishikari is also renowned for its salmon roe, often served alongside the nabe.
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Sapporo, located in the heart of Hokkaido, captivates both nature and urban life enthusiasts. With its rich cultural attractions, culinary delights, and opportunities for winter sports, it offers something unique for every visitor. Ishikari, a nearby city, is particularly recommended for nature lovers and culinary adventurers, famous for its salmon-based cuisine and stunning natural surroundings. If you’re traveling to Hokkaido, exploring both cities is a must, as Sapporo’s modern vibrancy and Ishikari’s traditional charm perfectly complement each other.