---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.24 Hiroo
A forest rich in nature that you will want to visit again and again
“Tashiro no Mori (Tashiro Forest)”

■ Take pictures, see, and play! Many ways to enjoy “Tashiro Forest”

“Tashiro Forest” is a nature-rich forest located in Hiroo Town.

Here is a report on the charms of Hiroo from the perspective of a “Hiroo newbie” who participated in a town walk in Hiroo for the first time with a camera in hand.

It was February.

I participated in an event organized by the Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council & Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

The event was held at the “Tashiro Forest” created by Mr. Izumi, a resident of Hiroo. At Tashiro Forest, visitors can experience snowshoeing and enjoy oven-baked pizzas made by Mr. Izumi….What a great event!

First, we put on snowshoes and strolled through the snowy forest to take pictures.

On the pure white snow, there are footprints of small animals. The wintery scenery makes you forget the cold.

After the exploration, we enjoyed freshly baked pizza and coffee brewed with natural spring water, which warmed both our minds and bodies.

According to Mr. Izumi, the best time to visit “Tashiro Forest” is around May.

Mr. Izumi told me to “search the Internet and look at pictures”, and when I saw the pictures of the “Tashiro Forest” at its best time of year… wow, what a spectacular view!

Just one visit is not enough!
The feeling of wanting to visit again exploded in me, and that is how attractive this forest is.

It looks like there are many events at Tashiro Forest, so please check it out and experience it for yourself!

On the way to the forest, you can see the Hidaka Mountains, which I want to describe as “The Mountain Range”. It is a very different view from the Urakawa, Samani, and Erimo sides, so it is a must-see!

Spot Information

・Tashiro Forest
Place：  Monbetsu, Hiroo-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido
TEL：090-1305-9558
*When visiting Tashiro Forest, please call in advance as Tashiro Forest is private property.

---

Photos by

Saori Uda（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

 

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.23 Erimo
The best photo spot for cherry blossoms with the sky and the sea in the background

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■ “Shoya Sakura Park” a place to enjoy cherry blossoms along with the sky and the sea.

The “Shoya Sakura Park”, where the sea and cherry blossoms can be enjoyed at the same time from a hill, features approximately 1,500 cherry trees blooming in and around the park.

It is one of my favorite spots in Erimo where I live.

Toward the mountain side of the park, there is a “couple” cherry tree, estimated to be 300 years old. It was originally two cherry trees that became one large tree by supporting each other.

On the ocean side of the park, there is a photo spot where you can take pictures of the cherry blossoms with the sky and ocean in the background.

When you need to take a break from walking, we recommend sitting on a bench with a view of the ocean and spending some time gazing at the Pacific Ocean. It is so relaxing.

Spot Information

・Shoya Sakura Park
Place： 550 Aza Shoya, Erimo-cho, Horosen-gun, Hokkaido
TEL：01466-2-4626
URL：https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kankou/pages/k9mfea0000000hti.html

Photos・Written by

Jyunko Yanagida (Erimo / Team Tongari)

This is my 13th year in Erimo Town, and it is a powerful learning experience for me in terms of nature, people, and wildlife.

I invite you to come and experience the great wilderness that can only be experienced here.

HITOMI.Y （Erimo／Team Tongari）

I was born and raised in Erimo. I have been mainly photographing the fishermen of Erimo, the flora and fauna of Erimo National Park in the Hidaka Mountains, and children’s sports.

Erimo is home to the emerald green heart lake Toyonikoko, and is the most pointy town on the Tongari Road.

I would also like to introduce Erimo’s fresh seafood and other delicacies from the sea and mountains.
 I’m confident in my physical strength, so I’ll use my nimble footwork to share the wonderful moments of Erimo with you.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.22 Samani
A place where you can enjoy camping and cherry blossom picnic

■ Samani Dam, a relaxing spot highlighted by cherry blossoms

The “Samani Dam” is located about 7 km north of downtown Samani.

It is a well-known cherry blossom viewing spot where Someiyoshino and Ezo-Yamazakura cherry trees are usually in full bloom from early to mid-May every year.

The view below from the management office on top of the dam is a must-see photo spot during cherry blossom season!

The Samani Dam campground is also a hidden gem since only a few people visit the campground.

The distance from the parking lot to the grass tent sites is close, so this campground combines the convenience of a cap/RV campground with the freedom of a free site campground.

No need to worry if you have elderly people or small children. 
Day camping while having the cherry blossoms in full bloom all to yourself…such luxury is possible!

Please come and experience the quiet and relaxing time while listening to the sound of water flowing down from the dam.

Spot Information

・Samani Dam
Place：Shintomi, Samani

URL：https://hokkaido-hidaka-kankonavi.com/database/samani/1919/

Photos・Written by

Miyuki Kato（Samani／Team Tongari）

Born and raised in Samani.
I realize that my town was actually nice
and much more likable when I started walking around
my own town with my camera and looking through the viewfinder.
If I ever get to meet you, please feel free to call me
「Mi-chan」or「Mi-san」^^

Makiko Tsuji（Samani／Team Tongari）

Samani is a town rich in nature and full of seasonal attractions.
Delicious food, charming people, beautiful scenery, cute animals and interesting plants…
I would like to share these wonderful things that can only be found here through my photographs.

Sayuri Fujita（Samani／Team Tongari）

My introduction into photography began when I received a SLR camera as a gift.
The world of camera is so deep, it’s hard to get better at it.
I’m a shy person, but I am hoping to meet people in the local area and make many friends through my camera and photography.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.21 Urakawa
Cherry blossom tunnel of Ezo-Yamazakura cherry trees

■ Introducing the best cherry blossom spots in Urakawa!

The most famous cherry blossom in Urakawa is the cherry blossom tunnel consisting of 1,000 Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees.

This is the most glorious season of the year for the 3-km tree-lined avenue when cherry blossoms bloom.
This cherry blossom tunnel is known as the “Yushun Sakura Road”.

At night, the cherry blossom tunnel is lit up for about 1 km.

What a magical and romantic atmosphere!

Part of the cherry blossom tunnel has a promenade so that visitors can take their time to appreciate the cherry blossoms at night.

Now, let’s head north through the cherry blossom tunnel!

After passing the gate of JRA Hidaka Breeding Ranch, look first to your left.

You will find a massive, dignified single cherry tree!

This cherry tree is estimated to be 100 years old and is called “Hyakunen-zakura” (100-year old cherry tree).

The trunk circumference is 3.8 meters, one of the largest in Hokkaido.

Now look to the right, and you will see vivid pink cherry blossoms.

This one is called “Chouju-zakura” (longevity cherry blossom) and is as old as the Hyakunen-zakura! That makes them colleagues!

You may also find a horse nearby.

On a clear night, you can even enjoy the collaboration of the beautiful starry sky and the cherry blossoms.

In early May, the “Urakawa Cherry Blossom Festival” is always held to celebrate the beautiful season of cherry blossoms.

The festival is full of events and vendors that are so unique to Urakawa.

How did you like the virtual cherry blossom tour in Urakawa?
 Definitely come to see the cherry blossoms in Urakawa!

Spot Information

・Yushun Sakura Road
Place：  141-11 Nishiya, Urakawa-cho
TEL：0146-26-9014（Urakawa Town Hall Commerce and Tourism Division）

・Urakawa sakura festival
Place：Special venue at Urakawa Yushun Village AERU (141-40 Aza Nishiya, Urakawa Town)
TEL：0146-22-3200 (Urakawa Tourist Association)
URL：https://sakura.urakawa-tabi.com/

Photos by

Aki (Urakawa / Team Tongari)

Born in the town of Urakawa.
Through my viewfinder, I feel the changing seasons and colors of Urakawa.

I would be happy to share some of Urakawa’s charms with you through my photos!

Ryoko Jimba (Urakawa / Team Tongari)

This is my 5th year since I married into Urakawa.
I am a yoga instructor.
I suddenly fell in love with observing wild birds, and since then I am taking pictures of wild birds, my son, and things I love in my everyday world.

Written by

Aki（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

 

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.20 Hiroo
The best cherry blossom spot where everyone gathers

Tokachi Shrine has a history of well over 300 years.

Ezo-yamazakura cherry trees are planted at Tokachi Shrine. From late April to early May, when the cherry blossoms are at their best, local residents and visitors enjoy admiring the blossoms.

Despite the shrine’s location in the city, deer congregate there in the very early morning.

There may be a chance to take a lovely collaboration photo of the cherry blossoms and the deer!

There is also a small playground adjacent to the shrine. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the cherry blossoms where everyone, from children to the elderly, can get together.

Spot Information

・Tokachi Shrine
Place：1-13, Moyoro, Hiroo-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido
TEL： 01558-2-2063
URL：https://hiroo-kanko.jp/spot/%E5%8D%81%E5%8B%9D%E7%A5%9E%E7%A4%BE/

Photos・Written by

---

Mami（Hiroo／Team Tongari）


I have lived in Hiroo Town for 25 years.

I love people, and I am very happy to have met so many different people since I started photography.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.19 Urakawa
A hill with colorful lupine flowers

■ A panoramic view of Urakawa from Lupinus Hill

 

On a hillside of the hill overlooking the port of Urakawa and the city, there is a famous spot where flowers bloom all around.

The hill is not only home to lupines, but also to a variety of other flowers.
It shows a wide variety of appearances depending on the season and time of day.

You can enjoy lupines and hydrangeas in the summer, and in the autumn cosmos and color-changing autumn leaves. The sunsets on the well-kept lupine hills are also exceptional!

As you walk along, admiring the flowers blooming on both sides, the ocean and cityscape spread out before your eyes. 
It is a truly pleasant location to soothe your mind.

There are several benches and tables, so on a sunny day, you may enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch.

In fact, this place is a private property owned by Mr. and Mrs. Sawaya, who are generously opening it up to the public!

When we happen to meet with Mr. and Ms. Sawaya, they happily tell us about the flowers and the Lupinus Hill.
I sincerely treasure this place.

When you want to re-center yourself, relax alone, or take a short walk… we invite you to visit this Lupinus Hill.

Spot Information

・Lupinus Hill
Place：  10 Shiomi-cho, Urakawa (behind Family Sports Center)
URL：https://www.tongari-road.com/spot_urakawa/lupinus-hills/

■Photos by

Shelly（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

I am originally from Asahikawa and came to Urakawa Town after getting married.
Urakawa has a pleasant climate throughout the year, and you can find scenery everywhere that makes you want to take pictures throughout the four seasons.

In spring, you can enjoy the magnificent rows of cherry trees, in summer, the spectacular view of lupine hills, in autumn, the changing leaves, the setting sun, the cosmos, and in winter, Steller’s sea eagles, white-tailed sea eagles, fluffy animals, and fluffy, round, striped eagles.
I don’t have much time for photography, but this town makes me want to improve my photography skills!

Ryoko Jimba（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

This is my 5th year since I married into Urakawa.
I am a yoga instructor.
I suddenly fell in love with observing wild birds, and since then I am taking pictures of wild birds, my son, and things I love in my everyday world.

■Written by

Heart-chan（Urakawa／Team Tongary）

I lived in Urakawa until the third grade of elementary school, then moved to the Kansai region, but when I got a job, I came back to Urakawa, which I had always wanted to return to!

I have a mild Kansai dialect. I like udon noodles.

Shelly（Urakawa／Team Tongary）

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

 

 

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.18 Samani
Beautiful sunset viewing spot between huge rocks in the ocean

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■Oyakoiwa (parents and a child rocks), filled with seasonal charms in each of the four seasons

 

Along with Mt. Apoi, Oyakoiwa is the symbol of Samani.

Oyakoiwa (parents and a child rocks) consists of 2 large rocks and a small rock, which are lined up in a row like parents and a child. There is a park on the coast from which you can enjoy swimming and camping.

Oyakoiwa site at the park is the best spot to witness a beautiful sunset.

Beautiful ever-changing skies and magical reflections of rocks on the sea.
In midwinter, the sun sets between the rocks, so sometimes a path of light appears on the surface of the sea.

You may also encounter the “Jewelry Ice” which is famous on the Otsu Coast in Toyokoro Town!

And then…on a clear late summer night, the Milky Way descends over the Oyakoiwa.

At low tide, when the sea is calm, it presents a water mirror like the Salar de Uyuni.

A great spot for a trick-art-like photo ops, and also a beautiful spot for a bridal or photo-wedding shoot! (Photo-wedding is a new style of wedding in Japan, only photo shooting to experience a wedding without an actual ceremony and reception.)

Oyakoiwa (parents and a child rock), which shows various expressions in each of the four seasons.

Come and have fun taking your own one-of-a-kind photo!

Spot Information

・Oyakoiwa Fureai Beach Campground
Place：Nishimachi, Samani
URL：https://hokkaido-hidaka-kankonavi.com/database/samani/886/

Miyuki Kato（Samani／Team Tongari）

Born and raised in Samani.
I realize that my town was actually nice
and much more likable when I started walking around
my own town with my camera and looking through the viewfinder.
If I ever get to meet you, please feel free to call me
「Mi-chan」or「Mi-san」^^

Makiko Tsuji（Samani／Team Tongari）

Samani is a town rich in nature and full of seasonal attractions.
Delicious food, charming people, beautiful scenery, cute animals and interesting plants.
I would like to share these wonderful things that can only be found here through my photographs.

Sayuri Fujita（Samani／Team Tongari）

My introduction into photography began when I received a SLR camera as a gift.
The world of camera is so deep, it’s hard to get better at it.
I’m a shy person, but I am hoping to meet people in the local area and make many friends through my camera and photography.

 

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

---

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Cape Erimo Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.

Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement them.

“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.

23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.17 Erimo
A place where you can feel Mother Nature’s magnificence!

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■ A museum with the wind as its theme!
“Kazeno Yakata (The house of the wind)”, where you can experience the entirety of Mother Nature.

 

“Kazeno Yakata (The house of the wind)” is a museum with wind as its theme. The museum is located at the tip of Erimo Cape.
The museum’s ambiance is like a “Secret base”, and visitors can feel like explorers from the moment they enter.

The observatory room is entirely made of glass and is a great place to enjoy a full panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean!

It is designed with an image of the “Karman Vortex” created by the wind, allowing visitors to enjoy an artistic atmosphere as well.

If you take a look through the telescope in the observation room, you can even see seals taking a break on the rocks.

■ The starry sky of Erimo, a real life planetarium.

Another thing I would like to introduce about Erimo is the starry sky. On a clear evening, the sky is filled with bright stars and the Milky Way.

Gazing at the starry sky at the “planetarium” of Mother Nature, you will be feeling a deep relaxation and comforted by the profound charms of nature.

■Spot Information

・“Kazeno Yakata (The house of the wind)”
Place：  366-3 Aza Toyo, Erimo-cho, Horosen-gun, Hokkaido
TEL：01466-3-1133
URL：https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kaze/mobile/

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Photos・Written by

Jyunko Yanagida (Erimo / Team Tongari)

This is my 13th year in Erimo Town, and it is a powerful learning experience for me in terms of nature, people, and wildlife.
I invite you to come and experience the great wilderness that can only be experienced here.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!
Check out all our blogs here

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】
vol.16 People who support dreams and people who are supported by dreams

 

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■ The first “fateful encounter” and to Urakawa

Mr. Dat is from Vietnam.


He came to a company in Hiroshima more than ten years ago as a technical intern trainee.

At the same time, the daughter of Daikokuza, a movie theater in Urakawa Town, spent her college life in Hiroshima, the hometown of Director Obayashi, who made many films set in Onomichi.

She happened to get a job and worked for the same company as Mr. Dat.

Then they met and married.
 Later, they made a return to Urakawa, where they currently live with their two children.

■ To the second “fateful encounter” and the “Panpakapan”

Mr. Dat has no experience owning a restaurant, but he is a good cook and has always had a dream of owning a Vietnamese restaurant.

So, I invited him to join the staff of my bakery “Panpakapan” in order to help him in any way I can.

Since then, we have sold Vietnamese sandwiches several times while making announcements on social media. It has been very successful!

Mr. Dat now has many fans, and I have more opportunities to talk with customers who come to the store looking for his sandwiches.

I am beginning to believe that Mr. Dat will eventually leave our store and open his own store in Urakawa.

Recently, the Daikokuza has been showing a series of films based on the stories of Vietnamese technical interns and Myanmarese families.

Those of us who are in Panpakapan are watching these films with a greater sense of familiarity with the immigration issues in Japan.

Spot Information

・Panpakapan
Location: 1-1-1 Sakai-cho Higashi, Urakawa-cho, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido 057-0033
TEL：0146-22-4595
URL：https://www.facebook.com/panpakapan0/

・Daikokuza
Location: 2-18 Odori, Urakawa-cho, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido 057-0013
URL：https://www.daikokuza.com/

Website

■Urakawa town homepage
⇒https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/chousei/urakawa-character.html

Photos・Written by

Ake-san（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

Urakawa Town is a cozy and convenient town with a harbor, shopping district, library, Daikokuza, cafes, and restaurants. 


I was born in this town and grew up watching movies at the movie theater as a matter of course.


The light of the movies continues to light up the pleasant glow of culture. 
I am a baker who loves movies.

This is the last issue of “Tales of my Tongari town” for this season. 
We will continue to introduce local attractions in various ways. Please look forward to the upcoming posts!

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Thank you for enjoying this series of stories.
You can find all of our previous stories at the links below, so please take a peek!

Check out all our blogs here

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.15 Hiroo
 A must-see photo spot for photography enthusiasts

 

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① Recommended photo shooting locations

 

Seaside Park Hiroo is a great place to photograph Tokachi Harbor, the Milky Way, and the full moon.



It is also the largest habitat of the Ohbananoenreisou (Trillium camschatcense) in Japan.

Its pretty white flowers bloom from May to June, attracting many photographers from outside of the town.

② A place where you can go every day and never get bored.

Daimaruyama Forest Park holds an azalea festival every May, and a photo contest is also held there.
Many people from out of town participate, and they snatch up all the gorgeous prizes (lol).

It is not very well known but there is also a small wisteria trellis in this park.

The best time to visit is around mid-June when the azaleas are about to finish blooming.
You will never get bored of visiting every day because of the variety of flowers in bloom.

Spot Information

■ Seaside Park Hiroo
Address: 989 Aza-nozuka, Hiroo-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido 089-2561
URL: https://www.town.hiroo.lg.jp/kyouiku/koukyoushisetsu/sports_shisetsu/

■ Daimaruyama Forest Park
Address: 689 Hiroo, Hiroo-cho, Hiroo-gun, Hokkaido, 089-2600
URL: https://www.town.hiroo.lg.jp/kankou/leisurespot/flower_spot/daimaruyamakouen/

Website

■Hiroo town homepage
⇒https://www.town.hiroo.lg.jp/

Pthotos・Written by

Mami（Hiroo/Team Tongari）

I have lived in Hiroo Town for 25 years.
 I love people, and I am very happy to have met so many different people since I started photography.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town” until the third week of October.
Stay tuned!

Check out all our blogs here

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.14 Urakawa
Highly recommended spots for both mind and body satisfaction

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【A place to fill your heart along with your stomach】

A bakery where you can enjoy delicious bread made with hearty Hokkaido ingredients.

Its name is “Panpakapan”.

Not only bread, but you can also buy local honey, fresh vegetables, and strawberries. An eat-in cafe space is also available.

The owner’s personality is charming, and all the food is so good that I can’t decide what to recommend.

It may seem like just a bakery, but for me, it is more than just a bakery.

When my eldest son was one year old, he would not eat anything and I was at a loss. When I was left with no options, the only thing he was happy to eat was bread made with “Haruyo koi” (wheat) produced in Hokkaido.

The loneliness, helplessness, and negative loop of not knowing what to do that I felt back then, it was the bread of Panpakapan that shined a ray of sunshine on me.

I will never forget the view I saw while I was sitting on a bench with a feeling of relief from the back of the store after buying the bread back then.

【Where you can’t help but take a deep breath】

On a nice day in June, this is the place where you can’t help but stretch your legs.

Its name is “Lupinus Hill”.

At the beautifully maintained setting, you can enjoy the flowers, listen to the birds, and take in the panoramic view below!

You can enjoy your time to your heart’s content.

It’s also a place where you can take a nice deep breath and let your daily stress slip away!

This Lupine hill is a privately owned place but the owner, a couple named Sawaya-san, has graciously opened it to the public.

It made me feel once again grateful for this environment and wish to cherish it.

Spot Information

■ Pampakapan
Address: 1-1-1 Sakai-cho Higashi, Urakawa-cho, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido 057-0033
TEL: 0146-22-4595
URL: https://www.facebook.com/panpakapan0/

■ Lupinus Hill Address: Shiomi-cho, Urakawa-cho, Urakawa-gun, Hokkaido 057-0021

Websites

■Urakawa town homepage
⇒https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/index.html

Photos・Written by

Shelly（Urakawa/Team Tongari)

I am originally from Asahikawa and came to Urakawa Town after getting married.

Urakawa has a pleasant climate throughout the year, and you can find scenery everywhere that makes you want to take pictures throughout the four seasons.

In spring, you can enjoy the magnificent rows of cherry trees, in summer, the spectacular view of lupine hills, in autumn, the changing leaves, the setting sun, the cosmos, and in winter, Steller’s sea eagles, white-tailed sea eagles, fluffy animals, and fluffy, round, striped eagles.
I don’t have much time for photography, but this town makes me want to improve my photography skills!

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town” until the third week of October.
Stay tuned!

Check out all our blogs here

 

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.13 A History of Greenery and Big Festivals that Continue into the Future

 

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Erimo Town is famous for Cape Erimo, a windy polar region located in southern Hokkaido. 
Here are some things you should know when you visit Cape Erimo, and it’s autumn festivals.

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① Erimo greenery

In the past, the Cape Erimo area was richly forested.

After the Meiji period (1868-1912), however, the trees were cut down for fuel by settlers.
 In addition, overgrazing by livestock and the arrival of grasshoppers caused the area to become desolate, and it eventually came to be known as the “Erimo Desert”.

Wind speeds of more than 10 meters per second (22mph) blow more than 260 days a year in Cape Erimo.
 When strong winds blow, the soil is blown into the sea and becomes muddy, making it impossible to farm kelp and fish.

So, in 1953, a full-scale greening project began, and after about 70 years, the area took on its current appearance, and kelp and fish returned to the sea.

It started with the planting of black pines, and now broadleaf trees are being planted to return the area to its original vegetation.

This greening project has caught the attention of foreign countries as well, and inspectors visit the site every year.

In 2006, the Emperor of Japan also visited the site and composed a poem about greening.

The history of Erimo Greening will be made into a movie in the near future.

The view from the observatory is beautiful with the blue sea and greenery.

② The Erimo Shrine Autumn Festival

The Erimo Shrine Autumn Festival, held every fall, is a major day-long event for the entire community.

This is a festival unique to the countryside.

Yoimiya is a night of entertainment, culminating in the traditional performance of “Erimo Kagura”.

This Erimo Kagura is a dance to pray for the safety of ships sailing around Cape Erimo and a bountiful catch of fish and is dedicated to the Erimo Shrine’s annual festival.

The dance is characterized by lions (Shishi) and Hyottoko (masked men) dancing to the rhythm of taiko drums, flutes, and Kane (a type of Japanese bell).

Erimo Kagura has been handed down from parents to children and from children to grandchildren, and now there is also a “Youth kagura” performed by the children of Erimomisaki Elementary School.

During the main festival, local residents walk around Cape Erimo in the morning, and in the afternoon, they are on the beach and carry the Omikoshi (portable shrines) to the sea.
The sight is very moving.

Please come and witness such a beautiful and powerful festival once in your life.

 

Spot Information

① Cape Erimo 
Location: Cape Erimo, Erimo-cho, Horosen-gun 
*The black pine forest by the road from Hyakuninohama to Cape Erimo is a plantation area.

② Erimo Shrine
Location: 170-9, Cape Erimo, Erimo-cho, Horosen-gun

Websites

■ Erimo town homepage (Sightseeing Navi)
⇒https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kankou/pages/k9mfea0000000bnv.html

 

Photos・Written by

HITOMI.Y （Erimo/Team Tongari）

I was born and raised in Erimo. I have been mainly photographing the fishermen of Erimo, the flora and fauna of Erimo National Park in the Hidaka Mountains, and children’s sports.

Erimo is home to the emerald green heart lake Toyonikoko, and is the most pointy town on the Tongari Road.

I would also like to introduce Erimo’s fresh seafood and other delicacies from the sea and mountains.
 I’m confident in my physical strength, so I’ll use my nimble footwork to share the wonderful moments of Erimo with you.

 

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town” until the third week of October.
Stay tuned!

Check out all our blogs here

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.12 Urakawa
 My favorite places where you can have a peaceful moment

 

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①blueSWcoffee+ （BlueSwitchCoffeePlus）

The first one I would like to introduce to you is the blueSWcoffee+, or the Blue Switch Coffee Plus.

blueSWcoffee+ is a home-roasted coffee shop that pre-opened last fall and officially opened in May of this year.

Until then, there were not many coffee shops in Urakawa where you could purchase home-roasted coffee.

Now that we can make a quick stop to purchase home-roasted coffee here, blueSWcoffee+ has become an indispensable store for coffee lovers in Urakawa and the surrounding area.

The coffee roasting hut was originally a storage room of his house.
 When you step into the shop, you’ll always be surrounded by the delicious aroma of coffee.

You can purchase coffee in your desired form, whole beans or grounds, and you can also enjoy coffee as a take-out from the shop. 
Personally, I’m always delighted when my car is filled with the aroma of coffee on the way home.

And now, there’s a limited summer takeout menu available!

② Koshoji Temple, Soto Shu (a.k.a. Yamadera-san)

 

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The second recommendation is Soto Zen Buddhism’s Koshoji Temple (also known as Yamadera-san).


The temple is a historic temple in Urakawa. The garden of the temple is constantly changing with the seasons, and it is very beautiful.

The garden, tended with care by the temple’s master, naturally brings you a sense of peacefulness.

The water lilies are in full bloom this season.

This article has been published with the permission of the temple.
 When you visit the garden, please contact the temple in advance, or if you go there directly, please be sure to ask the temple staff for permission to visit. Respectful manners are expected and appreciated.

Spot Information

①BlueSWcoffee+
Location: 273-98 Nishi-horobetsu, Urakawa *On the national highway leading to Samani and Erimo
Business days: Open irregular 11:00-16:00 *Please check the store’s Instagram.
Instagram：@blue.sw.coffee

②Kosho-ji Temple, Soto sect of Buddhism
Location: 20 Tokiwa-machi, Urakawa
Phone：0146-22-2062

Website

■Urakawa Town Homepage
⇒https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/chousei/urakawa-character.html

 

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Photos・Written by

Ryoko Jimba　（Urakawa/Team Tongari）

This is my 5th year since I married into Urakawa.
I am a yoga instructor.
I suddenly fell in love with observing wild birds, and since then I am taking pictures of wild birds, my son, and things I love in my everyday world.

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from the 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.11 Samani
A place where you can admire the different expressions of the four seasons ~ “Oyakoiwa (parents and a child rocks)” and the pastureland～

 

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【Various expressions of the Oyakoiwa in each season.】

I would like to introduce you to a popular spot in Samani Town, the Oyakoiwa.

On the coast of Nishimachi, Samani, there is the Oyakoiwa, a group of large, medium, and small rocks that look like a father, mother, and child lined up side-by-side.

Oyakoiwa is made of volcanic rock, and it is said that the surrounding sandy soil disappeared a long time ago, leaving only the hard volcanic rock there.

In summer, the sea breeze is so soothing, and in autumn, the sunsets are mysterious.
In the winter, ice cubes called “jewel ice” are washed up on the shore as the ice from the river breaks up and drifts across the sea.

Even in the very same place, each season brings a different appearance.

You will not be disappointed experiencing a different seasonal expression of nature every time.

【It is spring! Run, Tonekko, run!】

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I like to drive around in scenic nature views, and I have a favorite spot in Samani to share.
It is the pastureland where thoroughbreds are born in early spring.

It is also the time of year when the grass turns green, and it is such a pleasant season.
I can feel that summer is just around the corner, and I enjoy the ride while looking at the scenery with the horses in it.

This is a familiar sight in Tongari area, but it will always be my favorite scenery.

Please ask permission from the ranchers before taking pictures. Please be mindful not to get too close, use flash, or make loud noises to protect the horses from being startled.

Spot Information

・Oyakoiwa: Nishimachi, Samani
・Pastureland: Aza Tashiro, Samani

Website

■Samani town homepage
⇒http://www.samani.jp/kanko/

Photos・Written by

Hiroko Ogura(Samani/Team Tongari)

I have been shooting for four years. Samani resident.
 My hobbies are driving and solo camping, which I started recently.
 I would like to go to Lake Shumarinai campground someday.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town” until the third week of October.
Stay tuned!
Check out all our blogs here

---

【Tales of my Tongari town】

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
“Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.
Starting from this 10th issue, we will introduce “people, objects, and things” that our members would like to recommend to you.

---

vol.10 Urakawa
 A therapeutic spot where you can spend some quality quiet time

 

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① Lupinus Hill

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I have two favorite spots for a therapeutic view.
 One is Lupinus Hill, where you can overlook the Port of Urakawa.

It is privately owned, but the property is open to the public.

The owner and his wife tenderly take care of the hill so that visitors can enjoy the scenery, and from June to October, many flowers including lupines, hydrangeas, and cosmos bloom.

Depending on the season and time of day, you can see different scenery of flowers, boats in the harbor, and sunsets, making it a photo-worthy spot that you will want to visit again and again.

 

② Oromap observatory

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The other is the Oromap Observatory, located along the Tenma Kaido (national highway) on Route 236 heading toward Tokachi.

Oromap observatory is a nature-rich place overlooking the ranch where you can hear the soothing sounds of birds singing, the murmuring of the river, and the rustling of plants.

The best time to visit is early May, when you can drive through the cherry blossom trees and farm scenery that is filled with beautiful greenery.
 Although it is a bit far from downtown Urakawa, it is a relaxing spot to go when you want to spend some quiet time.

Both Lupinus Hill and Oromap Observatory are furnished with benches, so enjoy a scenic picnic lunch with some of the local delicacies.

Spot Information

① Lupinus Hill: 10 Shiomi-cho, Urakawa (behind the Family Sports Center)
② Oromap Observatory: Kamikineusu, Urakawa (closed during winter)

Websites

■Facebook “Hokkaido Urakawa Town Navi-Channel”　＠uraran.kawatan
⇒https://www.facebook.com/uraran.kawatan
■ Urakawa Town HP
⇒https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/chousei/urakawa-character.html

Photo・Written by

Saori Uda（Urakawa/Team Tongari）

 

 

Born and raised in Urakawa.
I started photography through work and am still a beginner, but now I am growing to love it!
I am learning to take photos that are unique and only found in Urakawa. I love Japan’s local mascots!

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

 

 

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town” until the third week of October.
Stay tuned!
Check out all our blogs here

 

 

---

「Tales of my Tongari town」

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
As the next series of “Tongari Cuisine Blog”, “Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

---

 

vol.9　Urakawa

Daikokuza… Born in a city with a movie theater

Established in 1918, Daikokuza has been in Urakawa long before I was born.

When I was 5 or 6 years old, I saw Mothra vs. Godzilla with my father, and that was my first Daikokuza experience.

After that, I grew up watching many movies at Daikokuza, such as “The Ten Commandments”, “The Great Escape”, “The Killing Fields”, “ET” and “My Neighbor Totoro”.

From the big screen, I was able to experience and immerse myself in a foreign culture with stylish kitchens and furniture, sweets and bread I had never eaten before, beautiful clothes, a way of life, a way of living, and a way of thinking.

Although it is a small country town, once I stepped into the movie theater, I found that there was a special world within. 
It always seems to enrich my heart.

I feel lucky to have been born in a city with such a special movie theater. 
I hope I can now share this special experience with you through this blog.

Daikokuza

Address: 2-18 Oodori, Urakawa
Tel: 0146-22-2149

Website：https://www.daikokuza.com/

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Phtoto・Written by

Ake-san（Urakawa／Team Tongari）

 

 

 

 

Urakawa Town is a cozy yet very convenient town with a port, shopping district, library, The Daikokuza Theater, cafes, and restaurants in the center of town. I was born in this town and grew up watching movies in theaters like it was a matter of course.
 The lights of the movies continue to provide a pleasant shine to the culture. 
I am a baker who loves movies.

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  This is the last issue of “Tales of my Tongari town” for this season.
We will continue to introduce local attractions in various ways. Please look forward to the upcoming posts!

 

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Check out all our blogs here

▼Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association Website　https://hokkaido-camera.com/

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「Tales of my Tongari town」

n 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls.
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
As the next series of “Tongari Cuisine Blog”, “Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

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vol.8　Erimo

A story of how the kelp gets to you

In the town of Erimo, kelp fishing operations are undertaken from July to late September.
The weather plays a very important role in kelp fishing operations.

There are fishermen called “Hatamoto” who decide the kelp harvesting in each territory.
 Hatamoto judges the kelp harvesting of the day based on the weather forecast and their own intuition.
 Once the harvesting is decided for the day, all of the kelp harvesting boats leave the port at once as if they are in a race.

Due to the sun-drying process of the kelp, it is very important to predict the weather for the day, and sometimes sudden rain can still strike.
 In some areas, two-person teams are also being formed.

The kelp is wrapped with an L-shaped hook attached to the end of a 3-meter long stick, and then wrapped around their arms to pull it out. The longest piece of kelp can be more than 10 meters long.

The kelp that has been brought in is transported to the drying area by crane at the port, and with their backs to the wind, the part-time workers, the okamari-san, dry the kelp on the beach.

Even the kids help out in the morning until they leave for school or daycare.

The dried kelp is then collected in bundles, cut and sorted one by one, and shipped to be sold.
 Be sure to try Erimo’s kelp when you visit!

Website（Hokkaido Erimo Town Sightseeing Navi)

Where to buy and taste the Kelp in Erimo
https://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/kankou/buy/qot0ek00000002m2.html

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Photo・Written by

HITOMI.Y （Erimo/Team Tongari）

I was born and raised in Erimo. I have been mainly photographing the fishermen of Erimo, the flora and fauna of Erimo National Park in the Hidaka Mountains, and children’s sports. 
Erimo is home to the emerald green heart lake Toyonikoko, and is the most pointy town on the Tongari Road. 
I would also like to introduce the Erimo’s fresh seafood and other delicacies from the sea and mountains.
 I’m confident in my physical strength, so I’ll use my nimble footwork to share the wonderful moments of Erimo with you.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town”.
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

▼Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association Website　https://hokkaido-camera.com/

 

 

---

「Tales of my Tongari town」

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls. 
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
As the next series of “Tongari Cuisine Blog”, “Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

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vol.7　Samani

Icefall Ohonai Falls, an ice sculpture created by nature

It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon during the New Year break.
With a cold wind blowing, I went out to witness the special scenery that only appears during this season.

Hidaka Yabakei, where the foot of Mount Apoi at the southern end of the Hidaka Mountains plunges into the Pacific Ocean, there is a group of steep cliffs on a coastline that stretches about 7 km (4.35 miles).

If you take the old national highway that runs along the sea from Route 366, you will be overwhelmed by the view of the 100-meter-high (328 feet high) cliffs that suddenly appear right in front of your eyes.

The house that stands alone at the end of the tunnel is the home of a kelp fisherman named Endate.
 Our destination, “Ohonai Falls” (also known as “Endate Falls”), is located behind this house.

After asking for permission, I carefully walked down the slippery stairs beside the house to look up at Ohonai Falls, which had become an icefall earlier than usual this year.

The clear water constantly flowing down from the V-shaped rocks forms thin icicles, which are layered on top of each other to create this spectacular winter scenery of Ohonai Falls, an ice sculpture created by nature that can only be seen during the long and harsh cold season.

When you listen closely, you can hear the small chirps of birds, usually drowned out by the roar of the fall, and the sound of water trickling quietly beneath the frozen surface.

If the season is on track as usual, we will be able to enjoy the winter scenery of Ohonai Falls until around February.

When visiting, please be respectful of the residents and be kind enough not to interrupt their lives.

Address

Ohonai Falls (also known as Endate Falls)
Location: Horoman District, Samani Town

Website

Hidaka Kanko Navi https://hokkaido-hidaka-kankonavi.com/database/samani/1963/

 

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Photo・Written by

Sachi Ohmiya　（Samani/Team Tongari）

It has been 5 years since I migrated to Hokkaido from Kanto after graduating college.

My recent favorite thing is to take pictures of my 1 year old daughter who loves to play in the big nature of Hokkaido. She also loves Oyakoiwa Fureai Beach in Samani.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town”.
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

▼Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association Website　https://hokkaido-camera.com/

 

---

「Tales of my Tongari town」

In 2019, we started the project “Team Tongari” in collaboration with Tongari Road Wide-area Cooperation Council and Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association.
Team Tongari has been working on a project to promote the charms of Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo through photography and words to supplement.
“Team Tongari” was initiated by a group of camera-loving local girls. 
23 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their hometowns.
As the next series of “Tongari Cuisine Blog”, “Tales of my Tongari town” is a new series of reports about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of Tongari Road.

---

vol.6　Urakawa

Urakawa town’s mascot “Uraran & Kawatan”

The Urakawa Town’s signature products are, of course, “horses,” “summer strawberries,” and “Hidaka kelp”.
The mascots that symbolize Urakawa Town are “Uraran and Kawatan”.
As a horse producing town, their theme is horses.

The girl holding her favorite strawberry is “Uraran”.
She is wearing hair ornaments featuring cherry blossoms from the Nishicha Cherry Tree.

The boy holding a large salmon is “Kawatan”.
The salmon is “Ginsei,” a premium brand of salmon, and his mane and tail are made of Hidaka kelp, a specialty of the region.

The two are busy searching for the charms of Urakawa Town and tasting its delicious food.
 We can’ t meet them all the time…but! They do come to visit when there are events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival (May), the Shinzan Festival (July), and the Port Festival (August).

They are extremely popular among children, and when they make an appearance, there is always a line of people waiting to have pictures taken with them! They love to be in photographs too, so if you see them, don’t hesitate to take a picture with them!

These busy-bees (or busy-horses?) are even willing to travel to Sapporo and other events outside of Urakawa to promote the town’s attractions, so they may surprise you somewhere else too! Look out!

 

Information

■Facebook “Hokkaido Urakawa Town Navi-Channel” ＠uraran.kawatan
⇒https://www.facebook.com/uraran.kawatan
■ Urakawa Town HP
⇒https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/chousei/urakawa-character.html

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Photo・Written by

Uda　Saori（Urakawa/Team Tongari）

Born and raised in Urakawa.
I started photography through work and am still a beginner, but now I am growing to love it!
I am learning to take photos that are unique and only found in Urakawa. I love Japan’s local mascots!

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town”.
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

▼Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association Website　https://hokkaido-camera.com/

 

 

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「Tales of my Tongari town」

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vol.5　Hiroo

Capturing the footprint of the cattle

 

I am a staff member at a farm called Kikuchi Farm in Hiroo, Hokkaido.
 I take about 30,000 pictures of cows a year.

Cows are not pets, but economic animals. 
I wanted to capture the lives of these cows in the form of photographs and share them on social networking sites in hopes that people would become more familiar with cows and dairy farming… That’s why I personally created the 2020 calendar using my photography.

Kikuchi Farm, where I am currently working, has a café on the farm, and I had my calendar displayed in the store.

One of our customers saw the calendar and asked for one. 
For that person, we decided to market the 2021 calendar.

It may have been because it was the year of the cow, but it was touching that someone who had never heard of Hiroo Town or Kikuchi Farm bought the calendar.

This year, we also started a new project to have the public name calves that are born on the farm.
I hope that people who named the calves are inspired to visit Hiroo Town and Kikuchi Farm to meet them!
 I love Kikuchi Farm because I can coexist with the cows.

I hope that everyone will visit the Kikuchi Farm Cafe and feel more familiar with cows and dairy farming.

Kikuchi Farm

8-4, Nozuka 11 line, Hiroo-cho, Hiroo-gun
TEL 01558-2-0008
Website:　：　https://kikuchifarm.jp/

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Photo・Written by

Suzushii Natsu。（Hiroo／Team Tongari）

 

 

 

 

Born in Niigata Prefecture. After graduating from an agricultural high school, I came to Hokkaido with no friends or acquaintances to fulfill my dream of working on a farm in Hokkaido.
 For the first three years, I worked at a ranch in Shintoku-cho, and thanks to the cows I love and my camera, I was able to find my place here at Kikuchi Farm, surrounded by the people I love and of course, the cows.

The location information is also available on Google Map as “Tales of my Tongari town”!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tales of my Tongari town”.
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

▼Hokkaido Camera Girls’ Association Website　https://hokkaido-camera.com/