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Tales of my Tongari town

vol.4 The Hidaka region, home of racehorses

「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.4　Samani

The Hidaka region, home of racehorses


 


About 500 racehorses are born every year at farms in Urakawa, Samani, and Erimo towns. Many of the farms are small and family-oriented. Since they are small and family-oriented, they love each and every horse and take good care of them as if they were their own family.

The birthing season for these horses is in the middle of the winter. After ten months in the belly, the foal is born weighing about 50 kilograms(100 lbs), it stands up in about an hour after being born, and gains about one kilogram every day.

The foal, called “Tonekko”, is always with its mother. From winter to spring, you can see them snuggling up together just like in a nursery rhyme.



As they grow, the foals begin to play with each other, and in the fall they are weaned and separated from their mothers.

In the fall of the following year, they are moved to a farm where they are trained to become racehorses, and when they are two years old, they make their debut as racehorses.



Although they are physically large, horses are sensitive and fearful. Loud noises, flashing lights, and sudden movements may startle them and cause injury to both horse and person.

Come and enjoy your time with the horses, but keep these precautions in mind to make them feel comfortable.


OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Website

Samani Kyoei Bokujyo Facebook page　Facebook page　


Photo・Written by

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.


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

vol.3 A beautiful ordinary life with the Sea

「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.3　Urakawa

A beautiful ordinary life with the Sea


Urakawa Port. I often visit the port on my days off and watch the scenery unfold at peace with myself.
Urakawa Port is one of the “regional ports”.

100 years ago, the construction of the port began, and since then it has served as a base port for many fishermen and as a transfer port for “peridotite,” which is quarried only in two towns in the Hidaka region.

A variety of scenery can be seen throughout the day and year. At dusk on a slightly cloudy summer day, the clouds and waves reflect the light, and the scenery reminds me of students riding their bicycles into the sunset.



On a clear winter’s night, under a starry sky, fishermen unload their catches from their boats, exhaling white breath as they carry them away. 
All of this is routine for this port, but for me, it is a uniquely beautiful sight.



Not being able to visit the people I would love to see, we are still in such a difficult situation. However, nature is not going to reject us.


When the day comes when you are free to travel again, I hope you will stop by Urakawa Port, but for now, I would like you to go and visit the nature close to you.

Urakawa town official website

https://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/business/suisangyou/minato.html

 

Photo・Written by

Hanako Ito (Urakawa/Team Tongari)



I am a 24-year-old office worker living in Urakawa-town. 
I’m from Hidaka, but I’ve moved around from place to place, including Sapporo and Tokyo. I’ve only been a newcomer for three years in Tongari society. 
I’d like to share the unknown charms of the town with you! 😄


Team Tongari, a local team that is currently promoting local attractions, will hold a summary event for this year!

「Meet up Tongari Road Trip – Let’s get to know Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo! Let’s taste it!」

Saturday, March 6, Online event

Listen to fun stories while eating delicious food from four Tongari towns!

The registration deadline is February 15, so don’t delay!

⇒　For details and registration, click here

 

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

vol.2 One and Only Tour in Erimo

 

「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.2　Erimo
One and Only Tour in Erimo


Although I was born and raised in a family of kelp fishermen, I remember only one time when I was given a ride on my father’s boat.

The ordinary scene seen from the sea looked like another world, and it was very exciting.
He never let me accompany him on a kelp fishing trip, of course.
 The reason for this was that it was a man’s game to go fishing.

The sound of the outboard engine rumbling and the kelp boat dashing out to sea was so cool to me and I always loved it as a child.



The world’s only cruise tour that allows you to ride on such a special boat was launched in Erimo in November 2018.
 The reason for the launch of the tour was that there were a number of requests from tourists who visited Cape Erimo wishing for a ride on a kelp (Konbu) boat.

Mr. Murata, a kelp fisherman who received the requests, approached the vice president of the tourism association with the plan, and made efforts to coordinate with the fishermen’s association and other related organizations. After about two years, the kelp boat cruise was finally launched.



The biggest attraction of this tour is the chance to experience the local wildlife, such as seals, up close and in their natural habitat.




After actually riding on a kelp boat, I was impressed by the 360-degree unobstructed view. The boats’ captains are either a current or a former kelp fisherman who knows the waters of Erimo very well, so I felt comfortable leaving the boat in his hands.

I have visited Cape Erimo many times, but the view from the sea was so dynamic and beautiful that it is very different from what you see from the coast. 
More than anything, I loved that I could feel the great nature on my own skin.



For safety reasons, the tour is largely dependent on weather conditions. If you are coming from far away, we highly recommend staying in the area for several nights.

There is a horse riding facility and the UNESCO Global Geopark in the Tongari area, so there are enough activities to keep you entertained for a several nights stay.

You can also make reservations on the same day as the kelp boat tour, so if the tour is available, it’s your lucky day! I hope you will give it a try.


Inquiries

Kelp Boat Cruise Office Phone: 090-5228-0111
Hours: 12:00 – 22:00 (closed irregularly)
https://konbuboat.com/
West Passage (to/from Toyo Port): approx. 15km, 50min. 8,000 yen
East Passage (to/from the tip of Cape Erimo): approx. 6.2km, 30min. 5,000 yen
(*Tour fee includes tax per person for both adults and children)

 

Photo・Written by

Aki　（Urakawa/Team Tongari）



Born in Urakawa.
The first half of my life I lived and traveled in Japan and abroad, and the second half I returned to Urakawa and rediscovered the charm of my hometown.✨
In the midst of all this, I came across a camera, and through the viewfinder, I’ve been enjoying close quarters travel, including discovering the nature around me in Urakawa.

*The photos of the kelp boat cruise were taken by the participants of the “Let’s enjoy the autumn leaves and gourmet food” tour held in October in Erimo and Samani.


Team Tongari, a local team that is currently promoting local attractions, will hold a summary event for this year!

「Meet up Tongari Road Trip – Let’s get to know Urakawa, Samani, Erimo, and Hiroo! Let’s taste it!」

Saturday, March 6, Online event

Listen to fun stories while eating delicious food from four Tongari towns!

The registration deadline is February 15, so don’t delay!

⇒　For details and registration, click here

 

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

vol.1 The wilderness at its best! Oromap Campground

 

「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.1　Urakawa
The wilderness at its best! Oromap Campground



On the outskirts of Urakawa
 a campground exists that many people have heard of but have never been to.
This is a campground where you can spend time in immersed in nature, not to mention forest bathing, bird watching, and other outdoor activities as the light filters through the trees.
On clear nights, the campground is also a great place to see the sky full of twinkling stars.



This campground allows open fires, and there is free firewood for you to use to build a fire.

Not only in summer, but in any season, you can see a variety of scenery, which makes it a very charming campground.



Cooking facilities and bathrooms are fully equipped, and running water is available at the cooking facilities from late April to the end of October.

For drinking, please be aware that you must boil the water.



Location : Nishicha Bangachi, Urakawa

Contact : Urakawa Town Family Sports Center

TEL: 0146-22-3953

 


 


Photo・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.


 

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/

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.13 Proud of our Urakawa ingredients~It is the best!!!!

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.13　Urakawa

　Proud of our Urakawa ingredients~It is the best!!!!

In the spring, snowmelt from the Hidaka Mountains creates mineral-rich soil and the lettuce is harvested ahead of other crops in Hokkaido. In the summer, the town’s proud summer strawberries, Suzuakane, are harvested, and in the fall, the town’s harbor becomes lively as salmon run up the river. You can enjoy the blessings of the sea and mountains throughout the year.



With the help of these amazing ingredients from the sea and the mountains, we are able to continue making bread and pastries here at the Panpakapan bakery. 
When local vegetables are harvested, we also make a soup full of fresh vegetables.



The restaurant faces the Pacific Ocean, and the sea breeze blows in the air as you enjoy a leisurely meal that will fill your stomach and your heart.
 Every day, I bake bread while watching the sparkling sea, fishing fires (used to attract fish), and sunsets. It makes me feel fulfilled in both body and heart.



For inquiries and purchases

Panpakapan 
1-1-1 Sakai-machi Higashi, Urakawa-cho
TEL 0146-22-4595

Photo and text by

 

Akesan （Urakawa/Teaam Tongari）


It’s been 26 years since I started Panpakapan, and it has been 16 years since we moved to our current location.

Since the bakery is open early in the morning, I get to see moonlight, fishing fires, morning burns, sunsets, midwinter hail, and other scenes that no one else ever gets to see while working every day.

I decided to purchase a camera so that I could share these sensational views with many people.
 Since then, I also started taking pictures of my bread and pastries every day.

From spring to autumn, we receive a lot of locally grown produce. 
The shop floor is filled with the most lively, fun, and exciting colors. 
I appreciate the farmers every day as I stand in front of the oven.

This is the last of the “Tongari Cuisine Blog” from Team Tongari members as of now.
There are more delicious things to eat on the Tongari Road.
We sincerely hope you will come and visit us.

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.12 To me, this is the real strawberry ice cream

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.12　Urakawa
To me, this is the real strawberry ice cream

My top recommending food of the town: “Summer Strawberry Ice Cream “ with 55% strawberry pulp (Hokkaido Strawberry Promotion)

The food recommended in Urakawa Town, where I live, is “Summer Strawberry Ice Cream,” which is made with Suzuakane, the famous summer strawberry of the town.

The refreshing tartness of the summer strawberries matches perfectly with the smooth ice cream made from Hokkaido milk.
 With its creamy and refreshing aftertaste, this summer strawberry ice cream is perfect as an after-dinner dessert.
 With 55% of the fruit pulp used, you’ll be pleasantly surprised when you open the lid!

The very first time I had this strawberry ice cream, I was so impressed that I was convinced that this is the real strawberry ice cream and that all I had been eating was “strawberry-flavored ice cream”. Ever since then, this is the only strawberry ice cream I would buy.

This strawberry ice cream won a Grand Prize at the ” 6th Namarama Issho! Grand Prix”, a gourmet event held by Hokkaido Nippon-Ham in 2015. Also in 2019, it was selected as one of the “High-Grade Foods of Northern Japan S” which only selected processed foods from Hokkaido with an outstanding appeal.

Recently, this strawberry ice cream has become so popular that a video featuring Toshi of the popular comedy duo Taka and Toshi introducing the ice cream was shown on the UHB (Hokkaido Bunka Hoso) project “#Let’s Eat Hokkaido”.


This strawberry ice cream can be purchased at the Urakawa Tourist Association, Yushun Village AERU, and other places, and can also be purchased online. If you are visiting Urakawa in the coming summer, or if you are looking for delicious sweets, this is a must-try.

 

Inquiries and purchases

■Urakawa Tourist Association
2-27 Odori, Urakawa-cho TEL 0146-22-3200
■Samani Tourist Information Center
1-101-1 Odori, Samani-cho TEL 0146-36-2551
■Urakawa Yushun Village AERU
141-40 Nishicha, Urakawa-cho TEL 0146-28-2111
■Kajita Shoten
3-27 Odori, Urakawa-cho TEL 0146-22-2334
■Hokkaido Strawberry Promotion Co. *available online


I am a 24-year-old office worker living in Urakawa-town. 
I’m from Hidaka, but I’ve moved around from place to place, including Sapporo and Tokyo. I’ve only been a newcomer for three years in Tongari society. 
I’d like to share the unknown charms of the town with you! 😄

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August.
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.11 Southern point, Seafood, and local food of Erimo

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.11　Erimo
The southern point　Blessing food from sea and mountain  Erimo

 

I would like to introduce you today the “Erimo chan”.
It is produced at Ohira Suisan, the fishery of Erimo town,
using fresh whelk landed at Erimo.


Off the coast of Erimo is a good fishing ground
where the Oyashio (cold current) and
Kuroshio (warm current) collide.
Boil the whelk caught in such good fishing grounds, then wash it in salt water.
Mix in the secret family recipe soup stock and Erimo kelp and it is ready!

Once you try it, you will be addicted to it because
the flavor of the whelk is enhanced and the texture of the whelk is so addictive.


Where to buy・Inquiry

■Ohira Suisan: Eijiro Ohira 
278-1 Aza Yamato, Erimo　　TEL 01466-2-2128

■Erimo Fishermen’s Cooperative Association Direct Sales Shop
650 Aza Yamato, Erimo　　TEL 01466-2-3939
HP http://www.jf-erimo.or.jp/


Photo・Written by

HITOMI.Y （Erimo Town/Team Tongari）


Born and raised in Erimo, I mainly photograph the fishermen working in Erimo,
the flora and fauna of Erimo National Park of the Hidaka Mountains, and children’s sports.
Lake Toyonikoko, an emerald green heart lake, is located in Erimo Town, the most pointy part of the Tongari Road.
I would like to introduce fresh seafood and other delicacies from the sea and the mountains.
I am confident in my physical strength, so I will use my nimble footwork to deliver my wonderful moments to you.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.10 Erimo’s Bafun Uni is the spring sea urchin

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.10　Erimo
Erimo’s Bafun Uni is the spring sea urchin

 

The sea urchin from Erimo, which has thrived on a diet of mainly Hidaka kelp,
is very sweet and rich, making you feel blissful and surrounded by the sea breeze.


The best season for sea urchin in Japan is usually summer.
If you come to Erimo in April or May, 
you can enjoy this sea urchin earlier than other sea urchins
in Japan because the best season for the sea urchins in Erimo is spring!
Why don’t you come to Erimo next spring?


You can grill it or leave it raw as it is, but this time,
I paired it with fresh mountain horseradish
from the mountains of Erimo to make nigiri with the tobiko!


Photo・Written by

Jyunko Yanagida （Erimo/Team Tongari）


Hello! Nice to meet you!
I moved to Erimo 10 years ago
after getting married.
I mainly work as a kelp fisherman (well, fisherwoman!)
as well as a mother.
My favorite thing is photography, art, music, good coffee
and good eats!

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.9 The king of shellfish「Samani’s whelk」

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls.
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road.

vol.9　Samani
The king of shellfish「Samani’s whelk」

 

Hidaka　boasts the largest catch of whelk in Hokkaido.
Since Edo era, Samani is said to be one of the best ports for its natural growing environment among all ports in Hokkaido.


The characteristic of Samani whelk is its cream color.
The whelk has a distinct crunchy texture and the more you bite into it,
the more its flavor and sweetness spreads in your mouth.
Samani whelk is mostly enjoyed as sashimi.

Whelks take about 10-15 years to mature into permitted catching size and during that time it stays in the bottom of the deep ocean. This natural habitat of whelk makes it difficult to farm raise, but it makes it more special since you can only eat naturally grown whelk.

The reason why Samani’s whelk is one of the best is because of the Hidaka kelp they feed upon! This blessed environment makes the port of Samani one of the best ports for whelk over the past 100 years since Edo era.


Kashibe suisan (花蘂水産) offers this whelk.
There is a large tank in the store that is packed with
whelk, sea urchin, clams and other shellfish.

You can enjoy tasting all of this fresh seafood
at the restaurant Ominaesi(“女郎花”) located right next to the shop.

Take in a gorgeous view of the ocean
while you enjoy the seafood at the restaurant!


Please enjoy “Samani’s whelk” when you visit Hidaka!

Where to buy・Inquiry

Kashibe suisan Co.
68-9 Odori 3-chome, Samani　TEL:0146-36-4823  FAX:0146-36-4829

Where to taste this Samani Whelk

Restaurant Ominaeshi (お食事処 “女郎花(おみなえし)”)　：Kashibe suisan
65-4 Odori 3-chome, Samani　　TEL:0146-26-7878  FAX:0146-26-7855


Photo・Written by

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.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.8 The New Hope of Urakawa Summer Strawberry “Suzuakane”

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.8　Urakawa
The New Hope of Urakawa Summer Strawberry “Suzuakane”

 

When you take a bite out of a Suzuakane strawberry, the tanginess first fills your mouth followed by the sweetness along with the deliciousness of the strawberry.
Suzuakane is favored in confectioneries for its firm flesh and bright red color. Many Tokyo metropolitan confectioneries favor Sazuakane from Urakawa, and it has become a core growing industry of Urakawa Town over the years.


Urakawa used to be famous for its racehorses and Hidaka kelp, but with economic downturns the racehorse industry was forced to shift to the light horse industry. To fight the economic downturns, the local JA (Japan Agricultural Cooperatives), government, and agricultural extension center joined forces and started growing summer strawberries in 2003. Initially, there were only four farmers, but since then, the number of new farmers has steadily increased, and in 2014, the production volume grew to be the largest in Japan.

In order to further promote summer strawberries, Urakawa Township has designated every July 15th as “Urakawa Summer Strawberry Day” since 2016. Every year, the event has been a great success and its popularity has been increasing every year.


In efforts to reduce waste of not-optimal sized strawberries, products like ice cream have been in development.
Hokkaido Strawberry Promotion Co., Ltd. is a group of young farmers in the town, and their “Summer Strawberry Ice Cream” has been highly evaluated in various fields, including being certified as “High Grade Food S of the North” by food experts.

It can be purchased online, at major department stores and tourist facilities in Hokkaido. It also has become a popular return gift for Furusato taxpayers of Urakawa Town.
In 2019, a parfait shop “Berry Berry Crazy” has opened in Sapporo, specializing in summer strawberries from Urakawa.
We look forward to seeing the direction Suzuakane continues to grow in the future.


Where to buy・Inquiry

■Produce market KashuKashu (カシュカシュ)
Sakaimachi Nishi 6-chome, Urakawa 　　　TEL 0146-22-4933
■Produce market Hatake no uta (畑のうた)
2-6-15 Sakaimachi Higashi, Urakawa　　TEL 0146-26-7771

※This is a seasonal product (from June to the end of October), so please contact those markets for availability and more information.

Where to taste Suzuakane Parfait

■Berry Berry Crazy （ベリーベリークレイジー）
2nd floor 20 Nishi 5-chome, Minami 3-Jyo, Chuo-ku, Sapporo TEL 011-299-5858


Photo・Written by

Aki （Urakawa/Team Tongari）


Born in Urakawa.
The first half of my life I lived and traveled in Japan and abroad, and the second half I returned to Urakawa and rediscovered the charm of my hometown.✨
In the midst of all this, I came across a camera, and through the viewfinder, I’ve been enjoying close quarters travel, including discovering the nature around me in Urakawa.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.7 If you wan to feel the ocean, try「Hiroo Salt Cider」

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.7　Hiroo
If you wan to feel the ocean, try「Hiroo Salt Cider」


This cider is sweet with a salty taste that reminds you of the sea.

This local cider is made with beet sugar from Tokachi and refined salt made by filtering seawater from Woshirabetsu in Hiroo. It was selected for a special prize at the 2019 Food Action Nippon Awards sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

It is also a great way to prevent heat stroke with this salty refreshing soda!


Lightly blue colored cider.

With one sip, your mind begin to wonder!

The cider spreads into your mouth, so refreshing, yet, it leaves a hint of salt afterwards.

You will be surrounded by a strange sensations, some kind of nostalgic feeling to remind you of summer vacation from your childhood.

Where to buy・Inquiry

■Santa’s Houst
Daimaruyama forest park 689 Hiroo, Hiroo　TEL 01558-2-0177
■Seven-Eleven Hiroo Namiki
2－45 Namikidori Nichi, Hiroo　        TEL 01558-2-0711
■パティスリーウエダ (Patisserie Ueda)
1-12 Maruyamadori Kita, Hiroo                TEL 01558-2-3277
■らいぶぼっくす　ing (Lifebox ing)
34 Maruyamadori Kita 4-chome, Hiroo 　 TEL 01558-2-2038
■中川生活便利店 (Nakagawa Convenience Store)
20 Hondori 10-chome, Hiroo　      TEL 01558-2-3271
■ENEOS Hiroo SS Ishiyama Shoten
67 Maruyamadori Kita 2-chome, Hiroo　  TEL 01558-2-31055


Photo・Written by

Mami（Hiroo/Team Tongari）


Living in Hiroo for 25 years.
I love meeting people, and I am so happy to be able to meet so many people since I started photography.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongaril Cuisine Blog】
vol.6 The familiar and Usual Taste

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.6　Urakawa
The familiar and Usual Taste

Square batter bread and cheese tart


These are my two favorites that I buy from the small hometown bakery “Pan Paka Pan”.
Dairy lovers will love the buttery bread and the tart that is as rich as a non-baked cheese cake.
I have been buying this butter bread since I was in elementary school, but it is never a rare occasion that this bread is sold out.
The cozy bakery is filled with baked goods, so it is always very enjoyable to take my time to choose while surrounded by delicious bakery scent.

I highly recommend eating-in at the delicious smelling bakery as well as enjoying them outside where you can see a gorgeous natural view of Urakawa.


Where to buy・Inquiry

■Pan Paka Pan
Sakaimachi Higashi 1-chome, Urakawa　    TEL 0146-22-4595


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.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

NEWS

【URAKAWA】The use of spring water at Suimeibashi Park has been reopened

From Saturday, August 1, 2020, the spring water in Suimeihashi Park (Kamikishu, Urakawa Town, in front of the Nozuka Tunnel) will be available for use!

The subterranean water that you can get at Suimeibachi Park gushes out of the Nozuka Tunnel (4,232 meters long), which runs through the Hidaka Mountains. The water is very pure and super soft water that is said to be gentle on the body and stomach,

Ultra-soft water with low magnesium and calcium content is mild to the palate. The water can add extra deliciousness to your cooking.♪

Suimeibashi Park is open until November 1, 2020 (Sun).
Please note that water availability is subject to change due to water quality test results.

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・
Suimeibashi Park
https://www.tongari-road.com/wp/en/spot_urakawa/suimeibridge-park/



Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.5 Town where there is no KFC

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.5　Samani
Town where there is no KFC

Hokkaido Samani town is located next to Erimo town, which is famous for Cape Erimo.
It is very rare that people from outside of Hokkaido can read “Samani” correctly from how it is written in Kanji (Chinese origin alphabets) “様似”.

And there is no KFC in this town.
If you want to get fried chicken from KFC, you will have to drive an hour and half, so I rarely have KFC anymore since I moved to this town.

“What do people in this town have for Christmas?!?!” (Side note: Having KFC for Christmas Eve has been a “tradition” in Japan, or at least KFC will be the first thing Japanese people imagine for Christmas eve dinner.)
According to my husband who is born and raised here, that would be “Toriashi (Chicken thighs)” from local store Kudo Shoten.


Kudo Shoten is a private store located near Oyakoiwa, one of the most scenic spots in Samani Town.
At first glance, it looks like a convenience store with a “Sellers” sign even though the store name is Kudo Shoten. However, it is a popular store for tourists because it sells fresh shellfish and fish caught in Samani, as well as fish cakes and bento (lunch boxes) made from them.
As soon as you enter the store, there are a few tables on your right. Around the tables are magazines and newspapers that you can read freely. Also, local grandmothers often enjoy having well-wishing meetings with their friends here.


In front of the cashier’s counter, freshly fried items and other individually packed and ready-to-eat local food is lined up, and next to them, in the heated shelf, the chicken thighs.
In the small town of 4,000 people, 150 chicken thighs are sold a day, and around Christmas, 1,500 chicken thighs are sold.

Since my husband said those are the Christmas Eve food items to have, I went to get some on Christmas day…and guess what? They were sold out! The workers seemed like they could hardly catch their breath producing those mysterious chicken thighs just to fulfill the pre-orders. I will be sure to get myself onto the pre-order list next year.

Luckily, there were 10 today, so was able to get 2 for my husband and I.


What a magnificent bone-in chicken thigh! ¥280 plus tax for one chicken thigh. It is flavored simply with salt and pepper.
Many people especially women avoid chicken skin or fatty parts of pork, but those are my favorites! This chicken thigh of course has skin on.
What a juicy and tender meat that you cannot help making some ‘Mmmmmm’ sounds. It is a large piece, so one can satisfy you physically and emotionally.

Just a thought popped up in my head, “Is this much more reasonable and satisfying than KFC?”.

It as been 5 years since I moved to this town. It is not rare that I feel “Yummy!” not just from how it taste, but also from the fresh local ingredients, the people who prep or sell, and all other things associated with the food. This is an unbelievable change for me who lived in a world of chained restaurants.

The first thing you should do when you come to a town is to eat the delicious food that is loved by the locals. It will give you a chance to start thinking deeply about why the food is so delicious, why the nature is so rich, why the scenery is so beautiful, and many other things about the town.


Where to buy・Inquiry

■ Marusan Kudo Shoten (マルサン工藤商店)
Nishimachi, Samani　TEL 0146-36-2355。


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.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.4 Apoi pigs raised by a young ace

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.4　Samani
Apoi pigs raised by a young ace

A 23 year old young man, Yoshiyuki Nishikawa, begun his challenge to raise Apoi pigs here in Samani.
Pork from his farm is now available from May!


Mr. Nishikawa lived in Samani until junior high school,
and then left Hokkaido to go to an agricultural high school in Mie Prefecture.
After high school, he returned to Hokkaido and studied
at Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine.
Last spring, upon graduation, he returned to his hometown
and started raising pigs at his parents’ Komatani Farm (Shintomi, Samani).


He is very particular about the way he raise his pigs.
No antibiotics are used. He feeds them a homemade blend of Hokkaido wheat,
corn, soybeans, and pumpkin.
He also makes a special snack made from kelp and shells
from both whelk and scallops all caught in Samani.

___


I was impressed by the way the pigs were allowed to graze freely, naturally,
deep in the mountains.
Eating acorns and other natural foods, living a carefree life.


The pigs that Mr. Nishikawa raises, with love and care, 
have grown up eating safe and reliable food produced in Hokkaido.
I am pretty certain that pork from these pigs must carry the goodness and
gentleness they received into our body as well.


For now, the number of pigs in the herd is still small,
with 6 large pigs and 15 small pigs.
However, they plan to gradually increase the number of pigs
in the future and produce enough to be a
part of the gift for the Furusato taxpayers of Samani Town.

Where to buy・Inquiry

■Komatani Farm (駒谷牧場)　　：Please contact us directly
TEL 　0146-36-2993
Free shipping within Samani
Shipping fees apply for outside of Samani


Photo・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」^^

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.3 Undiscovered Specialty Apoi Rice

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.3　Samani
Undiscovered Specialty Apoi Rice

The town of Samani is famous for its Hidaka kelp, but there are also seven farmers in the town who produce about 100 tons of rice a year.


The rice varieties include “Natsuboshi” and “Hoshinoyume”, which are specially cultivated rice with less than 50% of the amount of agricultural chemicals and chemical fertilizers used in conventional cultivation.
The rice is named “Apoi rice” after Mount Apoi, which is famous for its geology and alpine plants.
According to Mr. Seiichi Oda, who runs a light-weight horse farm and also a rice producer, the rice has been bred to suit the relatively mild climate of this region, making it as delicious as other brand-name rice.


A good rice ball is characterized by sweetness and chewy texture of rice, and when made with freshly cooked rice, they are so delicious that you don’t need a side dish.
I think the fact that the rice is produced at a small farm with great care and attention to detail contributes to its deliciousness.


Apoi rice is available as a return gift from the Samani Furusato tax, as well as in stores at Hidaka Higashi Agricultural Cooperative, or directly from individual farmers. Be sure to try the Apoi rice, which is grown with pure water flowing from the Hidaka Mountains, including Mount Apoi.

Photo・Written by

Makiko Tsuji　（Samani/Team Tobgari）


The town of Samani is rich in nature and has many things to do in each of the four seasons.
Delicious food, charming people, beautiful scenery, and cute animals and plants.
I would like to deliver to you through my photographs the wonderful things that can only be found here.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.2 100% Pure Cherry Tomato Juice

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.2　Urakawa
100% Pure Cherry Tomato Juice

Urakawa Town　Hamada Farm offers special tomato juice made from their speciality cherry tomato, “Carol 10”.
It is 100% pure tomato juice. There are no preservative or coloring, not even a drop of water.

This juice has a good balance of acidity and sweetness, and a soft texture that is easy to go down the throat.


Tomato juice is produced all over the country, but the taste and finish of the tomatoes vary depending on the weather conditions of the year, making it difficult to find a good tomato juice with consistency.
Hamada Farm’s cherry tomato juice is consistently delicious every year.

It is good cold, but surprisingly for tomato juice, it is the best at room temperature because it enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes.

I hear it’s great for making minestrone and tomato juice jellies!
Kids enjoy drinking it too.

Even horses are also very interested in Hamada Farm’s cherry tomato juice.


Where to buy・Inquiry

■Urakawa Tourist Association, general incorporated association
27 Odori 2-chome, Urakawa            TEL 0146-22-3200
■Pan Paka Pan (ぱんぱかぱん)
1-1 Sakaimachi Higashi 1-chome, Urakawa　    TEL 0146-22-4595
■Mitsuichi produce market Saika (三石直売所　菜花)
161−1 Mitsuishi Kerimai, Shin Hidaka TEL 0146-37-6116

Note: Due to the popularity of this product, stock seems to be low. The next batch will be out in October or November, so stay tuned!

Photo・Written by

Haruka Takamura　（Urakawa/Team Tongari）


I was fascinated by the world of horses from a photograph of a racehorse, and six years ago, I married into Takamura Farm, a racehorse production farm in the Ebue of Urakawa.
My family and I spend our days peacefully together with the horses.
I have loved cameras since I was a high school student, and have been taking pictures of my favorite scenery.
At the moment, I am mainly taking pictures of my favorite horses and children.
I want to continue to take pictures of horses that are full of charm, that can make you smile with just one picture, and that can even change your destiny.
On Takamuara Farm’s Facebook and Instagram pages, I have been posting not only photos of horses and children but also many photos to show about our local area.
Urakawa has the ocean, mountains, and many delicious restaurants and local foods.
I hope you will take a trip to Urakawa Town and the other four towns along the Tongari Road.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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

Tongari Cuisine Blog

【Tongari Cuisine Blog】
vol.1 Established 71 years ago, the butcher locals still love

 

What is Tongari Cuisine Blog

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 from a group of camera loving local girls. 
21 women living in Tongari Road area have been taking photographs while rediscovering the beauty of their home towns.
“Tongari Cuisine Blog” is a report about the team’s recent discoveries of local gems of hidden deliciousness of Tongari Road. 

vol.1　Urakawa
Established 71 years ago, the butcher locals still love

If you are from Urakawa
Everyone knows
About Kajita Shoten Co.,
also known as Kajita butcher shop.

I would like to introduce
Homemade pork spareribs and
Curry bread.


Homemade pork spareribs are only available in summer!
The pork is purchased from
a contracted pig farm in Yakumo
and is cut and seasoned in a way
that only a butcher can do.
Since it is only available in summer
these spareribs would be a great item for
BBQ and camping, grilling on charcoal.
Of course, it is great grilled at home too!


And summer is coming.
You want to eat curry
while sweating
because of the hot summer, right?
Freshly fried, spiced curry bread
would be a takeout!
On a beautiful day
enjoy this delicious curry bread
while you feed your eyes with
beautiful views of flowers and the ocean♡♡

▼ Where to buy・Inquiry

Kajita Shoten, Co.
27 Odori 3-chome, Urakawa
TEL 0146-22-2334
FAX 0146-22-3341

Photo・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.

Team Tongari will continue to publish this “Tongari Cuisine Blog” until the end of August. 
We’ll be updating this regularly from now on, so stay tuned!

 

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