2025 Hiyama District Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Located in Otobe Town in southern Hokkaido, Takise Coast, commonly known as "Shirafura," is a breathtaking natural wonder. "Shirafura" is derived from the Ainu language, meaning "white slope." True to its name, the coast features striking white cliffs that rise approximately 15 meters high and stretch about 500 meters along the beach. Resembling the famous Seven Sisters cliffs in England, this spot offers a touch of exotic charm. The cliffs were formed from sand and gravel layers created by the uplift of ancient seabed deposits of shellfish and diatoms. Due to their fragile nature, the cliffs crumble easily when touched. Erosion from waves has also left behind mushroom-shaped rocks reminiscent of Cappadocia. Along the coastal path to Shirafura, visitors can find unique rock formations such as "Kuguri Rock," which are not only photogenic but also remnants of Otobe Town's prosperous herring fishing history. In recent years, a viewing platform has been installed within the residential area of Otobe Town. With a gazebo available, visitors can enjoy a leisurely view of the scenery. It is recommended to visit in the afternoon, as the west-facing cliffs are often shaded in the morning. ＜Shirafura (Takise Coast)＞ 📍Location: Takise, Otobe Town, Nishi District, Hokkaido 💰Admission: Free 🚗Access: About 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Hakodate City. For train and bus access, travel from Hakodate to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, then take the bus bound for Esashi Terminal, get off at "Takise" bus stop, and walk 7 minutes (total travel time: approximately 3 hours).

#0yentravel Esashi Oiwake Hall is a facility that aims to preserve and popularize the folk song "Esashi Oiwake," which is representative of Hokkaido. In the hall, you can learn about the history, lyrics, and melody of Esashi Oiwake, and you can actually listen to the song. In the experience corner, you can also try singing Esashi Oiwake. It is about a 10-minute walk from the center of Esashi, and it is recommended to visit it together with other tourist spots.

The Former Hiyama-Nishi District Office is a Western-style building constructed during the Meiji era, now serving as the Esashi Town Local History Museum. Inside, you can explore exhibits on Esashi's history, culture, and herring fishing, offering insights into the region's development. The building itself is a sight to behold, showcasing the architectural techniques of the Meiji era. It is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from the center of Esashi, allowing visitors to enjoy the town's charming streets along the way.

#0yentravel The Former Nakamura Family Residence is a merchant's house built in the late Edo period, and it still conveys the architectural style and lifestyle of that time. The interior is open to the public, and you can see the life and tools of merchants. The beam and pillar structure and the beautiful garden are particularly noteworthy. It is about a 5-minute walk from the center of Esashi, and it is recommended to visit it in conjunction with other tourist attractions.

Esashi Town, a port town that flourished from the Edo to Meiji periods due to herring fishing, is known for its charming streets that retain the atmosphere of those times. Especially on "Inishie Street," you can experience a sense of time travel with its historic buildings and stone-paved roads. The town is dotted with historical structures such as the Former Nakamura Residence and the Former Hiyama District Office, allowing visitors to feel the history of Esashi while strolling around. Additionally, there are restaurants using local ingredients and souvenir shops that are popular among tourists. Access is convenient, with a roughly two-hour drive from Hakodate or by taking the Hakodate Bus bound for Esashi. The town is easy to explore on foot, and obtaining a map from the tourist information center is recommended.

#thingstodo The castle was built by the Matsumae clan on September 1, 1866, and was completed by rush construction on October 25 of the same year. There was no castle tower, and the structure resembled a camp. Shortly after its completion, the castle fell to the former Shogunate army who marched from Goryokaku. The castle fell just 75 days after its completion. At this time, the feudal lord went to Kumaishi and from there fled to Tsugaru by boat. At the site, there is the ``Test of Strength Stone'' of Chojun Mikami, who fought bravely in the Battle of Tatejo Castle.