Living in Harmony with the Sea
Esashi is the place where many elements of Hokkaido's culture, including internationally known Esashi Oiwake (folk music), originated. Kamome Island is the symbol of Esashi. The history of the town began from the island’s natural harbor. 'Esashi' in southern Hokkaido is kown as 'The herring fishing' that the merchants who came on goods-carrying merchant ships gathered to Hokkaido. In Esashi, the unique Esashi culture created by merchants during the Edo period can still be experienced today. Culinary highlights of this region include fresh seafood such as squid, sea urchin and abalone. In addition, the town's specialty, nishin soba noodles, is an excellent dish visitors must try to truly understand life in Esashi.
Step back in time as you wander the old town of Hokkaido's unique buildings from the mid-Meiji to the early Showa periods. It is a perfect for a stroll the ancient streets as if you were in a time slip. The prosperity of Esashi can still be seen today in the old houses that remain in the town. The Yokoyama family is an old family that has been in Esashi for more than 200 years. In the Edo period (1603-1868), the Yokoyama family was engaged in fishing, commerce and a seafood wholesaler. The house that is open to the public was built about 160 years ago and has been designated as a Tangible Folk Cultural Property by Hokkaido. Inside the house, you can see the old tools that were actually used and feel the atmosphere of those days. Some of the tools were used in the Showa period (1926-1989), so some people may feel nostalgic. The eighth generation still lives in Esashi today. And Oiwake Hall / Esashi Float Hall, informative material relating to the history and transitions of Esashi oiwake music is on display, and between the end of April to October stage performances are held showing Esashi music and Hokkaido folk songs.
The sea of Esashi, nature, the evening view are protected carefully and are still same. You can hear about the multilayered history in Oiwake, Esashi and the Ubagami Daijingu Togyo Festival. 110 minutes by bus only from Hakodate.
Step back in time as you wander the old town of Hokkaido's unique buildings from the mid-Meiji to the early Showa periods. It is a perfect for a stroll the ancient streets as if you were in a time slip. The prosperity of Esashi can still be seen today in the old houses that remain in the town. The Yokoyama family is an old family that has been in Esashi for more than 200 years. In the Edo period (1603-1868), the Yokoyama family was engaged in fishing, commerce and a seafood wholesaler. The house that is open to the public was built about 160 years ago and has been designated as a Tangible Folk Cultural Property by Hokkaido. Inside the house, you can see the old tools that were actually used and feel the atmosphere of those days. Some of the tools were used in the Showa period (1926-1989), so some people may feel nostalgic. The eighth generation still lives in Esashi today. And Oiwake Hall / Esashi Float Hall, informative material relating to the history and transitions of Esashi oiwake music is on display, and between the end of April to October stage performances are held showing Esashi music and Hokkaido folk songs.
The sea of Esashi, nature, the evening view are protected carefully and are still same. You can hear about the multilayered history in Oiwake, Esashi and the Ubagami Daijingu Togyo Festival. 110 minutes by bus only from Hakodate.
