10 Things to Do in Aibetsu

10 Things to Do in Aibetsu

Aibetsu (愛別町) is a town in the Kamikawa Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. The town's name finds its origin in the Ainu term "aipet," signifying "arrow" or "thorn" river. This nomenclature draws attention to the terrain's pronounced incline, which has given rise to the swift-flowing Aibetsu River, often likened to the velocity of an arrow in flight. This narrative has circulated over time, attributing the town's appellation to this rapid watercourse.


For those planning to visit the town of Aibetsu to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Aibetsu:

Aibetsu manhole cover

1. Capture the uniqueness of Aibetsu through its manhole covers. There's one particularly distinctive design that you can spot around the town.

Aibetsu Shrine

2. Visit the Aibetsu Shrine (愛別神社). You can pay your respects and offer prayers here any time of the day. Don’t forget to avail of the shrine’s goshuin if you collect them.

Asahikawa Kokusai Country Club

3. Enjoy a game of golf at Asahikawa Kokusai Country Club (旭川国際カントリークラブ). It's one of the best and most challenging golf courses in Hokkaido. However, if you're not a member, expect a fee of around 7,000 yen.

Mushroom ramen of Yama no Shokubo

4. Try the famed mushroom ramen of Yama no Shokubo (山の食房). You can choose what type of broth you want like miso, salt, or soy sauce.


5. Buy the Aibetsu-produced mushroom. The good news is, it’s quite popular that you’d actually see it in groceries around Hokkaido.

Kinoko no Sato Aibetsu Auto Campsite

6. Set up camp at Kinoko no Sato Aibetsu Auto Campsite (キャンプ場) and experience a spacious site near Ishikari River. The soothing sound of flowing water will surely relax you.

Cart Land Ark 

7. Drive a go-cart at Cart Land Ark (カートランドアーク). Bring your friends or family along and rent a go-cart to race against each other.

Kyowa Onsen

8. Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters of Kyowa Onsen (協和温泉). Opt for a day trip or extend your stay for a more leisurely experience.


9. Join the vibrant Aibetsu Mushroom Festival, taking place every second Sunday of September. For a fee, enjoy an "all-you-can-eat" mushroom and beef barbecue. The festival unfolds in Aibetsu Rural Park.

Aibetsu Rural Park

10. Discover Aibetsu Rural Park (愛別町農村公園). This vast park is more than just the setting for the Aibetsu Mushroom Festival; it's also a perfect destination for Hanami, offering breathtaking Sakura Blossom views.

I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Aibetsu gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this famed “mushroom-producing” town in Hokkaido.

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Japan Diaries 4: Summary