10 Things to Do in Nakasatsunai
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| 10 Things to Do in Nakasatsunai |
Nakasatsunai (中札内村) is a serene and picturesque village located in the Tokachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. It is proudly a member of The Most Beautiful Villages in Japan Association. The village’s name originates from the Ainu word “sat-nay” meaning “dry river.” Like many other place names in Hokkaido, it refers to a river whose gravel bed expands during dry seasons. When a railway station was established in what is now the village center, it was named “Nakasatsunai Station” because it was situated in the middle reaches of the Satsunai River. Later, when the area was divided, the village took on the same name—Nakasatsunai.
For those planning to visit this serene and picturesque village to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Nakasatsunai:
1. Take a photo of Nakasatsunai's manhole cover design. There is only one main design found throughout the village, but it appears in a few variations while keeping the same overall theme. This manhole cover is commonly seen around town and beautifully represents Nakasatsunai’s local charm.
Nakasatsunai Shrine
2. Visit Nakasatsunai Shrine (中札内神社), the town’s main shrine, to offer prayers and pay your respects. It is conveniently located in the heart of Nakasatsunai. While goshuin (shrine stamps) are not available directly at this shrine, you can obtain them at Taisho Shrine in Obihiro City.
Nakasatsunai Central Park
3. Take a stroll around Nakasatsunai Central Park (中札内中央公園). Although there are no playgrounds or play equipment, the park offers a relaxing atmosphere with its beautiful stream, wide open grassy areas, and plenty of space to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Restaurant Chop
4. Dine at Restaurant Chop (レストラン チュプ), a charming Japanized Western-style restaurant that has become a local favorite in Nakasatsunai. The restaurant is best known for its flavorful Napolitan pasta and freshly baked Margherita pizza. These dishes perfectly capture the comforting taste of Japanese-style Western cuisine. The cozy ambiance and warm hospitality make it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the village.
Tokachi Countryside Museum – Bean Museum
5. Visit the Tokachi Countryside Museum – Bean Museum (とかち田園空間博物館豆資料館〈ビーンズ邸〉), a small yet fascinating museum dedicated to the agricultural heritage of the Tokachi region. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of beans from across Japan, showcasing the area’s deep connection to farming and local produce. Informative displays explain the different types of beans, their uses, and their importance in Tokachi’s agriculture. It’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about plants, farming, and the region’s rural lifestyle.
Hyotan no Taki
6. Visit Gourd Falls, also known as Hyotan no Taki (ピョウタンの滝), one of Nakasatsunai’s most intriguing scenic spots. Despite its natural appearance, this waterfall is actually man-made. It was formed when a dam built in the 1950s was damaged, causing water to flow over the broken structure and create the beautiful cascade seen today. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil scenery, Gourd Falls has since become a popular spot for locals and visitors who come to enjoy its refreshing atmosphere and learn about its unique history.
Satsunaigawaenchi Camping Ground
7. Pitch a tent and stay for the night at Satsunaigawaenchi Camping Ground (札内川園地キャンプ場). It’s a paid campsite. The campsites are divided into A, B, and C. A is popular and crowded near the river. B is nice because it's shady on the forest side, but the plots are small. C is in the open field and there's no shade, but the plots are large so you don't have to worry about your neighbors.
Nakasatsunai Art Village
8. Nakasatsunai Art Village (六花亭アートヴィレッジ 中札内美術村) is a cultural and creative hub in the heart of the village, offering visitors a chance to experience local art and craftsmanship. The village features galleries, workshops, and outdoor installations that showcase the talents of regional artists. It’s a perfect place to explore if you enjoy visual arts, want to participate in hands-on art activities, or simply wish to appreciate the harmonious blend of nature and creativity. The serene surroundings make it ideal for leisurely strolls while discovering unique artworks and connecting with the local artistic community.
Nakasatsunai Roadside Station
9. Visit the Nakasatsunai Roadside Station (道の駅 なかさつない). This roadside station has clean toilets and free WiFi. Aside from that, there are souvenirs and food shops here too. The karaage is a must-try. If you collect roadside station stamps, don’t miss out the stamp from this roadside station.
Rokka Forest
10. Stroll around Rokka Forest (六花の森), a scenic private garden that beautifully combines nature and art. The garden is perfect for leisurely walks, allowing visitors to admire both its lush landscapes and thoughtfully placed art installations. It was created by a renowned confectioner who incorporates flowers from his fields into his designs, giving the garden a unique connection to local culture and creativity. Rokka Forest offers a peaceful and inspiring escape, where art and nature harmoniously coexist.
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Nakasatsunai gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this serene and picturesque village in the Tokachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido.
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