――What do you think is the charm of the town?

To be honest, I originally came to Hiroo Town to hunt Ezo deer, so I wasn't that interested in anything other than the mountains. But the people were kind, the scenery was beautiful, nature was close, and it was full of professionals in primary industries. I started to think that even though Hiroo doesn't have many tourist spots, it's an incredibly fun town. Before I knew it, I was visiting even outside of hunting season.

The charm of Hiroo Town is its "ninjo"—the warmth and kindness of its people. If I get an insect bite, someone gives me mint oil. If my skin is dry, they'll give me bear fat to rub on it. Sometimes, the front door will slide open, and someone will pop in saying, "Maya-chan, here's some imo-mochi (potato cakes)!" Everyone is like family.

Thank you, Ms. Nakamura! If you're curious about the content, you can purchase the guidebook here. We highly recommend you get a copy!

A Publication Party Full of the Town's Charm

A publication party was held on Sunday, June 12, 2022, at "Nakaichi" in Obihiro City.

The "HIROOMarket," which started at 11:00 AM, featured products like gelato from Kikuchi Farm, Hoshikuzu Kombu (Stardust Kelp), and dried fruits from toutell. There was also a photo exhibition by photographer Daichi Akama, and visitors could enjoy food made with local ingredients, such as the "Shikajo's Greedy Venison Sandwich" and the "Phantom Fish Fry Tartar Sandwich."

And starting at 4:30 PM, there was a talk show featuring three producers who are energizing the town: Maya Nakamura, whom we interviewed, fisherman Kōichi Hoshi, and dairy farmer Aki Kikuchi.

The event was also scheduled to be streamed on Instagram, so those who couldn't make it in person could also check it out!

Daichi Akama