Hokkaido is dotted with scenic spots offering vast, open views of its grand nature. Among them, we'd like to introduce Maoi Bungakudai, a representative viewpoint in Naganuma Town. Maoi Bungakudai is located atop Mt. Chokan (Chokanzan), about 5 km from the town center of Naganuma. A small sign that reads "Promenade Information Board" is your landmark.

Park your car in the lot with the "Parking" sign and head to Maoi Bungakudai. It's less than a minute's walk from the parking lot, but be aware that this lot is closed in the winter. Upon arriving at Maoi Bungakudai, the first thing that catches your eye is an impressive literary monument inscribed with "Maoi Gen'ya" (The Maoi Wilderness).

This monument was actually erected to commemorate Motoko Tsujimura's novel "Maoi Gen'ya," set in the early pioneering days of Naganuma, winning the first-ever Higuchi Ichiyo Prize. That's why it's called "Maoi Bungakudai" (Maoi Literary Monument). And just beyond the monument lies...

A breathtakingly wonderful view! The beautiful rural landscape of Naganuma Town and the Ishikari Plain stretch out over 180 degrees before you. The scene, like a patchwork quilt, is a testament to Hokkaido's unique dynamism. In the distance, you can see the urban areas of Kitahiroshima and Sapporo.

Now, on the way up to Maoi Bungakudai, we saw a sign for a "Promenade Information Board." To the left of the sign, a narrow mountain path continues. Let's try walking along this path.

You'll soon arrive at the Chokanzan Observatory in an open area. The view from here is different from the one at Maoi Bungakudai, so why not enjoy a little hike and take in this scenery as well? The magical evening view is also incredibly moving!

Photo courtesy of: Commerce, Industry and Tourism Section, Industrial Promotion Division, Naganuma Town Office

Maoi Bungakudai, where you can experience the grand nature of Hokkaido, is a hidden gem known only to a few. Naganuma Town is about a 30-minute drive from New Chitose Airport and about 50 minutes from Sapporo, making it a perfect spot for a short drive. Be sure to stop by and experience this view for yourself.

Location: Higashi 7-sen Kita, Naganuma-cho, Yubari-gun, Hokkaido
Official Website: https://naganuma-kanko.com/spot/264/

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Commerce, Industry and Tourism Section, Industrial Promotion Division, Naganuma Town Office
Location: Chuo Kita 1-1-1, Naganuma-cho, Yubari-gun, Hokkaido
Contact: 0123-76-8019
Naganuma Tourism Association: https://naganuma-kanko.com/