—On the outskirts of a certain town, there was a small building. The sign at the entrance read, "Hokkaido Anywhere Travel Agency." It seems to be a very reputable travel agency that introduces customers to the perfect destination.

Oh? It looks like someone is at the counter. One person, and one... rabbit.
They seem to be waiting for a customer. Let's take a little peek.

Domiko (Hereinafter "D"): Lunchtime is about over.

Rabbit Yukine (Hereinafter "Y"): Break time is over! I hope a customer comes soon!

D: I know. We'll have customers coming in this afternoon. We should get ready.

*Ding-a-ling*♪

Customer (Hereinafter "C"): Uhm... excuse me.

D: Welcome!

Y: Welcome!

C: I'd like to get some advice... is now a good time?

Y: We were just getting bored, so it's perf—

D: Hey...! Yes, of course. What can I help you with?

C: Well, I've been to Hokkaido many times, but I was hoping to find a place in nature where I can just forget about time. I'm so tired from my busy daily life. I'm taking a long vacation, so...

D: I see. In that case...

Y: How about Doto?

C: Doto? What's that?

D: That's a good idea. "Doto" is the eastern part of Hokkaido.

D: Doto is quite large, but based on your request, I think the "Kushiro Wetland" would be perfect for you.

Y: The summer Norokko-go train runs through the Kushiro Wetland right now! You can also go canoeing!

D: That's right. It's a place like this.

D: What do you think?

C: It's beautiful! What town is this?

Y: Shibecha!

D: It's called Shibecha. Allow me to explain in more detail.

Thank you, Domiko and Yukine.
From here, I, the narrator, will provide a more detailed introduction.

What kind of place is Shibecha Town?

Shibecha Town is located in Doto, the eastern part of Hokkaido, and is a town known for its thriving dairy industry. It's about an hour north of Kushiro Station by JR train. Nearby are Kushiro Airport and Nakashibetsu Airport, and the town is about a 90-minute drive from either airport.

The "Summer Norokko-go" that Yukine recommended, officially called the "Kushiro Shitsugen Norokko-go," is a very popular sightseeing train. It runs at a leisurely pace through the Kushiro Wetland, which offers excellent views. The journey between Kushiro and Toro in Shibecha Town takes about 45 minutes.

The Kushiro Wetland is a designated national park, and its greatest charm is its vast, untouched landscape. It is also a precious habitat for many plants and animals, including the red-crowned crane, a special natural monument of Japan. You might even be able to spot these cranes at Kayanuma Station in Shibecha Town.

Also, did you know that a steam locomotive runs between Shibecha Town and Kushiro in the winter? The "SL Fuyu-no-Shitsugen-go" runs between Kushiro and Shibecha Station and is extremely popular every year. You can see a scenery completely different from summer.

In Shibecha Town, where you can fully enjoy such nature, you can also partake in various activities. One famous activity is canoeing on the Kushiro River, which you can experience right after getting off at Toro Station! Many people enjoy it as a set with the Norokko-go train.

Other recommendations include the Tawa-daira Observatory, a rare spot in Hokkaido where you can see a 360° horizon, and the Tawa-daira, Nijibetsu, and Toro campgrounds, which are bustling with campers in the summer.

D: ...And with that, your reservation is complete. Please enjoy your trip.

C: Thank you so much for your help. I can't wait to go and relax...

Y: Here's a souvenir for you!

C: Oh, thank you... What is this?

D: This is the "JA Shibecha Original Beef Can 3-Can Set," which includes "Tender Stewed Beef in Water," "Beef Yamato-ni (Sweet Soy Stew)," and "Luxurious Meat Sauce with Plenty of Beef," allowing you to savor Shibecha's specialty beef.

Y: Enjoy it at home!

C: Thank you so much! Well, I'm off!

D: Yes! Thank you for visiting!

Y: Thank you!

—This is the Hokkaido Anywhere Travel Agency. Now, what kind of Hokkaido charm will they introduce next? Stay tuned for the next installment!