ARTICLES
A Local's Guide to Nakashibetsu: 3 Hidden Gems Recommended by Community Builder Ayumi Takai / A Local's Special Selections
Located in eastern Hokkaido, the town of Nakashibetsu is home to Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport and has developed primarily around its dairy industry, all amidst a lush natural environment. Today, we have a special guide: Ayumi Takai, a local player involved in community building in Nakashibetsu, who will share some of the town's hidden charms with us.
So, Ms. Takai, what are your "special recommendations" in Nakashibetsu?
A New Hub for Fun in Nakashibetsu
A Special "Place": Cafe & Bar Craft House
This is a spot where you can enjoy poker, a game currently popular in Japan. Of course, it's all for fun, and with the owner being a former police officer, you can play in a safe and secure environment. For first-timers, there's a thorough and easy-to-understand explanation of the rules. It has become a social hub for the community, a place where various encounters and new inspirations are born.
Cafe & Bar Craft House
■ Location: PRIMO PASSO 1F, 1 Higashi 13-jo Kita, Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido
■ Hours: 18:00-23:50 (Closed on Mondays)
A Meltingly Delicious Blend of Milk and Honey to Enjoy with the Scenery
A Special "Food": caffe kaiyoudai's "Kaiyodai Happiness Honey Soft Serve"
This is the famous soft serve ice cream from Kaiyodai, a popular tourist spot in Nakashibetsu. The gentle sweetness of the milk and the deep sweetness of honey from wildflowers around the Shiretoko area spread throughout your mouth. Another part of its charm is that you can enjoy this delicious treat along with the magnificent view of the Konsen Plateau, a designated Hokkaido Heritage site.
caffe kaiyoudai
■ Location: Kaiyodai Observatory 1F, 2256-16 Matakochi, Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido
■ Hours: 11:00-17:00 (May, June, Sep, Oct: Closed on Tuesdays & Thursdays; July, Aug: Closed on Tuesdays)
A Gentle Cheese That's Easy to Pick Up and Enjoy
A Special "Souvenir": Takeshita Farm's "Ohayo Maribo"
Maribo cheese is a relative of Gouda. With a milder texture and flavor than Gouda, it's easy to eat even for those who aren't fond of cheese. It's sold pre-cut into bite-sized pieces, making it convenient to eat and easy to use in cooking. You can purchase it at JA Aruru, the shop at Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport, online, or through the Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax) program!
Ayumi Takai
Born in Nakashibetsu. After graduating from Nakashibetsu High School, she attended a vocational school before returning to her hometown to work. In 2018, she became interested in community development and joined "Shibetsu Mirai Juku," a social education group in the neighboring town of Shibetsu. She participates in supporting events in both Nakashibetsu and Shibetsu. Since 2022, she has been hosting the "Zatsudan LOUNGE" event to create a space for local residents to interact.
Domingo presents: A Local's Special Selections
"A Local's Special Selections" can also be found in "HAC MAGAZINE," the bimonthly in-flight magazine of Hokkaido Air System (HAC), known as "The Wings of Hokkaido." We introduce the special recommendations of wonderful people from across Hokkaido, including their favorite local foods, places, and souvenirs.
