Akabira City is a city in the Sorachi Subprefecture, located almost in the center of Hokkaido. It is characterized by a nature-rich topography, with the lush Mount Irumukeppu rising to the north and the first-class Sorachi River flowing through the center, surrounded by mountains and clear streams. The population is approximately 9,000, and it is accessible from Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, in about one and a half to two hours by car or public transportation.

The climate is characteristic of an inland region with four distinct seasons; pleasant sunshine pours down in the summer, and it becomes a heavy snowfall area in the winter, creating a world of silver. In this harsh yet beautiful natural environment, the city once strongly supported Japan's modernization as a coal mining town, and now a culture of carefully preserving and passing down its historical heritage has taken root.

After the closure of the coal mines, the city made a bold policy shift to become a "town of manufacturing." Today, a variety of manufacturing industries are active, including high-quality leather goods, sturdy suitcases, daily necessities, frozen foods, and wood products crafted by skilled artisans. In terms of tourism, the city is famous for its precious coal mining heritage, such as the Sumitomo Akabira Coal Mine winding tower and spoil heaps, which were registered as a Japan Heritage site "Tantetsuko" in 2019. Immersive guided tours led by former coal miners are popular.