Shiraoi, Hokkaido: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 42°33′N 141°21′E / 42.550°N 141.350°E / 42.550; 141.350
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{{Infobox City Japan
{{Infobox settlement
|Name= Shiraoi
| name = Shiraoi
| official_name =
|JapaneseName= 白老町
| native_name = {{nobold|白老町}}
|settlement_type= Town
| native_name_lang = ja
|MapImage= Shiraoi in Iburi Subprefecture.gif
| settlement_type = Town
|Region= [[Hokkaidō]]
| other_name =
|Prefecture= [[Hokkaidō]] ([[Iburi Subprefecture|Iburi]])
| image_flag = Flag of Shiraoi, Hokkaido.svg
|District=[[Shiraoi District, Hokkaidō|Shiraoi]]
| image_blank_emblem = Shiraoi symbol.jpg
|Area_km2= 425.75
| blank_emblem_type = Logo
|PopDate=31 May 2008
| image_map = Shiraoi in Hokkaido Prefecture Ja.svg
|Population=20998
| map_caption = Location of Shiraoi in [[Hokkaido]] ([[Iburi Subprefecture]])
|Density_km2=auto
| pushpin_map = Japan
|Coords= {{coord|42|33|N|141|21|E|region:JP_type:city}}
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Japan
|LatitudeDegrees = 42
| coordinates = {{coord|42|33|N|141|21|E|region:JP|display=inline,title}}
|LatitudeMinutes = 33
| subdivision_type = Country
|LatitudeSeconds =
| subdivision_name = Japan
|LongtitudeDegrees = 141
| subdivision_type1 = [[List of regions of Japan|Region]]
|LongtitudeMinutes = 21
| subdivision_name1 = [[Hokkaido]]
|LongtitudeSeconds =
| subdivision_type2 = [[Prefectures of Japan|Prefecture]]
|Tree={{nihongo|[[Sorbus commixta]]|ナナカマド|Nanakamado}}
| subdivision_name2 = [[Hokkaido]] ([[Iburi Subprefecture]])
|Flower={{nihongo|[[Lespedeza bicolor]]|エゾヤマハギ|Ezo-yama-hagi}}
| subdivision_type3 = [[Districts of Japan|District]]
|Bird=
| subdivision_name3 = [[Shiraoi District, Hokkaido|Shiraoi]]
|SymbolImage= Shiraoi symbol.jpg
| leader_title = Mayor
|SymbolDescription= Shiraoi symbol
| leader_name =
|Mayor=
| leader_title1 = Vice Mayor
|CityHallPostalCode=059-0995　
| leader_name1 =
|CityHallAddress=1-1-1 Ōmachi, Shiraoi-chō, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaidō
| unit_pref = Metric
|CityHallPhone=0144-82-2121
| area_total_km2 = 425.75
|CityHallLink= [http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/default.htm Town of Shiraoi]
| population_total = 17,759
| population_as_of = September 30, 2016
| population_density_km2 = auto
| timezone1 = [[Japan Standard Time|JST]]
| utc_offset1 = +09:00
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code =
| blank_name_sec1 = City hall address
| blank_info_sec1 = 1-1-1 Ōmachi, Shiraoi-chō, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaidō<br />059-0995　
| blank_name_sec2 = [[Köppen climate classification|Climate]]
| blank_info_sec2 = [[Humid continental climate|Dfb]]
| website = {{URL|http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/}}
| module = {{Infobox place symbols| embedded=yes
| tree = {{nihongo|[[Sorbus commixta]]|ナナカマド|Nanakamado}}
| flower = {{nihongo|[[Lespedeza bicolor]]|エゾヤマハギ|Ezo-yama-hagi}}
| bird =
| butterfly =
| fish =
}}
}}
}}


{{nihongo|'''Shiraoi'''|白老町|Shiraoi-chō}} is a [[towns of Japan|town]] located in [[Shiraoi District, Hokkaidō|Shiraoi District]], [[Iburi Subprefecture|Iburi]], [[Hokkaidō]], [[Japan]]. As of 31 May 2008, the town had a [[population]] of 20,371<ref name="official">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/default.htm|title=Shiraoi Official Web Page|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|language=Japanese|accessdate=2008-06-12}}</ref> The town was established in 1867 by the feudal lords of [[Sendai Domain|Sendai]]. Most of the area of the town is forested and parts lie within the [[Shikotsu-Tōya National Park]].
{{Nihongo|'''Shiraoi'''|白老町|Shiraoi-chō}} is a [[List of towns in Japan|town]] located in [[Iburi Subprefecture|Iburi]], [[Hokkaido]], [[Japan]]. As of September 2016, the town had a [[population]] of 17,759. It was established in 1867 by the feudal lords of [[Sendai Domain|Sendai]]. Most of the area of the town is forested and parts lie within the [[Shikotsu-Tōya National Park]].


==History==
==History==
Shiraoi like the rest of Hokkaidō was populated by the [[Ainu people|Ainu]]. According to the town's official website, the name, Shiraoi, means ''[[Rainbow]]s are frequent here'' in the [[Ainu language]].<ref name="Local Page"/> Other sources state that the name comes from ''Shiraunai'' meaning ''[[Horse-fly|Horse-flies]] are common here''.<ref>{{nihongo|Akagi Sanpei|赤木 三兵}}, {{nihongo|Journey of Hokkaidō Place Names—Notes on Ainu Language Place Names|北海道 地名の旅—アイヌ語地名解 |Hokkaidō Chimei no Tabi — Ainugo Chimei Kai}}, pg 65.</ref>
Shiraoi, like the rest of Hokkaido, was populated by the [[Ainu people|Ainu]]. According to the town's official website, the name, Shiraoi, means ''[[Rainbow]]s'' in the [[Ainu language]].<ref name="Local Page"/> Other sources state that the name comes from ''Shiraunai'' meaning ''[[Horse-fly|Horse-flies]]''.<ref>{{Nihongo|Akagi Sanpei|赤木 三兵}}, {{nihongo|Journey of Hokkaidō Place Names—Notes on Ainu Language Place Names|北海道 地名の旅—アイヌ語地名解 |Hokkaidō Chimei no Tabi — Ainugo Chimei Kai}}, pg 65.</ref>


In 1867 the Sendai domain established a fort in Shiraoi and work began on {{nihongo|Shiogama Shrine|塩釜神社|Shiogama Jinja}}. The following year the [[Boshin War]] caused Sendai to retreat from Shiraoi and return to Sendai proper. After the revolt was put down the government dismantled the fort in 1870.
In 1867, the Sendai domain established a fort in Shiraoi and work began on {{Nihongo|Shiogama Shrine|塩釜神社|Shiogama Jinja}}. The following year the [[Boshin War]] caused Sendai to retreat from Shiraoi and return to Sendai proper. After the revolt was put down the government dismantled the fort in 1870.


The end of the 19th century saw expansion of the town. A road was established connecting Shiraoi with [[Muroran]], [[Sapporo]], and [[Hakodate]] in 1873. Nineteen years later the first railroad station was established. The villages of Shadai and Shikiu were established. Two significant events occurred during this expansion: in 1874 [[Mount Tarumae]] eruped and in 1881 the [[Emperor Meiji]] visited.<ref name="History Page">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/history1.htm|title=History 1800|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|accessdate=2008-06-13}}</ref>
The end of the 19th century saw expansion of the town. A road was established connecting Shiraoi with [[Muroran]], [[Sapporo]], and [[Hakodate]] in 1873. Nineteen years later, the first railroad station was established. The villages of Shadai and Shikiu were established. Two significant events occurred during this expansion: in 1874, [[Mount Tarumae]] erupted, and in 1881, the [[Emperor Meiji]] visited.<ref name="History Page">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/history1.htm|title=History 1800|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|access-date=2008-06-13}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
The total area is {{convert|425.72|km2|sqmi}}. The town is {{convert|28.0|km|mi}} East to West and {{convert|26.4|km|mi}} North to South.<ref name="official"/> 82% of this area is forested.<ref name="Local Page">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/local.htm|title=Local|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|accessdate=2008-06-12}}</ref>
The total area is {{convert|425.72|km2|sqmi}}. The town is {{convert|28.0|km|mi}} East to West and {{convert|26.4|km|mi}} North to South.<ref name="official">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/default.htm|title=Shiraoi Official Web Page|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|language=ja|access-date=2008-06-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080202212922/http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/default.htm|archive-date=2008-02-02}}</ref> 82% of this area is forested.<ref name="Local Page">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/local.htm|title=Local|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|access-date=2008-06-12}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Land Use 2006<ref name="official"/>
|+ Land Use 2006<ref name="official"/>
|-
|-
! Use
! Use
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* Betsubetsu River
* Betsubetsu River


Mount Horohoro and [[Lake Kuttara]] are part of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. [[Lake Poroto]] is also a place of natural beauty.
Mount Horohoro and [[Lake Kuttara]] are part of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. [[Lake Poroto]] is also in the area.


===Climate===
===Climate===
Shiraoi has an oceanic climate, mild when compared to the rest of Hokkaidō. The annual temperature ranges between the extremes of {{convert|27.8|C|F}} and {{convert|-20.8|C|F}}. The average annual temperature is {{convert|7.2|C|F}}. Shiraoi receives {{convert|1660|mm|in}} of precipitation annually. This only results in {{convert|103|cm|in}} of snow annually. In a typical year, the snow lingers for 80 days. Accumulated snow rarely exceeding {{convert|44|cm|in}}. Wind velocity averages merely {{convert|1.6|m/s|mph}}, that is less than half of the neighboring Tomakomai and Muroran.<ref name="TopoPage">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/topology-climate.htm|title=Topology and Climate|date=2002-11-25|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|accessdate=2008-06-16}}</ref>
Shiraoi has an oceanic climate, mild when compared to the rest of Hokkaido. The annual temperature ranges between the extremes of {{convert|33.3|C|F}} and {{convert|-20.8|C|F}}. The average annual temperature is {{convert|7.2|C|F}}. Shiraoi receives {{convert|1660|mm|in}} of precipitation annually. This only results in {{convert|103|cm|in}} of snow annually. In a typical year, the snow lingers for 80 days. Accumulated snow rarely exceeding {{convert|44|cm|in}}. Wind velocity averages merely {{convert|1.6|m/s|mph}}, that is less than half of the neighboring Tomakomai and Muroran.<ref name="TopoPage">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/topology-climate.htm|title=Topology and Climate|date=2002-11-25|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|access-date=2008-06-16}}</ref>
{{Weather box|width=auto
|location = Shiraoi (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1977−present)
|single line = Y
|metric first = Y
|Jan record high C = 8.4
|Feb record high C = 10.7
|Mar record high C = 16.1
|Apr record high C = 23.8
|May record high C = 28.5
|Jun record high C = 31.1
|Jul record high C = 33.3
|Aug record high C = 33.1
|Sep record high C = 30.9
|Oct record high C = 26.9
|Nov record high C = 19.0
|Dec record high C = 14.5
|Jan high C = 0.5
|Feb high C = 0.9
|Mar high C = 4.3
|Apr high C = 9.5
|May high C = 13.9
|Jun high C = 17.2
|Jul high C = 21.0
|Aug high C = 23.3
|Sep high C = 21.6
|Oct high C = 16.1
|Nov high C = 9.2
|Dec high C = 2.7
|Jan mean C = -3.7
|Feb mean C = -3.3
|Mar mean C = 0.2
|Apr mean C = 4.9
|May mean C = 9.7
|Jun mean C = 13.8
|Jul mean C = 17.9
|Aug mean C = 20.0
|Sep mean C = 17.2
|Oct mean C = 11.0
|Nov mean C = 4.6
|Dec mean C = -1.4
|Jan low C = -8.6
|Feb low C = -8.5
|Mar low C = -4.4
|Apr low C = 0.3
|May low C = 5.6
|Jun low C = 10.8
|Jul low C = 15.4
|Aug low C = 17.1
|Sep low C = 12.8
|Oct low C = 5.7
|Nov low C = -0.2
|Dec low C = -5.8
|Jan record low C = -19.4
|Feb record low C = -20.8
|Mar record low C = -16.7
|Apr record low C = -10.5
|May record low C = -2.8
|Jun record low C = 0.2
|Jul record low C = 5.6
|Aug record low C = 8.1
|Sep record low C = 2.3
|Oct record low C = -3.1
|Nov record low C = -11.6
|Dec record low C = -16.5
|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation mm = 34.1
|Feb precipitation mm = 35.9
|Mar precipitation mm = 61.3
|Apr precipitation mm = 89.3
|May precipitation mm = 155.6
|Jun precipitation mm = 149.2
|Jul precipitation mm = 207.8
|Aug precipitation mm = 230.5
|Sep precipitation mm = 206.9
|Oct precipitation mm = 134.1
|Nov precipitation mm = 88.5
|Dec precipitation mm = 56.8
|year precipitation mm = 1450.0
| unit precipitation days = 1.0 mm
|Jan precipitation days = 6.5
|Feb precipitation days = 6.1
|Mar precipitation days = 8.1
|Apr precipitation days = 9.2
|May precipitation days = 10.7
|Jun precipitation days = 10.2
|Jul precipitation days = 13.2
|Aug precipitation days = 13.2
|Sep precipitation days = 11.9
|Oct precipitation days = 10.6
|Nov precipitation days = 9.9
|Dec precipitation days = 7.8
|Jan snow cm = 68
|Feb snow cm = 76
|Mar snow cm = 56
|Apr snow cm = 5
|May snow cm = 0
|Jun snow cm = 0
|Jul snow cm = 0
|Aug snow cm = 0
|Sep snow cm = 0
|Oct snow cm = 0
|Nov snow cm = 4
|Dec snow cm = 40
|year snow cm = 253
|Jan snow days = 9.1
|Feb snow days = 10.7
|Mar snow days = 8.4
|Apr snow days = 0.7
|May snow days = 0.1
|Jun snow days = 0
|Jul snow days = 0
|Aug snow days = 0
|Sep snow days = 0
|Oct snow days = 0
|Nov snow days = 0.5
|Dec snow days = 5.7
|Jan sun = 153.3
|Feb sun = 155.3
|Mar sun = 178.8
|Apr sun = 185.2
|May sun = 183.0
|Jun sun = 129.8
|Jul sun = 108.7
|Aug sun = 131.7
|Sep sun = 158.5
|Oct sun = 159.3
|Nov sun = 140.1
|Dec sun = 136.6
|year sun = 1820.4
|source 1 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency|JMA]]<ref>{{cite web
| url = https://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/rank_a.php?prec_no=21&block_no=0130&year=&month=&day=&view=h0
|script-title=ja:観測史上1～10位の値（年間を通じての値）
| publisher = [[Japan Meteorological Agency|JMA]]
| access-date = February 22, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
| url = https://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/nml_amd_ym.php?prec_no=21&block_no=0130&year=&month=&day=&view=h0
|script-title=ja:気象庁 / 平年値（年・月ごとの値）
| publisher = [[Japan Meteorological Agency|JMA]]
| access-date = February 22, 2022}}</ref>}}


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
Shiraoi has a [[population density|density]] of 47.86 persons per km².
Shiraoi has a [[population density|density]] of 42 persons per km<sup>2</sup>.
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Historic Population
|+ Historic Population
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|1920
|1920
|1906
|1906
|6312
|6312
|-
|-
|1925
|1925
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==Economy==
==Economy==
In the 1930s Shiraoi began the cultivation of mushrooms,<ref name="Products"/> such as [[Shiitake]], and [[Mullet (fish)|mullet]] [[roe]] (or ''[[karasumi]]'') at Kojohama. Shiraoi imported the knowledge of mullet roe production from [[Iwanai, Hokkaidō]].<ref name="Marine"/>
In the 1930s, Shiraoi began the cultivation of mushrooms,<ref name="Products"/> such as [[Shiitake]], and [[Mullet (fish)|mullet]] [[roe]] (or ''[[karasumi]]'') at Kojohama. Shiraoi imported the knowledge of mullet roe production from [[Iwanai, Hokkaido|Iwanai]].<ref name="Marine"/>


Shiraoi has been involved in the harvest of marine products such as the [[Horsehair crab]] and [[konbu]]. Because of dwindling resources harvesting of hair crab has been reduced to a test operation from middle of July until middle of August.<ref name="Marine">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/marine_products.htm|title=Marine Products|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|accessdate=2008-06-16}}</ref>
Shiraoi has been involved in the harvest of marine products such as the [[Horsehair crab]] and [[konbu]]. Because of dwindling resources, harvesting of hair crab has been reduced to a test operation from the middle of July until the middle of August.<ref name="Marine">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/marine_products.htm|title=Marine Products|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|access-date=2008-06-16}}</ref>


Shiraoi introduced the raising of beef cattle from [[Shimane Prefecture]] in 1954. In 1966 Shiraoi began with the production of chicken eggs. Shiraoi boasts 550,000 chickens and a business worth ¥2.8 billion.<ref name="Products">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/products.htm|title=Products|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|accessdate=2008-06-16}}</ref>
Shiraoi introduced the raising of beef cattle from [[Shimane Prefecture]] in 1954. In 1966, Shiraoi began with the production of chicken eggs. Shiraoi boasts 550,000 chickens, and a business worth ¥2.8 billion.<ref name="Products">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/products.htm|title=Products|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|access-date=2008-06-16}}</ref>


==Arts and culture==
==Arts and culture==

===Annual cultural events===
===Annual cultural events===
Shiraoi has four annual festivals:<ref name="Festival">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/festival.htm|title=Festival|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|accessdate=2008-06-16}}</ref>
Shiraoi has four annual festivals:<ref name="Festival">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/attracion/festival.htm|title=Festival|date=2006-10-03|publisher=Shiraoi Town|access-date=2008-06-16}}</ref>
* Shiraoi Dosanko Winter Festival — early February
* Shiraoi Dosanko Winter Festival — early February
* Shiraoi Beef Festival — early June
* Shiraoi Beef Festival — early June
Line 126: Line 284:


===Museums and other points of interest===
===Museums and other points of interest===

[[File:Giant Ainu Statue.jpg|thumb|The statue of a ''kotankorokur'' (the leader of a community), who has an ''[[inaw]]'' on his right hand, at the Ainu Museum]]
* The Ainu Museum, commonly known as Poroto Kotan – Poroto Kotan is a natural history museum depicting a traditional Ainu village. Performers show traditional crafts and dances like the ''yomante rimuse''.<ref>{{cite book|last=Bisignani|first=J.D.|title=Japan Handbook|editor=Taran March|publisher=Moon Publications, Inc.|location=Chico, California|date=December 1993|edition=Second Edition|pages=792–793|chapter=Donan-Southern Hokkaido|isbn=0-918373-70-0}}</ref>
* The [[Ainu Museum]], commonly known as [[Poroto Kotan]] – A natural history museum depicting a traditional Ainu village. Performers show traditional crafts and dances like the ''iomante rimse''.<ref>{{cite book|last=Bisignani|first=J.D.|title=Japan Handbook|editor=Taran March|publisher=Moon Publications, Inc.|location=Chico, California|date=December 1993|edition=Second|pages=[https://archive.org/details/japanhandbook0000bisi/page/792 792–793]|chapter=Donan-Southern Hokkaido|isbn=0-918373-70-0|chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/japanhandbook0000bisi/page/792}}</ref>
* [[Lake Kuttara]]
* [[Lake Kuttara]]
* Inkura Falls
* Inkura Falls
Line 137: Line 295:


==Education==
==Education==
===Elementary schools<ref name="schools">{{cite web |title=町内小中学校一覧 - (List of elementary and junior high schools in the town) |url=https://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/docs/gakko-itiran.html |website=town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp |publisher=Hokkaido Shiraoi Town |access-date=21 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230820175815/https://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/docs/gakko-itiran.html |archive-date=20 August 2023 |location=Shiraoi Town |language=Japanese |date=10 April 2023}}</ref>===
Elementary schools:<ref name="official"/>
* {{nihongo|Shiraoi Elementary School|白老小学校|Shiraoi Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Shiraoi Elementary School|白老小学校|Shiraoi Shōgakkō}} - Merged in 2016 with Shadai, and Midorigaoka.
* {{nihongo|Shadai Elementary School|社台小学校|Shadai Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Shadai Elementary School|社台小学校|Shadai Shōgakkō}} - Closed in 2016
* {{nihongo|Midorigaoka Elementary School|緑丘小学校|Midorigaoka Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Midorigaoka Elementary School|緑丘小学校|Midorigaoka Shōgakkō}} - Closed in 2016
* {{nihongo|Hagino Elementary School|萩野小学校|Hagino Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Hagino Elementary School|萩野小学校|Hagino Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Takeura Elementary School|竹浦小学校|Takeura Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Takeura Elementary School|竹浦小学校|Takeura Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Kojō Elementary School|虎杖小学校|Kojō Shōgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Kojō Elementary School|虎杖小学校|Kojō Shōgakkō}}


Middle Schools:<ref name="official"/>
===Middle schools<ref name="schools"/>===
* {{nihongo|Shiraoi Middle School|白老中学校|Shiraoi Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Shiraoi Middle School|白老中学校|Shiraoi Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Hagino Middle School|萩野中学校|Hagino Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Hakusho Middle School|白翔中学校|Hakusho Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Takeura Middle School|竹浦中学校|Takeura Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Hagino Middle School|萩野中学校|Hagino Chūgakkō}} - Closed in 2013, now site of Hakusho Middle School
* {{nihongo|Kojō Middle School|虎杖中学校|Kojō Chūgakkō}}
* {{nihongo|Takeura Middle School|竹浦中学校|Takeura Chūgakkō}} - Closed in 2013
* {{nihongo|Kojō Middle School|虎杖中学校|Kojō Chūgakkō}} - Closed in 2013


Other Schools:<ref name="official"/>
===Other schools<ref name="official"/>===
* {{nihongo|Education Support Center|教育支援センター|Kyōikushien Sentā}}
* {{nihongo|Education Support Center|教育支援センター|Kyōikushien Sentā}}


==Infrastructure==
==Infrastructure==

===Transportation===
===Transportation===
Shiraoi has several stations on the [[Muroran Main Line]]:
Shiraoi has several stations on the [[Muroran Main Line]]:
Line 165: Line 325:


Shiraoi is served by the following bus companies:
Shiraoi is served by the following bus companies:
*Donan bus Co.,Ltd
*Donan bus Co., Ltd
*Hokkaido Chuo Bus Co., ltd.
*Hokkaido Chuo Bus Co., Ltd.


Shiraoi is served by the following roads and highways:
Shiraoi is served by the following roads and highways:
* [[Hokkaidō Expressway]]
* [[Hokkaidō Expressway]]
** Interchange at Siraoi
** Interchange at Shiraoi
** Parking area at Hagino
** Parking area at Hagino
* [[National highways of Japan|National highways]]:

*[[National highways of Japan|National highways]]:
** [[Japan National Route 36]]
**[[Japan National Route 36]]
*Prefectural roads:
*Prefectural roads:
** Hokkaidō Highway 86
** Hokkaidō Highway 86
Line 183: Line 342:


==Sister cities==
==Sister cities==
Shiraoi has the following twin city relationships:<ref name="Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/profile.htm|title=Town Profile|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|accessdate=2008-06-13}}</ref>
Shiraoi has the following twin city relationships:<ref name="Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/english/profile/profile.htm|title=Town Profile|publisher=Shiraoi Official Website|access-date=2008-06-13}}</ref>
* {{flagicon|Canada}} [[Quesnel, British Columbia|Quesnel, Canada]] since 1981
* {{flagicon|Canada}} [[Quesnel, British Columbia|Quesnel, Canada]] since 1981
* {{flagicon|Japan}} [[Sendai|Sendai, Japan]] since 1981
* {{flagicon|Japan}} [[Sendai|Sendai, Japan]] since 1981
Line 189: Line 348:


==Sports==
==Sports==
The [[Shadai Stallion Station]] is located here. Shadai Stallion Station has bought high-profile [[thoroughbreds]] for their breeding program, such as [[Kentucky Derby]] winner [[War Emblem]].<ref name="Times">{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/28/sports/othersports/28emblem.html|title=A Pampered Derby Champion’s Finicky Taste |last=Drape|first=Joe|date=April 28, 2008|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=2008-06-16}}</ref>
The [[Shadai Stallion Station]] is located here. Shadai Stallion Station has bought high-profile [[thoroughbreds]] for their breeding program, such as [[Kentucky Derby]] winner [[War Emblem]].<ref name="Times">{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/28/sports/othersports/28emblem.html|title=A Pampered Derby Champion's Finicky Taste |last=Drape|first=Joe|date=April 28, 2008|work=The New York Times|access-date=2008-06-16}}</ref>

==Notable people from Shiraoi==
*[[Giichi Nomura]], advocate and activist for the Ainu people
*[[Hiromi Yamamoto]], speed skater


==References==
==References==
Line 195: Line 358:


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category-inline|Shiraoi, Hokkaido|Shiraoi, Hokkaidō}}
*{{commons category-inline|Shiraoi, Hokkaido|Shiraoi, Hokkaidō}}
* [http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/ Official website] {{ja icon}} (some English content)
* [http://www.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp/ Official Website] {{in lang|ja}}
* [http://www.ainu-museum.or.jp/english/english.html The Ainu Museum]
* [http://www.ainu-museum.or.jp/ The Ainu Museum Website]


{{DEFAULTSORT:Shiraoi, Hokkaido}}
{{Hokkaido}}
{{Authority control}}
[[Category:Towns in Hokkaidō]]


{{DEFAULTSORT:Shiraoi, Hokkaido}}
[[ko:시라오이 정]]
[[io:Shiraoi, Hokkaido]]
[[Category:Shiraoi, Hokkaido| ]]
[[Category:Towns in Hokkaido]]
[[it:Shiraoi]]
[[ja:白老町]]
[[pt:Shiraoi]]
[[ru:Сираои (посёлок)]]
[[uk:Сіраой (Хоккайдо)]]
[[zh-yue:白老町]]
[[zh:白老町]]

Latest revision as of 15:23, 10 January 2024

Shiraoi
白老町
Town
Flag of Shiraoi
Flag
Official logo of Shiraoi
Logo
Location of Shiraoi in Hokkaido (Iburi Subprefecture)
Location of Shiraoi in Hokkaido (Iburi Subprefecture)
Shiraoi is located in Japan
Shiraoi
Shiraoi
Location in Japan
Coordinates: 42°33′N 141°21′E / 42.550°N 141.350°E / 42.550; 141.350
CountryJapan
RegionHokkaido
PrefectureHokkaido (Iburi Subprefecture)
DistrictShiraoi
Area
 • Total425.75 km2 (164.38 sq mi)
Population
 (September 30, 2016)
 • Total17,759
 • Density42/km2 (110/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+09:00 (JST)
City hall address1-1-1 Ōmachi, Shiraoi-chō, Shiraoi-gun, Hokkaidō
059-0995　
ClimateDfb
Websitewww.town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp
Symbols
FlowerLespedeza bicolor (エゾヤマハギ, Ezo-yama-hagi)
TreeSorbus commixta (ナナカマド, Nanakamado)

Shiraoi (白老町, Shiraoi-chō) is a town located in Iburi, Hokkaido, Japan. As of September 2016, the town had a population of 17,759. It was established in 1867 by the feudal lords of Sendai. Most of the area of the town is forested and parts lie within the Shikotsu-Tōya National Park.

History[edit]

Shiraoi, like the rest of Hokkaido, was populated by the Ainu. According to the town's official website, the name, Shiraoi, means Rainbows in the Ainu language.[1] Other sources state that the name comes from Shiraunai meaning Horse-flies.[2]

In 1867, the Sendai domain established a fort in Shiraoi and work began on Shiogama Shrine (塩釜神社, Shiogama Jinja). The following year the Boshin War caused Sendai to retreat from Shiraoi and return to Sendai proper. After the revolt was put down the government dismantled the fort in 1870.

The end of the 19th century saw expansion of the town. A road was established connecting Shiraoi with Muroran, Sapporo, and Hakodate in 1873. Nineteen years later, the first railroad station was established. The villages of Shadai and Shikiu were established. Two significant events occurred during this expansion: in 1874, Mount Tarumae erupted, and in 1881, the Emperor Meiji visited.[3]

Geography[edit]

The total area is 425.72 square kilometres (164.37 sq mi). The town is 28.0 kilometres (17.4 mi) East to West and 26.4 kilometres (16.4 mi) North to South.[4] 82% of this area is forested.[1]

Land Use 2006[4]
Use Percentage
Mountains and forest 74
Other 9
Plains and moor 6
Ranchland 4
Farmland 2
Housing 2
Mixed use 2
Wet lands 1

Shiraoi is crossed by a number of rivers running from the mountains like Mount Horohoro to the Pacific Ocean. These include:

  • Shadai River
  • Shiraoi River
  • Shikyu River
  • Betsubetsu River

Mount Horohoro and Lake Kuttara are part of Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. Lake Poroto is also in the area.

Climate[edit]

Shiraoi has an oceanic climate, mild when compared to the rest of Hokkaido. The annual temperature ranges between the extremes of 33.3 °C (91.9 °F) and −20.8 °C (−5.4 °F). The average annual temperature is 7.2 °C (45.0 °F). Shiraoi receives 1,660 millimetres (65 in) of precipitation annually. This only results in 103 centimetres (41 in) of snow annually. In a typical year, the snow lingers for 80 days. Accumulated snow rarely exceeding 44 centimetres (17 in). Wind velocity averages merely 1.6 metres per second (3.6 mph), that is less than half of the neighboring Tomakomai and Muroran.[5]

Climate data for Shiraoi (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1977−present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 8.4
(47.1) 		10.7
(51.3) 		16.1
(61.0) 		23.8
(74.8) 		28.5
(83.3) 		31.1
(88.0) 		33.3
(91.9) 		33.1
(91.6) 		30.9
(87.6) 		26.9
(80.4) 		19.0
(66.2) 		14.5
(58.1) 		33.3
(91.9)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 0.5
(32.9) 		0.9
(33.6) 		4.3
(39.7) 		9.5
(49.1) 		13.9
(57.0) 		17.2
(63.0) 		21.0
(69.8) 		23.3
(73.9) 		21.6
(70.9) 		16.1
(61.0) 		9.2
(48.6) 		2.7
(36.9) 		11.7
(53.0)
Daily mean °C (°F) −3.7
(25.3) 		−3.3
(26.1) 		0.2
(32.4) 		4.9
(40.8) 		9.7
(49.5) 		13.8
(56.8) 		17.9
(64.2) 		20.0
(68.0) 		17.2
(63.0) 		11.0
(51.8) 		4.6
(40.3) 		−1.4
(29.5) 		7.6
(45.6)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −8.6
(16.5) 		−8.5
(16.7) 		−4.4
(24.1) 		0.3
(32.5) 		5.6
(42.1) 		10.8
(51.4) 		15.4
(59.7) 		17.1
(62.8) 		12.8
(55.0) 		5.7
(42.3) 		−0.2
(31.6) 		−5.8
(21.6) 		3.4
(38.0)
Record low °C (°F) −19.4
(−2.9) 		−20.8
(−5.4) 		−16.7
(1.9) 		−10.5
(13.1) 		−2.8
(27.0) 		0.2
(32.4) 		5.6
(42.1) 		8.1
(46.6) 		2.3
(36.1) 		−3.1
(26.4) 		−11.6
(11.1) 		−16.5
(2.3) 		−20.8
(−5.4)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 34.1
(1.34) 		35.9
(1.41) 		61.3
(2.41) 		89.3
(3.52) 		155.6
(6.13) 		149.2
(5.87) 		207.8
(8.18) 		230.5
(9.07) 		206.9
(8.15) 		134.1
(5.28) 		88.5
(3.48) 		56.8
(2.24) 		1,450
(57.09)
Average snowfall cm (inches) 68
(27) 		76
(30) 		56
(22) 		5
(2.0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		4
(1.6) 		40
(16) 		253
(100)
Average precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm) 6.5 6.1 8.1 9.2 10.7 10.2 13.2 13.2 11.9 10.6 9.9 7.8 117.4
Average snowy days 9.1 10.7 8.4 0.7 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0.5 5.7 35.2
Mean monthly sunshine hours 153.3 155.3 178.8 185.2 183.0 129.8 108.7 131.7 158.5 159.3 140.1 136.6 1,820.4
Source: JMA[6][7]

Demographics[edit]

Shiraoi has a density of 42 persons per km2.

Historic Population
Year Households Population
1899 848 3659
1919 988 4906
1920 1906 6312
1925 1348 6849

Economy[edit]

In the 1930s, Shiraoi began the cultivation of mushrooms,[8] such as Shiitake, and mullet roe (or karasumi) at Kojohama. Shiraoi imported the knowledge of mullet roe production from Iwanai.[9]

Shiraoi has been involved in the harvest of marine products such as the Horsehair crab and konbu. Because of dwindling resources, harvesting of hair crab has been reduced to a test operation from the middle of July until the middle of August.[9]

Shiraoi introduced the raising of beef cattle from Shimane Prefecture in 1954. In 1966, Shiraoi began with the production of chicken eggs. Shiraoi boasts 550,000 chickens, and a business worth ¥2.8 billion.[8]

Arts and culture[edit]

Annual cultural events[edit]

Shiraoi has four annual festivals:[10]

  • Shiraoi Dosanko Winter Festival — early February
  • Shiraoi Beef Festival — early June
  • Shiraoi Port Festival — early August
  • Shiraoi Cheipu Festival — early September

Museums and other points of interest[edit]

  • The Ainu Museum, commonly known as Poroto Kotan – A natural history museum depicting a traditional Ainu village. Performers show traditional crafts and dances like the iomante rimse.[11]
  • Lake Kuttara
  • Inkura Falls
  • Mount Horohoro
  • Ayoro Beach
  • Ruin of the Sendai Domain Shiraoi Founding Encampment Historical Landmark (史跡仙台藩白老元陣屋跡, Shiseki Sendai-han Shiraoi Moto-jinya Ato)
  • Sendai Domain Shiraoi Founding Encampment Resource Center (仙台藩白老元陣屋資料館, Sendai-han Shiraoi Moto-jinya Shiryōkan)
  • Kojohama hotsprings

Education[edit]

Elementary schools[12][edit]

  • Shiraoi Elementary School (白老小学校, Shiraoi Shōgakkō) - Merged in 2016 with Shadai, and Midorigaoka.
  • Shadai Elementary School (社台小学校, Shadai Shōgakkō) - Closed in 2016
  • Midorigaoka Elementary School (緑丘小学校, Midorigaoka Shōgakkō) - Closed in 2016
  • Hagino Elementary School (萩野小学校, Hagino Shōgakkō)
  • Takeura Elementary School (竹浦小学校, Takeura Shōgakkō)
  • Kojō Elementary School (虎杖小学校, Kojō Shōgakkō)

Middle schools[12][edit]

  • Shiraoi Middle School (白老中学校, Shiraoi Chūgakkō)
  • Hakusho Middle School (白翔中学校, Hakusho Chūgakkō)
  • Hagino Middle School (萩野中学校, Hagino Chūgakkō) - Closed in 2013, now site of Hakusho Middle School
  • Takeura Middle School (竹浦中学校, Takeura Chūgakkō) - Closed in 2013
  • Kojō Middle School (虎杖中学校, Kojō Chūgakkō) - Closed in 2013

Other schools[4][edit]

  • Education Support Center (教育支援センター, Kyōikushien Sentā)

Infrastructure[edit]

Transportation[edit]

Shiraoi has several stations on the Muroran Main Line:

  • Kojōhama
  • Takeura
  • Kita-yoshihara
  • Hagino
  • Shiraoi
  • Shadai

Shiraoi is served by the following bus companies:

  • Donan bus Co., Ltd
  • Hokkaido Chuo Bus Co., Ltd.

Shiraoi is served by the following roads and highways:

Sister cities[edit]

Shiraoi has the following twin city relationships:[13]

Sports[edit]

The Shadai Stallion Station is located here. Shadai Stallion Station has bought high-profile thoroughbreds for their breeding program, such as Kentucky Derby winner War Emblem.[14]

Notable people from Shiraoi[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b "Local". Shiraoi Town. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2008-06-12.
  2. ^ Akagi Sanpei (赤木 三兵), Journey of Hokkaidō Place Names—Notes on Ainu Language Place Names (北海道 地名の旅—アイヌ語地名解, Hokkaidō Chimei no Tabi — Ainugo Chimei Kai), pg 65.
  3. ^ "History 1800". Shiraoi Official Website. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2008-06-13.
  4. ^ a b c "Shiraoi Official Web Page" (in Japanese). Shiraoi Town. 2006-10-03. Archived from the original on 2008-02-02. Retrieved 2008-06-12.
  5. ^ "Topology and Climate". Shiraoi Official Website. 2002-11-25. Retrieved 2008-06-16.
  6. ^ 観測史上1～10位の値（年間を通じての値）. JMA. Retrieved February 22, 2022.
  7. ^ 気象庁 / 平年値（年・月ごとの値）. JMA. Retrieved February 22, 2022.
  8. ^ a b "Products". Shiraoi Town. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2008-06-16.
  9. ^ a b "Marine Products". Shiraoi Town. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2008-06-16.
  10. ^ "Festival". Shiraoi Town. 2006-10-03. Retrieved 2008-06-16.
  11. ^ Bisignani, J.D. (December 1993). "Donan-Southern Hokkaido". In Taran March (ed.). Japan Handbook (Second ed.). Chico, California: Moon Publications, Inc. pp. 792–793. ISBN 0-918373-70-0.
  12. ^ a b "町内小中学校一覧 - (List of elementary and junior high schools in the town)". town.shiraoi.hokkaido.jp (in Japanese). Shiraoi Town: Hokkaido Shiraoi Town. 10 April 2023. Archived from the original on 20 August 2023. Retrieved 21 November 2023.
  13. ^ "Town Profile". Shiraoi Official Website. Retrieved 2008-06-13.
  14. ^ Drape, Joe (April 28, 2008). "A Pampered Derby Champion's Finicky Taste". The New York Times. Retrieved 2008-06-16.

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Shiraoi,_Hokkaido&oldid=1194750666"