Kutchan, Hokkaido: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 42°54′N 140°46′E / 42.900°N 140.767°E / 42.900; 140.767
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{{Infobox city Japan
{{Infobox settlement
| name= Kutchan
| name = Kutchan
| official_name =
| JapaneseName= 倶知安町
| native_name = {{nobold|倶知安町}}
| settlement_type= Town
| native_name_lang = ja
| image_flag= Flag of Kutchan, Hokkaido.svg
| settlement_type = Town
| image_symbol= Symbol of Kutchan, Hokkaido.svg
| other_name =
| image_map= Kutchan in Hokkaido Prefecture Ja.svg
<!-- images, nickname, motto -->
| image_skyline = Kutchan Montage.jpg
| imagesize =
| image_caption =
| image_flag = Flag of Kutchan, Hokkaido.svg
| image_seal = Emblem of Kutchan, Hokkaido.svg
| seal_type = Emblem
<!-- maps and coordinates -->
| image_map = Kutchan in Hokkaido Prefecture Ja.svg
| map_alt =
| map_caption = Location of Kutchan in [[Hokkaido]] ([[Shiribeshi Subprefecture]])
| pushpin_map = Japan
| pushpin_relief =
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Japan
| coordinates = {{coord|42|54|N|140|46|E|region:JP|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|42|54|N|140|46|E|region:JP|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| region= [[Hokkaido]]
<!-- location -->
| prefecture= [[Hokkaido]] ([[Shiribeshi Subprefecture]])
| subdivision_type = Country
| district= [[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta]]
| subdivision_name = Japan
| mayor=
| subdivision_type1 = [[List of regions of Japan|Region]]
| area_km2= 261.24
| subdivision_name1 = [[Hokkaido]]
| population= 15,573
| subdivision_type2 = [[Prefectures of Japan|Prefecture]]
| population_as_of= April 30, 2017
| subdivision_name2 = [[Hokkaido]] ([[Shiribeshi Subprefecture]])
| density_km2= auto
| subdivision_type3 = [[Districts of Japan|District]]
| tree= Painted Maple
| subdivision_name3 = [[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta]]
| flower= [[Rhododendron]]
<!-- established -->
| bird=
| established_title = <!-- Settled -->
| city_hall_address= 3-3 Kita-ichijō-higashi, Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun, Hokkaidō
| established_date =
| city_hall_postal_code= 044-0001
| extinct_title = Now part of
| extinct_date =
| founder =
| named_for =
<!-- seat, smaller parts -->
| seat_type = <!-- defaults to: Seat -->
| seat =
<!-- government type, leaders -->
| government_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| leader_party =
| leader_title = Mayor
| leader_name =
| leader_title1 = Vice Mayor
| leader_name1 =
<!-- display settings -->
| total_type = <!-- to set a non-standard label for total area and population rows -->
| unit_pref = Metric
<!-- area -->
| area_magnitude = <!-- use only to set a special wikilink -->
| area_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| area_total_km2 = 261.24
| area_land_km2 =
| area_water_km2 =
| area_water_percent =
| area_note =
<!-- elevation -->
| elevation_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| elevation_m =
<!-- population -->
| population_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> tags -->
| population_total = 15,573
| population_as_of = April 30, 2017
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_est =
| pop_est_as_of =
<!-- time zone(s) -->
| timezone1 = [[Japan Standard Time|JST]]
| utc_offset1 = +09:00
<!-- postal codes, area code -->
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code =
| area_code_type = <!-- defaults to: Area code(s) -->
| area_code =
<!-- blank fields (section 1) -->
| blank_name_sec1 = City hall address
| blank_info_sec1 = 3-3 Kita-ichijō-higashi, Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun, Hokkaidō<br />044-0001
<!-- blank fields (section 2) -->
| blank_name_sec2 = [[Köppen climate classification|Climate]]
| blank_info_sec2 = [[Humid continental climate|Dfb]]
<!-- website, footnotes -->
| website = {{URL|http://www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp/}}
| website = {{URL|http://www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp/}}
| footnotes =
| module = {{Infobox place symbols| embedded=yes
| tree = Painted Maple
| flower = [[Rhododendron]]
| bird =
| flowering_tree =
| butterfly =
| fish =
| mascot = Jagata-kun and Jagako-chan
| other_symbols =
}}
}}
}}


{{Nihongo|'''Kutchan'''|倶知安町|Kutchan-chō}} is a [[List of towns in Japan|town]] located in [[Shiribeshi Subprefecture]], [[Hokkaido]], [[Japan]]. Kutchan lies slightly north of the volcano [[Mount Yōtei]], and is approximately 50 kilometers west of [[Sapporo]]. The subprefecture government offices are located in this town, making it the capital of the subprefecture.
{{Nihongo|'''Kutchan'''|倶知安町|Kutchan-chō}} is a [[List of towns in Japan|town]] located in [[Shiribeshi Subprefecture]], [[Hokkaido]], [[Japan]]. Kutchan lies slightly north of the volcano [[Mount Yōtei]], and is approximately 50 kilometers west of [[Sapporo]]. The subprefecture government offices are located in this town, making it the capital of the subprefecture.


As of April 30, 2017, the town has an estimated [[population]] of 15,573 and a [[population density]] of 60 persons per km².<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp/index.jsp|title= Official website of Kutchan Town|publisher= Kutchan Town|location= Japan|language= Japanese|accessdate= 16 May 2017}}</ref> The total area is {{convert|261.24|km2|abbr=on}}.
As of April 30, 2017, the town has an estimated [[population]] of 15,573 and a [[population density]] of 60 persons per km².<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp/index.jsp|title= Official website of Kutchan Town|publisher= Kutchan Town|location= Japan|language= ja|access-date= 16 May 2017}}</ref> The total area is {{convert|261.24|km2|abbr=on}}.


Throughout Hokkaido, Kutchan is known for its proximity to the world famous [[Niseko, Hokkaido|Niseko]] powder snow region and for its production of quality potatoes and potato products. Among these products, Kutchan is most famous for manufacturing ''gosetsu-udon'', a Japanese noodle made from [[flour#Other flours|potato flour]]. Jagata-kun, the skiing potato that is the cartoon mascot of Kutchan, indicates Kutchan's two most celebrated aspects. Jagata-kun roughly translates as, "little, fat potato boy".
Throughout Hokkaido, Kutchan is known for its proximity to the world famous [[Niseko, Hokkaido|Niseko]] powder snow region and for its production of quality potatoes and potato products. Among these products, Kutchan is most famous for manufacturing ''gosetsu-udon'', a Japanese noodle made from [[flour#Other flours|potato flour]]. Jagata-kun, the skiing potato that is the cartoon mascot of Kutchan, indicates Kutchan's two most celebrated aspects. Jagata-kun roughly translates as, "little, fat potato boy".
Line 31: Line 106:
==Geography==
==Geography==
*Located approximately {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}} west of Sapporo. Kutchan lies in a valley surrounded by mountains, notably Niseko Annupuri and [[Mount Yōtei]].
*Located approximately {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}} west of Sapporo. Kutchan lies in a valley surrounded by mountains, notably Niseko Annupuri and [[Mount Yōtei]].
[[File:Kutchan town from Asahigaoka.JPG|thumb|300px|Kutchan as seen from Asahigaoka Park]]
[[File:Kutchan town from Asahigaoka.JPG|thumb|Kutchan as seen from Asahigaoka Park]]
*Mountains: [[Mount Yōtei|Yōtei (Shiribeshi Mountain)]] (Makkari-Nupuri in Ainu) (active volcano, 1898 m), Niseko Iwaonupuri (active volcano, 1116 m), Niseko Annupuri (1308 m)
*Mountains: [[Mount Yōtei|Yōtei (Shiribeshi Mountain)]] (Makkari-Nupuri in Ainu) (active volcano, 1898 m), Niseko Iwaonupuri (active volcano, 1116 m), Niseko Annupuri (1308 m)
*Rivers: Shiribetsu, Kutōzan
*Rivers: Shiribetsu, Kutōzan


===Climate===
===Neighboring municipalities===
Kutchan has the distinction of being one of the snowiest towns on earth, with average annual snowfalls in excess of {{convert|10|m|ft|abbr=on}}. At only {{convert|176|m|ft|abbr=on}} above sea level the town receives greater amounts of snow than the world's leading ski areas such as Whistler, Aspen or Chamonix. Wintery weather lasts from early November through to early April with the snowiest month being January which averages {{convert|2.9|m|ft|abbr=on}}. January is also the coldest month averaging {{convert|-5.7|C|F|abbr=on}}.
*[[Shiribeshi Subprefecture|Shiribeshi]]
**[[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta District]]: [[Kyōgoku, Hokkaido|Kyōgoku]], [[Niseko, Hokkaido|Niseko]]
**[[Isoya District, Hokkaido|Isoya District]]: [[Rankoshi, Hokkaido|Rankoshi]]
**[[Iwanai District, Hokkaido|Iwanai District]]: [[Kyōwa, Hokkaido|Kyōwa]]
**[[Yoichi District, Hokkaido|Yoichi District]]: [[Niki, Hokkaido|Niki]], [[Akaigawa, Hokkaido|Akaigawa]]
**[[Kimobetsu, Hokkaido|Kimobetsu]] and [[Makkari, Hokkaido|Makkari]] of the [[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta District]] lie on the southern side of [[Mount Yōtei]].

==Climate==

Kutchan has the distinction of being one of the snowiest towns on earth with average annual snowfalls in excess of {{convert|10|m|ft|abbr=on}}. At only {{convert|176|m|ft|abbr=on}} above sea level the town receives greater amounts of snow than the world's leading ski areas such as Whistler, Aspen or Chamonix. Wintery weather lasts from early November through to early April with the snowiest month being January which averages {{convert|2.9|m|ft|abbr=on}}. January is also the coldest month averaging {{convert|-5.7|C|F|abbr=on}}.
Kutchan has 4 very distinct seasons with reasonably short spring and autumn periods. The summer is mild with temperatures rarely getting above {{convert|30|C|F|abbr=on}} and the humidity that afflicts much of Asia at this time is only felt for a short period, usually in August.
Kutchan has 4 very distinct seasons with reasonably short spring and autumn periods. The summer is mild with temperatures rarely getting above {{convert|30|C|F|abbr=on}} and the humidity that afflicts much of Asia at this time is only felt for a short period, usually in August.


{{Weather box|width=auto
{{Weather box
|width=auto
|collapsed = Y
|location = Kutchan, Hokkaido (1981&ndash;2010)
|metric first = Y
|metric first = Y
|single line = Y
|single line = Y
|location = Kutchan, Hokkaido (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1944−present)
|Jan high C = −2.2
|Feb high C = −1.3
|Jan high C = -2.0
|Mar high C = 2.6
|Feb high C = -1.0
|Apr high C = 9.6
|Mar high C = 3.0
|May high C = 16.3
|Apr high C = 9.8
|Jun high C = 20.6
|May high C = 16.9
|Jul high C = 23.9
|Jun high C = 20.9
|Jul high C = 24.4
|Aug high C = 25.4
|Aug high C = 25.4
|Sep high C = 21.3
|Sep high C = 21.7
|Oct high C = 14.7
|Oct high C = 15.0
|Nov high C = 6.7
|Nov high C = 6.9
|Dec high C = 0.2
|Dec high C = 0.0
|Jan mean C = −5.7
|Jan mean C = -5.4
|Feb mean C = −5.2
|Feb mean C = -4.9
|Mar mean C = -1.4
|Mar mean C = -1.0
|Apr mean C = 4.8
|Apr mean C = 4.9
|May mean C = 10.7
|May mean C = 11.2
|Jun mean C = 15.3
|Jun mean C = 15.6
|Jul mean C = 19.2
|Jul mean C = 19.7
|Aug mean C = 20.7
|Aug mean C = 20.6
|Sep mean C = 15.9
|Sep mean C = 16.4
|Oct mean C = 9.4
|Oct mean C = 9.7
|Nov mean C = 2.8
|Nov mean C = 2.9
|Dec mean C = −3.1
|Dec mean C = -3.1
|Jan low C = −10.1
|Jan low C = -9.6
|Feb low C = −10.0
|Feb low C = -9.4
|Mar low C = −6.1
|Mar low C = -5.7
|Apr low C = 0.0
|Apr low C = 0.1
|May low C = 5.4
|May low C = 6.0
|Jun low C = 10.8
|Jun low C = 11.3
|Jul low C = 15.6
|Jul low C = 16.1
|Aug low C = 16.8
|Aug low C = 16.7
|Sep low C = 10.8
|Sep low C = 11.3
|Oct low C = 4.0
|Oct low C = 4.5
|Nov low C = −1.2
|Nov low C = -1.0
|Dec low C = −6.8
|Dec low C = -6.8
|year high C= 11.5 |year low C= 2.4
|year high C= 11.8 |year low C= 2.8
|year high F =52.3 |year low F = 35.7
|year high F =53.2 |year low F = 37.0
|Jan record high C = 8.7
|Jan record high C = 8.7
|Feb record high C = 10.4
|Feb record high C = 10.4
|Mar record high C = 13.3
|Mar record high C = 13.3
|Apr record high C = 23.8
|Apr record high C = 23.8
|May record high C = 28.9
|May record high C = 32.5
|Jun record high C = 32.5
|Jun record high C = 32.5
|Jul record high C = 34.1
|Jul record high C = 34.1
|Aug record high C = 34.4
|Aug record high C = 34.6
|Sep record high C = 31.8
|Sep record high C = 32.0
|Oct record high C = 23.7
|Oct record high C = 23.7
|Nov record high C = 20.0
|Nov record high C = 20.0
|Dec record high C = 12.5
|Dec record high C = 12.5
|year record high C= 34.4
|year record high C= 34.6
|Jan record low C = −35.7
|Jan record low C = -35.7
|Feb record low C = −28.7
|Feb record low C = -28.7
|Mar record low C = −28.8
|Mar record low C = -28.8
|Apr record low C = −18.6
|Apr record low C = -18.6
|May record low C = −4.8
|May record low C = -4.8
|Jun record low C = 0.1
|Jun record low C = 0.1
|Jul record low C = 4.6
|Jul record low C = 4.6
|Aug record low C = 4.8
|Aug record low C = 4.8
|Sep record low C = −1.3
|Sep record low C = -1.3
|Oct record low C = −8.9
|Oct record low C = -8.9
|Nov record low C = −22.0
|Nov record low C = -22.0
|Dec record low C = −27.0
|Dec record low C = -27.0
|year record low C= −35.7
|year record low C= -35.7
|precipitation colour = green
|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation mm = 188.9
|Jan precipitation mm = 184.5
|Feb precipitation mm = 133.1
|Feb precipitation mm = 129.4
|Mar precipitation mm = 93.1
|Mar precipitation mm = 98.3
|Apr precipitation mm = 67.5
|Apr precipitation mm = 67.1
|May precipitation mm = 75.0
|May precipitation mm = 75.8
|Jun precipitation mm = 51.8
|Jun precipitation mm = 59.9
|Jul precipitation mm = 96.0
|Jul precipitation mm = 102.3
|Aug precipitation mm = 141.6
|Aug precipitation mm = 153.1
|Sep precipitation mm = 133.6
|Sep precipitation mm = 133.3
|Oct precipitation mm = 133.2
|Oct precipitation mm = 128.2
|Nov precipitation mm = 176.6
|Nov precipitation mm = 182.8
|Dec precipitation mm = 188.8
|Dec precipitation mm = 217.7
|year precipitation mm= 1477.1
|year precipitation mm= 1532.3
|Jan snow cm = 291
|unit rain days = 1.0 mm
|Feb snow cm = 226
|Jan rain days = 24.5
|Mar snow cm = 148
|Feb rain days = 21.3
|Apr snow cm = 34
|Mar rain days = 17.0
|Apr rain days = 11.0
|May rain days = 9.8
|Jun rain days = 8.0
|Jul rain days = 8.6
|Aug rain days = 9.9
|Sep rain days = 11.9
|Oct rain days = 14.3
|Nov rain days = 19.9
|Dec rain days = 24.7
|Jan snow cm = 253
|Feb snow cm = 187
|Mar snow cm = 122
|Apr snow cm = 17
|May snow cm = 0
|May snow cm = 0
|Jun snow cm = 0
|Jun snow cm = 0
Line 139: Line 220:
|Aug snow cm = 0
|Aug snow cm = 0
|Sep snow cm = 0
|Sep snow cm = 0
|Oct snow cm = 4
|Oct snow cm = 2
|Nov snow cm = 105
|Nov snow cm = 95
|Dec snow cm = 252
|Dec snow cm = 253
|year snow cm= 1062
|year snow cm= 921
|unit snow days = 1 cm
|Jan snow days = 26.3
|Feb snow days = 23.4
|Mar snow days = 20.3
|Apr snow days = 7.5
|May snow days = 0
|Jun snow days = 0
|Jul snow days = 0
|Aug snow days = 0
|Sep snow days = 0
|Oct snow days = 0.5
|Nov snow days = 11.7
|Dec snow days = 25.2
|humidity colour= green
|Jan humidity = 82
|Jan humidity = 82
|Feb humidity = 81
|Feb humidity = 80
|Mar humidity = 75
|Mar humidity = 75
|Apr humidity = 72
|Apr humidity = 72
|May humidity = 73
|May humidity = 74
|Jun humidity = 78
|Jun humidity = 80
|Jul humidity = 82
|Jul humidity = 83
|Aug humidity = 82
|Aug humidity = 84
|Sep humidity = 81
|Sep humidity = 82
|Oct humidity = 78
|Oct humidity = 79
|Nov humidity = 78
|Nov humidity = 80
|Dec humidity = 81
|Dec humidity = 83
|year humidity= 79
|year humidity= 79
|Jan sun = 49.4
|Jan sun = 47.0
|Feb sun = 65.5
|Feb sun = 65.1
|Mar sun = 122.6
|Mar sun = 121.1
|Apr sun = 171.2
|Apr sun = 173.3
|May sun = 188.1
|May sun = 189.9
|Jun sun = 178.9
|Jun sun = 169.7
|Jul sun = 146.9
|Jul sun = 144.5
|Aug sun = 151.8
|Aug sun = 149.5
|Sep sun = 151.6
|Sep sun = 149.3
|Oct sun = 131.6
|Oct sun = 127.8
|Nov sun = 66.0
|Nov sun = 65.5
|Dec sun = 41.9
|Dec sun = 38.8
|year sun= 1465.3
|year sun= 1441.4
|source 1 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]<ref>{{cite web
|source 1 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/nml_sfc_ym.php?prec_no=16&prec_ch=%8C%E3%8Eu%8Ex%92%A1&block_no=47433&block_ch=%8B%E4%92m%88%C0&year=&month=&day=&elm=normal&view=
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/nml_sfc_ym.php?prec_no=16&prec_ch=%8C%E3%8Eu%8Ex%92%A1&block_no=47433&block_ch=%8B%E4%92m%88%C0&year=&month=&day=&elm=normal&view=
| title = 平年値(年・月ごとの値) | accessdate = 2010-02-22 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency|date=August 2011
| title = 平年値(年・月ごとの値) | access-date = 2010-02-22 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency|date=August 2011
}}</ref>
}}</ref>
|source 2 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]<ref>{{cite web
|source 2 = [[Japan Meteorological Agency]]<ref>{{cite web
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/rank_s.php?prec_no=16&prec_ch=%8C%E3%8Eu%8Ex%92%A1&block_no=47433&block_ch=%8B%E4%92m%88%C0&year=&month=&day=&elm=rank&view=
| url = http://www.data.jma.go.jp/obd/stats/etrn/view/rank_s.php?prec_no=16&prec_ch=%8C%E3%8Eu%8Ex%92%A1&block_no=47433&block_ch=%8B%E4%92m%88%C0&year=&month=&day=&elm=rank&view=
| title = 観測史上1〜10位の値(年間を通じての値)| accessdate = 2010-02-22 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
| title = 観測史上1〜10位の値(年間を通じての値)| access-date = 2010-02-22 | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency
}}</ref>
}}</ref>
|date=August 2010
|date=August 2010
}}
}}

===Neighboring municipalities===
;[[Shiribeshi Subprefecture|Shiribeshi]]
*[[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta District]]: [[Kyōgoku, Hokkaido|Kyōgoku]], [[Niseko, Hokkaido|Niseko]]
*[[Isoya District, Hokkaido|Isoya District]]: [[Rankoshi, Hokkaido|Rankoshi]]
*[[Iwanai District, Hokkaido|Iwanai District]]: [[Kyōwa, Hokkaido|Kyōwa]]
*[[Yoichi District, Hokkaido|Yoichi District]]: [[Niki, Hokkaido|Niki]], [[Akaigawa, Hokkaido|Akaigawa]]
*[[Kimobetsu, Hokkaido|Kimobetsu]] and [[Makkari, Hokkaido|Makkari]] of the [[Abuta District, Hokkaido|Abuta District]] lie on the southern side of [[Mount Yōtei]].


==History==
==History==
Line 192: Line 295:


==Economy==
==Economy==
===Agriculture===
Along with short grain white rice, much of Kutchan's surrounding area is devoted to potato cultivation.


===Hirafu===
===Hirafu===
Line 200: Line 305:
Hirafu is also frequented by a considerable number of tourists from [[Hong Kong]], as well as tourists coming from within Japan.
Hirafu is also frequented by a considerable number of tourists from [[Hong Kong]], as well as tourists coming from within Japan.


Hirafu's expanding tourism industry is often attributed to the steady and copious supply of fresh powder snow, which many {{who|date=May 2012}} claim is among the best in the entire hemisphere, if not the world.
Hirafu's expanding tourism industry is often attributed to the steady and copious supply of fresh powder snow, which many [https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/asia/niseko-japans-mythical-powder-paradise/]{{who|date=December 2013|Article=https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/asia/niseko-japans-mythical-powder-paradise/}}claim is among the best in the entire hemisphere, if not the world.


While Hirafu's economic boom is undoubtedly an asset to Kutchan town, many fear that such rapid development will alter the [[Marginal demand|price margin]] of goods and services offered in the village, and subsequently transform the local flavor of Hirafu.{{Citation needed|date=August 2007}} The local community of both Japanese and foreign "backpacker" skiers and snowboarders, who typically operate on a smaller budget than their upscale counterparts, are already being overshadowed by the burgeoning influx of wealthy tourists.{{Citation needed|date=August 2007}}
While Hirafu's economic boom is undoubtedly an asset to Kutchan town, many fear that such rapid development will alter the [[Marginal demand|price margin]] of goods and services offered in the village, and subsequently transform the local flavor of Hirafu.{{Citation needed|date=August 2007}} The local community of both Japanese and foreign "backpacker" skiers and snowboarders, who typically operate on a smaller budget than their upscale counterparts, are already being overshadowed by the burgeoning influx of wealthy tourists.{{Citation needed|date=August 2007}}


===Agriculture===
==Education==
===Public High Schools===
Along with short grain white rice, much of Kutchan's surrounding area is devoted to potato cultivation.
*Hokkaido Kutchan High School
*Hokkaido Kutchan Agriculture High School

===Middle schools===
*Kutchan

===Elementary schools===
*Kutchan, Hokuyo, Higashi, Nishi, Kabayama Branch School

==Transportation==
===Airways===
====Airport====
*[[New Chitose Airport]] is the closest major airport to the town, about 2 hours away by car.<ref>[http://202.69.231.173/~grandhip/en/index.html Niseko Mt Resort Grand Hirafu<!-- Bot generated title -->] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071008173447/http://202.69.231.173/~grandhip/en/index.html |date=2007-10-08 }}</ref>

===Railways===
*[[JR Hokkaido)]]
**[[Hakodate Main Line]]: [[Hirafu Station]] – [[Kutchan Station]]
*Formerly, the Iburi Line served Kutchan from [[Datemombetsu Station]] of the [[Muroran Main Line]], but it was discontinued in 1986.
*[[Hokkaido Railway Company|JR Hokkaido]] plans to include Kutchan in its planned [[Hokkaido Shinkansen]] (bullet train) service, which would connect the town to [[Honshū]] and, consequently, [[Tokyo]].

===Roadways===
====Japan National Route====
*[[Japan National Route 5|Route 5]]
*[[Japan National Route 276|Route 276]]
*[[Japan National Route 393|Route 393]]

====Prefectural highways====
*Hokkaido Route 58 (Kutchan – Niseko)
*Hokkaido Route 271 (Kutchan stop)
*Hokkaido Route 343 (Rankoshi – Niseko – Kutchan)
*Hokkaido Route 478 (Kyogoku – Kutchan)
*Hokkaido Route 631 (Niseko – Takahara – Hirafu)


==Culture==
==Culture==
Line 211: Line 348:


===Jagata-kun===
===Jagata-kun===
[[File:20230712 Kutchan town map Jagata-kun.png|thumb|Jagata-kun, the skiing potato, pictured on a town map in Kutchan.]]
{{Nihongo|Jagata-kun|じゃが太くん}} is Kutchan's mascot cartoon character. Due to the heavy snowfalls in the region, Kutchan hosts several alpine resorts frequented by domestic and international skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, Kutchan is best known for its primary agricultural product: potatoes. The town's two main industries (ski resorts and potato farming) are both reflected in Jagata-kun, a skiing potato.
{{Nihongo|Jagata-kun|じゃが太くん}} and {{Nihongo|Jagako-chan|じゃが子ちゃん}} are Kutchan's mascot cartoon character. Due to the heavy snowfalls in the region, Kutchan hosts several alpine resorts frequented by domestic and international skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, Kutchan is best known for its primary agricultural product: potatoes. The town's two main industries (ski resorts and potato farming) are both reflected in Jagata-kun, a skiing potato.

==Education==
*Public High Schools
**Hokkaido Kutchan High School, Hokkaido Kutchan Agriculture High School
*Middle Schools
**Kutchan
*Elementary Schools
**Kutchan, Hokuyo, Higashi, Nishi, Kabayama Branch School

==Transportation==
*Railroad
**[[Hokkaido Railway Company|Hokkaido Passenger Railroad Company (JR Hokkaido)]]
***[[Hakodate Main Line]]: [[Hirafu Station]] – [[Kutchan Station]]
**Formerly, the Iburi Line served Kutchan from Date's Monbetsu Station of the Muroran Line, but it was discontinued in 1986.
**[[Hokkaido Railway Company|JR Hokkaido]] plans to include Kutchan in its planned [[Hokkaido Shinkansen]] (bullet train) service, which would connect the town to [[Honshū]] and, consequently, [[Tokyo]].
*Roadway
**General national highways
***[[Route 5 (Japan)|Route 5]]
***[[Route 276 (Japan)|Route 276]]
***[[Route 393 (Japan)|Route 393]]
**Prefectural highways
***Hokkaido Route 58 (Kutchan – Niseko)
***Hokkaido Route 271 (Kutchan stop)
***Hokkaido Route 343 (Rankoshi – Niseko – Kutchan)
***Hokkaido Route 478 (Kyogoku – Kutchan)
***Hokkaido Route 631 (Niseko – Takahara – Hirafu)
*Air
**[[New Chitose Airport]] is the closest major airport to the town, about 2 hours away by car.<ref>[http://202.69.231.173/~grandhip/en/index.html Niseko Mt Resort Grand Hirafu<!-- Bot generated title -->] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071008173447/http://202.69.231.173/~grandhip/en/index.html |date=2007-10-08 }}</ref>


==Places of interest==
==Places of interest==
Line 247: Line 357:


==Famous persons==
==Famous persons==
* [[Kokona Hiraki]], Olympic skateboarder
*[[Masami Yuki]], a [[Mangaka|manga artist]] born and raised in Kutchan
*[[Masami Yuki]], a [[Mangaka|manga artist]] born and raised in Kutchan


==Sister cities==
==Sister cities==
{{Refimprove section|date=June 2016}}
{{More citations needed section|date=June 2016}}
*{{flagicon|Switzerland}} [[St. Moritz|St. Moritz, Switzerland]], since March 19, 1964
*{{flagicon|Switzerland}} [[St. Moritz]], Switzerland, since March 19, 1964
*{{flagicon|USA}} [[Vail, Colorado|Vail]]
*{{flagicon|USA}} [[Vail, Colorado|Vail]], Colorado, United States
*{{flagicon|Israel}} [[Zikhron Ya'akov]]
*{{flagicon|Israel}} [[Zikhron Ya'akov]], Israel
*{{flagicon|Germany}} [[Westerland, Germany|Westerland]]
*{{flagicon|Germany}} [[Westerland, Germany|Westerland]], Germany


==See also==
==See also==
Line 273: Line 384:
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kutchan, Hokkaido}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kutchan, Hokkaido}}
[[Category:Towns in Hokkaido]]
[[Category:Towns in Hokkaido]]
[[Category:Cartoon mascots]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1893]]
[[Category:Mascots]]
[[Category:1893 establishments in Japan]]

Revision as of 17:04, 1 April 2024

Kutchan
倶知安町
Town
Flag of Kutchan
Flag
Official seal of Kutchan
Emblem
Location of Kutchan in Hokkaido (Shiribeshi Subprefecture)
Location of Kutchan in Hokkaido (Shiribeshi Subprefecture)
Kutchan is located in Japan
Kutchan
Kutchan
Location in Japan
Coordinates: 42°54′N 140°46′E / 42.900°N 140.767°E / 42.900; 140.767
CountryJapan
RegionHokkaido
PrefectureHokkaido (Shiribeshi Subprefecture)
DistrictAbuta
Area
 • Total261.24 km2 (100.87 sq mi)
Population
 (April 30, 2017)
 • Total15,573
 • Density60/km2 (150/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+09:00 (JST)
City hall address3-3 Kita-ichijō-higashi, Kutchan-chō, Abuta-gun, Hokkaidō
044-0001
ClimateDfb
Websitewww.town.kutchan.hokkaido.jp
Symbols
FlowerRhododendron
MascotJagata-kun and Jagako-chan
TreePainted Maple

Kutchan (倶知安町, Kutchan-chō) is a town located in Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan. Kutchan lies slightly north of the volcano Mount Yōtei, and is approximately 50 kilometers west of Sapporo. The subprefecture government offices are located in this town, making it the capital of the subprefecture.

As of April 30, 2017, the town has an estimated population of 15,573 and a population density of 60 persons per km².[1] The total area is 261.24 km2 (100.87 sq mi).

Throughout Hokkaido, Kutchan is known for its proximity to the world famous Niseko powder snow region and for its production of quality potatoes and potato products. Among these products, Kutchan is most famous for manufacturing gosetsu-udon, a Japanese noodle made from potato flour. Jagata-kun, the skiing potato that is the cartoon mascot of Kutchan, indicates Kutchan's two most celebrated aspects. Jagata-kun roughly translates as, "little, fat potato boy".

Geography

  • Located approximately 50 km (31 mi) west of Sapporo. Kutchan lies in a valley surrounded by mountains, notably Niseko Annupuri and Mount Yōtei.
Kutchan as seen from Asahigaoka Park
  • Mountains: Yōtei (Shiribeshi Mountain) (Makkari-Nupuri in Ainu) (active volcano, 1898 m), Niseko Iwaonupuri (active volcano, 1116 m), Niseko Annupuri (1308 m)
  • Rivers: Shiribetsu, Kutōzan

Climate

Kutchan has the distinction of being one of the snowiest towns on earth, with average annual snowfalls in excess of 10 m (33 ft). At only 176 m (577 ft) above sea level the town receives greater amounts of snow than the world's leading ski areas such as Whistler, Aspen or Chamonix. Wintery weather lasts from early November through to early April with the snowiest month being January which averages 2.9 m (9.5 ft). January is also the coldest month averaging −5.7 °C (21.7 °F). Kutchan has 4 very distinct seasons with reasonably short spring and autumn periods. The summer is mild with temperatures rarely getting above 30 °C (86 °F) and the humidity that afflicts much of Asia at this time is only felt for a short period, usually in August.

Climate data for Kutchan, Hokkaido (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1944−present)
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 8.7
(47.7) 		10.4
(50.7) 		13.3
(55.9) 		23.8
(74.8) 		32.5
(90.5) 		32.5
(90.5) 		34.1
(93.4) 		34.6
(94.3) 		32.0
(89.6) 		23.7
(74.7) 		20.0
(68.0) 		12.5
(54.5) 		34.6
(94.3)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −2.0
(28.4) 		−1.0
(30.2) 		3.0
(37.4) 		9.8
(49.6) 		16.9
(62.4) 		20.9
(69.6) 		24.4
(75.9) 		25.4
(77.7) 		21.7
(71.1) 		15.0
(59.0) 		6.9
(44.4) 		0.0
(32.0) 		11.8
(53.2)
Daily mean °C (°F) −5.4
(22.3) 		−4.9
(23.2) 		−1.0
(30.2) 		4.9
(40.8) 		11.2
(52.2) 		15.6
(60.1) 		19.7
(67.5) 		20.6
(69.1) 		16.4
(61.5) 		9.7
(49.5) 		2.9
(37.2) 		−3.1
(26.4) 		7.2
(45.0)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −9.6
(14.7) 		−9.4
(15.1) 		−5.7
(21.7) 		0.1
(32.2) 		6.0
(42.8) 		11.3
(52.3) 		16.1
(61.0) 		16.7
(62.1) 		11.3
(52.3) 		4.5
(40.1) 		−1.0
(30.2) 		−6.8
(19.8) 		2.8
(37.0)
Record low °C (°F) −35.7
(−32.3) 		−28.7
(−19.7) 		−28.8
(−19.8) 		−18.6
(−1.5) 		−4.8
(23.4) 		0.1
(32.2) 		4.6
(40.3) 		4.8
(40.6) 		−1.3
(29.7) 		−8.9
(16.0) 		−22.0
(−7.6) 		−27.0
(−16.6) 		−35.7
(−32.3)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 184.5
(7.26) 		129.4
(5.09) 		98.3
(3.87) 		67.1
(2.64) 		75.8
(2.98) 		59.9
(2.36) 		102.3
(4.03) 		153.1
(6.03) 		133.3
(5.25) 		128.2
(5.05) 		182.8
(7.20) 		217.7
(8.57) 		1,532.3
(60.33)
Average snowfall cm (inches) 253
(100) 		187
(74) 		122
(48) 		17
(6.7) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		0
(0) 		2
(0.8) 		95
(37) 		253
(100) 		921
(363)
Average rainy days (≥ 1.0 mm) 24.5 21.3 17.0 11.0 9.8 8.0 8.6 9.9 11.9 14.3 19.9 24.7 180.9
Average snowy days (≥ 1 cm) 26.3 23.4 20.3 7.5 0 0 0 0 0 0.5 11.7 25.2 114.9
Average relative humidity (%) 82 80 75 72 74 80 83 84 82 79 80 83 79
Mean monthly sunshine hours 47.0 65.1 121.1 173.3 189.9 169.7 144.5 149.5 149.3 127.8 65.5 38.8 1,441.4
Source 1: Japan Meteorological Agency[2]
Source 2: Japan Meteorological Agency[3]

Neighboring municipalities

Shiribeshi

History

  • Kutchan's name comes from the language of the Hokkaido's native Ainu people. It attempts to mimic the pronunciation of the Ainu word ku-shan-i (which roughly translates as “the place where the channel flows”), but some claim that the name is derived from kucha-an-nai (“stream of a hunting lodge”).
  • 1892: Cultivation begins by colonizers from Tokushima Prefecture who had settled in nearby Yoichi.
  • 1893: The village of Kutchan is established. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Abuta village town office (present-day Tōyako).
  • 1896: The town office of Kutchan opens.
  • 1899: Changes jurisdiction from Muroran Subprefecture (present-day Iburi Subprefecture) to Iwanai Subprefecture.
  • 1906: Administered as a second-level municipality.
  • 1910: On February 8, Rusutsu, Iwanai, and Otaru’s subprefectures were consolidated into Abuta District of Muroran Subprefecture. Shiribeshi Subprefecture is established in Kutchan. On April 5, the satellite village of East Kutchan (present-day Kyōgoku) is formed. Nisekoan, Higa, and the Fujizan area become part of the Shutai village administration zone (present-day Niseko)
  • 1916: Administered as a town-level municipality
  • 1991: 100-year anniversary is celebrated.

Economy

Agriculture

Along with short grain white rice, much of Kutchan's surrounding area is devoted to potato cultivation.

Hirafu

Kutchan hosts the Hirafu skiing area. Hirafu is commonly mistaken as a section of Niseko town since it is a part of the greater Niseko skiing region. However, to the financial benefit of Kutchan, Hirafu lies within the confines of Kutchan town. Hirafu's largest ski resort, Niseko Grand Hirafu, draws the highest number of both domestic and foreign skiers and snowboarders than any other resort in the Niseko region. It is linked to the ski areas of Annupuri, Higashiyama, and Hanazono which together may be skied on one lift pass.

In recent years, [when?] an explosively high number of Australians have frequented Hirafu, many of whom have settled in the area and spawned businesses such as pensions, bars, and cafes.

Hirafu is also frequented by a considerable number of tourists from Hong Kong, as well as tourists coming from within Japan.

Hirafu's expanding tourism industry is often attributed to the steady and copious supply of fresh powder snow, which many [1][who?]claim is among the best in the entire hemisphere, if not the world.

While Hirafu's economic boom is undoubtedly an asset to Kutchan town, many fear that such rapid development will alter the price margin of goods and services offered in the village, and subsequently transform the local flavor of Hirafu.[citation needed] The local community of both Japanese and foreign "backpacker" skiers and snowboarders, who typically operate on a smaller budget than their upscale counterparts, are already being overshadowed by the burgeoning influx of wealthy tourists.[citation needed]

Education

Public High Schools

  • Hokkaido Kutchan High School
  • Hokkaido Kutchan Agriculture High School

Middle schools

  • Kutchan

Elementary schools

  • Kutchan, Hokuyo, Higashi, Nishi, Kabayama Branch School

Transportation

Airways

Airport

Railways

Roadways

Japan National Route

Prefectural highways

  • Hokkaido Route 58 (Kutchan – Niseko)
  • Hokkaido Route 271 (Kutchan stop)
  • Hokkaido Route 343 (Rankoshi – Niseko – Kutchan)
  • Hokkaido Route 478 (Kyogoku – Kutchan)
  • Hokkaido Route 631 (Niseko – Takahara – Hirafu)

Culture

As the main regional center of population, Kutchan hosts a variety of cultural institutions and events. The town is home to two museums, the Kutchan Natural History Museum and the Shu Ogawara Art Museum. It also hosts the annual Mt. Niseko Kutchan Jazz Festival every July in the center of town, drawing thousands to enjoy the music of Japanese and Australian musicians.

Jagata-kun

Jagata-kun, the skiing potato, pictured on a town map in Kutchan.

Jagata-kun (じゃが太くん) and Jagako-chan (じゃが子ちゃん) are Kutchan's mascot cartoon character. Due to the heavy snowfalls in the region, Kutchan hosts several alpine resorts frequented by domestic and international skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, Kutchan is best known for its primary agricultural product: potatoes. The town's two main industries (ski resorts and potato farming) are both reflected in Jagata-kun, a skiing potato.

Places of interest

Famous persons

Sister cities

See also

References

  1. ^ "Official website of Kutchan Town" (in Japanese). Japan: Kutchan Town. Retrieved 16 May 2017.
  2. ^ "平年値(年・月ごとの値)". Japan Meteorological Agency. August 2011. Retrieved 2010-02-22.
  3. ^ "観測史上1〜10位の値(年間を通じての値)". Japan Meteorological Agency. Retrieved 2010-02-22.
  4. ^ Niseko Mt Resort Grand Hirafu Archived 2007-10-08 at the Wayback Machine

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Kutchan, Hokkaidō.
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