10 Things to Do in Naganuma

10 Things to Do in Naganuma

Naganuma (長沼町) is a town in the Sorachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. The town's name comes from the long, narrow swamp of Lake Mikazuki (Lake Crescent Moon) that existed in the town area before settlement. The indigenous Ainu people called it "tanne-to'' (a long, narrow swamp) in the Ainu language. Hence, the Japanese translation 長沼.

For those planning to visit the town of Naganuma to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Naganuma:

Naganuma manhole cover

1.  Take a picture of the manhole cover of Naganuma. So far, I have seen 1 unique manhole cover. It is commonly seen around the town. 

Naganuma Shrine

2. Visit the Naganuma Shrine (長沼神社). It’s the main shrine of the town of Naganuma. You can pay your respects and offer prayers here any time of the day. Don’t forget to avail of the shrine’s goshuin if you are collecting them. 

Iwaki (いわき)

3. Dine at Iwaki (いわき). This restaurant has a humble façade and you might easily miss it as it does not stand out. Regardless, the shrimp tempura bowl is a must-try.

Naganuma Roadside Station / Maoi no Oka Park Roadside Station

4.  Visit the Naganuma Roadside Station, formally called Maoi no Oka Park Roadside Station (道の駅 マオイの丘公園). The top floor of the roadside station doubles as an observation deck. The view from it is superb. There are also several shops and restaurants in the roadside station grounds worth checking out. It’s a must-visit if you are collecting roadside station stamps. 

Farm Restaurant Harvest

5. Dine at Farm Restaurant Harvest (ファームレストラン ハーベスト). Aside from the amazing ambiance of the restaurant, the hamburger steak and apple pie sold here are super delicious. 

Kitanaga Campsite

6.  Pitch a tent and stay overnight at Kitanaga Campsite (KITANAGAキャンプ場). This campground is highly recommended for families or campers with a large group of people. It has a vast campground perfect for kids to run around.  

Naganuma Onsen

7. Take a dip at the onsen of Naganuma Onsen (ながぬま温泉). You may choose the day trip option of staying overnight. Aside from the onsen, another must-try in Naganuma Onsen is the Jingisukan and the kaiseki. 

Kitanaganuma Ski Area (北長沼スキー場)

8.  Ski at Kitanaganuma Ski Area (北長沼スキー場). It’s a good place to go especially if you’re a beginner.  

Heidi Farm

9. Visit Heidi Farm (ハイジ牧場). There are numerous farm animals here. Try interactive activities like animal feeding, horseback riding, and milking cows. 

Mt. Chokan

10. Hike Mt. Chokan. It’s a fairly easy hike that can be done in less than half a day. There is an observation deck on top of the mountain that will allow you to view the vast lands below. During spring, this place is also a great place to go to view sakura blossoms. 

I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Naganuma gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this beautiful farm town in the Sorachi subprefecture of Hokkaido.

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