Sorachi Subprefecture

Sorachi Subprefecture is an administrative region in central Hokkaido that contains ten cities and numerous towns and villages, with Iwamizawa serving as its main administrative center. The area spans rolling and flat land crossed by rivers and agricultural fields that form the backbone of the region's character.

This subprefecture was established in 1897 during a major administrative reorganization of Hokkaido that reshaped the island's government structure. This founding created the framework for the region's present-day territorial divisions.

The mascots of Iwamizawa, such as Iwami-chan the onion character, reflect the region's strong connection to agriculture and farming traditions. These symbols show how deeply agricultural life shapes the identity of people living here.

Iwamizawa serves as the region's main transportation hub, with train connections and access to the Hokkaido Expressway for traveling around the area. From there, most visitors can easily reach the main destinations and attractions in the surrounding region.

The name Iwamizawa comes from Japanese words meaning bathing place and swamp, reflecting the natural landscape of the original settlement. This linguistic origin reveals the close link between nature and the area's early development.

Location: Hokkaido

Capital city: Iwamizawa

Shares border with: Iburi Subprefecture, Ishikari Subprefecture, Kamikawa Subprefecture, Rumoi Subprefecture

Website: http://sorachi.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp

GPS coordinates: 43.19757,141.76639

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:26