Nishiokoppe, village in Monbetsu district, Hokkaidō, Japan
Nishiokoppe is a village in northern Hokkaido with buildings painted in warm orange and large forest areas surrounding it. The village spreads across a broad valley shaped by the Okoppe River and includes the nearby areas of Kamiokoppe plus several smaller settlements with farms and open fields.
The village developed gradually as an agricultural settlement, with Ainu traditions exerting significant influence on early settlement patterns. Over time, Ainu roots became interwoven with newer patterns of land use, creating a place where old customs and modern livestock farming coexist.
The village carries strong traces of Ainu culture, the original inhabitants of Hokkaido, kept alive in local festivals and customs. The Murakoso summer festival brings residents together to enjoy music, food, and fireworks while celebrating their shared history.
The nearest airports are in Monbetsu and Asahikawa, each about a few hours away by car, and most visitors rent a car since there are no trains within the village. Buses connect Nishiokoppe with nearby towns, making it easy to explore the area at a relaxed pace.
The village is known for matsutake shochu, a strong mushroom-scented spirit made from mushrooms that grow wild in the nearby forests. This local specialty is produced in collaboration with outside breweries and is popular with visitors seeking unique flavors.
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