Wassamu, town in Kamikawa district, Hokkaido, Japan
Wassamu is a small town in northern Hokkaido surrounded by hills and farmland that stretches in all directions, with fields of pumpkins and cabbages thriving in the cool climate and rich soil. The town sits at the base of Shiokari Pass, where a river originates and flows through the region.
Wassamu was originally inhabited by the Ainu people and takes its name from their language. The area was officially established as a village in 1915 and gained town status in 1952.
The name Wassamu comes from the Ainu language and means "next to the elm tree", reflecting the area's roots with the indigenous people and their connection to the land. Local residents honor this heritage through stories and small museums that keep these traditions alive.
The town is easily reached by a main highway, and a train line connects Wassamu to other parts of Hokkaido for straightforward access. Buses also run from the town to nearby cities like Asahikawa, making visits simple to arrange.
Much of the cabbage harvest is stored outdoors in snow pits during winter, where the extreme cold makes the cabbage sweeter and more flavorful. This traditional snow storage method shows how residents cleverly use the harsh winter environment to improve the taste and quality of their crops.
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