Reader’s Question:

Location Inquiry

This is a photo taken somewhere in Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido. Please provide the exact location.

It appears that within the Kitahiroshima housing complex, there are row houses visible from the north side, and three houses lined
up from the south side.

Discovering Kitahiroshima City: Hidden Gems and Local Vibes

As a travel enthusiast with a soft spot for Japan, I often find myself exploring the less-trodden paths of this magnificent country. Today, I want to share a little adventure I had in Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido—a place that might not be on everyone’s travel radar, but oh boy, does it have its charms.

The Allure of Kitahiroshima City

So, let me set the stage. Picture this: you’re in Hokkaido, famous for its stunning landscapes and mouth-watering fresh seafood, but you decide to veer away from the tourist traps that are Sapporo or Otaru. Instead, you find yourself in Kitahiroshima City, a quaint little town nestled just a stone’s throw away from Sapporo. I stumbled upon Kitahiroshima quite by accident while I was browsing through Instagram, looking up places to visit in Hokkaido. A photo caught my eye—an enchanting view of row houses framed by a backdrop of lush greenery. It looked inviting, and I thought, “Why not?” After an easy train ride from Sapporo, I found myself stepping off at Kitahiroshima Station, feeling a mix of excitement and curiosity. The first thing that struck me was the tranquility of the place. The air was crisp, and the atmosphere felt relaxed, almost like a warm hug from an old friend.

Exploring the Housing Complex

Now, let’s talk about the housing complex—this is where my adventure really began. The photo I had seen online had piqued my curiosity about the row houses visible from the north side. After a quick chat with a friendly local at a nearby coffee shop (who served me the best matcha latte I’ve ever had, by the way), I got directions to the complex. As I walked through the neighborhood, I was struck by the sight of those charming row houses. They had a distinct architectural style that blended modern design with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The colors of the houses were soft and inviting, and I couldn’t help but take a few pictures. You see, as a traveler, I love to capture the essence of the places I visit, and these houses told a story of cozy living and community spirit. I paused for a moment, imagining families living there, kids playing in the yards, and the aroma of home-cooked meals wafting through the air. But I didn’t just stop at snapping photos. I wandered a little further, intrigued by the three houses lined up from the south side. These houses had a slightly different vibe—perhaps they were older or simply maintained in a way that spoke of history and nostalgia. I could almost hear the echoes of laughter and conversations that had been shared there over the years.

A Taste of Local Life

One of my favorite things about traveling is immersing myself in local culture. I decided to knock on a neighbor’s door (yes, I did that, and it was a little nerve-wracking!). To my surprise, an elderly lady greeted me with a warm smile. Her name was Mrs. Tanaka, and she invited me in for tea. Over steaming cups of green tea and slices of moist matcha cake, Mrs. Tanaka shared stories about her life in Kitahiroshima. She spoke fondly of how the city has changed over the years, from a sleepy town to a vibrant community that still holds onto its traditions. That small interaction became one of the highlights of my trip. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about the sights; it’s about the people you meet along the way. And, oh my, if you ever get the chance to try homemade matcha cake, do it!

A Little Adventure Awaits

After my tea with Mrs. Tanaka, I decided to explore the surrounding area. There’s something special about wandering through streets that aren’t crammed with tourists. I stumbled upon a small park just a few blocks away. It was quaint and peaceful, with locals jogging, kids playing, and couples enjoying leisurely strolls. As I sat on a bench, taking in the scenery, I noticed the mountains in the distance. They were breathtaking, with a blend of greens and browns that made me want to hike up one of those trails. So, I did what any travel-loving adventurer would do—I asked another local for directions to the nearest hiking spot. They pointed me to a nearby trailhead, and before I knew it, I was lacing up my hiking boots and setting off on an impromptu adventure. The trail was less frequented, which meant I had the magnificence of Hokkaido’s natural beauty all to myself.

Wonders of Nature

The hike was invigorating. The air was fresh, filled with the scent of pine trees, and I could hear birds chirping merrily. As I made my way up, the views became more and more spectacular. I stopped frequently to snap photos because honestly, I was in awe. At one point, I came across a clearing that offered a panoramic view of Kitahiroshima City and the surrounding mountains. I stood there for a moment, taking it all in and feeling incredibly grateful for the chance to experience this hidden gem of a city. Honestly, why do people flock to the typical tourist spots when places like Kitahiroshima exist? It’s like finding a diamond in the rough—a town bursting with character, friendly locals, and stunning nature, all waiting to be discovered.

Reflections on My Journey

As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, I made my way back down to the city. I was filled with a sense of fulfillment—my heart was full, my camera was loaded with beautiful shots, and my soul felt refreshed. On my journey back to Sapporo, I couldn’t help but reflect on everything I had experienced in Kitahiroshima. The warmth of the community, the beauty of the landscape, and the simple joy of connecting with people—these are the moments I cherish most during my travels. So, if you ever find yourself in Hokkaido, do take the time to venture to Kitahiroshima. It may not have the glitz and glamour of larger cities, but it offers something much more valuable—authenticity. You might find a charming row house, a cup of tea with a kind stranger, or a breathtaking view that makes your heart skip a beat. In the end, travel isn’t just about collecting photos; it’s about collecting experiences—moments that resonate with you long after you’ve left. And I promise you, Kitahiroshima City will leave a lasting impression. Happy travels, my fellow adventurers!