History of the Earth,

ExposedSamani, Hokkaido
Samani-cho Town Hall
Zip 058-8501 Odori 1-chome 21 Banchi, Samani-cho, Hokkaido
TEL 0146-36-2111(Rep) / 0146-36-2119(Chamber of Commerse Tourism Department)
FAX 0146-36-2662
E-mail samani@aioros.ocn.ne.jp

Hokkaido Samani-cho Tokyo Office
Zip 104-0031 Kyobashi 1-chome 17-3, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Uchimura Kyobashi Bldg. 5F
TEL 03-6228-7760 Mobile 090-3118-0302
FAX 03-6228-7361
E-mail samani.tokyo@grace.ocn.ne.jp

Samani Official Website
http://www.samani.jp/Mt. ApoiGeopark Official Website
http://www.apoi-geopark.jp/SAMANI.

Photos: 4th Samani Photo Contest Entries "The Arts of the Samani Gods" (Mt. Kannon enveloped in cloud sea)Gifts from deep within the earth can be found here.
"Daichino Koen," is a certified
UNESCO World Geopark"Geo" is a word that describes the earth andvast land. Scientifically important or naturalparks with significant beauty, geography or geological features is deemed a "Geopark." The
entire town of Samani is considered the Mt.
Apoi Geopark. This highly valuable natural heritage and rich natural environment offer an

opportunity to learn of the historical culture of
the area, while enjoying all of its potential. Mt.
Apoi Geopark was certified as a geopark ofJapan in 2008. In September, 2015 it was theeighth in Japan, and the second beyond theTohoku area, to be recognized as a UNESCOWorld Geopark.

The Hidaka Mountain Range in the Background,the Pacific Ocean in the Foreground
Samani is located on the southeast side of theHidaka Mountain Range, the backbone of Hokkaido. Over 90% of the total area is covered inforests, and rolling hills encroach upon theshoreline. The sunset which slowly sinks into
the Pacific Ocean takes one's breath away. The
summers are cool and winters are mild, considering the cold nature of Hokkaido. The amountof snowfall is also relatively minimal. It is insuch rich nature, that fishing has flourishedfrom ancient times, and seafood such as sea
urchin, true whelks, kombu and salmon aresome of the fine seafood available, besides thedelicious strawberries that have recently beengrown in the cool climate here in Samani.

Geological features, geography and nature,unlike anything in the world.

Tokachi
Obihiro Airport

Sapporo
New Chitose
Airport

Mt. Apoi Geopark is made up of 35 geosites,and divided into 5 different theme areas.

Hakodate

SamaniShintomi AreaUrakawa

Mt. Apoi Area

Samani Coast Area
Mt. Apoi

Horomankyo Area

LegendNational Highways

Hidaka Yabakei Area

Geosites
JR Lines

0246810km

Erimo

Three keywords to help you enjoy Mt. Apoi Geoparkon how to discover the1 Hints"inside" of the earth.

2 Why on a mountain so low?

One of the biggest features of Mt. Apoi Geopark,is the rare and magnificent rock formation,"Kanran Rock," which is formed from the mantle
deep within the earth and due to the earth's
movement. This is a rare and amazing site
worldwide, which allows visitors to see the innercores of the earth, while being on the surface ofthe earth.

The combined elements of the Kanran Rockformation and its unusual geological features,and the weather, allow for alpine vegetation to
grow on Mt. Apoidake, even though it is only 810
meters in elevation. Here you can even find rare
and native kinds of alpine plants. The Mt. Apoi
Alpine Vegetation Colony is a designated Special
Natural Monument of the nation.

Kanran Rock1

Alpine Vegetation

is Born from
3 AtheStory
Unique Geography

The History ofthe People

There are many Ainu legends surrounding thecoastline of Samani, where various unusual rockformations of many sizes can be seen in theocean. The cape which has been used as anatural port since the Edo period, played an
important role for the Kitamae merchant ships.

2

Tr ek k ing

Take a walk throughthe Mt. Apoi Geopark.
Journey to discover the mystique of nature,and the dynamism of the earth.

Mt. Apoi[Mt. Apoi Area]

Unique alpine vegetation provided by
the Kanran Rock formation.
A symbol of Mt. Apoi Geopark.
"Apoi is shortened from the Ainu word Apeoinupuri, Apé(fire) Oi (where there are many), Nupuri(mountain),where as ancient Ainu legend goes, fires were once
made in the alters on top of the mountains to pray to thegods for an abundant catch of deer.
Just 4 km from the coast, Mt. Apoi is an easy climb incasual wear. It takes approximately 2 and a half hours
to 3 hours to climb to the summit, 5-6 hours round-trip.
The best time to climb is between late April and late
October when there is no snow on the ground. If you
stand on one of the peaks known as the "horse's back",
you can see a grand panorama of both the Pacific
Ocean and the Hidaka Mountain Range. The climate of
the area is cool, due to its location near the sea, there islittle snow during the winter, so the roads are usuallydry, and the terraine made by the Kanran rock formations makes it difficult for vegetation to grow. Suchfactors are responsible for the rare environment whichallows alpine vegetation to grow on Mt. Apoi, eventhough it is only 810 meters in elevation. "Mt. Apoi

SamaniMantle

What is Kanran Rockformation?
Deep within the earth is themantle, and it is in this mantle thatrocks known as "kanran rocks"
are formed. This is one of the few
places on the surface of earth,w h e r e yo u ca n se e a n a tu r a lphenomenom that belongs deep
underground.

Alpine Vegetation of Mt. Apoi
Alpine vegetation unique to Mt. Apoinear 20 different kinds.
The Mt. Apoi Alpine Vegetation Colony is a registered Special Natural Monument of Japan.

31234567

1

Callianthemum miyabeanum(family of Ranunculaceae)

2Cat's ear

3

Primula modesta

4

Erigeron thunbergii subsp. glabratus

5

Viola sacchalinensis

6

Silene repens var. apoiensis

7

Hyericum samaniense41

Take a walk through the Geopark.
Here are some of the highlights.

Horomankyo

浦河町[Horomankyo Area]

Breathtaking view of
the canyons created byvarious Kanran rock formations.

2345Mt. Kannon

Fuyushima Tunnel Rock4

[Hidaka Yabakei Area]

5

The perfect viewpoint for
the rock formations in the ocean.

A natural tunnel created by
the force of waves.

Tied islands are created over time, as thewaves carrying sands begins to link theisland to the land. From long ago, the area
was considered the perfect natural port forships to make berth, and it was used fromthe Edo period to accommodate the Kitamae merchant ships, which led to the development of present-day Samani. On the backside of the cape, there are spectacular platy
joints that were created by lava as it cooled,
and from the observatory you can enjoy asweeping view of the Mt. Apoi Geopark.

There is a little mountain shaped like a bellthat is no more than 100 meters in elevation,
overlooking the port of Samani, which wasonce used as a chasi(fort) for the Ainu. Manylegends connected to battles remain in thearea. Visitors can access the summit observatory by car, where you can view the many
interesting and unusual rock formations suchas Oyakoiwa(family rock), and Cape
Enrumu. The entire mountain is covered indeciduous trees, and the floor of the forest iscovered with trout lilies, Trillium camschatcense and other dainty little flowers.

The foothills of Mt. Apoi drop into the Pacific
Ocean, creating a coast of steep cliffs thatcontinue 7 kilometers down the coast. Thisarea is called the Hidaka Yabakei area, isthe border where once upon a time, theEurasia plate and North American plates
collided. This large sea cave that inside theFuyushima Port, was made by waves eroding away the large rock. The name Fuyushima is derived from the Ainu word for the sea
cave, puyu(hole), shuma(rock).

The most beautiful inn will soothe the stresses of travel.

Mt. Apoi Geopark Visitor Center

Mt. Apoi Geopark Service Guide

Apoi Sanso

Price: ¥5,000 and up per guide.
(Maximum of 15 people per group,and under 4 hours)
Inquiries/Reservations
Mt. Apoi Geopark Promotional Council Office
TEL 0146-36-2120[Samani Coast Area]

Historically important points
that relate to present-day Samani.

Here are some tips how to enhance your experience at the Geopark.

Expert guides who know all there is to know
about Mt. Apoi Geopark will help to satiate
your curiosity and provide you with anawesome tour. You can also request a guideto ride with you and show you the sights, so
please feel free to make your requests
known.

Another symbol of Samanithat competes with Mt. Apoi.
Three rock formations that appear as afamily stand together. This point, which isalso a famous spot for viewing sunsets, issaid to bring happiness to families if you
stand at this point and pray. Only for a shorttime during winter, you can see the sunset
right between the three rocks. This familyrock formation is only an example of all theinteresting rock formations that can be seenalong the Samani Coast. There are many
Ainu legends linked to these unique rockformations.

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If you are visiting Samani for the first time, you must stop by here first.

Hirau 479-7, Samani
TEL 0146-36-3601
Open: 9:00 - 17:00
Open Season: Apr - Nov(open upon request between Dec - Mar)No closed days during open season.

5[Samani Coast Area]

2[Samani Coast Area]

The Kanran rock formation canyons werecreated over time by the Horoman River
which flows from its source in the Hidaka
Mountain Range. The canyons continue
approximately 8 km toward the eastern sideof Mt. Apoi, where you can view various
kinds of Kanran rock formations, and which
is why there are many geosites forresearchers. Midway up the mountain, there
is a mixed forest comprised of coniferous
and deciduous trees, and in this forest is theJapanese White Pine, which is a registered
Natural Monument of the Nation. The forestchanges beautiful colors in late October.

Cape Enrumu

The facility offers comprehensive informationsuch as the geological and geographicalaspects, nature, history, culture, and industry
pertaining to the Mt. Apoi Geopark. Conditions for climbing Mt. Apoi, such as whatalpine vegetation is in season, and sightingsof the brown bears are provided in real time.

Oyakoiwa
1Lodging facility located near the Mt. Apoi
trailhead, with a commanding view of Mt. Apoi
and the Pacific Ocean. The large public bathis complete with outdoor bath, and offers
day-trip bathing.

Hirau 479-7, Samani
TEL 0146-36-5211
19 Rooms Accommodates up to 59 people
http://apoi-sanso.co.jp/Recommended routes and courses.
Choose from easy 4-hour courses to serious climbing courses that take approximately
8 hours. Check our website for the best trekking and walking courses.
Mt. Apoi Geopark Official Website http://www.apoi-geopark.jp/Mt.ApoiSearch

Free App[Geopark Burari ]Use the GPS on your smartphone andtablet to access maps and your location,
as well as introductions to the geopark,and various tourist information, completewith photos. This App is an official free
App of the Japan Geopark Network.

iPhone users see here

Android users see here6

L o c a l f o od

C am p ing

Rich blessings of the sea and mountains,
to your heart's content.

Enjoy the richness of nature on the ocean
and in the mountains!

The waters off of Samani where the Oyashio(Kurile current) and the Kuroshio current collide,make for the perfect fishing grounds. The cool climate here is also fit for growing strawberries.

There are three campgrounds in town,
so you can enjoy camping either on the beach or in the mountains.

Oyakoiwa Fureai-Beach Campgrounds
Campgrounds with a grand view of the Oyakoiwa rock formation in the sea.
Complete with shower, changing room, and flushable toilets.
PeriodAdmission
Reservations
InquiriesSea Urchin

True Whelks

Kombu

Spring is the season for sea urchinin Hidaka. Ezo bafun sea urchin thathave fed on quality Hidaka kombu
are sweet and very rich in taste.

Samani Whelks are the largest of its
kind in Hokkaido. Served Sashimi
style, they are crunchy in texture likeabalone, and juicy with every bite.

Hidaka kombu, also known as
Mitsuishi kombu, is carefully dried in
the sun, and on a really sunny day
during the summer when fishing isat its peak, you will see kombu lainacross the drying yards.

Surfing Spot, Hidaka Yabakei Area

Late Jun - late Sep (swimming between early Jul - mid Aug)One night Adults ¥600, elementary - Jr. High ¥400, screen tents and tarps, ¥300 per night.
Free Site
Oyakoiwa Fureai Beach Center House (during the season)
TEL 0146-36-5555
Samani Town Hall Chamber of Commerce Tourism Department (off season)
TEL 0146-36-2119

The Hidaka Yabakei area, where the cliffs at the foot of Mt. Apoi drop straight into theocean, is in fact a well known surfing spot, and on the weekends during summer, surfers
gather from all over to ride the waves.

Samani Dam Campgrounds
Known for the beautiful Ezo Cherries that bloom in May.
Kitchen area and restrooms available.
SeasonAdmissionInquiries

Mid Apr - mid OctFree
Samani Town Hall Chamber of Commerce Tourism Department TEL 0146-36-2119

Mt. Apoi Foothills Family Park Campgrounds
SalmonStrawberries‘Apoi rice’

Ginsei salmon, a fatty salmon, is acommon variety known to the
Samani area. The meat is used tomake Aramaki rolls, and Yamazuke,
which is done by heavily salting thesalmon to preserve it. The salmon
eggs are used to make Ikura andSujiko(cured eggs).

Samani strawberries are grown withclean water and clear air. Sparklingwine made from generous amountsof fresh strawberries, has a crisp
and light taste.

Clean water from Mt. Apoi is used tomake Apoi rice, which is made witha special cultivation method with
reduced amounts of pesticides andchemical fertilizers.

Eve n tInfo

Samani Festivals
you enjoy withall five senses!
*Please contact staff for details
and dates on events.

7Water faucet, kitchen area, flush toilets.
Small bungalows also available.
SeasonAdmissionInquiries

Mid Apr - mid Sep
One night Adults ¥600, elementary - Jr. High ¥400, screen tents and tarps ¥300 per night,
bungalows, ¥2000 per one
Mt. Apoi Fire Festival

Sea Urchin Festival

Mt. Apoi Fire Festival

Local Produce Fair

Mid to late May

First Saturday and Sunday in August

Late October

Delicious and fresh Ezo bafun sea
urchin and other seafood from Samani
are sold.

The fire festival is based on the Ainu traditions,and became the name for Mt. Apoi. There aremany fire-related events that take place inSamani, such as the Flame Ceremony on thefoothills of Mt. Apoi, the Fire Letters on Cape
Enrumu, and the Apoi Drums and Nebuta Parade.

Purchase high quality local produce
like salmon Yamazuke, and otherseafood, not to mention Apoi Ricemade with minimal pesticides. The
facility also offers a gourmet cornerserving ideal gourmet dishes.

8Otaru
SapporoHi d a k a Are aHidaka (Hidaka District)

New Chitose Airport
Tomakomai Higashi IC

Enjoy every aspect of the Hidaka area.

Tomakomai

Tokachi Obihiro
AirportBiratori

Hidaka-Monbetsu ICNiikappu
Shin Hidaka

Hidaka(Monbetsu District)

There are many different attractions in each town in the Hidaka, Hokkaido area,
where Samani is located. Which route will you take?

ObihiroUrakawa

Samani Mt. Apoi Geopark

Mt. Apoi
Erimo

Hakodate

Cape Erimo

Hokkai d o

HIDAKAHIDAKAHIDAKA district

MOMBETSU district

Here you can enjoy the only
mountain glacial landform in
Hokkaido, view basic alpine
plants as you climb, and activities such as rafting down Saru
R i v e r, t h e c l e a r e s t r i v e r i nJapan.

The Monbetsu District is wellknown for the Shishamo smeltthat live here. Between Apriland November the Hokkaido
Horse Races are held at theMonbetsu Race Track, wherevisitors can watch the powerfuland exciting horse race up
close, and the famous Bucket
Genghis Khan Lamb BBQ.

BIRATORINIIKAPPU

SHINHIDAKAURAKAWA

ERIMO

Biratori boasts the largest
production of tomatoes in Hokkaido, as well as its quality
black-haired Wagyu beef. It isalso home to the largest
Lily-of-the-valley colony inJapan, which is open to thepublic between mid May to midJune. At the ‘Nibutani Ainu Cultural Museum’, you can learn
and experience the Ainu cultureof the area.

The Record Hall, a symbol of
the city, carries approximately
one million records donatedfrom all over the nation. The
breathtaking view of the sun
sinking into the Pacific Ocean
can be seen from the ‘Niikappu
Hot Springs Record Bath’, on
top of a little hill.

Approximately 20% of thoroughbreds born and raised inJapan are from ShinHidaka.
Nijukkenzaka Cherry Colonnade, where over 3,000 cherrytrees line both sides of the 7
kilometer straight road, isselected as "the 100 Most
Famous Cherry Blossom Sites"in Japan.

There are about 200 horseranches in Urakawa, whereover 3,000 horses can be seenrunning around. The largest
horseback riding resort inJapan, "Yushun Village AERU"
offers a myriad of programs
such as horse trekking on thevast premises, and other horseback riding activities.

The famous Cape Erimo islocated here in Erimo. It is also
k n o w n a s t h e " w i n d y c i t y, "where strong winds blow on aregular basis. It is also home to
many beautiful scenic sights,
such as Lake Toyoni, which isshaped like a heart, and used
for a Hokkaido sweets commercial.

Access toSamani
By carFrom
Sapporo.....................(via the expressway) 180km
New Chitose Airport .............................155km
Tokachi - Obihiro Airport ....................115km
Hakodate ..................(via the expressway) 395km

By busFromSapporo
JR Hokkaido Bus[Express Erimo] ......................3 hrs and 20 min
Donan Bus
[Express Pegasus] ................4 hrs and 20 min(transfer in Urakawa)

New Chitose Airport
Donan Bus
[Ltd. Exp. Urakawa] ...............4 hrs and 20 min(transfer in Urakawa)

By train
JR Hidaka Main Line Mukawa - Samani ispresently closed due to damage from hightides. Please use the bus.
Current as of March, 2016.

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Official Website

Official Website

Official Website

Official Website

Official Website

Official Website

Official Website

http://www.town.hidaka.hokkaido.jp/

http://www.town.hidaka.hokkaido.jp/

http://www.town.biratori.hokkaido.jp/

http://www.niikappu.jp/

http://www.shinhidaka-hokkaido.jp/

http://www.town.urakawa.hokkaido.jp/

http://www.town.erimo.lg.jp/

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