HokkaidoLeisure

Former Shimamatsu Post Station (旧島松駅逓所)

Flow of the course

About 60 min here

About 30 min to the next stop

Next stop: Lunch at the food court and topping up on supplies

About this spot

This wooden relay station in Shimamatsu, Kitahiroshima City, is designated a national historic site. In an age with neither railways nor automobiles, these relay stations were where travelers and freight on Hokkaido's highways were passed along, and the building conveys the daily life and transport system of the time exactly as it was. Nakayama Kyuzo, who lived here, is known as the man who succeeded in growing rice in bitterly cold Hokkaido, and the exhibits let you read the traces of his hard work. This site is also handed down as the place where Dr. Clark of Sapporo Agricultural College said farewell to his students. For children, simply being able to step inside an old-time house is fascinating, and the feel of the wooden floor and earthen entrance is an experience no photograph can convey.

Tips

Opening periods and hours change with the season, so check Kitahiroshima City's information in advance. The building is a precious cultural property, so follow the guidance of the staff as you look around. There is little shade nearby, so bringing a hat and drinks makes the visit more comfortable. Wattsu Nature Park is about 10 minutes away by car.