Obihiro Station Square: The Gateway to Tokachi's Unique Charm

Obihiro Station Square is designed with inspiration from Tokachi's distinctive natural landscape, earning its reputation as the "face of Tokachi." It offers visitors their first impression of the city's atmosphere upon exiting the station. The station's roof symbolizes the majestic Hidaka Mountain Range, while the fountain (Cascade) at the north entrance evokes the image of springs flowing endlessly between the mountains. The square also features a statue of an Ezo deer, representing the deer inhabiting Tokachi's forests and serving as a symbol of harmony between nature and urban life.

The lighting design of the square mimics "windbreak forests," emitting a soft glow at night to create a warm ambiance. The soundproof walls of the elevated station depict different Tokachi landscapes: the northern side showcases the Hidaka Mountain Range and windbreak forests in farmland, while the southern side illustrates the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range and Tokachi River, allowing visitors to experience diverse Tokachi scenery from any direction.

The pathway extending from Obihiro Station to Heigen Street is lined with red oak trees that produce acorns. These acorns not only add visual appeal but also serve as food for Ezo squirrels, reflecting the city's thoughtful coexistence with nature. Along Heigen Street, visitors can find deer statues—three parent-and-child deer in front of Fujimaru Department Store, a stag in front of Rokkatei, and embedded deer footprints along the pathway, inviting visitors to follow the "deer's trail" as they stroll.

These deer sculptures have even inspired the "Story of the Deer on the Plains," with paper theater performances held during the Heigen Festival and Christmas Fantasy Season, becoming a part of local culture. Obihiro Station Square is not just a transportation hub but a symbolic destination showcasing Tokachi's nature, culture, and stories.

Post by Jason906 | Sep 24, 2025