Otoineppu Village

• Hokkaido
• Area Info
• Sightseeing
• Accommodation
• Food
• Activities
• Nature
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Otoineppu Village, a tiny community of around 600 residents in the Teshio district of northern Hokkaido, is one of the smallest municipalities in Hokkaido. Its greatest attraction is 'Otoineppu Soba' — a black buckwheat noodle made by grinding the entire buckwheat grain, outer hull and all, with stone millstones using heirloom varieties. The resulting jet-black noodle has an intense fragrance and rich depth of flavor, and was beloved by travelers as the legendary 'station soba' served at JR Otoineppu Station for generations. After a period of closure, a new craftsperson revived the tradition in 2025, making a visit here a genuinely worthwhile pilgrimage. Surrounded by the clear waters of the Teshio River and unspoiled northern nature, the village is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering canoe touring, access to Mount Teshio-dake, and the Teshiogawa Hot Spring. This quiet northern village offers an unforgettable taste of authentic Hokkaido.