Kimobetsu, Hokkaido


Kimobetsu is a town located in Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan.
As of September 2016, the town has an estimated population of 2,286 and a population density of 12 persons per km2. The total area is 189.51 km2.

Geography

Route 230 and Route 276 cross each other in Kimobetsu. Nakayama Pass is on the eastern of the town.
The name derived from Ainu word "kim-o-pet", meaning "The river in the mountain".

Neighboring municipalities

Climate

Due to its mountainous location, Kimobetsu has a humid continental climate. Summers are generally warm and wet, while winters are cold and extremely snowy.

History

  • 1897: Makkari Village split off from Abuta Village.
  • 1901: Kaributo Village was split off from Makkari Village.
  • 1906: Makkari Village became a Second Class Village.
  • 1910: Makkari Village was transferred from Muroran Subprefecture to Shiribeshi Subprefecture.
  • 1917: Kimobetsu Village was split off from Makkari Village.
  • 1946: Kimobetsu Village became a First Class Village.
  • 1952: Kimobetsu Village became Kimobetsu Town.

Education