Abira (安平町) is a town located in Iburi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan. As of 30 September 2016, the town has an estimated population of 8,323.

Geography

Located in the north-east of Iburi Subprefecture, and is a hilly area extending from the Yufutsu Plain to the Yūbari Mountains and the Maoi Hills. Abira is surrounded by Tomakomai in the south-west, Chitose in the north-west, Yuni in from the north to the east, and Atsuma in the south-east. The Toasa River flows through Abira and Tomakomai, and Abira River flows through the center of Abira. The Pacific Ocean is close to the southern areas of Abira. So those areas' weather is mild year-round because of the oceanic climate. The northern areas have an inland climate, so the temperatures are high in the summer and a harsh cold in the winter. All together, the yearly snowfall is low.

Neighboring municipalities

Origin of the town's name

The name "Abira" comes from the Ainu language. However, there are various opinions as to what Ainu words does it come from. Possible words include:

History

Demographics

Per Japanese census data, the population of Abira has declined in recent decades.

Economy

Industry

Agriculture is the main industry for Abira. Abira's Toasa area is especially famous for its breeding of dairy cattle, which are then sent all over Japan. Another specialty is cantaloupe. Asahi Melon is a well known brand from the area. Horse breeding is also a thriving industry in Abira, such as Yoshida Bokujo (Yoshida Ranch) in the Hayakita-Tomioka area and Northern Farm in the Hayakita-genbu area. The local horse breeding industry actively participates in the JRA Central Horse Racing. Many offsprings of famous stallions, such as Marzensky and 2005's Japanese Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing winner Deep Impact, are bred here.

Local Companies

Agricultural cooperative

Post Offices

Financial institutions

Public institutions

Police Department

Fire Department

Region

Schools

Area broadcasting

Abira obtained a general terrestrial broadcast station license and now broadcasts Abira Channel in the local area.

Transportation

Airport

Rail transport

At one time, a company called Hayakita Railway (now known as Atsuma Bus) had a train line from Hayakita Station to Atsuma.

Bus

Taxi

Roads and highways

Attractions

Designated Cultural Assets

Source: List of Designated Municipal Cultural Properties in Hokkaido

Sightseeing spots

Famous people