Bibai (美唄市) is a city located in Sorachi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan. As of 2023, the city has an estimated population of 19,242, and the density of 69.3 persons per km2. The total area is 277.69 km2.

History

The name Bibai is derived from Ainu word "pipa o i", meaning "Place (swamp) with many cockscomb pearl mussels". At its peak, Bibai was a coal town that produced over a million tons annually. However, ever since the mine was closed in 1972, the city has suffered a slowly declining population.

Geography

Ishikari River flows to west of Bibai. Bibai Dam was built on the Bibai River, a tributary of Ishikari River. Lake Miyajima was registered as a wetland under the Ramsar Convention in 2002.

Climate

Education

High schools

School for special needs

Transportation

Rail

Hakodate Main Line Minami-Bibai Branch Line used to run from Bibai to Minami-Bibai.

Road

Straight line section of Route 12 is the longest in Japan.

Culture

Mascots

Bibai's mascots are Mami-chan (マミィーちゃん). He is a greater white-fronted goose. He was unveiled in 1986. Yakitoriman (ヤキトリ男) is Mami-chan's assistant who is a yakitori.