Located in the easternmost part of the Tokachi Subprefecture, on the border with the Kushiro Subprefecture, the town stretches north to south along the Urahoro River basin. Located on the western edge of the Shiranuka Hills, the town is mostly hilly and plateau-like, with forests accounting for 70% of the total area. The southern part faces the Pacific Ocean. At the southern end of the town, a flat area stretches from the downstream Urahoro River to the mouth of the Tokachi River, used as farmland and pastureland.
According to the Köppen climate classification, Urahoro has a humid continental climate. It has large temperature differences, including large annual and daily temperature ranges. It receives a lot of snow, and is designated as a heavy snow area. In winter, temperatures below -20°C are not uncommon, making it extremely cold.
Climate
Climate data for Urahoro (1991−2020 normals, extremes 1977−present)
Per Japanese census data, the population of Urahoro has declined in recent decades.[4]
Historical population
Year
Pop.
±%
1970
11,726
—
1980
9,693
−17.3%
1990
8,395
−13.4%
2000
6,846
−18.5%
2010
5,458
−20.3%
2020
4,387
−19.6%
History
In April 1906, with the implementation of the Hokkaido Second-Class Town and Village System, Seigo Village was established. In April 1912 it changed it name to Urahoro Village, with the new name coming from the Ainu language from the word "Uraraporo" (much fog), or from "Orapuoro" (where the mountain peony is found). It was elevated to town status in April 1954.
The economy of Urahoro is centered on livestock farming. Historically, the area was a horse-breeding center (for cavalry horse), and after World War II, the area transitioned to coal mining and dairy farming. The coal mines have closed. Beef cattle production and field crops are thriving, with particularly high potato and sugar beet yields. Commercial fishing includes rich salmon fishing ground, octopus, and kelp harvesting.
Education
Urahoro has three public elementary schools and public middle schools operated by the town government. The town does not have a high school.[6]
Urahoro's mascots are Uraha (ウラハ) and Horoma (ホロマ) are grey herons who are siblings. They lived in the forests of Urahoro.
Uraha is cheerful, mischievous and a little sloppy and gluttonous. His good luck charm is a Japanese rowan branch (which he carries all the time). He can eat delicious food. Because of this he promotes food from the town.[8]
Horoma is gentle but solid and caring. She usually volunteers for other activities. Her good luck charm is a Japanese rose (which she wears on her head).[9]
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