Ishikari City is located north of Sapporo and was established as the site of the Matsumae Domain's Ishikari Basho in the early 17th century. Since then, it has flourished as a fishing and salmon trading center. It also played an important role inland, with lumberyards built to transport timber. In the late 1960s, the city was developed as a commuter town for Sapporo, while industrial parks were also built and developed. The city's climate is fairly constant, making it relatively warm even in winter. Ishikari City's specialties include Ishikari nabe, a dish made with salmon seasoned with miso, and salmon. The city is also home to tourist attractions such as Banya-no-Yu and Shiragane Falls, as well as festivals and events such as the Ishikari Salmon Festival.