Kitami has prospered as the center of agriculture in the Okhotsk region.

Located in the inland part of the Kitami Mountains, this basin town has recently expanded its area through municipal mergers, and now encompasses a vast area that includes Lake Saroma, the second largest lake in Japan.

As befits a large region, it boasts abundant tourist attractions. However, you might find yourself wondering how to efficiently explore them all.

This time, we've picked out some tourist spots mainly around Kitami Station. We'd like to share how to fully enjoy Kitami.

Table of contents
1. 9 Must-See Sights and Tourist Spots Around Kitami!
2. Hot springs and accommodations around Kitami
3. Must-try soul food in Kitami!
Final thoughts

1-1. Mountain Aquarium

It's not uncommon for people to visit Kitami specifically for the aquarium on this mountain.
In fact, it's a nationally renowned aquarium.

This mountain aquarium defies the notion that aquariums are always by the sea, as it exclusively features freshwater fish.
The main attraction is the elusive Hucho taimen, a fish found in large numbers from the eastern Hokkaido region to the Sea of ​​Okhotsk.
It's a fish belonging to the salmon family.

This mysterious fish can grow to over two meters in length.
Currently, it is extinct on Honshu, and the only place to see it in person is Hokkaido.

Among them, this mountain aquarium allows visitors to observe the Sakhalin taimen in an environment closer to its natural habitat, and with approximately 40 specimens, it is the largest in Hokkaido.
In addition to this rare Hucho taimen, the area takes advantage of its hot spring location to raise a variety of tropical fish.

This exhibit, showcasing the behavior of the Sakhalin taimen, could be described as a river version of Asahiyama Zoo.
And it's an aquarium that continues to fascinate travelers with its colorful array of tropical fish that delight the eyes.

Mountain Aquarium (Northern Land Aquarium)
Address: 1-4 Matsuyama, Rubeshibe-cho, Kitami City
開館時間 8：30～17：00（4月～10月）、9:00～16:30（11月～3月）
Closed on April 8th to April 14th and December 26th to January 1st.
Admission fees: Adults 670 yen, Junior high school students 440 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen
*Group discounts available (20 people or more)
(Annual pass prices) General admission: 1,000 yen, Junior high school students: 660 yen, Elementary school students: 450 yen
For inquiries, please call 0157-45-2223.

For more details, please click here!
What makes this mountain aquarium, home to rare and elusive fish, so appealing to both adults and children?

1-2. Northern Fox Farm

Next, I'd like to introduce you to the Kita Kitsune Farm, located very close to the mountain aquarium.

When you think of animals in Hokkaido, the first things that come to mind are brown bears and red foxes, right?! However, red foxes are not something you'll often see during a 3-4 day trip.
You can see them all year round if you go to this Northern Fox Farm.

The red foxes in the park roam freely. You're sure to feel soothed by watching them relax and unwind♪

Kitakitsune Farm
Address: 52-1 Hanaoka, Rubeshibe-cho, Hokkaido 091-0157, Japan
TEL：0157-45-2249
Admission fee: Adults 500 yen, High school students 500 yen, Junior high school students 400 yen, Elementary school students 300 yen
営業時間：8：00～18：00（4月～10月）、9：00～16：00 （11月～3月）無休

For more details, please click here!
[Related Article] Kitakitsune Farm | A tourist spot in Onneyu Onsen where you can encounter free-roaming red foxes♪

1-3. Wakka Wildflower Garden

In Hokkaido's winter, the plains and mountains are covered in white snow as far as the eye can see, as if all color has been forgotten.
That feeling only intensifies when it snows.

On the other hand, as if in reaction to this, the plains are adorned with a profusion of flowers from spring to summer.
The dazzling dance of colors will stir the hearts of those who see it.

The scene is no different whether you're in a well-maintained garden or a wild, untamed wilderness.
Wakka Wildflower Garden is a major habitat for coastal plants, with over 300 species of wildflowers in bloom.

The focus here is on coastal plants.
Wakka Wildflower Garden is located on a long, narrow sandbar that separates Lake Saroma from the Sea of ​​Okhotsk.

This sandbar is a Hokkaido Heritage site.
Starting with Corydalis ambigua in April, the flowers continue into summer with large colonies of Lespedeza bicolor and colorful beach peas.
Crimson Japanese rose.
The refreshing sea breeze blowing across the ocean. The waves, sometimes strong, sometimes gentle, crashing against the shore.
The rich flora attracts migratory birds.

This is a pristine flower garden where you can enjoy scenery typical of Hokkaido no matter what season you visit.

Wakka Wildflower Garden (Wakka Nature Center)
242-1 Sakaeura, Tokoro-cho, Kitami City, Hokkaido
TEL.0152-54-3434
Open from April 29th until Sports Day in October.
Opening hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (until 6:00 PM from June to August)

For more details, please click here!
Japan's largest coastal grassland! What is Wakka Primeval Flower Garden, a paradise of flowers in eastern Hokkaido?

1-4. Advics Tokoro Curling Hall

If you ask someone what the former Tokoro Town was, they'd rarely answer "curling."
They must be a local or a huge Hokkaido fan. They're probably a curling fan too.
However, many of the players currently active in the numerous adult and university teams in Tohoku and Hokkaido are from Tokoro Town.

Curling is such a familiar sport to the residents of the Tokoro region that even elementary schools offer curling lessons instead of ski lessons.

When there are no tournaments, the curling rink is open to the public.
Brushes and winter clothing are also available for rent.
Six international-standard curling rinks are available.
In that case, we have no choice but to give it a try.

It's possible not only in winter but also in summer.
Since it's a curling rink that's open all year round, it's sure to be an interesting experience if you're traveling to the Okhotsk region as a group.
This is a unique facility where you can experience what it's like to compete in the Olympics.

Address: 2-2 Tosa, Tokoro-cho, Kitami City
For inquiries, please contact Tokoro Curling Club.
Phone: (0152) 54-1099 FAX: (0152) 67-4781
Opening hours: Weekdays and Saturdays / 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sundays and public holidays: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays (December 31st to January 5th).
*The facility may be closed for ice maintenance.
Usage fee (per seat, per hour)
City residents (General admission: 1,200 yen, High school and university students: 600 yen, Junior high school students and younger: 240 yen)
Outside the city (General admission: 1,800 yen, High school and university students: 840 yen, Junior high school students and younger: 360 yen)
*Students are required to present their student ID or other form of identification.
• Brush, shoes, and slider (1 set): 120 yen
Winter clothing (top and bottom): 400 yen per set
- With a single ticket, you can use the facilities for up to 2 hours on weekdays from 10:00 to 18:00 for the price of one seat.

1-5. Lake Chimikeppu

Lake Chimikeppu lies deep within a secluded forest, unknown to most, its surface gently rippling with calm.
Few people know about it because it's off the beaten path and the nearest bus stop is about a two-hour walk away.

It's truly a remote area, with roads closed in winter.
This small lake, with an area of ​​1.2 square kilometers and a circumference of 7.5 kilometers, never fails to stimulate a sense of adventure.
While some roads are unpaved, the walking trails are excellent.

Image source: Hokkaido Free Photo Material DO PHOTO

This lake, along with Lake Akan, is said to be the original habitat of the kokanee salmon, and it is believed that the kokanee salmon in Lake Shikotsu were originally introduced from this lake.

Now growing wild, it has become a specialty dish of Lake Shikotsu, and its refreshing flavor delights food connoisseurs.
If you walk along the nature trails around the lake, you'll find a campsite on the northeastern shore and the Chimikepp Hotel on the eastern shore.

The Rokumei Waterfall, which flows down over the seven-tiered rock bed of the Chimikeppu River 200 meters downstream from the southern end, is another scenic spot where you can fully enjoy nature.

Lake Chimikeppu
Numazawa, Tsubetsu-cho, Abashiri-gun, Hokkaido

1-6. Bihoro Pass

Its grandeur is said to rank among the top five in the entire country.
The magnificent panoramic view of Lake Kussharo from Bihoro Pass will sweep you into a whirlwind of awe.

National Route 243 is a major transportation artery connecting Kitami and Okhotsk to Kushiro and Teshikaga.
Bihoro Pass is located right where eastern Hokkaido and the Sea of ​​Okhotsk meet.

At an altitude of 525 meters, it's not particularly high compared to places like Mikuni Pass, but the surrounding steep slopes create a magnificent and awe-inspiring panorama.

On a clear day, Lake Kussharo, which displays a color deeper than cobalt blue, shines like a mirror embedded in the green trees, and you feel as if your mind and body are being drawn into the purity of the blue sky.
The wind shakes your body powerfully, making you tremble with the joy of becoming one with nature.

Although it's a bit of a distance from Kitami city center, there are some landscapes that are worth seeing even if it takes time and effort to get there, and Bihoro Pass is undoubtedly one of them.

Bihoro Pass (Roadside Station Gurutto Panorama Bihoro Pass)
Kome, Bihoro-cho, Abashiri-gun
TEL: 0152-75-0700
9:00～18:00（4月下旬～10月）、9:00～17:00（11月～4月下旬）
*Closed for the New Year holidays (December 31st to January 3rd). However, there will be a traditional New Year's sunrise event early in the morning on January 1st.

For more details, please click here!
[Related Article] A breathtaking view awaits! Enjoy the magnificent scenery at Bihoro Pass's panoramic viewpoint!

1-7. Kaoryanse Park

If you ask old Hokkaido residents what kind of town Kitami is, I'm pretty sure that eight or nine times out of ten they'll answer "mint."

Kitami City actually accounted for more than 90% of the nation's production.
The famous confection, Hakka Juhyo, can also be considered a symbolic representation of Kitami's mint production.

Although its role will come to an end once its components are scientifically synthesized, the image of Kitami being synthesized with mint remains deeply ingrained in the hearts of the people of Hokkaido.
In a sense, the Kaoryanse Park, which stretches along the Tokoro River embankment, is a place that preserves the remnants of the early herb production methods of the Meiji era.

Depending on the season, various herbs delight visitors with their unique fragrances.
It's certainly not a large park, but its approach makes a huge impact.

This is a place that teaches us that flowers are not just for our eyes to enjoy. The "Kaoryanse Festival" is held here every July.

Address: Riverbank, Asahi-cho, Kitami City
Free of charge
Access: 10 minutes by car from JR Kitami Station.
Other multi-purpose toilets are available.
For inquiries, please call 0157-25-1139 (Kitami City Parks and Green Spaces Division).

1-8. Peppermint Museum

This facility aims to preserve and pass on the history of mint production to future generations.
The history of Kitami's development cannot be considered without mentioning mint.

Mint production began around 1902 (Meiji 35), and by the 1930s, it boasted a market share of approximately 70% of the world mint market.
Compared to production in other countries, peppermint oil was inexpensive and of high quality, and was used all over the world.

The facility, originally built as a research institute for the Hokuren Kitami Peppermint Factory, which made significant contributions to the development of the peppermint industry, was relocated and became the Kitami Peppermint Memorial Museum.
With the development of the chemical industry, cheaper fragrances and key ingredients began to be chemically synthesized, rendering factories obsolete.

This building, which is of great cultural and academic value, was designated as a Japanese Modern Industrial Heritage Site by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on November 30, 2007.
The compact building may not be imposing, but it certainly conveys the dawn of modern Japan.

It doesn't take long to visit, so please do go and see it sometime.

Address: 1-7-28 Minaminakamachi, Kitami City
Usage hours 9:30-16:30
Closed on Mondays and the day after national holidays.
(Open on Mondays that are public holidays, closed the following day) (Open on Fridays and Saturdays that are public holidays, and also open the following day) Year-end and New Year holidays (December 30th to January 6th of the following year)
Free of charge
Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Kitami Station.
Other Periods/Year-round
For inquiries, please call 0157-23-6200.

1-9. Tokoro Ruins Museum

During the time when Kyoto was known as Heiankyo, the Tokoro region on the Okhotsk Sea side of Hokkaido was a unique cultural sphere where various cultures from the north and the traditional Jomon period blended together.

The large group of ruins known as the "Tokoro Ruins" preserves this history for us today.
The numerous depressions left by 3000 pit dwellings make this a valuable archaeological site that conveys evidence of large-scale settlement.

This site holds an important key to unraveling the mysteries of the unique culture that flourished in Hokkaido, and has therefore been registered as a nationally designated historical site by the government.
"Tokoro Archaeological Site Forest" is a facility where you can experience the results of archaeological investigations conducted to date.

You can explore the history of the Jomon period, the Post-Jomon period, and the unique Satsumon culture of Hokkaido, accompanied by a wealth of excavated artifacts and easy-to-understand explanations.
Taking a moment to reflect on the romance of ancient times can make for a wonderful travel memory.

Address: 371 Sakaeura, Tokoro-cho, Kitami City
Usage hours 9:00-17:00
Closed every Monday, the day after a public holiday, and from December 29th to January 5th of the following year.
Admission fees: Adults 240 yen, High school and university students 140 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 50 yen
Other Periods/Year-round
For inquiries, please call 0152-54-3393.

Here too!
[Related Article] Explore the mysterious roots of the Okhotsk people at Tokoro Archaeological Site Forest (Tokoro-cho, Kitami City)

2-1. Onneyu Onsen

Onneyu Onsen is located in the Rubeshibe district, a secluded area of ​​Kitami City.
The spring water is a weakly alkaline simple spring.
Known as a skin-whitening bath, it has a reputation for leaving skin feeling moisturized after bathing.

Because there aren't many large hot spring resorts in the Okhotsk region, this resort is just as popular as the Abashiri area.
While nearby attractions such as the mountain aquarium and the red fox farm are popular, the azaleas at Tsutsuji Park will be in full bloom from May onwards.
Access to various regions of the Okhotsk area by car is also convenient.

As a large-scale lodging facility, Ooe Honke was founded during the Meiji era.
This is a traditional Japanese inn that prides itself on its authentic flavors, cuisine, and hospitality.

And another option is Onneyu Hotel Shiki Heian no Yakata, a hotel that boasts 100% free-flowing hot spring water and fresh seafood from the Sea of ​​Okhotsk.
From now on, the Okhotsk Sea will also enter the period known as "the opening of the sea," when the drift ice disappears.

Then, crabs of all sizes appear on the dinner table. It's the season to enjoy various kinds of crabs to your heart's content, such as hairy crabs, snow crabs, and king crabs.

2-2. Around Lake Saroma

There are no large-scale hot spring resorts around Lake Saroma.
Each of these accommodations has the feel of a standalone inn.

Image source: Hokkaido Free Photo Material DO PHOTO

Each of them has its own unique characteristics, such as having hot springs or being a famous resort hotel within Hokkaido.
From budget-friendly, rustic guesthouses for motorcyclists to luxurious resort hotels, it's wise to choose the accommodation that best suits your purpose and needs.
Among them, Petit Hotel Kaiyama Bimi no Yado Yurinkan, located on a hill overlooking Lake Saroma, is a small inn with only nine rooms.

However, the quality of the cuisine is truly impressive, with an abundance of fresh ingredients from the Okhotsk Sea after the sea opens, resulting in a highly satisfying meal. Starting with surf clams, oysters, scallops, crabs, and striped shrimp, it seems there's virtually no seafood delicacy you can't enjoy.

Saroma Lake Tsuruga Resort, part of the Tsuruga Resort group, also boasts exceptional quality. It never disappoints. It receives very high ratings from the many tourists who visit.
Relax in a hot spring bath. Enjoy the vast view of Lake Saroma stretching out before you.
Every moment is a truly sublime experience.

2-3. Okukussharo Onsen (Lamp Inn Moritsubetsu)

Nestled between Akan and Kussharo, two of the most representative lakes in eastern Hokkaido, and nestled quietly in the heart of a primeval forest on the banks of a clear stream, is the single inn known as Okukussharo Onsen Lamp no Yado Moritsubetsu.

It's a place far too welcoming to be called a hidden paradise.
There's something deeper here than simply escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

A place to confront your own face and the faces of your loved ones. Such profound silence envelops the forest and the hearts of those who visit.
While the green season, when the forest is lush and green, is certainly ideal, the white season, when the area is covered in snow, is also a perfect time to reflect on your life and your inner self.

The vast open-air bath is definitely the best thing about this place.
The phrase "wild and rustic" doesn't quite fit.

Soaking in the bath will give you a sense of liberation and relaxation so profound that you feel as if you've shed your humanity and returned to being one with nature.
The dishes also make ample use of locally sourced vegetables, and each one is prepared with no effort or time spared.

This is a place that makes you truly understand what it means to have your body and mind liberated.

2-4. Around Kitami Station

The Okhotsk region has one of the highest agricultural income levels in Hokkaido.
Naturally, prosperous regions are always accompanied by business opportunities.
Therefore, the area around Kitami Station has plenty of reasonably priced accommodations, mainly business hotels.

Photo by Flickr: Kitami Station / Yoshio.H

From established hotel chains across Japan that boast free breakfasts and natural hot springs, such as Hotel Paco, Toyoko Inn, Comfort Hotel Dormy Inn, and Route Inn, to hotels firmly rooted in their local Kitami area, this list includes a wide variety of options.

Kurobe Hotel is a reasonably priced hotel that prides itself on its cuisine.
The Pearson Hotel is named after Mr. and Mrs. Pearson, who were instrumental in the development of Kitami.
The large public bath at the back offers a relaxing soak in the hot springs, and there are also plenty of facilities for relaxing after your bath.

Kitami Towa Hotel is a hotel that boasts a homey atmosphere and a large parking lot, which is a welcome feature for drivers.
Given the intense competition in this city, you're likely to be very satisfied no matter which hotel you choose.

Being close to the city center offers flexibility in planning, but the higher cost is also one of its attractions.
With a little ingenuity, it seems possible to cater to various dining needs, such as booking a room with breakfast included or a room-only option.

3-1. Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ)

Kitami City has the highest ratio of yakiniku restaurants per capita among all cities in Hokkaido.
Kitami City has a population of approximately 130,000, but there are only about 60 yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) restaurants.
There is a yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) restaurant at a rate of approximately one in 2,000 people.

The population density is about five times higher than in other cities in Hokkaido.
That's why it's considered soul food. Locals especially love offal and diaphragm.

While it's known as "harami" nationwide, in Hokkaido it's commonly called "sagari," which is the diaphragm of a cow.
I also love offal.

It is said that one of the reasons for this is that in the past, there was a slaughterhouse in the city, making it easy to obtain fresh offal.
Even in surveys, offal and diaphragm rank higher than kalbi (short ribs).

Offal, said to be richer in vitamins than regular meat, is a source of energy for the people of Kitami. It's especially moving to think that on cold nights, they would light a charcoal grill over a shichirin (small charcoal grill) and eat grilled meat rich in vitamins and fats, which gave them the strength to pioneer the area.

Shijo Horumon and Yakiniku Doshoku are popular because you can eat your fill without breaking the bank.
If you're looking for a traditional choice, I recommend Daishoen, Tonkyu, and Mikakuen. All of these restaurants live up to their reputation for delicious food.

3-2. Kitami Salted Yakisoba

When it comes to Kitami-style yakisoba, salt is the way to go.

It's gaining nationwide recognition, and that's because scallops and onions are essential ingredients.
To bring out the delicious flavor of the scallops and highlight the sweetness of the onions, a rich, sauce-like consistency is a no-go.

The salt from the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, rich in minerals, is what harmonizes the two ingredients and elevates their flavors to a higher level.
The presence of this salt creates a perfect combination that stands up to the harmony of the pork and cabbage.

If it had simply been a spur-of-the-moment idea, it probably wouldn't have received this level of recognition.
Taking a bite of the salt-fried noodles, you'll experience a light salty flavor reminiscent of the refreshing breeze from the Okhotsk Sea.

And as the rich umami of the scallops gradually spreads, you can't help but feel grateful for the bounty of the northern seas.
And the gentle onion flavor is reminiscent of a summer mist.

This salt-based yakisoba is finished with a special "salt sauce" that is neither a regular sauce nor a thick, starchy sauce.
If you haven't tried it yet, you should definitely give it a go. It's currently available at a total of 23 locations in the city.

Photo by Flickr: Okhotsk Kitami Shio Yaki Soba / nekotank

Final thoughts

How was that.
While Abashiri and Monbetsu are famous for their drift ice, when people think of the Okhotsk region, they tend to focus on the sea.
However, the mountains overlooking the Sea of ​​Okhotsk are also full of charm and power that is just as impressive as the ocean.

It's like the scallops, a specialty of the Okhotsk region; perhaps the important parts aren't being shown to the public very often.
That's why I encourage you to take your time and savor the charm of Kitami.

A wonderful climate and agriculture, and a history stretching back to ancient times. Every moment is sure to be filled with continuous discoveries.

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