Tourism in Northern Hokkaido | We'll tell you about the charms of tourist spots and gourmet food! Hokkaido Lab ~A Hokkaido travel guide to enjoy gourmet food, nature, and culture~

Tourism in Northern Hokkaido | We'll tell you about the charms of tourist spots and gourmet food!

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: Last updated: September 11, 2018

1. What is Northern Hokkaido?

Hokkaido has the largest land area among all prefectures.
Its area is a staggering 83,454 square kilometers.

Because Hokkaido is such a large prefecture, it is sometimes divided into four areas for explanation: Central Hokkaido, Southern Hokkaido, Eastern Hokkaido, and Northern Hokkaido.
The northern Hokkaido area includes regions in northern Hokkaido such as Wakkanai City and Haboro Town.

This time, we'll be focusing on the northern Hokkaido area, excluding Asahikawa City.

2. Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

2-1. Wakkanai City

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

First, let me introduce you to Wakkanai City, the northernmost city in Hokkaido.
If you're visiting Wakkanai City, I recommend visiting Cape Soya and taking a commemorative photo with the monument marking Japan's northernmost point in the background.

If the weather is good, you can even see the silhouette of Sakhalin Island, which is about 43 km away.

There's also the Soya Hills, so if you have time, why not visit there as well?
Near Wakkanai Station is the Wakkanai Port North Breakwater Dome, a Hokkaido Heritage site. Its semi-arched dome design is quite unique.

Additionally, you can buy souvenirs such as processed seafood products at the Wakkanai Sub-Port Market.
For those who enjoy seeing old buildings, the former Seto Residence is also recommended. You can get a feel for Wakkanai's history there (open from April 10th to October 31st).

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Cape Nosappu is located near the west coast of Wakkanai.
In the Ainu language, Nosappu means "a place where a cape juts out like a jaw" or "a place where waves break."

It is known as a place where you can see a beautiful sunset.

2-2. Mashike Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido Image provided by:Hokkaido Free Photo Collection Do Photo

Next, we'd like to introduce you to Mashike Town.
It's about a 3-hour train ride from Sapporo.

It was also the setting for the movie "Station," starring Ken Takakura.

If you come to Mashike Town, there's one spot I'd like you to visit first.
That company is Kunimare Sake Brewery Co., Ltd., which was founded in 1882 (Meiji 15).

There's also a sake tasting corner, so you can take your time and enjoy sake brewed at Japan's northernmost sake brewery.
There's also a shop where you can buy your favorite alcoholic beverages.

In addition, the former merchant house Maruichi Honma House is also recommended. It is a nationally designated important cultural property (building).
You can tour the inside of the building, but please check the opening days and hours before you visit.

I think it would be fun to take your time and stroll around and see the historic buildings.

2-3. Haboro Town

The third place I'd like to introduce is Haboro Town.

This town faces the Sea of Japan, and the islands of Teuri and Yagishiri, which I will introduce later, are located offshore.
A recommended spot in Haboro Town is the "Haboro Rose Garden," which boasts the largest scale in northern Hokkaido.
From late June to September, approximately 300 varieties of roses bloom in profusion.

Surrounded by elegant and beautiful roses, you could easily forget about time and bask in a feeling of pure bliss.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido Image courtesy of:Hokkaido Free Photo Collection Do Photo

Adjacent to this rose garden are the "Haboro Onsen Sunset Plaza" and the "Hokkaido Seabird Center".
You can also stay overnight at Haboro Onsen Sunset Plaza.

Enjoying delicious food, soaking in natural hot springs, and staying overnight is also a great option.
Day-use bathing is also available. You can also buy local products from Haboro Town here, so it's a great place to buy souvenirs.

At the Hokkaido Seabird Center, you can learn about seabirds.

2-4. Wassamu Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

The fourth place I'd like to introduce is Wassamu Town.
The characters 和寒 are pronounced "Wassamu".

It is said to come from the Ainu word "wat sam," which means "beside the elm tree."

Located 36 km north of Asahikawa City, Wassamu Town experiences a temperature difference of up to 70 degrees Celsius between summer and winter.
A local specialty is "winter cabbage," which is harvested and then left to grow throughout the winter. Cabbage stored in the snow is sweet and very delicious, so we highly recommend it.

When people think of Wassamu Town, many probably think of Shiokari Pass.

The place I'd like you to visit here is the Shiokari Pass Memorial Museum.
The museum displays the room where author Ayako Miura wrote her novel "Hyoten" (Freezing Point), as well as materials related to "Shiokari Pass." This memorial hall is a reconstruction of Ayako Miura's former home.

After revisiting Ayako Miura's works, why not visit this memorial museum?
I believe a whole new world, one you never knew existed, will open up to you.

2-5. Bifuka Town

The fifth place I'd like to introduce is Bifuka Town.
Bifuka Town is located almost exactly in the middle of National Route 40, which connects Wakkanai City (the northernmost city in Hokkaido) and Asahikawa City, and can be reached in about two hours by car from Wakkanai City (Asahikawa City).

This is a town that is said to be the setting for Haruki Murakami's novel, "A Wild Sheep Chase."

If you're visiting Bifuka Town, I highly recommend starting with Matsuyama Marshland.
This is a high-altitude wetland at an elevation of 797m, and it has been selected as one of Japan's 500 Important Wetlands. The summit can be reached in about 30 minutes.

You can enjoy nature and make your way to the summit while walking at a leisurely pace.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Please also visit "Forest Park Bifuka Island".
There are a variety of attractions to enjoy, including hot springs, a local products shop, a campsite, and a park golf course.
There's also a sturgeon museum here, famous for its caviar. Why not stop by and take a look?

2-6. Kenbuchi Town

The sixth place I'd like to introduce is Kenbuchi Town.
It's an agricultural town located about an hour's drive from Asahikawa City.

If you come to Kenbuchi Town, there's a place I'd like you to visit.
That is the "Kenbuchi Picture Book Museum".

A variety of picture books are housed here.
You can take off your shoes before entering and fully immerse yourself in the world of picture books.

This is a facility where adults and children can enjoy themselves together.
Why not immerse yourself in the vast landscape of Hokkaido and enjoy reading a picture book at your leisure?

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Also recommended is "Viva Alpaca Farm," which can be enjoyed throughout all four seasons.
You can see adorable alpacas.

The farm sells alpaca-themed goods such as stuffed animals, so why not buy a souvenir to remember your visit to Kenbuchi Town?

In addition, at the roadside station "Ehon no Sato Kenbuchi," you can enjoy croquettes made with vegetables that are a specialty of Kenbuchi town, and also purchase agricultural products from Kenbuchi town.

2-7. Toyotomi Town

The seventh place I'd like to introduce is Toyotomi Town.
It takes about 45 minutes to get there by taking a local train from Wakkanai City.
Wakkanai City is located to the north of Toyotomi Town, and the Sea of Japan is to the west.

Toyotomi Town is home to the "Sarobetsu Plain," which is part of the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.
Approximately 100 different kinds of plants and flowers, including daylilies, bloom from early summer to autumn.

This area is designated as a Ramsar Convention wetland and a nesting ground for Japanese cranes. Come and experience its beautiful natural scenery.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Also, I recommend Toyotomi Onsen, the northernmost hot spring resort.
It is said that the hot springs originated in 14 when hot spring water gushed out along with natural gas during exploratory drilling for oil.

The spring water contains a small amount of oil, making it a rare hot spring on a global scale. It is gentle on the skin, and many people come from all over Japan to enjoy its therapeutic properties.

There is also a town-run hot spring facility, so please take a dip in the hot springs and warm your body and soul thoroughly.

2-8. Shibetsu City

The eighth place I'd like to introduce is Shibetsu City.

Shibetsu City can be reached from Asahikawa City in about 45 minutes by express train.

In Hokkaido, there is another area that is pronounced "Shibetsu" (Shibetsu), just like Shibetsu City. To distinguish it, some Hokkaido residents refer to Shibetsu as "Samurai Shibetsu." The main tourist attraction in Shibetsu City is "Sheep and Clouds Hill."

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Here you can see Suffolk sheep.
At the "World Sheep Museum," you can encounter rare sheep from around the world.
There is also "Menyo Kogeikan Kururun," where you can participate in hands-on activities using wool.

Besides "Sheep and Clouds Hill," I also recommend "Nomu," a workshop where you can experience and interact with agricultural and livestock product processing.
You can make things like sausages and miso yourself.

While advance registration is required, it might be a nice way to create a souvenir of your trip to Hokkaido.

2-9. Nayoro City

The ninth city I'd like to introduce is Nayoro City. Nayoro City is a city that borders Shibetsu City, which I mentioned earlier.
It is famous for its glutinous rice and asparagus. It was also a filming location for the movie "The Dog Who Guards the Stars."

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido Image provided by:Hokkaido Free Photo Collection Do Photo

My recommended tourist spot in Nayoro City is Hokkaido Prefectural Sun Pillar Park.
It's located about a 10-minute drive from JR Nayoro Station. It's a park with forests, grasslands, and flower fields.

In the summer, you can enjoy flowers such as sunflowers, and in the winter, you can try curling.
This is a spot that can be enjoyed throughout all four seasons.

I also recommend the Nayoro City Hokkoku Museum.
This section introduces the nature, history, and other aspects of Nayoro City.

In front of this museum, the SL snowplow train Kimaroki is also on display. It's a must-see for train enthusiasts.

Within the city, there is "Nayoro Onsen Sun Pillar," where you can enjoy a day trip to the hot springs. It would be nice to relax in the hot springs and soothe your tired body.

2-10. Rebun Island

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

The tenth place I'd like to introduce is Rebun Island.
Rebun Island is the northernmost island of Japan.
It is adjacent to Rishiri Island.

Also known as the "Floating Island of Flowers," one of its attractions is the abundance of beautiful flowers you can see there.
On Rebun Island, I recommend enjoying the spectacular scenery and flowers while trekking.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement, and choose shoes that won't tire your feet even after walking for a long time, such as sneakers.
If you have drinks prepared in advance, we recommend visiting Lake Kushu, the island's only lake, as well as Cape Sukoton, Cape Gorota, and Cape Sumikai, where clear waters stretch out before you.

There are also viewpoints where you can admire the peach-shaped rock formation "Momoiwa" (Peach Rock), which is 250 meters tall, and the giant rock formation "Nekoiwa" (Cat Rock), which resembles a cat. The photo shows Momoiwa.

The beautiful scenery, a tapestry of natural formations and countless flowers, is something everyone should see at least once in their lifetime.

2-11. Rishiri Island

Next, let me introduce Rishiri Island. At the heart of Rishiri Island is Mount Rishiri (also known as Rishiri Fuji), which stands at an elevation of 1721 meters and is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

The first place I'd like you to visit on Rishiri Island is Hime-numa Pond.
This lake, with a circumference of 1 km, sometimes offers the chance to see Mount Rishiri reflected on its surface, creating a "reverse Fuji" image, when the weather is clear and conditions are just right.

I hope you'll also stop by Himenuma Observatory and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

I also recommend Otatomari Marsh. A stroll through the primeval forest of Sakhalin spruce is sure to help you relax completely.
In addition, I would like you to try "Kanro-sensui," which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 best springs.

The northernmost source of pure spring water in Japan is located near the third station of the climbing route to Oshidomari on Mount Rishiri.
Some people who have tried it say it's sweet, so why not give it a try?

2-12. Teuri Island, Yagishiri Island

Teuri Island is said to be the world's largest breeding ground for the Japanese rhinoceros auklet.
Many other seabirds, such as the murre, also visit the area.

If you come to Teuri Island, I hope you'll visit the seabird observation hut and the Kannon Cape observation deck to witness the resilience of the wild birds.
The dramatic red rock formations are also a highlight.

Teuri Akaiwa image <Teuri Island, Akaiwa Rock>

One-third of Yagishiri Island is covered in forest, allowing visitors to see rare plant species.
Among them, "Onko no Sho" is truly breathtaking. You can encounter the unique form of the Onko tree, which has grown by accepting the power of nature as it is.

Onko Manor <Yagishiri Island, Onko no Sho>

I also recommend Takanosu Park, a photo spot where you can overlook the Sea of Japan.
Enjoy the 360-degree panorama.

In addition, there is a sheep farm where sheep can relax and graze peacefully.

To reach Teuri Island and Yagishiri Island, you need to take a ferry from Haboro Port. (For details on fares, schedules, etc., please contact Haboro Coastal Ferry Co., Ltd.)

3. Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido during winter

3-1. Hamatonbetsu Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

As a must-visit tourist spot in northern Hokkaido during winter, I'd like to introduce Hamatonbetsu Town first.

Hamatonbetsu Town is located about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Wakkanai City.
In Hamatonbetsu town, you can see mute swans and Steller's sea eagles overwintering there during the winter.

These creatures can be seen at Lake Kutcharo, a brackish lake located on the coast of the Sea of Okhotsk with a circumference of approximately 27 kilometers.
It is also a Ramsar Convention-registered wetland.

This is a spot where you can observe mute swans in spring and autumn, and grey herons in summer.
You can also observe Steller's sea eagles, which are designated as natural monuments, in the "Forest of the Steller's Sea Eagle."

The Steller's sea eagle's wingspan can reach up to 50 meters.

The emotional impact is completely different when you actually see it compared to when you don't.
Winter in Hokkaido is very cold, so be sure to dress warmly and enjoy seeing the creatures that can only be found in winter.

Also, please be sure to observe proper etiquette when observing them.

3-2. Monbetsu City

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Next, I'd like to introduce Monbetsu City (※While it's generally considered to be in eastern Hokkaido, I've included it here as a noteworthy winter spot in the northern Hokkaido area).

Monbetsu City is located almost in the center of the Okhotsk Sea coast.
The flight from Tokyo takes 1 hour and 45 minutes (direct flight).

This town boasts delicious seafood and offers enjoyment in every season, from spring to winter.

But I especially recommend going in winter. I really want you to see the drift ice.
An ice floe cruise allows you to observe the drift ice that has drifted into the Sea of Okhotsk up close.

A ride on the icebreaker "Garinko II" will take you through the drift ice that covers the coastline.
We recommend checking the service status frequently.

There is also the Hokkaido Prefectural Okhotsk Drift Ice Science Center "GIZA," a facility where you can learn about drift ice in a fun way.
Why not come to Monbetsu, experience the drift ice firsthand, and learn about it?

3-3. Nayoro City

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

The last place I'd like to introduce is Nayoro City.
While it's lovely to visit during the season when sunflowers and other flowers are in bloom, this is a town I highly recommend visiting in winter as well.

In winter, temperatures can drop to minus 30 degrees Celsius, but thanks to this cold, you can see a phenomenon called a "sun pillar."
For a sun pillar to appear, various natural conditions are necessary, such as a certain amount of water vapor in the air and clear weather.

Nayoro City is one of the places where these conditions are met and you can see sun pillars.
Please come and see its mystical, radiant form. You will be overcome with an indescribable sense of awe.

Furthermore, the snow quality in Nayoro City is very light and fluffy, truly "powder snow."
Please do experience the snow and see the sun pillars.
You can make new discoveries even in the cold winter.

In addition, Nayoro City hosts various events every year, such as the Nayoro Snow Quality Japan Festival, so be sure to check out the events when you visit Nayoro City.

4. Food to eat in northern Hokkaido

4-1. Horokanai Soba

The first gourmet dish I'd like to recommend you try in northern Hokkaido is "Horokanai Soba."
Delicious buckwheat requires specific conditions, such as a large temperature difference between day and night and low humidity, and Horokanai Town has all of these conditions.

The area planted with buckwheat is 3,200 hectares, and the production volume exceeds 2,900 tons.
If you're visiting Horokanai Town, where high-quality buckwheat is produced, you absolutely must try Horokanai soba.

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido Image provided by:Hokkaido Free Photo Collection Do Photo
First, try mori soba, which allows you to fully enjoy the aroma and taste of soba noodles.
After the firm, chewy texture, you can fully enjoy the flavor of the buckwheat noodles.

Buckwheat groats also contain rutin, which is effective in preventing and improving lifestyle-related diseases, making them good for your health.
Approximately 10% of the residents of Horokanai Town are soba noodle makers. Please try Horokanai soba, a dish beloved by the townspeople.

4-2. Mushrooms of Aibetsu Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Next, we'll introduce mushrooms from Aibetsu Town.
Aibetsu Town boasts one of the highest mushroom production volumes in Hokkaido and is known as the "Mushroom Village."

We produce five types of mushrooms: shiitake, enoki, maitake, saxifrage, and nameko.
In particular, it is said that about 70% of the enoki and nameko mushrooms produced in Hokkaido are grown in Aibetsu Town.

The "Mushroom Village Festival" is held every September.
This event allows you to enjoy plenty of delicious mushrooms.

All the mushrooms from Aibetsu town are delicious, but I especially love the Ezo Yukinoshita mushroom. I can't get enough of its crunchy texture. I just can't stop eating them.

4-3. Clams from Teshio Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido Teshio clam rice bowl

The third item I'd like to introduce is the clams from Teshio Town.
Nutritious, wild clams are one of Teshio Town's specialties. They are said to be the best in Japan in terms of taste and size.

Clams from Teshio, which are raised in both saltwater and freshwater environments, are said to be rich in iron and have a strong flavor.

In Teshio Town, the Shijimi Festival is held, attracting many tourists.
Clams are rich in iron and gentle on the liver.

Even after the clam fishing season in Teshio Town ends, you can still easily enjoy Teshio clams because they are sold as frozen clams that have been freshly harvested, purged of sand, and then frozen.

It may just be a clam, but it's more than just a clam. Please try the clams from Teshio Town at least once.

4-4. Sea urchins that have grown up feeding on Rishiri kelp

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

When you think of Rishiri, you think of Rishiri kelp, and the sea urchins that feed on this Rishiri kelp and grow up in the fertile sea are absolutely delicious.
There are two types of sea urchins in Rishiri: Ezo sea urchin and Kitamurasaki sea urchin.

The fishing season for Ezo sea urchins is from July to August. The fishing season for Kitamurasaki sea urchins is from June to September. Both are exquisite.

Of course, the best way to enjoy sea urchin is to come to the local area and eat it fresh.
It's so delicious, I can't stop eating.

Why not try both Ezo sea urchin and Kitamurasaki sea urchin to your heart's content and decide which one you prefer?

Since fresh sea urchin is only available for a short period, we also recommend lightly salted sea urchin pickled overnight for those who missed the opportunity to eat it during its season.
When I get home, open the jar, and put the sea urchin on top of white rice, my mouth is filled with pure bliss.

Sea urchin products are available year-round, so I recommend them.

4-5. The Wolf's Peach of Takasu Town

Tourist spots in northern Hokkaido

Finally, let me introduce you to "Ookami no Momo" (Wolf's Peach) from Takasu Town.

Looking at the name alone, you might wonder what kind of food it is, but this is tomato juice.
We harvest perfectly ripe tomatoes in the morning and turn them into juice the same day.

I would recommend this to anyone who doesn't particularly like tomato juice.

I myself wasn't a big fan of tomato juice, but after trying this one, I had a real change of heart.
Tomatoes have a variety of health benefits, including skin-beautifying effects.

You can consume more tomatoes by drinking juice than by eating them raw.
There's a saying, "When tomatoes turn red, doctors turn blue." Drink this tomato juice and enjoy healthy days.

Final thoughts

What did you think.
We've introduced tourist spots and gourmet food in the northern Hokkaido area, as well as places we recommend visiting in winter.

Hokkaido is a vast and imposing region. In winter, it's also the area where you feel the coldest within Hokkaido.
Because of the seasons, we can enjoy delicious food.

If you're visiting in winter, be sure to take thorough precautions against the cold, such as wearing a windproof coat, scarf, and gloves.

I highly recommend visiting the northern Hokkaido area at least once. You'll discover even more of Hokkaido's charm.

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