1. Autumn foliage spots in the Obihiro and Tokachi area

The Obihiro-Tokachi region is surrounded by mountains rich in nature. In autumn, the trees turn red and yellow, painting the mountains in a riot of colors.

As autumn deepens, the changes extend to the Tokachi Plain. Here, we introduce three representative autumn foliage spots in the Obihiro and Tokachi area.

オンネトー

Lake Onneto is located within Akan National Park, at the western foot of Mount Meakan.
The name means "old swamp" in the Ainu language, and it is also called "Goshikinuma" (Five-Colored Swamp) because the surface of the lake changes color depending on the time of day and season.

If the weather is good, you can see both Mt. Meakan and Mt. Oakan, and in the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy the contrast between the lake, which changes color in five different shades, and the mountains that change color.
Furthermore, the reflection of the mountains on the lake's surface is truly magical. The scenery changes depending on the time of day, making it a place you'll want to visit again and again.

Shimizu Park

Shimizu Park is located in Shimizu Town, west of Obihiro.

While it's a well-known tourist spot for cherry blossoms, in autumn you can enjoy the vibrant colors of the autumn leaves.
From the hill where the park golf course is located, you can see Shimizu town and enjoy the contrast with the trees that have turned bright red.

Mount Tomuraushi

Mount Tomuraushi straddles the border between Biei Town in Kamikawa District and Shintoku Town in Tokachi District.
This mountain is part of the Daisetsuzan mountain range and is also selected as one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains.

Mount Tomuurashi, known as the "inner sanctuary of Daisetsuzan," was said to be located in the deepest part of the region.
Nowadays, hiking trails are well-maintained, making day hikes possible. During the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy the colorful mountain range and the carpet of maple leaves.

2. Autumn events in the Tokachi and Obihiro region, a "treasure trove of food"

The Tokachi-Obihiro region of Hokkaido is known as a treasure trove of food, with its wine, cheese, and potatoes.
In the bountiful autumn season, there are many events where you can enjoy the gourmet delights of Tokachi and Obihiro.

Autumn Festa in Tokachigawa

The "Autumn Festa in Tokachigawa" will be held for about a month, from mid-October to early November, at the Hokkaido Prefectural Tokachi Ecology Park in Otofuke Town.

From a night balloon experience where you can look down on the night view of Tokachi from a hot air balloon, to stargazing events and pumpkin lantern making, there are plenty of events for the whole family to enjoy.
Don't miss the Tokachi Wine and Cheese Evening, where you can enjoy Tokachi's wines and cheeses.

Ikeda Town Wine Festival

Ikeda Town is famous for its Tokachi wine. The popular event held every year on the first Sunday of October is the "Ikeda Town Wine Festival."

You can enjoy all-you-can-drink Tokachi wine poured generously from the barrel, as well as whole roasted beef, and savor the many autumn flavors of Tokachi.

Tokachi Banba Festival

The Tokachi Banba Festival will be held at Obihiro Racecourse.
Although it's a relatively new event, having started in 2007, its content is truly unique.

The event is packed with programs inspired by Ban'ei horse racing, such as the World Human Ban'ei Championship, where teams of six pull iron sleds to the finish line, and the Human Derby Heroines Cup, where women race around a racecourse for a prize.

Iwanai Senkyo Autumn Leaves Festival

Iwanai Senkyo is a well-known spot for viewing autumn foliage.
The "Iwanai Senkyo Maple Festival" is held on Sundays in early to mid-October.

Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage of Iwanai Senkyo while savoring Tokachi cuisine such as buttered potatoes and Jingisukan (grilled lamb).
Events centered around vegetables, such as vegetable grabbing and auctions of mountain produce, are also popular. Why not spend a sunny holiday in Tokachi at Iwanai Senkyo?

3. What are the temperatures like in the Tokachi and Obihiro regions in autumn? What kind of clothing should I wear?

Now, let's move on to some information about temperatures and clothing recommendations that will be helpful when traveling to the Tokachi and Obihiro regions in autumn.

The average temperature in the Tokachi and Obihiro region in September is around 15 degrees Celsius. During the day, it's comfortable enough to wear just a long-sleeved shirt, but it can feel chilly in the mornings and evenings.
It's a good idea to bring something light to throw on, like a cardigan or jacket.

In October, the average temperature drops to around 10 degrees Celsius.
Autumn foliage is reaching its peak in the Tokachi and Obihiro regions, but temperatures will be even lower in mountainous areas, so be sure to dress warmly with sweaters, wool coats, and other warm clothing.
Also, after the middle of the month, it may snow even in the plains. Comfortable sneakers or boots are recommended for walking.

By November, Hokkaido is definitely showing signs of winter. The average temperature drops to around 5 degrees Celsius, and the amount of sunshine decreases.
During this time of year, it's not uncommon for the landscape to be covered in snow, so if you're traveling to the Tokachi-Obihiro area, it's best to dress in full winter attire, such as a coat, down jacket, and winter boots.

Summary

We've introduced some of the best spots and events for autumn foliage viewing in Tokachi and Obihiro.

Autumn in Tokachi and Obihiro is the perfect time to enjoy the bounty of the season. Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and gourmet events, and create wonderful memories!

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