1. Obihiro Zoo

Obihiro Zoo opened in 1963. It is the second oldest zoo in Hokkaido.

Large zoos like Asahiyama Zoo and Maruyama Zoo are often featured on television, aren't they?
Obihiro Zoo is neither too big nor too small, making it the perfect facility for young children.

With 73 species and 400 animals, plus an amusement park and the Naomi Uemura Memorial Museum, you can pack a lunch and enjoy yourself all day long.

Everyone loves elephants. But in Hokkaido, they can only be found at Obihiro Zoo.
Hearing that makes you want to go, doesn't it?

Children who see elephants in real life, after seeing them often in picture books and on television, are truly amazed.
An Indian elephant named "Nana" has been living at Obihiro Zoo for over 50 years!

There are also polar bears that have been designated as an endangered species due to the effects of global warming. One of them is named "Aira."
It came from Sapporo Maruyama Zoo in 24.

Polar bears may look hot when you see them in the middle of summer, but you can also see them happily playing in the water!

2. Tokachi Ecology Park

This spot offers a variety of activities, including nature experiences, playgrounds, a water play area, and a campsite, allowing you to fully enjoy physical activity.
In this well-maintained and clean space, adults and children alike can refresh themselves while enjoying the pleasant breeze.

Fluffy dome

The "Fluffy Dome" is said to be one of the largest of its kind in Japan.
A popular attraction is the trampoline-like playground equipment, designed for outdoor fun where children can jump around barefoot.

On holidays, the park is divided into kids' and adults' time slots, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves safely. Even adults want to have fun like kids, right?
Wait for some adult time and jump around to your heart's content!

Water and mist playground

There's an area in the park where you can play in the water, and in one corner of that area, there's a spot where mist is sprayed up from the ground.

A mist feels really nice on a hot summer day.
The children look like they're having a great time splashing around in the thick white mist that's so dense you can't even see them.

Playing outdoors is fun even if you get dirty and wet. Adults should definitely give it a try too!

Tokachigawa Onsenkyo

The hot springs in Tokachi are called "Moor hot springs," and are characterized by water that retains heat well and contains a lot of plant-derived organic matter, leaving your skin smooth.

The slightly brownish, hot water is so unique that once you get in, you'll want to get in again.
After a tiring day of fun, why not relax and refresh yourself with a soak?

3. Shikaoi Riding Park

This facility is located next to the roadside station "Urimaku".

Apparently, some people stop by a roadside rest area, become curious about the horses, and end up feeling soothed by them that they even go horseback riding.

Furthermore, there's a park golf course, so if you have some free time, you could try horseback riding or playing park golf, and then grab a bite to eat at the roadside station when you get hungry.

All the horses here greet you with gentle faces.
We have plans that everyone can enjoy, from guided horseback riding experiences perfect for beginners to more advanced riding experiences.

Spending time interacting with animals is precious. It also has a calming effect, so I highly recommend it.

4. Big summer events! Kachimai Fireworks Festival and Doshin Tokachigawa Fireworks Festival

Kachimai Fireworks Festival

The Kachimai Fireworks Festival began in 1929 (Showa 4).
This is the largest and most famous fireworks display in Hokkaido, held every year on August 13th.

The mix of fireworks and digital lights and sounds creates an original composition that captivates the audience.

The venue is bustling with activity every year, and there are plenty of food stalls where you can enjoy Tokachi's local cuisine. It's a fireworks display that satisfies both your stomach and your heart.

Doshin Tokachi Fireworks Festival

The Doshin Tokachigawa Fireworks Festival takes place a few days after the Kachimai Fireworks Festival.

This is the quintessential fireworks display, with no music whatsoever, only the sound of fireworks exploding in the quiet night sky.

The Kachimai Fireworks Festival evokes an image of "movement," while the Doshin Tokachigawa Fireworks Festival evokes an image of "stillness."
This fireworks display allows you to purely appreciate the beauty of fireworks, and the timing gives you a sense of the end of summer, creating an indescribable feeling.

5. Hokkaido Balloon Festival

The Hokkaido Balloon Festival is held in Kamishihoro Town, known as the town of hot air balloons.

The Tokachi Plain stretches out before you, and the sight of colorful hot air balloons floating in the vast, unobstructed sky is truly beautiful.

During the event, there will be comedian performances and superhero shows, so children can enjoy themselves too.

The Hokkaido Balloon Festival, which started in 1974, is held every August and includes competitions to test the precision of hot air balloon piloting.

Hot air balloons, where "wind" is the key element, are surprisingly fascinating. You can even try a ride at the venue, so if you're interested, please give it a try.

6. What is the summer climate like in Obihiro?

The Tokachi region is sometimes featured on national news as experiencing extreme heat.

The average daily temperature will be around 20 degrees Celsius, but it can exceed 30 degrees Celsius during the day.
The heat is intense, but the low humidity makes it feel dry and comfortable.

Coastal areas, on the other hand, are more prone to fog and tend to have lower temperatures. Your clothing choices will depend on whether you're going inland or to the coast.

7. Conclusion

We've introduced some recommended spots to enjoy summer in Tokachi.
Let's get lots of exercise with friends and family, work up a good sweat, and have a great summer!

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