When considering what truly represents Hokkaido, there is no place that surpasses the Tokachi region.
A vast sky, a wide land, a cool climate. Clean air. A gently flowing river.
A road that goes on forever.

To the west lie the rugged peaks of the Tokachi Mountains, and to the north the majestic peaks of Daisetsuzan. In addition to the magnificent scenery, there are abundant agricultural products and delicious sweets.
Regardless of the season, this charming place attracts many repeat visitors and keeps them coming back.

However, many people probably find it difficult to narrow down the places they should see because there are so many things to see.

So, this time we'll introduce some sightseeing spots in Tokachi. We've selected spots that everyone can enjoy, from repeat visitors to those visiting the Tokachi region for the first time.
Use this as a guide to enjoy a fun and relaxed life in Tokachi.

Table of contents
1. What is the Tokachi region?

2. Tourist attractions in Tokachi
2-1.Lake Shikaribetsu
2-2. Rokkanomori
2-3. Onneto
2-4. Nissho Pass
2-5. Naitai Highland Ranch
2-6. Ikeda Wine Castle

3. Hot springs in the Tokachi region
3-1. Tokachigawa Onsen
3-2. Nukabira Onsenkyo (Nukabira Hot Spring Village)

4. Tokachi Region Gourmet
4-1. Bald Ten
4-2. Ryūgetsu Sweetopia Garden
Final thoughts

Although the Tokachi region is part of Hokkaido, its total area exceeds 1 square kilometers, making it comparable in size to Gifu Prefecture.
This region, centered on field crops and dairy farming, is one of Japan's most renowned agricultural areas, boasting a food self-sufficiency rate well over 1,000%.
It's no exaggeration to say that this place has all the scenery that comes to mind when many travelers think of Hokkaido.

This is a region where simply driving along the roads gives you a real sense of being on a trip to Hokkaido.
This region, centered around Obihiro, is also a land overflowing with tourist attractions that are typical of Hokkaido.
To the north lies the foothills of the Daisetsuzan Mountains, a scenic spot where much of the natural environment remains.
To the south lie endless farmlands and the vast Pacific Ocean; even just exploring it in detail would require three days.

2-1.Lake Shikaribetsu

Image source:Free stock photos of Hokkaido: DO PHOTO

The lake surface is at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level. Lake Shikaribetsu is the highest natural lake in Hokkaido.
The surrounding subarctic forests offer tranquility, and you can enjoy Hokkaido's nature through various activities throughout the year.

Beneath the deep, dark blue surface of the water lives the Miyabe char, a protected species, as well as various other fish including rainbow trout.
You can not only look at them, but also try fishing for them, or go canoeing or rafting while chasing them.
Summer offers so many nature experiences that one day isn't enough time to fully enjoy them.
Even in winter, there are plenty of adventures waiting for you, from soft to hard, including guided forest explorations.

Another popular winter attraction is Shikari Lake Kotan, a village made of ice spread across the lake's surface. You can experience the extreme cold of the polar regions, with temperatures reaching minus 20°C.
It's a place you can enjoy no matter when you come or how many times you visit.

[Spot Information]
Address: No street number, Kita-Urimaku, Shikaoi-cho, Kato-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0156-69-8181

2-2. Rokkanomori

There are many famous sweets from Hokkaido.
The leading example is Rokkatei. Originally a confectionery manufacturer from the Tokachi region, Rokkatei is developing gardens that make use of nature.
That is Rokka Forest.

Image source: PIXTA

This spot, located in Nakasatsunai Village, southeast of Obihiro, is the southern starting point of the 250km Hokkaido Garden Road, which has become famous in recent years, starting in Tokachi and continuing to Furano and Daisetsuzan.

The floral wrapping paper, which you've probably seen at least once both inside and outside Hokkaido, features a profusion of flowers representative of Tokachi, depicted in a pattern that evokes images of the region.
Summer is arguably the best season to visit this garden, which covers an area of ​​10 hectares. Its scale is so vast that it can hardly be contained within the confines of a typical garden.
The word "forest" would be more appropriate.

The six flowers of Tokachi (Ezo gentian, Japanese rose, large-flowered trillium, dogtooth violet, Ezo marsh marigold, and Japanese anemone) sway their petals in the refreshing summer breeze of Tokachi, and their appearance as they celebrate summer in the clear sunlight is sure to soothe the hearts of anyone, not just garden enthusiasts.
A museum housed in a relocated old Croatian house is situated in the middle of a forest.

While strolling around, you can also enjoy paintings that capture scenes of Tokachi. It's a popular spot in the Obihiro area. Be sure to visit at least once.

【Facility information】
★Rokka no Mori
Address: 249-6 Tokiwa Nishi 3-sen, Nakasatsunai Village, Kasai District
Phone: 0155-63-1000
Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (from October)
Closed: Mid-October to late April (Winter holidays)
Access: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Tokachi Obihiro Airport, approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Obihiro Station.
Parking: 50 spaces
Admission fee: Adults 800 yen, Elementary and junior high school students 500 yen

2-3. Onneto

Image source: PIXTA

Ashoro Town is located in the northern part of the Tokachi region. As a transportation hub, it is a town with many people coming and going.
It's also famous as the hometown of singer Chiharu Matsuyama. The mystical lake that people there often talk about is Lake Onneto.
Despite being said to be of legendary beauty, its location meant that few people visited it, and it was considered a hidden gem.

Photo by Flickr:Onneto / nikunoki

Its charm lies in the ever-changing beauty of the lake's surface. From the time of fresh greenery in spring to the autumn when the leaves are reflected on the water's surface, the way the colors change dramatically with a fleeting shift in light and the shadows of the clouds is something that locals rave about, saying that no two lakes ever look the same.

Its alternative name is Goshikinuma (Five-Colored Pond), because its color changes five times a day.
Volcanic activity and the complex workings of bacteria can cause lakes to have different colors even within the same lake.
It's not uncommon for truly breathtaking scenes to unfold through the interplay of light and shadow.
In recent years, its popularity has increased significantly due to improvements in the surrounding roads.

Experience the legendary wonders of nature, where the landscape can change with just the appearance of a single cloud and a gentle breeze.
The ever-changing colors are so captivating that you feel as if your heart is being drawn into them.

[Spot Information]
★Ashoro Tourism Association (NPO)
Address: 1-3, Kita 1-jo 1-chome, Ashoro-cho, Ashoro-gun, Hokkaido (inside Michi-no-Eki Ashoro Ginga Hall 21)
Phone: 0156-25-6131
*Winter freezing

2-4. Nissho Pass

Photo by Flickr:Nissho Pass / sendaiblog

The most challenging section of National Route 274, which connects Hidaka and Tokachi, is the Nissho Pass.
Even now that the expressway has opened, it still plays a significant role as a major transportation artery.

Along the way is the Nissho Pass First Observation Deck, offering panoramic views of the Tokachi Plain from a height of 740 meters.
While the Naitai Plateau, which will be discussed later, also offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Tokachi Plain, the scenery here is quite different because it's a view from the mountains.
On a clear day, you can see as far as Akan in the distance.

Its appeal doesn't end there.

Photo by Flickr:Nissho Pass / sendaiblog

The Nissho Pass in the Tokachi region is known for its relatively frequent rain, snow, and fog, which is one reason why it's considered a difficult route. However, when the rain clouds are low, you can also see a sea of ​​clouds covering the Tokachi Plain.
For those leaving Tokachi, it will be a place to cherish each and every memory of the simple and warm Tokachi – the delicious sweets, the beautiful rural landscapes, and so on. For those who will visit Tokachi in the future, it will be a landscape that fills them with a sense of excitement and anticipation.
For the best time to visit, I recommend Tokachi, which is bathed in the light of the setting sun.

The fields glowing orange, bathed in the ever-changing sunlight, create a landscape that evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and will undoubtedly remain etched in your memory forever.

2-5. Naitai Highland Ranch

Image source:Free stock photos of Hokkaido: DO PHOTO

Naitai Plateau in Kamishihoro Town is said to be the number one scenic spot in the Tokachi Plain.
On this ranch, which boasts a total area of ​​1,700 hectares, cows graze peacefully.

Even the sesame-seed-like specks in the distant pasture are dairy cows.
It gives a sense of grand scale.

The scene evokes a sense of nostalgia, as if I've seen it somewhere before. It's as if the world I've seen in European photographs and animations has been brought to life in live-action.

If you follow the path through this pasture to the top, you will arrive at the observation deck.
On a clear day, the vast patchwork of fields in the Tokachi Plain, created by the mountains of Akan and human activity, stretches out before you.
This view makes you wonder what else there is to experience in Hokkaido besides seeing this scenery.

As it is a plateau, the elevation is about 800m. Even in summer, you will need to take precautions against the cold.
At the rest house at the summit, you can enjoy a tea break with delicious coffee and soft serve ice cream.
This is a must-see spot in Tokachi. You absolutely must visit.

[Spot Information]
★Naitai Highland Ranch Rest House
Address: 85-2 Kamiotofuke, Kamishihoro-cho
Phone: 090-3398-5049
Opening time: 10:00 - 17:00

2-6. Ikeda Wine Castle

Image provided by: Ikeda Wine Castle

For the people of Hokkaido, Tokachi is synonymous with summer fireworks displays.
Autumn harvest festival, and much more. If you take a drive there, you can enjoy shopping at various places.
Among the agricultural products, livestock products, and sweets, this wine castle is one of the must-see spots.

Ikeda Wine Castle is located on Kiyomi Hill, east of JR Ikeda Station.
It has a long history, having been built in 1974, so it's already over 40 years old. The tour includes a view of the aging barrels in the basement and a factory tour. If you have time, a guided tour is also recommended.
You can get a good look at the behind-the-scenes areas of the winery that you wouldn't normally see.

After finishing the tour, I headed to the shop on the first floor to get the wine that is only sold at this location.
I immediately bought this wine after tasting it at the free wine tasting corner. The wine has a crisp, refreshing taste reminiscent of the breeze of Tokachi.
A subtle sweetness is accompanied by a rich grape aroma.
Every wine in this selection offers excellent value for money.

Once you've seen everything, head up to the rooftop observation deck and enjoy the sunset while soaking up the cool breeze and the warmth of your wine-filled body. This is one of the best sunset viewing spots in the Tokachi region.

【Facility information】
★Ikeda Wine Castle
Address: 83 Kiyomi, Ikeda-machi, Nakagawa-gun
Phone: 015-572-2467
Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 17:00 PM
Business period: All year round
Closed: New Year's holiday

3-1. Tokachigawa Onsen

~Kangetsuen, featuring an open-air bath~

Eastern Hokkaido, where active volcanic activity is prevalent, is a region densely populated with excellent hot springs, to the point where it seems you could dig anywhere and find a hot spring.
Among them, Tokachigawa Onsen is particularly popular with women.

The spring water is a plant-based moor spring. It's a rare type of spring water globally, and is also known as the "beauty spring." Its skin-beautifying effects are at their maximum level.
The hot spring town is also appealing because you can choose from a variety of accommodations, from reasonably priced lodgings to luxurious Japanese-style inns.

Sanyoan is a luxury Japanese-style inn with only 11 rooms. Its limited number of rooms allows for exceptionally attentive and personalized service.
This inn is recommended for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Tokachi on a solo trip.

Hotel Taiheigen is a large-scale accommodation. It boasts a variety of baths and a buffet featuring abundant local Tokachi ingredients, offering a scale that can meet any need.
Features include the Kanzukien, which boasts a charming open-air bath overlooking the Tokachi River.
All the accommodations are of a high standard. They are on par with the hot spring resorts in Hokkaido.

Image source:Free stock photos of Hokkaido: DO PHOTO

[Spot Information]
★Otofu Town Tokachigawa Onsen Tourism Association
Address: 1-1, Minami 12-chome, Tokachigawa Onsen, Otofuke-cho, Kato-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0155-32-6633

3-2. Nukabira Onsenkyo (Nukabira Hot Spring Village)

Image source: PIXTA

Nukabira Onsenkyo is located in the northern part of the Tokachi region, known as Higashi-Taisetsu.
The area is surrounded by Lake Nukabira. It's a famous spot known for the Taushubetsu River Bridge, a phantom bridge that can only be seen from around January to June when the lake level is low.
Furthermore, if you continue north, you'll find yourself in a hot spring resort area blessed with scenic spots such as Mikuni Pass, which is on the way to Sounkyo Gorge.

There are many quaint, old-fashioned hot springs, and in the summer, many motorcyclists visit them.
Each inn offers day-trip access to its hot springs, allowing you to enjoy a variety of bathing experiences.

As it's a hot spring resort nestled in the mountains blessed with abundant nature, the open-air baths are also quite wild.
You can experience a sense of oneness with nature. The spring water is sodium-based and the temperature is a bit hot, between 50°C and 60°C. It warms you up incredibly well.

Pension Fukurokan is a pension nestled in the mountains, yet it prides itself on its seafood.
Because the owner's wife is from Erimo Town, fresh seafood is delivered directly, resulting in a very high overall satisfaction level.

One unique place is the Sankoso hot spring inn, famous throughout Hokkaido for its cave bath.
It has a fantastic, dreamy atmosphere.
The cottages with private hot springs are located at Primal Stage. Private hot spring baths are also available by reservation.
You can also have meals at the on-site restaurant.
This is a clean, recently built cottage where you can have a BBQ even in rainy weather.

Image source:Travel Photos

Since there are many small accommodations, each one is quite unique.
This location is perfect for enjoying the atmosphere of a hot spring at your favorite inn.

[Spot Information]
★Nukabira Onsenkyo
Address: Nukabira Onsenkyo, Kamishihoro-cho, Kato-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 01564-4-2224 (Kamishihoro Town Tourism Association)
Official HP:http://www.kamishihoro.info/

For more information about hot springs in the Tokachi region, please see the following page!
[Tokachi Hot Springs] A treasure trove of famous hot springs! 7 must-visit hot springs in the Tokachi region

↓ For travel to Obihiro and Tokachi ↓

4-1. Bald Ten

Photo by Flickr: Pork bowl. / MIKI Yoshihito (´･ω･)

When you think of the Tokachi region, you think of pork rice bowls. This is probably the first dish that comes to mind when you think of local cuisine.

Even within Obihiro city, the well-known restaurants are so popular that there are always long lines.
Because it's such a simple dish, the sauce, the pork, and the grilling are all crucial. Among them, this Hageten is particularly popular with the locals.

Ippinya Drive-in Ito is located at Chitose Airport. You can eat it in other places besides Tokachi, but Hageten Obihiro Main Store is only here.
It's not uncommon to hear stories of people from Obihiro rushing to this restaurant as soon as they return home, and it's highly praised by locals as the taste of Obihiro, or in other words, the taste of home in Tokachi.
The unique experiences you can only have here are what make a trip memorable.

The sweetness and umami of the fat. The fat renders nicely during grilling, leaving the meat juicy and chewy, with a smoky aroma from being cooked over an open flame.
Once you try it, you're guaranteed to become addicted.

【Facility information】
Address: 10-5 Nishi 1 Minami, Obihiro City
Phone: 0155-23-4478
Opening hours: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm (Last order 8:30 pm)
Closed holiday: irregular holiday

4-2. Ryūgetsu Sweetopia Garden

Photo by Flickr: Yanagizuki Sweetopia Garden / alberth2

As you drive from Obihiro towards Tokachigawa Onsen, you'll come across this kingdom of sweets.
Yanagizuki Sweetopia Garden.

As a popular tourist spot, it's so crowded that on weekends you'll need a fair amount of time just to get into the parking lot.
While there are many delicious Baumkuchen in Hokkaido, the most popular as a souvenir or gift is Sanpo Roku.
The moist, dense texture and the wide variety of flavors to enjoy make it truly special.

Not only is it delicious, but it also offers great value for money. It's a real bargain.
In addition to sales, you can also observe the manufacturing process of Sanpo Roku on the second floor.
This confectionery has many fans both within and outside Hokkaido.

Recently, the kind that's been cut into bite-sized pieces, known as "kowari," has become very popular.
If you're struggling to find a souvenir, I highly recommend this.
It has a long shelf life, and it's a confection that gives off a slightly more Hokkaido-savvy vibe than Rokkatei or Ishiya Seika.

Enjoy a relaxing time at our cafe and be sure to try our special menu item, the Garden Crepe.
The gentle flavor of Tokachi spreads throughout your mouth. It's a gentleness that you can only experience here in Hokkaido.

【Facility information】
Address: 18-2 Nishi, Shimootofuke Kita 9-sen, Otofuke-cho, Kato-gun, Hokkaido
Phone: 0155-32-3366
Hours:
■Summer business hours (Third Monday of April to November 3rd)
Store hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Cafe... 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Factory tours are available from the store's opening time until 4 PM.
■Winter operating hours (November 4th to the third Sunday of April)
Store hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Cafe: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Factory tours are available from the store's opening time until 4 PM.
Closed: Open all year round

Final thoughts

How was that.
There are actually so many hot springs and gourmet spots that I haven't been able to introduce yet.
I haven't even introduced the secluded Tomuraushi Onsen hot springs or Tokachi beef yet. Ikeda Town has many restaurants serving delicious hamburgers and steaks, and Shintoku Town is famous for its soba noodles.
Shinmura Farm, famous for its milk jam, also has a shop in Kamishihoro Town.

In other words, there are still many places in Tokachi that you should visit.
The Tokachi region is a place you will never regret visiting.

We hope you'll use this page as a reference to find your own favorite spots in Tokachi.

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