Asahikawa, a city located in Hokkaido, Japan, offers a wide range of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. From the snow festival in the winter to visiting the Asahiyama Zoo and sampling local sake and cuisine, there’s plenty to do in this charming city.
In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the top things to do in Asahikawa.
Asahiyama Zoo
The Asahiyama Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Asahikawa. It’s known for its unique and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals. The zoo is open all year round, and each season brings something different to see. In the winter, visitors can see the penguins walking on the snow, while in the summer, they can see the polar bears swimming in the water. One of the highlights of the zoo is the “Penguin Walk,” where visitors can watch the penguins walking around the zoo with their keepers.
More: Asahiyama Zoo: The Ultimate Guide
Asahikawa Ramen Village
Asahikawa is also known for its delicious ramen noodles. The Asahikawa Ramen Village is a collection of eight ramen shops that are located under one roof. Each shop offers a different type of ramen, allowing visitors to try a variety of styles. The village is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and it’s a great place to sample some of the best ramen in the city.
Otokoyama Sake Brewery
If you’re a fan of sake, then a visit to the Otokoyama Sake Brewery is a must. The brewery has been producing sake for over 340 years and is one of the oldest sake breweries in Hokkaido. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the sake-making process. The tour also includes a sake tasting, where visitors can sample a variety of different sakes.
Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture
The Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture is a unique museum that showcases a variety of sculptures from both Japanese and international artists. The museum is located in a beautiful park and has a tranquil atmosphere. Some of the highlights of the museum include sculptures by the famous Japanese artist, Fumio Asakura, and a bronze statue by the American sculptor, Isamu Noguchi.
Tokiwa Park
Tokiwa Park is a beautiful park located in the center of Asahikawa. The park is known for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and its vibrant autumn foliage in the fall. It’s a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic, and there are also several attractions within the park, including a zoo, a botanical garden, and a playground.
Asahikawa Winter Festival
The Asahikawa Winter Festival is a popular event that takes place every year in February. The festival is known for its stunning ice sculptures, which are illuminated at night and create a magical atmosphere. The festival also includes a variety of events such as snowmobile rides, snow rafting, and traditional Japanese performances. It’s a must-see event for anyone visiting Asahikawa in the winter.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Asahikawa is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The city is surrounded by mountains that offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels. Some of the most popular ski resorts in the area include Kamui Ski Links and Asahidake Ski Resort. Both resorts offer a wide range of slopes, from beginner to advanced, and have excellent facilities such as rental equipment and ski schools.
Tour the Sounkyo Gorge
The Sounkyo Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located just outside of Asahikawa. The gorge features towering cliffs, waterfalls, and a beautiful river. Visitors can take a walking tour through the gorge, or for a more adventurous experience, take a cable car to the top of the gorge for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a walk through Asahikawa Station
Asahikawa Station is not just a transportation hub, but also a beautiful architectural marvel. The station is known for its unique design, which features a large open-air plaza and a glass roof that lets in plenty of natural light. Take a walk through the station and admire the intricate design and artwork on display.
Take a soak in one of the many hot springs in the area
Asahikawa is home to several hot springs, or “onsen,” that are known for their healing properties. One of the most popular is the Asahidake Onsen, which is located at the base of Mount Asahidake. Visitors can relax in the hot spring water and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit the Ginga no Taki Waterfall
The Ginga no Taki Waterfall is a beautiful natural wonder located just outside of Asahikawa. The waterfall is known for its stunning beauty and is a popular spot for photographers. Visitors can take a short hike to the waterfall and take in the stunning views.
Strole Down Heiwa Street
Heiwa Street is a charming street lined with shops and restaurants. The street runs straight down from the station and features cafes, seating, and some cool status.
There are also several festivals and events held on the street throughout the year, including the Asahikawa Winter Festival.
Ueno Farm
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, then a visit to Ueno Farm is a must. The farm is located just outside of Asahikawa and offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, strawberry picking, and tractor rides. The farm is also known for its delicious soft-serve ice cream, which is made from fresh milk from the farm’s cows.
Asahikawa City Museum
Within walking distance of the train station, just over the river, the Asahikawa City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Asahikawa. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. The museum also has a collection of local artwork and photographs that provide a glimpse into the city’s past.
Kaguraoka Park
Kaguraoka Park is a beautiful park located on a hill in the center of Asahikawa. The park is known for its stunning views of the city and its beautiful gardens. There’s also a small zoo within the park, which is home to a variety of animals, including red pandas and capybaras. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Asahikawa.
Mount Asahi
Mount Asahi is the tallest mountain in Hokkaido and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color. The climb to the summit takes about 5-6 hours, and there are several huts along the way where hikers can rest and get something to eat.
Kamikawa Shrine
The Kamikawa Shrine is a beautiful Shinto shrine located in the center of Asahikawa. The shrine is known for its stunning architecture and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take part in traditional Japanese rituals, such as throwing coins into the offering box and clapping their hands to purify themselves.
Asahikawa Taisetsu Arena
The Asahikawa Taisetsu Arena is a multi-purpose indoor stadium that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. It’s home to the Oji Eagles, a professional ice hockey team, and also hosts concerts, exhibitions, and other sporting events. If you’re a sports fan, then a visit to the arena is a must.
Asahikawa Science Center
The Asahikawa Science Center is a great place to learn about science and technology. The center has a variety of exhibits, including a planetarium, a robotics exhibit, and a virtual reality simulator. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the interactive exhibits and learn about the latest advances in science and technology.
Kita no Yatai
Kita no Yatai is a collection of food stalls that are located in the center of Asahikawa. The stalls offer a variety of local cuisine, including ramen, sushi, and yakitori. It’s a great place to sample some of the best food that Asahikawa has to offer and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Sum Up
Asahikawa offers a wide range of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. From hiking Mount Asahi to visiting the Kamikawa Shrine, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. We hope this guide has given you some ideas for things to do during your visit to Asahikawa. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or trying the local cuisine, Asahikawa has something to offer.
