Asahikawa

Introduction

Located in the Kamikawa Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Asahikawa serves as a central hub for the region. You can explore this expansive city known for its distinct local culture and notable landmarks.

• Asahiyama Zoo
• Asahikawa ramen
• Local ski resorts

Before you go

You will find Asahikawa to be a pleasant city for walking or cycling, particularly during the warm season when you can explore its many rivers and streams. The city maintains a rural feel while providing direct access to nearby mountains and outdoor areas.

To prepare for your trip, you can consult the local tourist association's website, which features an integrated translation tool. You may also find English materials within the pamphlets section of the city government's website. For in-person assistance regarding transit and lodging, visit the information center located at Asahikawa Station where you can also purchase local merchandise.

Getting there

You can arrive in Asahikawa by air at Asahikawa Airport, which offers flights to Tokyo Haneda and seasonal flights to Taipei. From the airport, a bus ride will take you to Asahikawa station. If traveling by rail, Asahikawa station serves as the terminus for the JR Hakodate Main Line connecting to Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate. The spacious station features a tourist information centre with lounge seating and Wi-Fi where English speakers are typically available.

Depending on your starting point, several train options connect you to the city:

• From Sapporo, limited express trains like the Lilac and Kamui run frequently, while the Soya and Okhotsk provide additional connections. Local trains from Sapporo require one or two changes and take significantly longer.
• From Biei and Furano, you can take the Furano line, which includes the Furano-Biei Norokko Train during the summer months.
• Travelers from Wakkanai can reach the city via limited express trains like the Soya and Sarobetsu, or by taking local trains with a transfer at Nayoro.
• From Abashiri, you can choose between limited express options such as the Okhotsk, or rapid express services like the Taisetsu and Kitami.

Getting around

You can navigate the city on foot, as most sites are easily accessible from the main train station. For destinations further away, such as the zoo, Otokoyama brewery, and various ski resorts, you can utilize a taxi or the extensive bus network. A hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus service operates during the summer months, traveling along three circuits to reach major attractions including the zoo.

Cycling is an easy way to explore the flat land during the summer months. You can ride in pedestrian lanes and along dedicated bicycle lanes or paths along the many river embankments. If you prefer to cycle, you can find rentals at certain hotels or through the Tourist Information Center located in the train station.

Where to stay

You can find a hotel booking service conveniently located at the railway station to help organize your stay. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, you can choose a small town hostel where the open-minded owners speak excellent English and offer both dormitory and private room options.

If you prefer the outdoors, several camping options are available:

• Stay in a yurt or pitch your own tent at the Asahikawa Mongol camping ground, where you can also experience paragliding and yurt construction.
• Choose a campsite at the foot of Mount Asahidake if you plan to climb the mountain in the morning.

Food & drink

Explore Asahikawa as a gourmet destination where you can find a wide variety of cuisines. You can spend your day touring various restaurants on foot within the Kaimono Koen area near the station. The city is particularly famous for its ramen, especially those featuring soy sauce flavors. For a concentrated experience, visit the Ramen Village to sample offerings from several top shops in one location, or find the original shop of a popular brand that has expanded internationally.

Savor local beverages such as Otokoyama, Takasago, and Taisetsu no Kura sakes. If you prefer beer, seek out the local Taisetsu microbrew at a pub set in an old brick warehouse near the railway station, where you can enjoy your drink in a western-style setting.

What to see and do

Explore the local craftsmanship and cultural heritage of Asahikawa by visiting the Hokkaido Traditional Art Craft Village, the Asahikawa Furniture Center, or the Arashiyama Pottery Village. Located on a hill overlooking the city, the pottery village features workshops for glass, wood, textiles, and ceramics where you can view and purchase handmade products. For a taste of history, visit the Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum to see antique brewing tools and scrolls, or walk the Romantic Road between Kaguraoka Park and Midorigaoka, where trees create a lush green tunnel during the summer months.

Experience the local landscape through various outdoor activities:

• Visit Asahiyama Zoo to see polar bears, seals, and penguins in specialized enclosures.
• Cross the historic Asahibashi Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in Hokkaido.
• Explore the city's winter offerings, including the Asahikawa Winter Festival featuring large snow sculptures at Tokiwa Park.
• Enjoy the outdoors by skiing at Kamui Ski Links or on cross-country courses like Tomizawa.
• Cycle along scenic routes, such as the unpaved trail to Kamuikotan following an old rail line or the paved path toward Higashikagura set against rice fields and mountains.

Three days in Asahikawa

Day one, you begin your journey in the Kamikawa Subprefecture. You can arrive at Asahikawa Station or via the JR Hakodate Main Line from locations such as Sapporo, Otaru, or Hakodate.

Day two, you explore the local area and visit the Asahiyama Zoo to see the wildlife of Hokkaido.

Day three, you can travel toward other regions like Biei or Furano, or take the Biei Norokko Train to see the surrounding landscapes before your departure.