15 Things to Do in Asahikawa

15 Things to Do in Asahikawa

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Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

Asahikawa is a city known for its famous theme parks and abundant natural beauty.
For first-time visitors, we have carefully selected must-visit tourist spots.
In addition to these attractions, we will also recommend accommodations where you can relax and enjoy nature, and highlight some local gourmet experiences.

Table of Contents

What is Asahikawa Like?

Located in central Hokkaido, Asahikawa is a beautiful city where the rich nature of the northern country blends harmoniously with urban life.
The city is characterized by a blend of commercial facilities and office buildings, set against the stunning seasonal landscapes unique to Asahikawa.
It is home to numerous family-friendly tourist spots, including the nationally renowned Asahiyama Zoo.
Asahikawa also boasts a rich food culture, with local delicacies from both the mountains and the sea coming together from all over Hokkaido.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of local gourmet dishes, such as the famous Asahikawa ramen, salted horumon (grilled offal), and Jingisukan (grilled mutton), all of which are must-tries.

The Streets of Asahikawa
The Streets of Asahikawa

What is the Best Season to Visit Asahikawa?

Asahikawa offers many attractions throughout the year, making it a great destination in any season.
In summer, you can enjoy the refreshing breeze and lush green landscapes. Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage, providing stunning natural scenery.
Winter is also highly recommended, with the city and surrounding mountains blanketed in snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland.

Asahikawa Recommended Wear by the Season

  • Spring (March - May): Heavy coat, sweater
  • Summer (June - August): Light clothing, short sleeves
  • Autumn (September - November): Light jacket, coat
  • Winter (December - February): Coat, wool suit, warm sweater, or jacket

How to Get to Asahikawa

Asahikawa has its own airport, making it easily accessible from other cities with airports such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. The flight takes approximately 1 to 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Main Transportation for Sightseeing in Asahikawa

Asahikawa has an extensive bus network, including local and sightseeing buses.
Using the bus system, you can smoothly visit various tourist spots.
There are also 1-day and 2-day unlimited ride tickets available, which are very convenient for getting around.

Enjoy the Harmony of Urban Life and Majestic Nature! Top 15 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Asahikawa

When visiting Asahikawa, be sure to explore the breathtaking natural attractions such as Arashiyama Park Observation Deck and Shujitsu no Oka Hill, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes.
Asahikawa also offers many family-friendly tourist spots, including the lively Asahiyama Zoo and various museums like the Science Center.
When you visit Asahikawa, be sure to check out these classic attractions that showcase the city's charm and beauty.

1. Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa City

Asahiyama Zoo, the northernmost zoo in Japan, is a popular zoo known for its behavioral exhibits, in which comfortable spaces are created for the animals' ecology and their natural behavior is brought out to be seen.

The "Behavioral Exhibits" showcase the free and carefree lifestyle of the animals.
The "Behavioral Exhibits" showcase the free and carefree lifestyle of the animals.

2. Ueno Farm

A garden unique to Hokkaido, adorned with plants centering on perennial grasses that grow in the northern climate. The flowers bloom with different colors dramatically according to season, hence the name “Dramatic Garden”.

A “Dramatic Garden” that changes its views according to season.
A “Dramatic Garden” that changes its views according to season.

3. Shujitsu no Oka Hill

A beautiful hill much loved for its 60km picturesque view of the north corner of Daisetsuzan National Park, Mount Aibetsu to the south corner, Mount Minami Furano. The name Shujitsu no Oka was named by local cameramen. It is a special view in Hokkaido with its beautiful countryside going on for eternity.

Like a roller coaster? A beautiful wave-shaped hill loved by local cameramen.
Like a roller coaster? A beautiful wave-shaped hill loved by local cameramen.

4. Asahikawa Science Museum Scipal

This science museum has a permanent display room, planetarium, laboratory, and an observation deck. There is a lot of hands-on equipment fun for adults and children alike. In the neighborhood, Miyamae Park and the banks along Chubetsu River offer nice places for a walk.

The science museum with the hands-on permanent display and the latest planetarium.
The science museum with the hands-on permanent display and the latest planetarium.

5. Arashiyama Park Observation Deck

This viewpoint was named after its similarity to Arashiyama, in Kyoto. At the 250m point is the “Arashiyama Park Observation Deck'', where visitors can enjoy picturesque views day and night. Around is the Arashiyama Park Center and hiking course, where visitors regardless of age and gender can freely enjoy this park. During winter, visitors can enjoy a walk in snowshoes.

Asahikawa’s picturesque spot with its Ainu culture legacy.
Asahikawa’s picturesque spot with its Ainu culture legacy.

6. Asahikawa Kitasaito Garden

Connected to Asahikawa Station, Asahikawa Kitasaito Garden is placed in a rare location - in the middle of a city. Passing the west concourse of the station and reaching the “Shopping Park” in the city, you can appreciate the grand Chubetsu River and the rich nature in the northern land.

Right next to a train station, the duet of majestic nature and botanical delight spreads.
Right next to a train station, the duet of majestic nature and botanical delight spreads.

7. Otokoyama sake brewery museum

Otokoyama, Hokkaido's famous sake, with a history of about 350 years. The Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum is operated by Otokoyama Corporation to convey the history and traditions of sake brewing where Otokoyama is produced and sold. The museum exhibits tools used in the 17th century when Otokoyama was first made, and introduces the sake brewing process through a VTR. Don't miss the valuable art and cultural materials depicting "Otokoyama" in paintings and old documents of the period.

Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum, where visitors can learn about the 350-year history of sake production and sample sake.
Otokoyama Sake Brewing Museum, where visitors can learn about the 350-year history of sake production and sample sake.

8. Kamui Kotan

"Kamui Kotan" means "village of the gods" in the Ainu language. It's a sacred land filled with the severity and mystique of nature, located in the Ishikari River gorge.

Experience the mystical grandeur of nature and the romance of a decommissioned steam locomotive in the land of the gods.
Experience the mystical grandeur of nature and the romance of a decommissioned steam locomotive in the land of the gods.

9. Asahikawa City Museum

The "Asahikawa City Museum" displays materials related to the history, culture, and nature of northern Hokkaido. A distinguishing feature is its rich collection of materials about the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido.

A museum where you can deeply learn about the Ainu history and culture, as well as the nature of the northern country.
A museum where you can deeply learn about the Ainu history and culture, as well as the nature of the northern country.

10. Asahikawa Design Center

Asahikawa City is one of Japan's leading wooden furniture production areas. The "Asahikawa Design Center" displays and sells Asahikawa furniture and woodworking crafts from about 30 manufacturers belonging to the Asahikawa Furniture Industry Cooperative.

An art museum-like experience! The latest hub for the traditional Asahikawa furniture.
An art museum-like experience! The latest hub for the traditional Asahikawa furniture.

11. Miura Ayako Literature Museum

Located in the native city of Asahikawa, Hokkaido, of the author Miura Ayako, the museum chronicles her literary works and life's journey. Known for her seminal work "Freezing Point," the museum is situated amidst the exotic arboretum that also served as a setting for the story. The building's distinctive dodecahedral structure allows visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet surroundings and the world of her writings.

A refined and tranquil museum tracing the journey of "Miura Ayako," known for her work "Freezing Point."
A refined and tranquil museum tracing the journey of "Miura Ayako," known for her work "Freezing Point."

12. Mt. Asahidake

“Asahidake”, the highest peak in the Daisetsuzan mountain range, is a series of 2,000-meter-high peaks. Asahidake, which rises 2,291 meters above sea level, is popular for its easy access to the 1,600-meter-high ropeway, making it an easy way to enjoy the spectacular view.

Take the ropeway in comfort. Hokkaido's highest peak offers spectacular views throughout the four seasons.
Take the ropeway in comfort. Hokkaido's highest peak offers spectacular views throughout the four seasons.

13. Tanbo Art (Rice fields Art)

"Tanbo Art" (Rice Field Art) is a mysterious scene depicting giant paintings floating in the rice paddy during the summer. An artwork created by the Taisetsu Agricultural Cooperative Association youth club uses rice paddies in Higashitakasu, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, as a canvas, utilizing the varied colors of rice leaves.

Out of sight! Colorful, oversized artworks are scattered across the countryside.
Out of sight! Colorful, oversized artworks are scattered across the countryside.

14. Hokkaido Asahikawa Museum of Art

Located within the expansive Tokiwa Park, the Asahikawa Museum of Art stands since its opening in 1982. The museum, a brick structure surrounded by greenery, showcases outdoor sculptures that contrast beautifully with the crystal clear blue sky. The overall landscape appears like a gorgeous painting.

Experience a variety of art works including the woodcrafts prominent in the northern region of Hokkaido.
Experience a variety of art works including the woodcrafts prominent in the northern region of Hokkaido.

15. Northern Wild Plants Garden

Located in Arashiyama Park at the confluence of the Ishikari River and the Osarappe River, the Northern Wild Plants Garden is one of the most extensive northern wild plants gardens in Japan, with approximately 650 plant species growing in this area. It is a forest composed mainly of broad-leaved trees, which is rare in the suburbs of a city and has retained its primitive appearance.

The only botanical garden in Japan is a collection of northern wild plants.
The only botanical garden in Japan is a collection of northern wild plants.

Must-Try Ramen and Craft Beer! Top 3 Popular Restaurants in Asahikawa

Asahikawa is famous for its ramen, known for its rich tonkotsu and seafood-based broths.
Additionally, craft beer made from locally grown barley, wheat, and hops is very popular.
The balance of hop aroma and malt flavor is exceptional.
Craft beer pairs perfectly with gourmet dishes made from Hokkaido's fresh seafood and mountain produce.

1. Asahikawa Ramen Mura

Asahikawa Ramen Village was opened in 1996. Seven restaurants in the city got together in this complex to share Asahikawa ramen’s goodness and its culture. On the outer wall, students from Hokkaido University of Education Asahikawa Campus painted animals of Asahikawa Zoo enjoying ramen.

Ramens galore! The ramen village with Asahikawa’s popular seven ramen restaurants.
Ramens galore! The ramen village with Asahikawa’s popular seven ramen restaurants.

2. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka Asahikawa Honten

Santouka began when the founder Hatanaka announced to his family that he was going to make delicious ramen. After trials, errors, and improvement, he came up with his unique pork bone white soup which is well-rounded. The restaurant is now located internationally and popular regardless of the nationality of customers.

Relish internationally-beloved pork bone salt ramen originated in Asahikawa, Hokkaido.
Relish internationally-beloved pork bone salt ramen originated in Asahikawa, Hokkaido.

3. Taisetsu Ji Beer Asahikawa

Taisetsu Ji Beer Asahikawa was designed with snow color, white, and ground color, brown, to feel the nature of Hokkaido. With a maximum seating capacity of 100, visitors can enjoy Hokkaido’s local beer and dishes that go perfectly with the beer in a relaxing atmosphere.

A base for food culture with Asahikawa’s quality ingredients and water from the Mt. Taisetsu.
A base for food culture with Asahikawa’s quality ingredients and water from the Mt. Taisetsu.

Top 4 Shopping Spots in Asahikawa

Asahikawa offers a variety of shopping spots, from local stores featuring specialty products to large commercial facilities.
Here are four carefully selected shopping destinations that you should definitely visit.

1. Takasago Shuzo Inc.

Established in 1899, Kohiyama Shuzo, a historical Sake brewery, called as Nada in Hokkai, was the 4th-established Sake brewery in Asahikawa. Merged with Ishizaki Shuzo in 1965, a new company restarted as the name of Takasago Shuzo.

A sake brewery called as “Nada in Hokkai”, the flagship product, “Kokushimuso” has a dry and manlike taste.
A sake brewery called as “Nada in Hokkai”, the flagship product, “Kokushimuso” has a dry and manlike taste.

2. JR Asahikawa Station

The city of Asahikawa is located in the center of Hokkaido. The JR Asahikawa Station is central to the east-west and north-south rail system in Hokkaido.

Building of a modern station. This is the center of Hokkaido's railroad system, which stretches from east to west and north to south.
Building of a modern station. This is the center of Hokkaido's railroad system, which stretches from east to west and north to south.

3. Heiwa Dori Shopping Park

The 1-kilometer-long pedestrian paradise, called "Heiwa-dori Shopping Park", is the main street of Asahikawa, and was established in 1972 as Japan's first permanent pedestrian paradise, and is lined with a variety of stores, from large-scale stores and various specialty stores to beauty salons and restaurants.

Japan's first pedestrian zone for gourmet food and shopping.
Japan's first pedestrian zone for gourmet food and shopping.

4. Roadside Station Asahikawa

Located alongside National Route 237, which runs from Asahikawa through Furano and on to the Hidaka region, this station serves as a hub for Asahikawa's industry, gourmet food, and tourism. It's just a 15-minute walk from JR Asahikawa Station, ensuring easy access from the heart of Asahikawa.

A rest stop, "Roadside Station Asahikawa," where the charms of Asahikawa are condensed.
A rest stop, "Roadside Station Asahikawa," where the charms of Asahikawa are condensed.

Perfect for Sightseeing! Top 3 Recommended Accommodations in Asahikawa

Asahikawa, with its abundant natural beauty, offers a wide range of accommodations, from convenient hotels ideal for sightseeing to urban hotels full of playful charm.
Here are three carefully selected accommodations that we highly recommend.

1. OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts

Hoshino Resort OMO7 Asahikawa is operated by Hoshino Resort, with the wish that guests enjoy Hokkaido’s climate, and new-old cultures of Asahikawa. It is a popular tourist spot, and a perfect hotel to create memories, located in the easy-to-access Asahikawa. It is near Furano and Biei.

A playful city hotel that lets you experience Asahikawa’s culture both new and old.
A playful city hotel that lets you experience Asahikawa’s culture both new and old.

2. Art Hotel Asahikawa

“Art Hotel Asahikawa” is located only a 5 min drive from JR Asahikawa Station. It is accessible from tourist spots, and is perfect to stay for travel, business purposes. Guest rooms range from Japanese to Western rooms. Western Rooms can accommodate a maximum of 6 guests, it is perfect for families.

Perfect for touring Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano. Perfect access and a variety of guest rooms.
Perfect for touring Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano. Perfect access and a variety of guest rooms.

3. HOTEL ROUTE-INN Grand ASAHIKAWA EKIMAE

HOTEL ROUTE-INN Grand ASAHIKAWA EKIMAE was opened in 2016 at the convenient location two-minute on foot from Asahikawa Station. This hotel brand started in Hokkaido for the first time with bigger guest rooms and a quality restaurant. Better facilities and services than conventional hotels will provide a more comfortable stay.

Have a relaxing stay at the HOTEL ROUTE-INN Grand with superb accommodations and services.
Have a relaxing stay at the HOTEL ROUTE-INN Grand with superb accommodations and services.

Summary

We have introduced the attractions, gourmet spots, and accommodations in Asahikawa, highlighting its beautiful harmony of urban life and rich northern nature, family-friendly theme parks, and popular Asahikawa ramen.
For those who are not familiar with Asahikawa or have never visited, we highly recommend experiencing it at least once.
After enjoying Asahikawa, take the JR Hakodate Main Line Limited Express Lilac to Sapporo, another city where urban life and nature blend seamlessly.
Sapporo offers many historical sites and unique attractions that are not found in Asahikawa.