Asahikawa Travel Guide 2026: 5 Local Must-See Spots, Unique Foods & Day Trips from Sapporo
Located in the heart of Hokkaido, Asahikawa is a charming city where nature and culture harmonize beautifully, situated approximately 130km from Sapporo.
This Asahikawa Guide introduces you to numerous attractions, including Asahiyama Zoo, known as Japan's northernmost zoo, historic sake breweries, and gardens where seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year.
You can also savor local gourmet cuisine that can only be experienced here. In this article, we will thoroughly introduce the charm of Asahikawa from a local's perspective.
Since you can visit on a day trip from Sapporo, be sure to extend your journey here when traveling to Hokkaido.
Table of Contents
-Things to Enjoy in Asahikawa
-Access Information from Sapporo
-5 Must-See Spots in Asahikawa Recommended by Locals
-3 Must-Try Foods in Asahikawa Loved by Locals
What is Asahikawa?
Asahikawa is Hokkaido's second-largest city after Sapporo, serving as a central hub with a population of approximately 310,000 residents.
Known as an extremely cold region where temperatures can drop below minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter, it is also the location where Japan's lowest recorded temperature of minus 41 degrees Celsius was observed in 1902.
On the other hand, summers are relatively comfortable, and due to the significant temperature differences between seasons, the area produces delicious agricultural products.
Additionally, this region retains strong cultural influences of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, making it a city with a unique charm where tradition and nature coexist.
Things to Enjoy in Asahikawa
The greatest attraction of Asahikawa is Asahiyama Zoo, where you can observe animals up close in their lively, natural state.
The exhibition methods that allow visitors to see the natural behaviors of cold-climate animals such as penguins and polar bears have attracted attention from around the world.
Asahikawa is also famous as a competitive battleground for ramen, and Asahikawa Ramen, with its unique style featuring a soy sauce-based broth enhanced with seafood umami, is beloved by ramen enthusiasts nationwide.
Furthermore, you can enjoy diverse experiences including sake brewery tours, expansive flower gardens, and facilities where you can experience Ainu culture.
The city center is compact and easy to navigate, and the fact that you can visit major tourist spots on foot or by public transportation is another attractive point highlighted in this Asahikawa Guide.
If You Visit Asahikawa, Also Visit the Neighboring Town of Furano
Furano, located approximately 54km south of Asahikawa, is a town world-renowned for its lavender fields that spread across the landscape in purple during summer.
The peak season is from July to August, and the flower fields spreading across the hilly terrain are as beautiful as a painting.
In winter, the area bustles as a ski resort with accumulating powder snow, allowing visitors to enjoy nature throughout the year.
Since it's accessible by car in about 1.5 hours from Asahikawa, many travelers visit in combination with Asahikawa sightseeing.
Access Information from Sapporo
Source:Wikipedia
There are three main ways to access Asahikawa from Sapporo.
-Highway Bus: Recommended for those who want to travel economically
Multiple highway buses depart daily from in front of Sapporo Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, with one-way fares around 2,000 yen, making it an economical option. You can leisurely travel while enjoying Hokkaido's rural scenery from the window.
-Express Train: Recommended for those who want to travel comfortably
Using JR Hokkaido's express trains "Kamui" or "Lilac," you can arrive in Asahikawa in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes. The fare is approximately 4,900 yen. With spacious seats and minimal shaking, it's ideal for those who want to travel comfortably. Trains run 1-2 times per hour, providing convenient service.
-Rental Car: Recommended for those who want to stop at other tourist spots along the way
By renting a car in Sapporo and using the expressway, you can arrive in approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. The attractive point is that you can take breaks at service areas along the way or stop by other tourist destinations such as Furano and Biei.
| Transportation | Travel Time | Cost | Comfort Level | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highway Bus | About 2 hours 10 minutes | Around 2,000 yen | ★★★ | Best for Budget Travelers |
| Limited Express Train | About 1 hour 25 minutes | Around 4,900 yen | ★★★★★ | Best for Comfort |
| Rental Car | About 1 hour 50 minutes | About 3,300 yen one way | ★★★★ | Best for Flexibility |
5 Must-See Spots in Asahikawa Recommended by Locals
Asahikawa has many attractions, so when planning your trip, it's recommended to decide in advance which places to visit.
From here, this Asahikawa Guide introduces the must-visit spots recommended by locals.
Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo, located at Japan's northernmost point, is a zoo that has garnered worldwide attention for its innovative "behavioral exhibition" method that brings out animals' natural behaviors and abilities.
Particularly popular are the underwater tunnel where you can look up at penguins swimming as if flying through the sky, and the facility where you can observe polar bears diving right before your eyes.
In winter, the "Penguin Walk" event is held where penguins stroll on the snow, allowing visitors to see their adorable figures up close. I was so captivated by their cuteness that I kept following the penguin parade.
Many tourists visit on day trips from Sapporo, and it's a popular spot for families as well. Beyond simply exhibiting animals, you can also learn about ecosystems and environmental conservation.
<Information>
Address: Kuranuma, Higashi-Asahikawa-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Hours: 9:30-17:15 (varies by season)
Closed: Early to late April, early to late November, December 30-January 1
Phone: 0166-36-1104
Official Website: https://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/
Ueno Farm (The Gnomes' Garden)
Source:Official website
Ueno Farm is a garden that incorporates the beauty of English-style gardening against the backdrop of Hokkaido's magnificent nature. You can enjoy flowers that a garden designer has lovingly cultivated over more than 30 years.
Approximately 2,000 varieties of plants are planted, with flowers blooming in succession from spring to autumn. The best viewing season is from June to September, and the sight of colorful flowers in bloom will make you gasp in admiration.
Throughout the garden, decorations themed around small fairies called "Gnomes" are placed, creating an atmosphere as if you've wandered into a fairy tale world.
There is also a café in the garden where you can relax and spend time leisurely while admiring the flowers. It's popular as a photography spot, and the charm lies in being able to enjoy the garden's different expressions throughout the seasons.
<Information>
Address: 186 Nagayama-cho 16-chome, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Hours: 10:00-17:00 (open only from late April to mid-October)
Closed: Open daily during the operating season
Phone: 0166-47-8741
Official Website: https://uenofarm.net/
Ainu-Related Tourist Spots
Several facilities where you can experience the culture of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido, are scattered around the Asahikawa area.
The Ainu are a people with their own unique language, beliefs, and art, who have long valued coexistence with nature.
Kamuy Kotan
"Kamuy" means god in the Ainu language, and "Kotan" means village, making this a sacred place known as the "Village of the Gods." Located in the Ishikari River valley, the spectacular scenery of unusual rocks lined up in succession is breathtaking.
The Ainu people believed that gods dwelled in these rocks and offered prayers here. If you walk along the riverside promenade, you can feel the power of nature, which is why this Asahikawa Guide destination is also known as a power spot.
The autumn foliage season is particularly beautiful, with the contrast between the red and yellow colored trees and the rocks making it an excellent photo spot.
<Information>
Address: Kamui-kotan, Kamui-cho, Asahikawa City
Business Hours: 24 hours
Closed: None
Phone Number: None
Official Website: None
Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum
This museum preserves and exhibits traditional Ainu culture and is a historic facility that opened in 1916. Inside, more than 500 precious items are displayed, including ceremonial costumes, ornaments, hunting tools, and wood-carved crafts.
The reconstructed exhibition of a "Chise," a traditional Ainu house, is a must-see. You can actually go inside and experience what life was like gathered around an irori hearth.
You can also learn about the Ainu language and their philosophy of nature worship, making this a valuable place for understanding Japan's multiculturalism. This Asahikawa Guide spot offers deep cultural insights.
<Information>
Address: 11-chome, Hokumon-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Open year-round
Phone Number: 0166-51-2461
Official Website: http://k-aynu-mh.jp/index.html
Furano (Major Lavender Production Area)
Furano is located about 54km south of Asahikawa, approximately 1.5 hours by car. In summer, it becomes a spectacular spot where purple lavender fields spread across the entire hilly terrain.
The best viewing period is from mid-July to early August, and the contrast between the fragrant lavender and the blue sky makes it perfect for photography.
Furano is known as Japan's largest lavender production area, and products such as lavender oil and soap are also popular as souvenirs.
Farm Tomita
This is the central attraction for lavender tourism in Furano, where you can enjoy vast flower fields for free.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy not only lavender but also poppies and marigolds, with stunning views of colorful flowers spreading before you. I was so captivated that I couldn't stop taking photos.
The grounds also feature cafes where you can enjoy Hokkaido flavors such as lavender-flavored soft serve ice cream, cheesecake, and melon.
At the shop, you can purchase lavender aroma oil, cosmetics, dried flowers, and more. July is particularly crowded, but if you visit early in the day, you can enjoy photography in a relatively quiet atmosphere. This destination pairs wonderfully with your Asahikawa Guide exploration.
<Information>
Address: Kisen Kita 15-go, Nakafurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00 (varies by season)
Closed: None
Phone Number: 0167-39-3939
Official Website: https://www.farm-tomita.co.jp/
Flower Land Kamifurano
This facility features flower fields spreading across a vast 100,000㎡ site with the Furano Basin and the Tokachidake mountain range as a backdrop.
Particularly recommended is the tractor bus that tours the grounds. You can efficiently see spots where seasonal flowers such as lavender, salvia, and marigolds are blooming.
From the observation deck, you can overlook the entire Furano Basin, and it is also known as a photography spot. Admission is free, and you can leisurely enjoy strolling through the flower fields.
<Information>
Address: Nishi 5-sen Kita 27-go, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00 (late April to mid-October)
Closed: Open daily during the operating period
Phone Number: 0167-45-9480
Official Website: https://flower-land.co.jp/
Sake Brewery
Source:Official website
Asahikawa is a region where sake brewing thrives, thanks to the clear snowmelt water and the harsh cold that produces high-quality rice.
There are several sake breweries in the city where you can enjoy tours and tastings. "Japanese sake" is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made by fermenting rice, water, and koji, characterized by its delicate flavor. This Asahikawa Guide category is perfect for sake enthusiasts.
Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum
This is a long-established sake brewery boasting over 350 years of history, with an attached museum. Inside, sake brewing tools and materials used since the 1600s are displayed, allowing you to learn about the sake production process in an easy-to-understand way.
The tasting corner is an attractive feature where you can actually sample several types of sake. I found it so delicious that I ended up drinking too much.
Limited edition products are available at the shop, making it an irresistible spot for sake lovers.
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Address: 2-jo 7-chome 1-33, Nagayama, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Year-end and New Year holidays
Phone Number: 0166-76-5548
Official Website: https://sake-park.otokoyama.com/
Takasago Shuzō K.K.
This sake brewery was established in 1890, and its signature brand "Kokushi Muso" is famous for winning awards at competitions around the world. It is characterized by a refreshing and rich aroma with a solid rice umami flavor.
During the factory tour, you can observe the actual sake brewing process up close. You will surely be amazed by the skill of the craftsmen called "Touji" who are sake brewing masters.
At the tasting, you can also try seasonal limited-edition sake and make purchases. You can truly appreciate the depth of Japanese sake here.
<Information>
Address: Miyashita-dori 17-chome Migi 1-go, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 9:00–17:00
Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, year-end and New Year holidays
Phone Number: 0166-23-2251
Official Website: https://www.takasagoshuzo.com/
Jiyuken, Made Famous by a Japanese TV Drama, Is a Must-See!
Source:Tabelog
Jiyuken is a long-established Western-style restaurant founded in 1949. Since being featured on the popular Japanese TV drama "Kodoku no Gourmet" (Solitary Gourmet), it has become a popular restaurant attracting tourists from all over Japan.
The drama featured a set meal with fried "Hokke" (Atka mackerel), a famous Hokkaido seafood specialty, and deep-fried white sauce with crab, served with rice and miso soup, so many visitors order this menu.
I ordered it too, of course. The contrast between the crispy texture of the fried food and the umami of the seafood was outstanding, and it was so delicious that I couldn't stop eating.
The interior has a retro atmosphere, with decor that retains the feel of the mid-1900s, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
Lines often form during lunch time, so visiting right when they open is recommended. The portions are generous, so come hungry! This is an essential stop featured in this Asahikawa Guide.
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Address: 5-jo-dori 8-chome Hidari 2-go, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido
Business Hours: 11:30–14:00, 17:00–21:00
Closed: Sundays
Phone Number: 0166-23-8686
Official Website: https://guknak.jimdofree.com/
3 Must-Try Foods in Asahikawa Loved by Locals
Asahikawa has plenty of local foods, so be sure to try them when you visit.
Here, we introduce three recommended local foods in this Asahikawa guide.
Shinkoyaki
Source:Ginneko
Shinkoyaki is Asahikawa's soul food made using a whole young chicken. This dish features tender, juicy young chicken slowly grilled over charcoal.
The skin is crispy and aromatic, while the meat inside is surprisingly tender, with juices overflowing with every bite.
This dish has been enjoyed in Asahikawa since after World War II and is still served at many restaurants today.
Each restaurant has its own unique sauce recipe, so comparing different versions is part of the fun.
Yakitori Senmonten Gin'neko
Source:Official website
This long-established yakitori specialty restaurant founded in 1950 is a renowned shop that receives overwhelming support from locals. Their signature Shinkoyaki is grilled to order, so you can enjoy it fresh and piping hot.
You can choose between sauce or salt for seasoning. The portions are so generous that you will surely be surprised when it arrives at your table.
The chicken, slowly grilled over charcoal, is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Their original sauce is sweet and savory, pairing perfectly not only with alcohol but also with rice.
The interior has both counter and table seating, creating a casual atmosphere. Since the restaurant is always bustling with local regulars, visiting during earlier hours is recommended.
<Information>
Address: Hokkaido Asahikawa-shi Gojo-dori 7 Migi 65, 7 Koji Furarito
Hours: 13:00–22:00
Closed: Mondays and holidays
Phone: 0166-22-4604
Official Website: http://www.ginneko.co.jp/
Asahikawa Soy Sauce Yakisoba
Source:Official website
Asahikawa Soy Sauce Yakisoba is a local specialty that stands apart from the typical sauce-flavored yakisoba common in Japan, featuring a soy sauce-based seasoning.
It uses ingredients such as rice flour and soy sauce from Asahikawa or Hokkaido, with a strong commitment to locally sourced products. A dish cannot be called Asahikawa Soy Sauce Yakisoba unless at least one ingredient is from Asahikawa.
The noodles vary by restaurant and are stir-fried over high heat with pork, cabbage, bean sprouts, and other vegetables, then finished with a soy sauce-based sauce.
The concentrated savory and umami flavors are unforgettable once you try them.
Konamonzu 2 Joshowadoriten
Source:Tabelog
This popular restaurant is a must-visit if you want to try Asahikawa Soy Sauce Yakisoba.
The yakisoba, stir-fried on the griddle immediately after ordering, has a perfect balance of noodle and vegetable textures, with the aromatic flavor of the grilled sauce creating an irresistible deliciousness.
The interior has a casual atmosphere with semi-private seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace. Their okonomiyaki made with Hokkaido ingredients is also popular, and many people order it alongside the yakisoba.
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Address: Hokkaido Asahikawa-shi Toyooka 4-jo 8-2-1
Hours: 11:30–23:00
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 0166-34-3832
Official Website: https://konamonz.com/
Morumen
Source:Yahoo! News
Morumen is a local gourmet dish originating from Asahikawa. While Asahikawa is famous for ramen, this particular ramen menu item called Morumen is currently gaining attention.
Morumen is a dish where Motsu (pork or beef offal) stir-fried with garlic and vegetables is generously piled on top of ramen.
The chewy texture of the Motsu combined with the rich seasoning clinging to the noodles creates an addictively delicious experience.
The soup flavor varies by restaurant, but since this dish is packed with stamina-boosting ingredients, it is perfect when you are tired from traveling.
Himawari
Source:Tabelog
This long-established ramen restaurant founded in 1981 is known as the originator of Morumen and continues to be loved by locals.
The Motsu in their signature Morumen is carefully prepared, resulting in no unpleasant smell whatsoever, with tender and juicy texture.
You can choose your soup flavor, but the spicy soup with a strong garlic kick is especially popular. I have tried it myself, and once I took a bite, the deliciousness was so good I could not stop eating.
The interior has table seating and tatami seating, with an old-fashioned diner atmosphere.
They also offer ramen menu items other than Morumen.
<Information>
Address: Hokkaido Asahikawa-shi Taisetsu-dori 3-chome 491-1, Tokuichi Building 1F
Hours: 11:00–15:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 0166-25-8780
Official Website: http://www.moru-men.com/
If You Want to Enjoy Hokkaido's Exquisite Food, We Recommend Bar Hopping with a Local Guide in Sapporo
After enjoying Asahikawa's food culture through this Asahikawa guide, why not continue your gourmet adventure in Sapporo, the central city of Hokkaido?
Sapporo is a culinary paradise where Hokkaido's signature dishes come together, including fresh seafood, Jingisukan (grilled lamb), and miso ramen.
If you want to explore hidden gems frequented by locals, we recommend joining a bar hopping tour with an English-speaking local guide.
In approximately three hours, you can visit three izakayas and bars while sampling each establishment's specialty dishes and drinks in small portions, allowing you to efficiently experience Sapporo's food culture.
The guide will explain the ingredients and assist with ordering, so there is no need to worry about language barriers. They will also take you to hidden spots that only locals know about, allowing you to experience the deeper charms of Hokkaido.
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Meeting Point: Susukino Station
Tour Area: Three izakayas and bars around Susukino
Start Time: 18:00
