Fun Things to Do in Asahikawa | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Asahikawa Travel Guide
Quick overview of Asahikawa with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Asahikawa! Located in the northernmost island of Hokkaido, Asahikawa is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Asahikawa is home to the famous Asahiyama Zoo, where visitors can get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals, including polar bears and penguins. Nature enthusiasts will also be delighted by the breathtaking landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and hot spring bathing. Additionally, Asahikawa is renowned for its delicious local cuisine, such as ramen and sake, making it a paradise for food lovers. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or looking to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, Asahikawa has something for everyone.
Asahikawa Travel Videos
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![Asahikawa Early Summer 2023 Walking Tour - Hokkaido Japan [4K/HDR/Binaural]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b7Jujqq3neY/hqdefault.jpg)
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Things To Do In Asahikawa
Asahikawa offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do in Asahikawa is to visit the Asahiyama Zoo. This popular zoo is known for its unique enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals up close. Another highlight of Asahikawa is the Asahikawa Winter Festival, which takes place in February. This spectacular event features impressive ice sculptures and a variety of winter activities.
For those interested in cultural experiences, a visit to the Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture is a must. This fascinating museum showcases a collection of sculptures from both Japanese and international artists. Additionally, the Otokoyama Sake Brewery offers tours where visitors can learn about the traditional process of sake production and even sample some of their delicious sake.
Nature lovers will also find plenty to do in Asahikawa. The Daisetsuzan National Park is a stunning natural area that offers hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Biei and Furano, two nearby towns, are known for their beautiful flower fields and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can take scenic drives or cycling tours to explore these charming areas.
Lastly, Asahikawa is also a great destination for food enthusiasts. The city is famous for its ramen and has numerous ramen shops where visitors can try this delicious dish. Additionally, the Asahikawa Ramen Village is a must-visit for ramen lovers, as it houses several renowned ramen restaurants under one roof.
In summary, Asahikawa offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the Asahiyama Zoo and experiencing the Asahikawa Winter Festival to immersing oneself in the local culture at the Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture and Otokoyama Sake Brewery, there is something for everyone in this charming city.
Tours And Activities In Asahikawa
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Check out Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Hokkaido Prefecture (State region of Asahikawa).
Best Time To Visit Asahikawa
The best time to visit Asahikawa is during the summer months of June to August. This is when the city experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The summer season also brings beautiful blooming flowers, such as lavender fields and sunflower gardens, which are popular attractions in Asahikawa. Additionally, July is the month when the famous Asahikawa Summer Festival takes place, featuring colorful parades, fireworks, and traditional performances. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
Flight Calendar For Asahikawa
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Best Areas To Stay In Asahikawa
Asahikawa offers several great areas for accommodation.
1. City Center: The city center of Asahikawa is a bustling area with numerous hotels and guesthouses. It is conveniently located near popular attractions such as the Asahikawa Ramen Village and the Asahikawa Winter Festival. Visitors staying in the city center can easily access public transportation and enjoy a wide range of dining and shopping options.
2. Furano: Located just a short distance from Asahikawa, Furano is a picturesque town known for its beautiful lavender fields and ski resorts. Accommodation options in Furano range from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking, as well as indulge in delicious local cuisine.
3. Biei: Biei is another charming town near Asahikawa that offers stunning natural landscapes. The area is famous for its rolling hills, colorful flower fields, and picturesque rural scenery. Accommodation in Biei includes traditional Japanese inns and modern hotels. Visitors can explore the nearby Blue Pond, Shirogane Falls, and the Patchwork Road, which showcases the region's agricultural beauty.
4. Sounkyo: Sounkyo is a popular hot spring resort located in the Daisetsuzan National Park, just a short drive from Asahikawa. The area is known for its breathtaking gorges, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Accommodation options in Sounkyo range from traditional ryokans with hot spring baths to modern hotels with stunning mountain views. Visitors can relax in the soothing hot springs, enjoy outdoor activities, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Overall, Asahikawa offers a variety of accommodation options in different areas, allowing visitors to choose the one that best suits their preferences and interests. Whether you prefer the convenience of the city center, the natural beauty of Furano and Biei, or the tranquility of Sounkyo, there is something for everyone in Asahikawa.
Hotels Map Of Asahikawa
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Transportation To Asahikawa
There are several transportation options to Asahikawa.
1. By Air: Asahikawa Airport is the closest airport to the city. It is served by domestic flights from major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city center.
2. By Train: Asahikawa is well-connected by train. The city is served by the JR Hokkaido Railway, and there are regular train services from major cities like Sapporo, Tokyo, and Osaka. The journey from Sapporo takes around 1.5 hours, while the journey from Tokyo takes around 9 hours.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Asahikawa from various cities in Japan. The journey time and frequency of buses vary depending on the departure location.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the expressway to reach Asahikawa. The city is well-connected by roads, and the journey time will depend on your starting location.
Once you arrive in Asahikawa, there are local transportation options such as buses and taxis to get around the city.
Nearby Destination From Asahikawa
1. Sapporo: The largest city in Hokkaido, known for its vibrant nightlife and annual snow festival.
2. Furano: A picturesque town famous for its lavender fields and ski resorts.
3. Biei: A charming village surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
4. Obihiro: A city renowned for its delicious local food, especially its famous butadon (pork bowl).
5. Wakkanai: The northernmost city in Japan, offering stunning coastal views and access to the remote Rishiri Island.
6. Kitami: Known for its cherry blossoms and the annual Kitami Yakiniku Festival, celebrating grilled meat.
7. Kushiro: A coastal city with a thriving fishing industry and a gateway to the Kushiro Marsh, a designated national park.
8. Abashiri: Home to the famous Abashiri Prison Museum and the drift ice phenomenon during winter.
9. Tomakomai: A city known for its seafood and hot springs, located near Lake Utonai, a popular bird-watching spot.
10. Nayoro: A small town famous for its agricultural products, including potatoes and dairy products.