Fun Things to Do in Obihiro | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Obihiro Travel Guide
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Welcome to Obihiro! Located in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, Obihiro is a charming city known for its picturesque landscapes, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage. As you explore this hidden gem, you will be captivated by the vast fields of lavender and sunflowers that paint the countryside in vibrant hues during the summer months. Obihiro is also famous for its mouthwatering local delicacies, such as the renowned Tokachi beef and the delectable buttery pastries known as "Tokachi sweets." Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Obihiro Shrine, where you can witness traditional ceremonies and admire the stunning architecture. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or a history buff, Obihiro offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler.
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Things To Do In Obihiro
Obihiro is a vibrant city located in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Obihiro:
1. Visit the Obihiro Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including polar bears, tigers, and giraffes. It is a great place to explore and learn about different species.
2. Explore the Tokachi Millennium Forest: This beautiful forest is a great place to immerse yourself in nature. It features walking trails, gardens, and art installations, providing a peaceful and serene environment.
3. Taste the local cuisine: Obihiro is famous for its delicious food, particularly its Hokkaido-style barbecue known as "Genghis Khan." Make sure to try this mouthwatering dish at one of the many local restaurants.
4. Visit the Obihiro Centennial City Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Obihiro and its surrounding areas. It offers insight into the city's development and is a great place to learn about its heritage.
5. Experience the Obihiro Horse Racing Track: Horse racing is a popular sport in Obihiro, and the local racecourse is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts. Witness the excitement of the races and try your luck with some bets.
6. Stroll through the Obihiro City Central Market: This bustling market is a great place to explore and sample local produce, seafood, and snacks. It's a perfect spot to indulge in some retail therapy and taste the flavors of Obihiro.
7. Relax at the Obihiro Onsen: Obihiro is known for its hot springs, and visiting an onsen is a must-do activity. Unwind and rejuvenate in the healing waters while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
8. Attend the Obihiro Ice Festival: If you visit Obihiro in winter, don't miss the annual ice festival. Marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and enjoy various winter activities such as ice skating and snowboarding.
9. Explore the Tokachi Hills: This picturesque area offers stunning views of the Tokachi Plain.
Tours And Activities In Obihiro
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Best Time To Visit Obihiro
The best time to visit Obihiro is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring, which is from April to May, the city is adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque and romantic atmosphere. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as visiting parks and gardens. In autumn, which is from September to November, Obihiro experiences a stunning display of vibrant fall foliage. The city's parks and mountains are transformed into a kaleidoscope of colors, providing breathtaking views for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The temperatures are also comfortable during this time, making it enjoyable to explore the city on foot or by bicycle. It is important to note that Obihiro can experience harsh winters with heavy snowfall, especially from December to February. While this can be a unique experience for those who enjoy winter sports and activities, it may not be the best time for general sightseeing. Overall, the best time to visit Obihiro is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the city is adorned with natural beauty.
Flight Calendar For Obihiro
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Best Areas To Stay In Obihiro
Obihiro is a beautiful city located in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido. It offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Obihiro:
1. City Center: The city center is a popular choice for accommodation as it offers easy access to various attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. Visitors can find a range of hotels and guesthouses that cater to different budgets. Staying in the city center allows travelers to explore the vibrant atmosphere of Obihiro and conveniently access public transportation.
2. Tokachi Onsen: For those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, Tokachi Onsen is an ideal area for accommodation. This hot spring resort area is known for its therapeutic waters and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can choose from traditional Japanese ryokans or modern hotels that offer hot spring facilities. Staying in Tokachi Onsen provides a unique cultural experience and a chance to unwind in natural hot springs.
3. Tokachi Plains: The Tokachi Plains area is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is known for its vast farmlands, picturesque landscapes, and scenic views of the Tokachi River. Accommodation options in this area include cozy cottages, farm stays, and guesthouses that offer a peaceful retreat away from the city. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the local agriculture.
4. Obihiro Station: Located near the city's main train station, Obihiro Station area is a convenient choice for accommodation. It offers a range of hotels and business hotels that cater to both leisure and business travelers. Staying in this area provides easy access to transportation, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Obihiro and nearby attractions.
Overall, Obihiro offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various areas. Whether you prefer a bustling city center, a serene hot spring resort, a nature-filled plains area, or a convenient location near the train station, Obihiro has something to offer for every traveler.
Hotels Map Of Obihiro
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Transportation To Obihiro
There are several transportation options to get to Obihiro:
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Obihiro is Tokachi-Obihiro Airport (OBO). You can fly to this airport from major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Sapporo. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Obihiro city center.
2. By Train: Obihiro is well-connected by train. You can take a train from major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Sapporo, and Hakodate to reach Obihiro Station. The journey time varies depending on the starting point, but it usually takes around 4-5 hours from Tokyo and 2-3 hours from Sapporo.
3. By Bus: There are also long-distance buses available to Obihiro from various cities in Japan. The bus journey may take longer compared to trains or flights, but it can be a more affordable option.
4. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive to Obihiro. The city is well-connected by highways, and the journey time will depend on your starting point.
Once you arrive in Obihiro, you can use local transportation such as buses, taxis, or rental bicycles to get around the city.
Nearby Destination From Obihiro
1. Tokachi, known for its vast farmlands and delicious dairy products.
2. Kushiro, home to the beautiful Kushiro Marsh and the endangered Japanese cranes.
3. Asahikawa, famous for its winter festival and the Asahiyama Zoo.
4. Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido and renowned for its beer, snow festival, and vibrant nightlife.
5. Furano, a picturesque town known for its lavender fields and ski resorts.
6. Nemuro, a coastal city offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and fresh seafood.
7. Kitami, famous for its cherry blossoms and the Kitami Mint Memorial Park.
8. Abashiri, known for its icebreaker cruises and the historic Abashiri Prison Museum.
9. Wakkanai, the northernmost city in Japan, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the Soya Strait.
10. Tomakomai, a port city known for its hot springs, golf courses, and the Lake Utonai Wildlife Conservation Center.