Things To Do
in Asahikawa
Asahikawa, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is the second largest city in the region, known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to breathtaking natural landscapes. The city serves as a gateway to the beautiful Daisetsuzan National Park, which offers a plethora of outdoor activities year-round. Asahikawa is also famous for its unique zoo, the Asahiyama Zoo, which features innovative animal exhibits.
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local food scene, culminating in a blend of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Asahiyama Zoo to see the famous penguin parade and other unique animal exhibits.
Explore the Asahikawa Museum of Art, which features local and international art, followed by a leisurely stroll in the nearby Tokiwa Park.
Dine at a local izakaya, enjoying Hokkaido’s famous seafood and regional sake.
Take a day trip to Daisetsuzan National Park for hiking and enjoying the scenic views of Mount Daisetsu.
Visit the local craft shops in the city center to learn about traditional Asahikawa crafts and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir.
Experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting bars and pubs, trying out local beers and cocktails.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Ramen meal | $8 |
| 🍣Sushi platter | $15 |
| 🍺Local beer | $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities year-round.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
- Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood and ramen.
- Limited English signage and language barriers may be challenging.
- Cold winters can deter some visitors.
- Less urbanized nightlife compared to larger cities like Sapporo.
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとう" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me
- "はい" - Yes
- "いいえ" - No
Places to Visit in Asahikawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning national park with dramatic mountain scenery, perfect for capturing the beauty of Hokkaido's nature.
Unique animal exhibits that offer great opportunities for wildlife photography, especially during feeding times.
A beautiful park with seasonal flowers and a serene pond, ideal for picturesque sunset shots.
Food in Asahikawa
Asahikawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional specialty featuring a soy sauce-based broth, often topped with slices of pork and green onions.
Must-Try!
A grilled mutton dish that is a Hokkaido favorite, usually enjoyed in a social setting.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A collection of famous ramen shops offering various styles of Asahikawa ramen.
A lively market where you can find fresh local produce, seafood, and street food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain a respectful distance during conversations and avoid loud public behavior.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional facilities.
Keep conversations quiet and set your phone to silent mode when using public transportation.
Safety
Tipping in Asahikawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude; excellent service is expected.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for small shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures with cherry blossoms blooming, making it a picturesque time to visit parks.
Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in Daisetsuzan and local festivals.
Cooler temperatures with vibrant fall foliage, especially in national parks, creating stunning landscapes.
Cold temperatures with heavy snowfall, ideal for winter sports and experiencing the charm of snow-covered scenery.
Asahikawa at Night
Hiking in Asahikawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in Hokkaido, offering spectacular views and various trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
A popular hiking destination with stunning alpine scenery, well-marked trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Airports
How to reach Asahikawa by plane.
Located approximately 15 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Asahikawa's population consists of Japanese residents, with a mix of families, young professionals, and older citizens.
Asahikawa attracts both domestic tourists from other parts of Japan and international visitors, particularly during the ski season and summer hiking months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a beloved sport in Asahikawa, with local teams and schools frequently participating in competitions.
Ice hockey is also popular, with local clubs and teams, and the region hosts several ice hockey events during the winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asahikawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Japanese cuisine heavily features fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes upon request.
Gluten-free options are available, especially in larger restaurants; however, it's advisable to inform the staff of dietary needs.