Things To Do
in Ashibetsu
Ashibetsu is a town located in the Kamikawa Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. Known for its scenic natural surroundings, Ashibetsu is nestled in the picturesque Hidaka Mountains. The town offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot springs relaxation.
Ashibetsu is also home to cultural attractions such as traditional festivals and historical sites.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Ashibetsu Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Head to the Ashibetsu Museum to learn about local history and culture. The exhibitions provide interesting insights into the region's heritage.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local izakaya, where you can sample traditional Japanese dishes. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the evening atmosphere.
Embark on a hike in the nearby mountains, where breathtaking landscapes await you. The fresh air and beautiful trails will rejuvenate your spirit.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint during your hike. Take the time to admire the panoramic views and nature around you.
After your hike, relax at a local onsen to soothe your muscles. The warm baths are a perfect way to unwind after an active day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- A rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local crafts.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major cities in Japan.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Access to fresh, local produce and seafood.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel more difficult without a car.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall can be challenging.
- Job opportunities may be limited, particularly for non-Japanese speakers.
- Aging population may affect community dynamics and available services.
Best Activities in Ashibetsu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of Daisetsuzan National Park, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and hot springs.
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing in the Tokachi River, famous for its rich trout population and beautiful surroundings.
Set up camp at Lake Shikaribetsu, a tranquil and picturesque spot perfect for family outings and nature photography.
Join the scenic Ashibetsu River Cycle Path, which offers a leisurely ride along the river with breathtaking views of nature and wildlife.
Visit Mokoto Lake for bird watching, where you can observe various migratory and resident bird species in their natural habitat.
Participate in berry picking at local farms, especially during the summer months when fresh strawberries and blueberries are ripe for the picking.
Experience the tranquility of winter by snowshoeing through the snowy landscapes surrounding Ashibetsu, perfect for all skill levels.
Places to Visit in Ashibetsu
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene park that features beautiful landscapes, seasonal flowers, and a picturesque lake, perfect for capturing stunning nature shots.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, ideal for breathtaking sunset photos.
A nearby mountain known for its majestic scenery, especially in the fall when the foliage changes color, making it a great location for photography.
Famous for its unique ecosystem, it provides a variety of landscapes and wildlife that are perfect for nature photographers.
A stunning blue pond created by natural mineral deposits, offering a surreal and magical backdrop for photos.
Ideal for capturing tranquil river scenes with the mountains in the background, particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.
A working farm that showcases beautiful pastoral landscapes, ideal for capturing the rural charm of Japan.
Food in Ashibetsu
Ashibetsu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warm and comforting curry dish with a light soup base, featuring local Hokkaido vegetables and a choice of meat or seafood. Must-try variations include the Asahikawa pork and Biei chicken versions. Enjoy a delicious bowl of Hokkaido Soup Curry at Soup Curry Kamui, a renowned local eatery.
Must-Try!
A regional specialty of squid stuffed with seasoned rice, Ika Meshi is a unique delicacy in Ashibetsu. Delight in the flavors of tender squid and fragrant rice at Hana Tei, a popular restaurant known for its Ika Meshi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Ashibetsu Farmers' Market for a wide array of fresh local produce, including seasonal fruits, vegetables, and artisanal food products. Indulge in delectable street food offerings such as steaming bowls of ramen, crispy tempura, and grilled seafood skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ashibetsu, as in the rest of Japan, politeness is highly valued. It is important to greet others with a bow, show gratitude with respectful phrases like 'Arigato' (thank you), and avoid interrupting conversations.
Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments. It is customary to wear slippers provided by the host, and this practice shows respect for cleanliness.
In public spaces such as trains or restaurants, keep your voice down and avoid loud conversations. Speaking softly is seen as a sign of respect and consideration for others’ comfort.
Safety
Tipping in Ashibetsu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ashibetsu, Japan, as in much of Japan, tipping is not a common practice and can even be considered rude. Instead, exceptional service is expected as part of the overall experience. Many service-oriented establishments pride themselves on providing high-quality service without the expectation of additional compensation. Occasionally, small gifts or gestures of gratitude may be offered, but these are not the same as tipping.
Payment in Ashibetsu is typically made at the end of a service or meal. Most businesses accept cash, and there is a growing acceptance of credit cards, especially in restaurants and stores. It is also common for some places to have electronic payment methods available. Japanese yen (JPY) is the official currency, and it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller or traditional establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Ashibetsu (March to May) is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms. This is a beautiful time to visit if you enjoy nature and outdoor activities. Expect occasional rain, but overall, the scenery is stunning with flowers in full bloom and festivals celebrating the season.
Summer (June to August) in Ashibetsu is warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20-30°C (68-86°F). This season is perfect for hiking, exploring local parks, and enjoying outdoor festivals. However, be prepared for some humidity and occasional rain, especially in July.
Autumn (September to November) offers a spectacular display of fall foliage, particularly in late October. The temperatures start to drop, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing. Visitors can expect stunning landscapes and harvest festivals showcasing local produce.
Winter (December to February) transforms Ashibetsu into a snowy wonderland. This season is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding nearby. Temperatures can drop significantly, so visitors should come prepared for cold weather and potential snowfall.
Ashibetsu at Night
Hiking in Ashibetsu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with multiple hiking trails, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Located a bit further away, this national park features extensive trails that range from easy walks to challenging hikes, with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A picturesque trail that runs through fields of tulips in the spring, providing an easy hiking experience with vibrant floral displays.
An iconic mountain with well-marked trails that accommodate both day hikes and multi-day treks, showcasing the natural beauty of the region.
During the summer, the trails at Furano Ski Area provide a unique hiking experience with panoramic views of the Furano valley.
Aiports
How to reach Ashibetsu by plane.
Located in Chitose, Hokkaido, approximately 90 km from Ashibetsu, this is the largest airport in Hokkaido, providing international and domestic flights.
Located in Sapporo City, approximately 75 km from Ashibetsu, this airport mainly handles domestic flights, with limited international services.
Located in Tokyo, about 1,000 km from Ashibetsu, Haneda is one of the busiest airports in the world, offering extensive domestic and international flights.
Located in Narita, Chiba Prefecture, approximately 1,000 km from Ashibetsu, it is a major international airport serving Tokyo with a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ashibetsu, comprising a significant portion of the population.
Includes individuals from various countries living in Ashibetsu, contributing to the cultural diversity.
An indigenous peoples group that historically inhabited the region, representing a small segment of the demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Ashibetsu. The town has a strong baseball culture with local teams and youth leagues participating actively in competitions.
Soccer has gained popularity in Ashibetsu, particularly among the younger generations. Local schools and clubs often hold tournaments and events to promote the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Ashibetsu, with many community courts available for public use. The sport enjoys a significant following, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Volleyball is popular in Ashibetsu, especially among school-aged children. The town hosts various amateur leagues and promotes volleyball through school programs.
Given the region's winter climate, skiing is a popular sport in Ashibetsu. There are several ski facilities nearby that attract both locals and tourists during the winter season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ashibetsu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Ashibetsu offer vegetarian and vegan choices. Look for establishments that emphasize fresh vegetables and tofu-based dishes, and consider visiting Yasuragi Cafe for a dedicated selection of plant-based options.
For those requiring gluten-free options, communicating dietary needs is essential. While many dishes may contain soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients, some eateries are accommodating. It's advisable to inquire about preparation methods and possible substitutions when dining out.