Things To Do
in Betsukai

Betsukai is a quaint town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. The area is characterized by vast fields, beautiful rural scenery, and a strong sense of community among its residents. It is particularly famous for its production of high-quality dairy products and fresh vegetables.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, while experiencing authentic Japanese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Betsukai
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Betsukai Town Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café featuring local ingredients.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the Betsukai Lavender Park, where you can enjoy beautiful floral displays and take pictures of the picturesque scenery. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant specializing in dairy products.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local eatery, sampling seasonal dishes made from local produce.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Shiretoko National Park, known for its breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmer's market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods, and chat with the friendly vendors. Afterward, explore the local shrine to learn about the spiritual traditions of the area.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a small izakaya where you can enjoy drinks and small plates while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Set$15
Coffee$3
🍰Dessert at Café$5
🚌Local Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and a peaceful environment.
  • Rich agricultural heritage with delicious local food.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent than in larger cities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "お元気ですか?" - How are you?
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい、お願いします" - Yes, please

Places to Visit in Betsukai

Visit one of these nice places.

Betsukai Lavender Park

A stunning park filled with vibrant lavender fields, ideal for capturing striking floral photographs.

Shiretoko National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature photography.

Local Shrines

Traditional Japanese shrines with beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Betsukai

Betsukai is a hidden gem for food lovers, famous for its fresh dairy products and farm-to-table cuisine. The town offers a variety of local dishes that showcase its agricultural bounty.

Betsukai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Betsukai Cheese

Rich, creamy cheese produced from local dairy farms, perfect for pairing with bread.

Must-Try!

Betsukai Potatoes

Famous for their rich flavor and creamy texture, often served in various forms.

Local Soba Noodles

Handmade soba noodles served cold or hot, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Betsukai Farmer's Market

A vibrant market where local farmers sell fresh produce, dairy products, and homemade goods.

Street Vendors in Betsukai

Experience delicious local street food, including grilled skewers and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Betsukai experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always show respect for the environment; leave no trace when hiking or visiting natural areas.

Politeness in Communication

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting locals.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Betsukai is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings, especially in remote areas.

Tipping in Betsukai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are typically included in bills.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places now also accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures and lush landscapes characterize summer, perfect for hiking and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures bring beautiful fall foliage, offering stunning views and great hiking conditions.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter transforms the area into a winter wonderland, ideal for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Betsukai at Night

Betsukai's nightlife is laid-back and friendly, with several izakayas and small bars where locals gather. The atmosphere is relaxed, and visitors can enjoy local drinks and dishes while mingling with residents. Occasionally, there are seasonal festivals that feature live music and performances.

Hiking in Betsukai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

A vast wetland area with well-marked trails for hiking, offering stunning views of the marshlands and wildlife.

Shiretoko Peninsula

Home to scenic coastal trails, this area offers challenging hikes with breathtaking ocean views and rich biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Betsukai by plane.

Memanbetsu Airport

The nearest airport to Betsukai, located approximately 30 minutes away by car. It offers domestic flights and a few international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Betsukai is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance, allowing visitors to explore the area at a leisurely pace. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride if you want to venture further out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Farmers

A significant portion of Betsukai's population is involved in agriculture, particularly dairy and vegetable farming.

Young Families

The town is home to many young families who appreciate the peaceful environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a widely popular sport in Japan, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys significant popularity, with local clubs and youth teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Betsukai is usually light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses, which connect to nearby towns but may have limited schedules. Visitors are encouraged to rent bikes for a more convenient way to explore the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Betsukai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are limited, some places offer rice-based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Betsukai is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services are reliable, and there are pharmacies for common medications. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide