Things To Do
in Fukagawa

Fukagawa, Japan, is a charming city located in Hokkaido, known for its beautiful natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The city is surrounded by mountains and rivers, providing various outdoor activities and scenic views. Fukagawa is also famous for its agricultural products, particularly rice and melons, which contribute to its local cuisine.

With a friendly atmosphere and welcoming locals, Fukagawa offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Japanese life away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Fukagawa's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Fukagawa Historical Museum to learn about the city's past and its significance in Hokkaido's development.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant specializing in Fukagawa's famous melon dishes, followed by a leisurely stroll through Fukagawa Park, where you can admire the cherry blossoms in spring.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya and experience local sake, then take a walk along the riverbanks to enjoy the night scenery.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the nearby Kamikawa River for a morning of fishing or canoeing, followed by a picnic by the water.

afternoon
:

Visit the local farmers' market to taste fresh produce and local specialties, then explore the surrounding countryside for stunning views.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant known for its seafood dishes and conclude your day with a soak in one of Fukagawa's onsen (hot springs).

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$4
🍉Melon$6
🚍Local Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • English is not widely spoken, which may pose a communication barrier.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent in rural areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Fukagawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Fukagawa Park

A picturesque park known for its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

Kamikawa River

Breathtaking views along the river, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Fukagawa Historical Museum

An architectural gem that offers great photo opportunities amidst historical artifacts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fukagawa

Fukagawa offers a delightful culinary experience, rich in local flavors and fresh ingredients sourced from its surrounding farmlands.

Fukagawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fukagawa Melon

Sweet, juicy melons that are a local specialty, perfect for dessert or snacking.

Must-Try!

Fukagawa Rice

High-quality rice grown in the region, known for its stickiness and flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fukagawa Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and ready-to-eat meals.

Yakiniku Stalls

Street stalls offering grilled meat skewers, a popular quick meal option.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fukagawa experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winter can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Rainfall is common in the summer months, and snowfall is significant in winter, providing a picturesque winter wonderland.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in social situations and avoid loud conversations.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Polite Greetings

Use a bow as a form of greeting, and address people using their family names followed by 'san'.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fukagawa is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of their surroundings. In winter, be cautious of icy conditions, especially on sidewalks and steps.

Tipping in Fukagawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as a standard.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, making it an ideal time for outdoor festivals and picnics.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall colors, especially in parks and along the rivers.

Winter

Winter can be cold with heavy snowfall, attracting visitors for winter sports and onsen experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Fukagawa at Night

Fukagawa's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a cozy atmosphere with local izakayas and bars. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese food and drinks, often accompanied by live music or karaoke. The city also has a few late-night cafés and pubs where you can relax and socialize with locals.

Hiking in Fukagawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Daisetsuzan National Park Trails

Explore various trails in one of Japan's largest national parks, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park Trails

Enjoy scenic walking paths surrounded by vibrant tulip fields, particularly stunning during the blooming season.

Airports

How to reach Fukagawa by plane.

Asahikawa Airport

Located about 30 km from Fukagawa, Asahikawa Airport offers domestic flights and is a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fukagawa is relatively walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and parks located within a short distance from each other. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, be prepared for some inclines due to the hilly terrain in certain areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Agricultural Workers

A significant demographic group involved in farming, particularly rice and melon production.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to experience the natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Skiing

Winter sports are popular in the region, with nearby ski resorts attracting many enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fukagawa is manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes in several locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fukagawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many local dishes are meat-based, several restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives.

Gluten-Free

Rice is a staple, but it's advisable to check for sauces and marinades that may contain gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Fukagawa is of a high standard, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 119, and many healthcare providers have English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide