Things To Do
in Fukagawa

Fukagawa is a quiet northern city in Hokkaido, set along rivers and close to coastal landscapes. It blends rural charm with small-town amenities, making it ideal for slow travel and easy day trips. The area showcases seasonal seafood, dairy, and farm produce that reflect the region’s agricultural roots.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic natural settings, and approachable local culture year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Fukagawa
morning
:

Arrive at Fukagawa Station and take in the picturesque landscapes surrounding the city. Check into your accommodation and settle in while enjoying a traditional Japanese breakfast. Stroll the nearby streets to get familiar with local shops and cafes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Fukagawa Historical Museum to learn about the region's rich heritage and cultural influences. Discover local art exhibitions that often showcase the community's talent. Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Tokachi River for beautiful views.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, where you can savor regional delicacies and fresh seafood. Experience the warm hospitality of the residents and perhaps share stories with fellow travelers. As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful riverside stroll.

day 2
Exploration of Nature
morning
:

Head to the nearby Kamikawa River for a serene morning hike along its scenic trails. Enjoy the fresh air and the soothing sound of flowing water while spotting local wildlife. Capture the beauty of the changing seasons as you walk.

afternoon
:

Visit the Fukagawa Town Green Park for a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery. Engage in outdoor activities like cycling or bird watching, making the most of the picturesque landscape. Relax on the soft grass and take in the tranquil surroundings.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation, taking time to reflect on the day's adventures. Celebrate local cuisine at a family-run restaurant, indulging in dishes that feature seasonal ingredients. Wind down with a hot cup of green tea while watching the stars emerge in the clear night sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍣Seafood meal or donburi$15-25
Coffee or tea at cafe$3-6
🚆Local transit ticket (one-way)$1-3
🏨Budget hotel night$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to fresh seafood and farm-to-table ingredients
  • Quiet, scenic surroundings with easy nature access
  • Budget-friendly traditional dining and accommodations
  • Limited nightlife and fewer English-speaking staff
  • Public transport can be infrequent outside city center
  • Seasonal weather can impact travel plans (snow, rain)
  • "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 / I'm sorry
  • "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?
  • "いくらですか?" - How much is this?
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Fukagawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Iris Riverfront at Dawn

Soft morning light along the river with reflections and gentle mist; ideal for tranquil landscape shots.

Fukagawa Port and Waterfront

Colorful fishing boats, working docks, and sea light; great for harbor scenes and candid street photography.

Old Town Street and Market Alley

Narrow lanes, traditional storefronts, and everyday life—perfect for capturing local character.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fukagawa

Fukagawa’s cuisine reflects the best of Hokkaido: abundant seafood, dairy products, and hearty soups. Expect straightforward, comforting flavors that highlight fresh ingredients from sea and soil.

Fukagawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ishikari-nabe

A salmon hotpot seasoned with local miso and vegetables, perfect for cold evenings.

Must-Try!

Jingisukan

Grilled lamb prepared on a convex grill, a regional favorite that pairs well with beer.

Soup Curry

A flavorful, broth-based curry served with rice and a variety of toppings, common across Hokkaido eateries.

Kaisen-don

A bowl of fresh seafood over rice, featuring locally caught fish and shellfish when available.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fukagawa Fish Market

Early-morning stalls offering fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and quick bites made to order.

Local Morning Market

A bustling avenue of small vendors where you can try regional snacks and chat with vendors about daily specials.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Fukagawa is characterized by cold winters with substantial snowfall and warm summers with comfortable humidity. Spring brings budding vegetation and gradual warming, while autumn delivers crisp air and colorful foliage. Rain is possible year-round, with slightly wetter summers and drier winters depending on the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Shoes

Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments; use clean indoor slippers where provided.

Speaking softly

Keep voices down in public spaces and on trains; avoid loud conversations in enclosed or quiet areas.

Queueing and politeness

Stand in line patiently and bow as a sign of respect; punctuality is valued in transport and service settings.

Onsen etiquette

Wash thoroughly before entering the bath and avoid bringing towels into the water; tattoos may be restricted in some onsens.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fukagawa is generally safe for travelers with typical urban-rural safety considerations. Watch for winter ice on sidewalks, and stay aware of weather-related hazards in season. Keep your valuables secured and use reputable transport options, especially late at night.

Tipping in Fukagawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is expected and included in prices; simply pay the bill and thank the staff.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are increasingly common in larger shops and restaurants. Some places may accept IC cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days with milder temperatures; mosquitoes can be present near water and rural areas. Pack layers for cooler evenings.

Autumn

Crisp air and fall foliage provide vibrant photography opportunities; communities host harvest events.

Winter

Cold and snowy, with short daylight hours; dress warmly and be prepared for icy sidewalks and snow-covered scenery.

Spring

Mild weather with blooming trees; a good time for riverside walks and temple visits.

Nightlife Guide

Fukagawa at Night

Fukagawa offers a low-key nightlife with neighborhood izakayas, casual bars, and small live music nights. The scene focuses on socializing with locals and enjoying local dishes rather than large-scale entertainment. Expect a relaxed pace, with most venues closing by late evening.

Hiking in Fukagawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fukagawa Hills Trail

Gentle to moderate climbs with scenic viewpoints over the surrounding countryside.

Riverside Nature Trail

Flat, easy trails along the riverside ideal for a relaxed day of walking and photography.

Airports

How to reach Fukagawa by plane.

New Chitose Airport (CTS)

Sapporo’s main international airport; major gateway with rail and road connections to broader Hokkaido.

Asahikawa Airport (AKJ)

Mid-sized airport serving central Hokkaido; domestic flights and regional connections.

Kushiro Airport (KUH)

Eastern Hokkaido airport offering domestic flights and access to coastal areas.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is quite walkable with compact streets, easy access to shops and eateries. Some surrounding areas and viewpoints require a car or bus to reach; prepare for short excursions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in the area with a focus on community events and schooling.

Farmers and Rural Workers

A significant portion of the population works in agriculture and related industries.

Students and retirees

Educational institutions and retirement-friendly communities contribute to the demographic mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter sports are popular in northern Hokkaido, with nearby resorts depending on routes and season.

Baseball and Soccer

Common in school and community leagues; local teams may host games during the warmer months.

Fishing

Seasonal fishing in rivers and coastal waters is a favored pastime for locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic usually consists of light to moderate flow in urban areas with well-maintained roads. JR lines and local buses are common for getting around; car rental offers flexibility for rural exploration.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fukagawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetable-forward set meals or tofu-based dishes; many places offer miso soups and vegetable tempura as alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local clinics serve basic medical needs; for more extensive care or English-speaking staff, larger hospitals in bigger cities in Hokkaido may be preferred. Be sure to carry insurance and know emergency numbers.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide