Things To Do
in Higashikagura

Higashikagura is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes and agricultural heritage. The region is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and lush greenery, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy seasonal activities, including cherry blossom viewing in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

With a friendly community and rich cultural traditions, Higashikagura offers a unique experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in rural Japan.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Higashikagura Forest Park, where you can take a peaceful walk among the trees and enjoy the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the local agriculture museum to learn about the area's farming history and practices, followed by a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Finish your day with dinner at a traditional izakaya, where you can experience local cuisine and hospitality.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike on the nearby Daisetsuzan National Park trails, known for their stunning mountain views.

afternoon
:

After your hike, relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind and experience Japanese bathing culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a ramen shop, followed by a stroll through the town's illuminated streets.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍵Matcha Tea$5
🚍Bus Fare$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "助けてください" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Higashikagura

Visit one of these nice places.

Higashikagura Park

A beautiful park with seasonal flowers, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes.

Daisetsuzan National Park

Famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature photography.

Local Rice Fields

The picturesque rice fields during sunset create a perfect backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Higashikagura

Higashikagura offers a delightful culinary journey with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors. Must-try dishes include Hokkaido's famous seafood and farm-to-table produce.

Higashikagura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Genghis Khan BBQ

A local favorite featuring grilled lamb served with fresh vegetables.

Must-Try!

Hokkaido Ramen

Rich and savory ramen noodles, often topped with seafood or pork.

Ikura Don

A rice bowl topped with fresh salmon roe, a true delicacy of the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Higashikagura Farmers Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, homemade goods, and local snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Try local street food like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) from various stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Higashikagura experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold with heavy snowfall, while summers (June to August) are warm and humid. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, and autumn (September to November) offers cooler weather with stunning foliage. Average temperatures range from -10°C (14°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow slightly when greeting or thanking someone; it's a sign of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional inns; slippers are usually provided.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep noise to a minimum in public transportation and shared spaces to maintain a peaceful environment.

Safety Guide

Safety

Higashikagura is considered a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas. Additionally, during winter months, be cautious of icy sidewalks and roads.

Tipping in Higashikagura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be considered rude; good service is expected without extra compensation.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and shops; it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom in April, making it a beautiful time for floral photography and outdoor picnics.

Summer

Warm weather allows for hiking and outdoor festivals, with lush green landscapes.

Autumn

The foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.

Winter

Snowfall transforms the area into a winter wonderland, ideal for winter sports and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Higashikagura at Night

Higashikagura has a relaxed nightlife scene that revolves around cozy izakayas, bars, and small live music venues. While not bustling like larger cities, the local establishments offer a warm atmosphere where visitors can mingle with residents. Enjoy regional sake and local dishes while experiencing the friendly vibe of this rural town.

Hiking in Higashikagura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Asahidake Trail

A challenging hike leading to Hokkaido's highest peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Sounkyo Gorge Trail

A scenic trail that follows the river through the gorge, featuring beautiful waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Higashikagura by plane.

Asahikawa Airport

Located approximately 20 kilometers from Higashikagura, Asahikawa Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Higashikagura is relatively walkable, particularly in the town center where most amenities are located. Sidewalks are well-maintained, making it easy to stroll between shops, restaurants, and parks. However, some attractions, especially those in the surrounding countryside, may require a vehicle or bicycle to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant demographic group engaged in agriculture, contributing to the local economy through farming and tourism.

Young Families

An increasing number of young families are settling in the area, drawn by its natural beauty and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and youth leagues fostering community spirit.

Skiing

During winter, skiing and snowboarding attract many visitors to the nearby ski resorts in the Daisetsuzan area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Higashikagura is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, but services may be limited, especially on weekends. Walking is a viable option for short distances within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Higashikagura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish, many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes.

Allergies

It's advisable to communicate any allergies to restaurant staff, as some dishes may contain common allergens like soy.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Higashikagura is good, with access to local clinics and hospitals providing a range of services. Emergency services are available, and it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. English-speaking doctors may be limited, so it's helpful to have a translation app or phrasebook.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide