Things To Do
in Kitahiroshima
Kitahiroshima is a picturesque town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its beautiful natural surroundings. The town boasts lush green mountains, serene rivers, and peaceful countryside landscapes. Kitahiroshima is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hot springs relaxation.
Visitors can also explore local cafes, shops, and museums showcasing the town's rich history and culture.
- "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): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the scenic Moerenuma Park. Enjoy a peaceful walk among the sculptures and natural beauty.
Head to the Kitahiroshima City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Don't miss the interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at a local izakaya. Savor traditional Japanese dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Begin your day with a stroll along the Ishikari River, taking in the serene views at sunrise. Bring a camera for stunning nature shots.
After lunch, visit the nearby Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich waters. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy morning.
Enjoy a quiet evening at a riverside café, sipping on warm matcha. Reflect on the day while watching the sunset.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, especially with the backdrop of mountains and rivers.
- Close proximity to Sapporo, allowing easy access to urban amenities.
- Rich cultural history and local festivals that celebrate traditional Japanese heritage.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot springs.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall that may be challenging for some residents.
- Public transportation options may not be as robust as in bigger urban areas.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to larger cities.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, being located in a seismically active region.
Best Activities in Kitahiroshima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a beautiful hike up Mount Moiwa and take in stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Experience the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscapes while snowshoeing at Jozankei Onsen.
Explore the scenic Ishikari River and its surroundings by taking a cycling trip in the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kitahiroshima with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kitahiroshima
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot for panoramic views of Sapporo and the surrounding landscape.
A scenic hot spring resort located in a valley with beautiful natural surroundings.
Offers stunning views of the city and the famous statue of Dr. William S. Clark.
Food in Kitahiroshima
Kitahiroshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty hot pot dish featuring salmon and various vegetables, simmered in a miso-based broth. Kitahiroshima's proximity to the Ishikari River ensures the freshest salmon for this dish. Recommended to try at traditional izakayas or local home-style restaurants like 'Izakaya Sakanaya'.
Must-Try!
A fusion of traditional Japanese curry with a thinner, soup-like consistency and a focus on local Hokkaido ingredients such as seasonal vegetables and richly flavored meat. A famous spot to savor this dish is 'Soup Curry Garaku', known for its wide variety of spice levels and ingredient options.
A barbecue dish consisting of lamb or mutton and a mix of fresh vegetables, grilled on a special domed skillet. Visitors can enjoy this popular dish at 'Matsuo Jingisukan', where the tender and flavorsome meat is grilled to perfection.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kitahiroshima better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh seafood, including the renowned Hokkaido crabs, and other regional produce. Visitors can also find stalls selling delicious street food like grilled scallops and sashimi bowls, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
During the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, Odori Park transforms into a food lover's paradise, with numerous stalls offering an array of street foods like yakitori, takoyaki, and sweet treats like hot red bean soup. This is a great opportunity to sample diverse Hokkaido specialties in one place.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kitahiroshima, it's important to greet people with a bow, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It's also customary to use respectful language and titles when addressing others.
When dining in Kitahiroshima, it's considered polite to say 'itadakimasu' before eating to express gratitude for the meal. It's also customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person at the table to start eating before beginning your meal.
Japanese culture places a strong emphasis on harmony with nature. In Kitahiroshima, it's important to show respect for the environment, such as by disposing of trash properly and avoiding behaviors that could disturb the natural surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kitahiroshima with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kitahiroshima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kitahiroshima and throughout Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, taxis, or other service establishments. Service charges are often included in the bill, and providing an additional tip may even be seen as rude in some cases.
In Kitahiroshima, as in many parts of Japan, cash is the primary and preferred method of payment. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in hotels and larger establishments, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller purchases and transactions. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are also gaining popularity, particularly in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kitahiroshima.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossoms and pleasant weather
Expect warm weather with occasional rain and vibrant greenery
Ideal for autumn foliage viewing and comfortable temperatures
Great for winter sports and beautiful snow landscapes
Kitahiroshima at Night
Hiking in Kitahiroshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Matsuo Mountain offers a scenic hiking trail with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is moderate in difficulty and is popular among both locals and tourists.
A large park featuring unique sculptures and beautiful landscapes. The park has several walking trails that can be enjoyed by hikers of all levels.
A national park that features stunning volcanic landscapes and beautiful lakes. The park has numerous hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Mt. Moiwa is famous for its panoramic views of Sapporo and the surrounding area. It offers various hiking paths and is accessible year-round.
Located a bit farther from Kitahiroshima, this national park is known for its extensive marshland and is ideal for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy unique ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kitahiroshima through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kitahiroshima by plane.
The largest airport in Hokkaido, located approximately 10 km from Kitahiroshima. It serves both domestic and international flights.
An airport located about 115 km from Kitahiroshima, it provides regional flights within Japan and some international services.
Located around 141 km from Kitahiroshima, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international services.
Situated approximately 170 km from Kitahiroshima, this airport mainly serves domestic flights and has some international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, comprising residents born in Japan.
Includes non-Japanese individuals living in Kitahiroshima, such as expatriates and international students.
Elderly residents, often comprising a significant portion of the population due to Japan's aging demographic.
Includes school-aged children and teenagers, contributing to the local school population.
Typically includes individuals between the ages of 18 to 64 engaged in the workforce.
The Soul of Kitahiroshima
Discover the essence of Kitahiroshima through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Kitahiroshima, with local teams and a strong following among residents.
Soccer enjoys a significant following in Kitahiroshima, with youth leagues and clubs promoting the sport.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local recreational leagues, contributing to its popularity in the area.
Volleyball is a popular sport among both men and women, often played in schools and community centers.
Track and field events are a staple in local schools and sports clubs, attracting many young athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitahiroshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Hokkaido cuisine typically features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Kitahiroshima are adapting to the growing demand for vegetarian and vegan choices. Look for restaurants with 'yasai' (vegetable) or 'bejitarian' (vegetarian) options on their menus, and consider dining at vegan-friendly cafes such as 'Himawari Cafe'.
Finding purely gluten-free options can be a bit challenging, but some establishments are increasingly aware of this dietary need. Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore modern cafes and international cuisine restaurants for dishes like rice-based sushi, potato-based dishes, and naturally gluten-free Japanese hot pot (shabu-shabu).
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kitahiroshima with these cultural adventures.