Things To Do
in Kitahiroshima
Kitahiroshima is a small city in Hokkaido, just northeast of Sapporo. It blends quiet residential neighborhoods with easy access to parks and the Ishikari Plain. The city serves as a gateway to nature trails and seasonal scenery, from cherry blossoms to snowy landscapes.
With friendly locals, local markets, and a peaceful pace, Kitahiroshima offers a relaxed base for exploring northern Japan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Kitahiroshima City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits. After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional wooden houses, soaking in the unique architecture. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a taste of fresh, locally-sourced pastries and coffee.
In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which is only a short drive away. Enjoy a scenic hike along one of the many trails that offer stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains. After the hike, relax by the lakeside and savor a bento box lunch while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, return to Kitahiroshima and explore the vibrant local dining scene. Choose from a selection of izakayas or restaurants offering fresh seafood and Hokkaido specialties. End your day by visiting a local onsen to unwind and soak in the therapeutic hot springs.
Begin your day with a visit to a local pottery workshop where you can try your hand at creating your own ceramics. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, learn about the traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the craft and the local culture.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of a nearby sake brewery to understand the meticulous process of sake production. Sample different varieties of sake and learn how to appreciate the subtle flavors and aromas. This cultural experience is sure to enrich your understanding of Japanese traditions.
As evening falls, prepare for a traditional kaiseki dinner, where a multi-course meal showcases seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. Each dish tells a story and reflects the beauty of Japanese cuisine. After dinner, take a quiet walk through the illuminated streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of Kitahiroshima.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit fare (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic weekly) | $40-60 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to Sapporo and the Ishikari Plain
- Peaceful atmosphere with scenic parks and rivers
- Limited nightlife within Kitahiroshima itself
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow
- "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
- "いくらですか" - How much is it?
- "〜をください" - Please give me ~
- "メニューをください" - Please give me the menu
Places to Visit in Kitahiroshima
Visit one of these nice places.
A calm stretch along the river with tree-lined banks and reflective water, especially beautiful at dawn or dusk.
Open greens with seasonal colors and a quiet cityscape; good for wide-angle shots.
Forest paths and fern-filled clearings offering natural textures and wildlife photography opportunities.
A small hill that provides a vantage point over fields and the distant Sapporo skyline on clear days.
Food in Kitahiroshima
Kitahiroshima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Herbaceous grilled mutton commonly enjoyed at local izakayas, cooked on a hot iron grill.
Must-Try!
A hearty salmon hot pot with miso, perfect in colder months.
A fragrant, broth-based curry with vegetables and proteins, available in many local eateries.
Bowls topped with fresh Hokkaido seafood like salmon, uni, and crab from nearby markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market featuring seafood, dairy, and produce from local farms; try fresh sashimi and dairy products.
Seasonal stalls along the river offering grilled seafood, yakitori, and warm noodles in cooler months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly; avoid loud conversations or phone calls on trains and buses.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional spaces; use provided slippers.
Use -san after people's names as a sign of respect; a bow is a common greeting.
Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl; say itadakimasu before meals and gochisosama after.
Safety
Tipping in Kitahiroshima
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; there is typically no need to tip in Kitahiroshima. Rounding up the bill is not expected.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly common in shops and larger restaurants. IC cards like Kitaca can be used on public transport in Hokkaido.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms begin to bloom; mild temperatures make outdoor walks pleasant. Pack a light jacket and enjoy early-season greenery.
Mild to warm days with comfortable humidity; occasional rainfall. Bring sun protection and water for outdoor exploring.
Colorful maple and birch leaves create golden to red scenery; cooler nights, perfect for hiking.
Cold and snowy with subfreezing temperatures; great for snowy landscapes and winter sports, but travel can be affected by snow and ice. Dress in layers and wear sturdy boots.
Kitahiroshima at Night
Hiking in Kitahiroshima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with varied difficulty and birdwatching opportunities.
A ridge trail offering city and countryside views, best in autumn or clear days.
Airports
How to reach Kitahiroshima by plane.
Hokkaido's main international and domestic airport located near Chitose, about an hour from Kitahiroshima by train or car.
Sapporo's smaller domestic airport, useful for short hops within Hokkaido.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in quiet residential neighborhoods with good schools and parks.
People traveling to Sapporo for work or education make up a large portion of the weekday population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular winter activities in Hokkaido’s mountains and surrounding areas.
Common team sports with local youth programs and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kitahiroshima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes involve dashi or meat stock; look for vegetable-focused curries, tofu dishes, and salads; ask for 'vegetarian options' when ordering; some soups may be made with fish stock.