Things To Do
in Memuro-minami

Memuro-minami is a picturesque town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its serene landscapes and close-knit community. The area offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern conveniences, making it a delightful destination for travelers. With expansive fields, charming local shops, and seasonal festivals, it provides an authentic experience of rural Japan.

Visitors can also enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Memuro-minami
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the scenic Memuro Park, where you can enjoy the vibrant flora and possibly spot some local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan shops where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs, followed by lunch at a traditional soba noodle restaurant.

evening
:

End the day with a visit to a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind and enjoy the therapeutic waters.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby Tsukigata Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

afternoon
:

Explore the local museum that highlights the history and culture of the region, then grab a quick bite at a street food stall.

evening
:

Enjoy a dinner at a izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can taste a variety of local dishes and drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍺Local Beer$5
Coffee$3
🏨Night in a Hotel$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and history.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "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
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Memuro-minami

Visit one of these nice places.

Memuro Park

A stunning park featuring seasonal flowers, walking trails, and scenic viewpoints, ideal for capturing nature.

Tsukigata Park

Known for its breathtaking cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful autumn leaves, offering picturesque backdrops.

Local Temples

Historic temples with traditional architecture provide a glimpse into the spiritual side of Japanese culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Memuro-minami

Memuro-minami offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Hokkaido, with an emphasis on fresh and local ingredients.

Memuro-minami Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

These buckwheat noodles are a staple in Japanese cuisine and are often served chilled or in a hot broth.

Must-Try!

Genghis Khan (Jingisukan)

A popular grilled mutton dish served with vegetables, typically enjoyed at social gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Memuro Fresh Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, seafood, and snacks; perfect for sampling Hokkaido's specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Memuro-minami experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities, with beautiful seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always bow when greeting people and thank them; politeness is highly valued.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public

Maintain a low volume when talking on public transport and in public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Memuro-minami is considered a safe place for travelers, with low crime rates. Basic safety precautions should be taken, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are accessible, and the community is known for its helpfulness towards visitors.

Tipping in Memuro-minami

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and good service is generally expected without extra gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry some yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect cherry blossoms in bloom, mild temperatures, and various local festivals celebrating the season.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for outdoor activities; enjoy fresh produce at local markets.

Autumn

Vibrant fall colors adorn the landscape, making it a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snowfall create a winter wonderland; enjoy winter sports and hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Memuro-minami at Night

Memuro-minami's nightlife is calm and focused on local izakayas and small bars, where visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese drinks and snacks. The atmosphere is cozy and often family-friendly, with locals gathering to unwind after work. Cultural events or seasonal festivals may offer lively entertainment options during certain times of the year.

Hiking in Memuro-minami

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Tokachi Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, suitable for intermediate hikers.

Shikaribetsu Lake Trail

This trail circles a beautiful lake and is ideal for leisurely hiking with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Memuro-minami by plane.

Tokachi-Obihiro Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Memuro-minami, this airport serves domestic flights and provides access to various regional destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Memuro-minami is a walkable town, with many local attractions, shops, and eateries within a comfortable distance. The compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and well-maintained sidewalks enhance the pedestrian experience. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride, especially those located in more rural areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, contributing to the local economy.

Young Families

Many young families reside in the area, attracted by the peaceful environment and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams often playing in community parks.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with youth leagues and community games frequently held.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Memuro-minami is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, although schedules may vary. Walking is also a viable option for short distances within the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Memuro-minami.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While many dishes contain meat, there are vegetarian options available, particularly in soba and tempura.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat are suitable.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Memuro-minami is generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Medical facilities are equipped to handle common health issues, and there is a strong emphasis on preventative care. For serious medical emergencies, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide