Things To Do
in Nakashunbetsu

Nakashunbetsu is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its serene landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. The area is characterized by beautiful rolling hills and fields, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Residents here take pride in their local produce, particularly dairy and vegetables, which contribute to its culinary delights.

With a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern influences, Nakashunbetsu offers a unique travel experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nakashunbetsu Local History Museum to learn about the town's rich heritage and culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, followed by a stroll through the nearby fields to appreciate the rural landscape.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a traditional kaiseki dinner at a renowned restaurant, experiencing the seasonal flavors of Hokkaido.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Shunbetsu Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a local farm for a fresh produce tasting and learn about sustainable farming practices.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to a local izakaya, where you can enjoy drinks and local dishes while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍦Ice cream cone$2-$4
🏨Hotel per night$70-$150
🚍Local bus fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming residents.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Nakashunbetsu

Visit one of these nice places.

Shunbetsu Mountain

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Nakashunbetsu Fields

Vast fields of vibrant flowers and crops provide a colorful backdrop for stunning photographs.

Local Temples

Traditional temples surrounded by serene nature, perfect for capturing the essence of Japanese spirituality.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nakashunbetsu

Nakashunbetsu is a food lover's paradise, offering a rich array of local dishes that highlight the region's agricultural bounty and culinary traditions.

Nakashunbetsu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shunbetsu Corn

Locally grown sweet corn known for its exceptional sweetness, often enjoyed grilled or in salads.

Must-Try!

Hokkaido Dairy Products

Famous for its rich and creamy textures, try fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt produced in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nakashunbetsu Farmers' Market

A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade snacks from surrounding farms.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nakashunbetsu experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, especially during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always show respect for nature and wildlife; avoid littering and follow local guidelines.

Politeness

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting others.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove your shoes before entering homes or traditional lodgings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nakashunbetsu is generally a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. In winter, be cautious of icy roads and paths.

Tipping in Nakashunbetsu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and good service is typically included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in larger establishments; it's advisable to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures and lush greenery dominate; ideal for hiking and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Witness the beautiful fall foliage, particularly in the mountains, creating a picturesque landscape for exploration.

Winter

Cold and snowy, perfect for winter sports; experience the unique beauty of Hokkaido's winter scenery.

Nightlife Guide

Nakashunbetsu at Night

Nakashunbetsu offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around izakayas and local bars. Residents enjoy gathering after work for drinks and snacks. While not as vibrant as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly, and you can often find live music or local events happening in the evenings.

Hiking in Nakashunbetsu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shunbetsu Mountain Trail

A well-maintained trail offering various difficulty levels, leading to stunning views from the summit.

Chiryu Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Nakashunbetsu by plane.

Memanbetsu Airport

Located approximately 40 kilometers from Nakashunbetsu, it is the nearest airport, offering domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nakashunbetsu is a walkable town, especially in the central areas where most attractions, cafes, and shops are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the town's small size makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic views and local atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant part of the population, local farmers contribute to the agricultural heritage and economy of Nakashunbetsu.

Young Families

An increasing demographic, young families are drawn to the area for its peaceful environment and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Nakashunbetsu, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Growing in popularity, soccer is also widely played among youth and adults in the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nakashunbetsu is generally light, with most residents using cars for transportation. Public transportation options include local buses, which connect to nearby towns and attractions, but may have limited schedules. Walking or cycling is popular for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakashunbetsu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with staff for specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; consider communicating your dietary needs in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nakashunbetsu is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals providing general medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and most healthcare providers are familiar with English to some extent. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide