Things To Do
in Obihiro

Obihiro is a charming city located in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, Japan. It is famous for its rich agricultural landscape and is often referred to as the 'City of Agriculture.' The city boasts a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm, making it a great destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy beautiful parks, local culinary delights, and a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Obihiro's famous Manabe Garden, where you can enjoy the seasonal flowers and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Obihiro Zoo to see a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts in the region.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling a range of Hokkaido dishes and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Tokachi Hills for a morning hike, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Explore the Obihiro Museum of Art, which features contemporary works and exhibits related to the region's history and culture.

evening
:

Finish your trip with a relaxing soak at a local onsen, followed by a meal at a nearby ramen shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$25
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍺Local Beer$5
🥗Vegetable Salad$8
🏨Hotel Night Stay$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich agricultural experiences and local cuisine
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming local culture
  • Limited English-speaking services
  • Less bustling nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may not be as frequent as in urban areas
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "助けて!" - Help!
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Obihiro

Visit one of these nice places.

Manabe Garden

A beautiful garden featuring seasonal flowers and picturesque landscapes, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Tokachi River

The scenic river offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, ideal for landscape photography.

Obihiro's Historic Streets

Charming streets lined with traditional buildings provide a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Obihiro

Obihiro offers a delectable array of local cuisine, showcasing the best of Hokkaido's agricultural bounty. From fresh dairy products to hearty meats, the city's culinary scene is a must-experience for food lovers.

Obihiro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butadon

A rice bowl topped with slices of grilled pork belly, marinated in a sweet soy sauce.

Must-Try!

Tokachi Wagyu

High-quality beef raised in the Tokachi region, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.

Obihiro Curry

A unique style of curry that features a rich and hearty sauce, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Obihiro Farmers Market

A vibrant market where you can buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the city selling popular snacks like yakitori, sweet potatoes, and fried noodles.

Climate Guide

Weather

Obihiro experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers can be warm and humid. Spring and autumn are transitional, providing mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Japanese culture values personal space; avoid standing too close to others.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Polite Greetings

A bow is a common form of greeting; using polite language is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Obihiro is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to stay alert, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical assistance.

Tipping in Obihiro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan, and service charges are typically included in the bill.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Obihiro brings blooming cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and sunny, ideal for hiking and visiting local festivals, showcasing the region's agricultural produce.

Autumn

Autumn features vibrant foliage, particularly in parks and along the riversides, providing stunning photographic opportunities.

Winter

Winter offers a snowy landscape perfect for winter sports, along with traditional onsen experiences to warm up.

Nightlife Guide

Obihiro at Night

Obihiro's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring izakayas, bars, and karaoke lounges. The city comes alive after dark with locals and tourists enjoying the friendly atmosphere. Popular areas include the downtown district where you can find establishments serving local brews and delicious late-night snacks.

Hiking in Obihiro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Daisetsuzan National Park

A stunning national park nearby, offering a variety of hiking trails with breathtaking mountain views.

Hokkaido Nature Trail

This trail provides an immersive experience of Hokkaido's nature, with diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Obihiro by plane.

Obihiro Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Obihiro is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The city features pedestrian-friendly streets, parks, and pathways, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

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

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to Obihiro for its natural beauty and culinary experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A popular sport in Japan, with local teams and youth leagues actively participating.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing following, with local clubs and community events promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Obihiro is moderate, with main roads connecting key areas. Public transportation includes buses that are reliable but may have limited schedules. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Obihiro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Hokkaido is known for its meat and seafood, there are vegetarian-friendly restaurants that offer dishes made with local vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Some local eateries provide gluten-free options; however, it is advisable to check with the staff for specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Obihiro is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Emergency services are reliable, and most staff can communicate in basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide