Things To Do
in Tomakomai
Tomakomai is a city located on the southern coast of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. It is known for its bustling port, which serves as a major hub for trade and transportation in the region. The city is also famous for its seafood, especially its high-quality scallops and salmon.
Tomakomai offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with nearby mountains and hot springs attracting visitors seeking outdoor adventures.
- "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): $50 - $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 walk along the beautiful beaches of Tomakomai. Breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Visit the Tomakomai Art Gallery to appreciate local artworks and exhibitions. Grab lunch at a seaside café with fresh seafood on the menu.
Stroll through the Tomakomai Harbor area as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, trying various Japanese dishes.
Hike in the nearby Poroto Mountain, enjoying the lush landscapes. Take in the tranquility of nature as you ascend.
Have a packed lunch at the summit while soaking in panoramic views of the city and coast. Descend and visit a local hot spring to relax.
Head back to the city and explore local shops for souvenirs. Wind down with a delicious dinner at a teppanyaki restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including coastal views and nearby mountains.
- Access to fresh seafood and local cuisine.
- Rich cultural heritage with local festivals and traditions.
- Less crowded compared to larger Japanese cities, providing a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Proximity to Sapporo, allowing for easy access to urban amenities and events.
- Limited public transportation options compared to bigger cities.
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields compared to major urban areas.
- Potential language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Possible harsh winter weather, with heavy snowfall affecting daily life.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Best Activities in Tomakomai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature and wildlife at Lake Utonai, including walking trails and birdwatching.
Take a ride on the Tarumaezan Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Tarumae and Lake Shikotsu.
Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Tomakomai Golf Resort 72 with its well-maintained courses.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tomakomai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tomakomai
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views of the harbor, ships, and surrounding area, especially during sunrise and sunset
Provides a vantage point for panoramic views of Tomakomai, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding landscape
Features beautiful wetlands and birdwatching opportunities, offering picturesque views for photography
Food in Tomakomai
Tomakomai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bowl of rice topped with a variety of fresh sashimi, showcasing the incredible seafood from the region. Must-try at the Tomakomai Fish Market.
Must-Try!
A Hokkaido specialty featuring grilled lamb or mutton served with vegetables. Best enjoyed at a local Yakiniku restaurant like Daruma.
Thinly sliced squid sashimi served with savory toppings and dipping sauces, a delicacy found at traditional seafood izakayas such as Marutoma.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tomakomai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can sample fresh seafood, including the renowned kaisendon. It's also an excellent spot for trying local grilled scallops and crab dishes.
This market is a treasure trove of street food stalls offering a wide array of local delights such as yakitori, grilled squid, and various seafood skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tomakomai, it is customary to bow slightly when greeting someone as a sign of respect.
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional Japanese establishments in Tomakomai.
In Tomakomai, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tomakomai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tomakomai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Tomakomai. It is not expected to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. In some cases, leaving a tip may even be considered rude.
Payment in Tomakomai, Japan, is predominantly done using cash, although credit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. It is important to carry sufficient cash for smaller businesses and local vendors, as many may not accept credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tomakomai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tomakomai with mild temperatures and cherry blossoms in bloom. Expect comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
Warm and humid weather with occasional rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and summer festivals.
Cool and pleasant weather, with colorful autumn foliage. Great time for nature walks and enjoying the picturesque scenery.
Cold and snowy weather with various winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding. Tomakomai also hosts ice festivals and other winter events.
Tomakomai at Night
Hiking in Tomakomai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The trail features a moderate difficulty level and a lush forest environment.
Located a short drive from Tomakomai, this area offers various trails along the lake, providing scenic views of the water and nearby mountains. Great for a tranquil hiking experience.
This hiking trail is known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. The hike is of moderate intensity and is suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Offers a range of trails that lead through beautiful forests and along the lakeshore, perfect for leisurely hikes and picnics. The area is serene and ideal for nature lovers.
Though a bit further from Tomakomai, this national park boasts extensive hiking trails through Japan's largest wetland area, showcasing diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tomakomai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tomakomai by plane.
The primary airport serving the Sapporo metropolitan area, located about 30 km from Tomakomai.
Situated approximately 130 km east of Tomakomai, it serves as a regional airport for flights to various domestic destinations.
Located about 140 km south of Tomakomai, this airport offers flights to Tokyo and other domestic destinations.
Approximately 160 km southwest of Tomakomai, it caters to regional flights and is essential for the Tokachi region.
Located about 140 km northwest of Tomakomai, serving the Asahikawa area with domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Tomakomai, comprising a significant portion of the population.
Indigenous people of Japan, with a small presence in the region including Tomakomai.
Includes individuals from various countries residing in Tomakomai for work or study, such as Brazilians and Chinese.
The Soul of Tomakomai
Discover the essence of Tomakomai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Tomakomai has a strong tradition in ice hockey, with several local teams and a community passionate about the sport.
Baseball is very popular in Japan, and Tomakomai is no exception, with many youth teams and high school competitions.
Soccer is increasingly popular among the youth in Tomakomai, with local leagues and clubs encouraging participation.
Basketball sees significant participation at schools and community levels, with local tournaments and events.
Tomakomai hosts various running events, including marathons, attracting both local and regional participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tomakomai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Hokkaido cuisine focuses heavily on seafood and meat, some restaurants in Tomakomai offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially in the form of flavorful vegetable-based hot pots and tofu dishes.
Visitors with gluten restrictions will find that many traditional dishes in Tomakomai can be adapted to be gluten-free, and some cafes and restaurants offer rice-based alternatives to accommodate these dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tomakomai with these cultural adventures.
