Things To Do
in Tomakomai

Tomakomai is a picturesque city located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its beautiful coastal scenery and rich natural resources. It serves as a gateway to various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The city is also famous for its seafood and agriculture, with a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability.

With a blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, Tomakomai offers a unique experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tomakomai City Museum, where you can learn about the local history and culture. Afterwards, take a stroll through the beautiful Tomakomai Park.

afternoon
:

Head to the waterfront area to explore the Tomakomai Fish Market, where you can sample fresh seafood and local specialties. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Sunflower Ferry Park, enjoying the scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and trying various small dishes. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a morning hike at the nearby Tarumae Mountain, famous for its scenic trails and breathtaking views. Pack a light snack for a picnic at one of the viewpoints.

afternoon
:

Visit the local hot springs, such as the Tomakomai Onsen, for some relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the natural mineral waters.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a popular sushi restaurant, indulging in local seafood delicacies. If you're up for it, check out a local karaoke bar for a fun night out.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$4
🥢Street Food Snack$3
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local seafood and culinary experiences.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • 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
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Tomakomai

Visit one of these nice places.

Tomakomai Coastline

Capture stunning sunset views along the rugged coastline, perfect for dramatic seascapes.

Tarumae Mountain

A great spot for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, especially during autumn foliage.

Tomakomai Park

Beautiful gardens and seasonal flowers make this park a picturesque location for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tomakomai

Tomakomai is renowned for its fresh seafood and agricultural products, offering a delightful culinary experience that reflects the region's natural bounty.

Tomakomai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ikura Don

A rice bowl topped with salmon roe, showcasing the freshness of local seafood.

Must-Try!

Wakasagi Tempura

Crispy tempura made from small smelt fish, a local delicacy often enjoyed with dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tomakomai Fish Market

A bustling market where you can taste fresh sashimi, grilled seafood, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tomakomai experiences a humid continental climate, with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn see mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting in Japan, showing respect and politeness.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and other shared spaces to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tomakomai is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Tomakomai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is standard, and staff do not expect tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, many restaurants and shops now also accept credit and debit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming cherry blossoms make it a lovely time to explore parks and gardens.

Summer

Enjoy warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and beach outings.

Autumn

Experience stunning fall colors on hiking trails and in parks, perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow offer opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Nightlife Guide

Tomakomai at Night

Tomakomai's nightlife is relatively laid-back but offers a mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and casual pubs. The atmosphere is friendly, with locals often inviting visitors to join them. Popular areas for nightlife include the downtown district, where you can find a variety of establishments to enjoy drinks, local food, and entertainment.

Hiking in Tomakomai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tarumae Hiking Trail

A well-marked trail leading to the summit of Tarumae Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Shikotsu Lake Trail

A scenic trail around Lake Shikotsu, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful forest surroundings.

Airports

How to reach Tomakomai by plane.

New Chitose Airport

Located about 30 km from Tomakomai, this airport serves as the primary gateway to Hokkaido, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tomakomai is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly in the downtown district. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a reasonable walking distance, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is predominantly Japanese, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Tourists

Tomakomai attracts both domestic and international tourists looking for outdoor experiences and local cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Tomakomai, with local teams and community events drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Skiing

During winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular activities, with several ski resorts located nearby.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Tomakomai are generally manageable, with light to moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and local trains, providing options for getting around the city and to nearby attractions. However, having a car is beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tomakomai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is predominant, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tomakomai is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are efficient, and many medical professionals speak basic English. However, it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers international medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide