Things To Do
in Yakumo

Yakumo is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the coast, it offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The town is also famous for its local seafood and festivals that showcase traditional Japanese culture.

Visitors can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere while experiencing the hospitality of the local community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yakumo's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the scenic Yakumo Park, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.

afternoon
:

Head to the Yakumo Seaside to enjoy a picnic lunch while watching the waves, followed by a visit to the local fishing port to see the day's catch.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, where you can taste Yakumo's famous seafood dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion in Yakumo
morning
:

Visit the Yakumo Historical Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, providing a deeper understanding of local customs.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🚍Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious seafood and unique local dishes.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Language barriers may be encountered.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "私は英語を話します" - I speak English
  • "お会計をお願いします" - Check, please

Places to Visit in Yakumo

Visit one of these nice places.

Yakumo Coast

Capture stunning sunset views over the Sea of Japan, with rocky cliffs and sandy beaches providing a picturesque backdrop.

Yukiyama Mountain

A great spot for panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape, especially vibrant during autumn foliage.

Cherry Blossom Park

In spring, the park transforms into a breathtaking landscape of cherry blossoms, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yakumo

Yakumo offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the best of Hokkaido's fresh seafood and traditional dishes, perfect for food enthusiasts.

Yakumo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ika Meshi

Stuffed squid cooked with rice, a local specialty that highlights the region's fresh seafood.

Must-Try!

Hokkaido Ramen

Rich and flavorful ramen made with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yakumo Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh catches of the day and local delicacies, perfect for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yakumo experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23 to 41°F). Summers are warm, with average highs around 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, offering mild temperatures and stunning natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a customary greeting in Japan; a slight bow shows respect and is appreciated.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public places is a sign of respect and politeness.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yakumo is considered a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as securing valuables and being mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are accessible, and locals are generally helpful.

Tipping in Yakumo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is included in the price, but small gifts can be appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments now accept credit and debit cards; ATMs are available in convenience stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather encourages beach visits and outdoor festivals, with fresh seafood abundant from the local fishing industry.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures bring stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and scenic drives through the countryside.

Winter

Cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports like skiing and enjoying hot springs to warm up after outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Yakumo at Night

Yakumo offers a peaceful nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy izakayas and local bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local brews. There are occasional festivals and events that light up the night, showcasing traditional music and dance. For those seeking a lively atmosphere, nearby cities like Hakodate provide more diverse nightlife options.

Hiking in Yakumo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shikabe Pass Trail

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

Yukiyama Summit Trail

A challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic vistas from the summit, particularly beautiful in autumn.

Airports

How to reach Yakumo by plane.

Hakodate Airport

Located about 50 km from Yakumo, Hakodate Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the closest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yakumo is a walkable town, with key attractions within a reasonable distance from each other. Sidewalks are available in most areas, and the town's layout encourages exploration on foot. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bus ride, especially those located in more remote areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

The community has a strong fishing tradition, with many locals engaged in fishing and seafood processing.

Tourists

Visitors from both Japan and abroad come to Yakumo for its natural beauty, culture, and culinary experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Yakumo, with local teams and community leagues promoting active participation.

Skiing

During the winter months, skiing is a favored activity in the nearby mountains, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yakumo is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation, including buses, is available but may not be as frequent as in larger cities. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for longer trips and check schedules in advance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yakumo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, including vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes can be made gluten-free, but it's best to communicate dietary needs to staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Yakumo is generally good, with local clinics and hospitals available for basic medical needs. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are present throughout the town. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical services while in Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide