Things To Do
in Yoichi

Yoichi is a charming town located in Hokkaido, Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich agricultural heritage. It is famous for producing high-quality sake and fresh seafood, making it a culinary hotspot. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

Visitors can enjoy local culture and stunning views, especially during cherry blossom season.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Yoichi Sake Brewery, where you can learn about the sake-making process and sample some of the finest local brews.

afternoon
:

Head to the Yoichi Fruit Park to explore its orchards and enjoy a picnic with fresh fruits, followed by a visit to the Yoichi Museum to delve into the town's history.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, trying dishes such as grilled fish and seasonal vegetables, followed by a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Shakotan Peninsula, enjoying stunning coastal views and vibrant flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the local seafood market to experience the fresh catch of the day, and enjoy a delicious seafood bowl.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip by relaxing at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind and soak in the natural hot waters.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
Coffee$3
🍏Fruit Basket$8
🏨Hotel Night$75

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood and sake.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier 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 Yoichi

Visit one of these nice places.

Yoichi River

A scenic spot perfect for capturing beautiful sunset views and reflections on the water.

Yoichi Sake Brewery

The picturesque setting of the brewery, with traditional architecture surrounded by lush landscapes.

Shakotan Coast

Breathtaking coastal views with dramatic cliffs and azure waters, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yoichi

Yoichi is a delightful culinary destination that offers a variety of traditional and local dishes, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Yoichi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yoichi Sake

Known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, Yoichi's sake is a must-try for visitors.

Must-Try!

Seafood Donburi

A rice bowl topped with fresh seafood, showcasing the local catch of the day.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yoichi Seafood Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, local produce, and ready-to-eat dishes.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offer delicious takoyaki, yakitori, and other popular Japanese street foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yoichi has a humid continental climate. Summers (June to August) are warm and can be humid, with temperatures averaging around 24°C (75°F). Winters (December to February) are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -6°C (21°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with pleasant weather and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always be respectful in cultural sites and during traditional ceremonies.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional inns.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintain a quiet demeanor in public spaces, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yoichi is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings. In winter, be cautious of icy sidewalks and snowy conditions.

Tipping in Yoichi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected, and tips may be refused.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

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

Summer

Warm weather with vibrant greenery; perfect for fruit picking and enjoying seafood festivals.

Autumn

Marvel at the stunning fall foliage, with cooler temperatures and harvest festivals showcasing local produce.

Winter

Cold and snowy, offering opportunities for winter sports and enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Yoichi at Night

Yoichi has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Most establishments close by midnight, offering a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Local sake breweries sometimes host evening tastings, providing a unique experience to learn about and enjoy local brews.

Hiking in Yoichi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cape Kamui Trail

A stunning coastal hike with breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and unique rock formations.

Shakotan Blue Trail

This trail offers spectacular views of the crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Yoichi by plane.

New Chitose Airport

Located approximately 75 km from Yoichi, this is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yoichi is quite walkable, with many attractions located near each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions, especially those further out, may require a bicycle or public transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, contributing to Yoichi's reputation for high-quality produce.

Tourists

Yoichi attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in sake and seafood.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in the region, with local teams and schools participating in various competitions.

Winter Sports

During winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular activities in nearby resorts, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yoichi is generally light, making driving and cycling easy. Public transportation, while limited, includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. Visitors can also utilize taxis, which are available but can be more expensive than public transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yoichi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is popular, many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives, including various vegetable tempura and soba noodles.

Allergies

Always inform the restaurant of any allergies, as seafood and soy sauce are prevalent in Japanese cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yoichi is accessible, with several clinics and a local hospital available for residents and visitors. Travelers should have travel insurance to cover medical expenses, as hospitals may require upfront payment. English-speaking staff may not always be available, so it's advisable to have a translation app handy.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide