Things To Do
in Asahikawa
Asahikawa is a gateway to central Hokkaido, located along the Ishikari River and known for its practical, friendly urban vibe. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Daisetsuzan mountains and the region’s winter scenery. The city blends a strong ramen and seafood scene with easy access to nature and hot springs.
In winter it becomes a hub for snow activities, while summer offers comfortable days for outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Asahikawa Museum of Art, where you can admire stunning works from local artists and learn about the region's artistic heritage. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Tokiwa Park, a beautiful green space known for its cherry blossoms in spring. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby café while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the famous Asahikawa Ramen Village for lunch, where you can sample various types of Hokkaido ramen from different regional vendors. After satisfying your hunger, head to the Asahikawa Winter Festival Museum to discover the history behind this iconic event, complete with ice sculptures and festival memorabilia. Wrap up your afternoon by exploring the local shops and boutiques for unique souvenirs.
As evening falls, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local izakaya, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank, where you can admire the illuminated cityscape and the gentle flow of the river. End your day with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the warm waters while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with a trip to the Daisetsuzan National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Embark on a guided nature walk, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna while enjoying the stunning mountain views. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the picturesque scenery along the trails.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the fresh mountain air. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic areas of the park, perhaps even taking a dip in one of the natural hot springs nestled in the mountains. As you hike, keep an eye out for the region's unique wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
Return to Asahikawa in the evening and indulge in a hearty dinner featuring local ingredients, such as Hokkaido beef or fresh vegetables. Consider visiting a local brewery to sample some of the region's finest craft beers, enjoyed alongside an array of delicious appetizers. As the night winds down, take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $5-8 |
| 🍜Ramen dinner | $8-15 |
| 🚆Transit day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to world-class nature and reliable day trips to Daisetsuzan
- Strong ramen and seafood scene with comfortable city amenities
- Can be quiet at night in outlying neighborhoods
- Winter travel requires extra warm clothing and preparation for snow
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Asahikawa
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views and bridges offer atmospheric reflections at sunrise or sunset, especially in autumn and winter when light is soft.
Urban lines and neon at night create clean compositions with a calm, modern backdrop.
Photogenic enclosures and seasonal landscapes, including animals and snow scenes, make for memorable wildlife images.
Food in Asahikawa
Asahikawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich miso-based broth with flat, chewy noodles, typically topped with char siu and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Spicy, aromatic curry broth poured over vegetables and chicken or seafood; widely available in cozy cafes and eateries.
Grilled minced lamb cooked at the table, often enjoyed with onions and dipping sauces in an izakaya setting.
Seafood bowls featuring crab, uni, squid, or salmon roe sourced from Hokkaido waters.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning and evening stalls near the station and central streets offer fresh produce, skewers, and ready-to-eat bites.
A cluster of ramen shops within walking distance of the station; sample multiple shops in one location.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for trains and meetings; keep voices down in public, especially on public transit.
Follow posted rules; some accommodations provide slippers and changing areas.
Queue orderly, dispose of trash properly, and avoid eating while walking in busy streets.
Safety
Tipping in Asahikawa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is included in prices, and rounding up is optional but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted, with many shops and markets accepting cards in urban areas. IC cards and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are increasingly common in larger stores and hotels; some small places are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery; showers are common, so bring a light umbrella.
Warm days and cooler nights; comfortable for outdoor activities and riverside strolls.
Crimson and gold foliage along riverbanks and parks; perfect for photography and scenic drives.
Cold and snowy; expect subzero temperatures and beautiful snow landscapes; dress in layers and be prepared for slippery sidewalks.
Asahikawa at Night
Hiking in Asahikawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive networks around the central highlands; routes range from easy loops to challenging ascents.
Popular summit treks accessible by ropeway, with alpine scenery and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Asahikawa by plane.
Domestic flights to Tokyo and Sapporo; quick access to the city via a short bus or taxi ride.
Sapporo’s international hub; from CTS you can connect to domestic flights to AKJ or take other onward routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese with an aging population in several districts.
Many attend local colleges and work in service and light manufacturing sectors.
Visitors drawn by ramen, nature, and winter activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Excellent powder year-round in nearby resorts, especially in winter.
Popular in local leagues and schools; games are common in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Asahikawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes use dashi stock or meat in broth; look for vegetable-focused items, miso soup without fish stock, and noodle dishes labeled as vegetarian; ask for no bonito or fish broth and request vegetable tempura or tofu dishes.