Things To Do
in Obihiro
Obihiro sits on the Tokachi Plain in eastern Hokkaido, surrounded by dairy farms and wide skies. The city serves as a gateway to the Tokachi countryside, offering markets, hot springs, and easy access to scenic drives. A distinctive feature is the Banei horse racing, a uniquely Tokachi experience that blends sport with local pride.
In winter, snow transforms the landscape into a serene white canvas while summers bring sunlit fields and fresh produce markets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Obihiro City Hall, where you can marvel at the stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Afterward, stroll through the nearby Obihiro Park, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful seasonal flowers. Don't forget to stop by the historical buildings in the park, which offer a glimpse into the city's past.
Head to the Obihiro Museum of Art, where you can explore a diverse collection of contemporary Japanese art. Following your artistic adventure, indulge in a delicious lunch at a local ramen shop, savoring the flavors of Hokkaido's signature dishes. Spend the afternoon wandering through the vibrant shopping streets, picking up unique souvenirs and local crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy izakaya for dinner, where you can experience traditional Japanese dining with a variety of small dishes. Engage in conversation with locals and fellow travelers, soaking in the warm and inviting atmosphere. Cap off your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, enjoying the reflections of the city lights on the water.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Shikaribetsu Lake, where you can enjoy a tranquil morning surrounded by nature. Take a leisurely hike along the trails that circle the lake, spotting local wildlife and appreciating the stunning landscapes. As you walk, listen to the sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh air, setting a peaceful tone for your day.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Then, take a boat tour to explore the lake further, perhaps even trying your hand at fishing or birdwatching along the way. The afternoon light will provide beautiful views as you glide across the water, making for an unforgettable experience.
Return to Obihiro for dinner at a local grill, where you can taste some of Hokkaido's famous beef dishes. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you watch the chefs prepare your meal right in front of you. After dinner, take a stroll through the city center, stopping to enjoy local street performances or seasonal festivals if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Coffee or drink at café | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1.5-3 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $600-900 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich dairy and farm-to-table experiences
- Unique Banei horse racing culture
- Relaxed, safe city with easy access to nature
- Good infrastructure with reliable public transport in the city center
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Weather can be harsh in winter (heavy snowfall)
- Some rural areas rely on car travel; fewer English-speaking services
- "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 / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is this?
- "お願いします" - Please
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Obihiro
Visit one of these nice places.
Along the riverfront, early morning light makes the water sparkle and the fields stretch to the hills.
A modern landmark with striking lines that contrast with the surrounding streets—great for architectural shots.
The horse track provides dramatic action shots, especially during race events and training sessions.
Rural gateways and dairy barns offer classic Hokkaido countryside photography opportunities.
Food in Obihiro
Obihiro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful, broth-based curry popular around Hokkaido; look for spice levels from mild to fiery at local curry spots.
Must-Try!
Pork donburi served with sweet soy tare; a quick, satisfying meal at many casual eateries.
Creamy soft-serve and cheesecakes made with Tokachi milk, perfect after meals or on a hot day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh seafood, dairy, produce, and ready-to-eat bites to sample on the spot.
Seasonal stalls with seasonal Tokachi produce and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite bow and a nod of the head are common; use last name with suffix -san.
Remove shoes when entering some homes and certain temples; slippers may be provided.
Speaking softly on mobile phones in trains and stores is appreciated; avoid loud conduct.
Safety
Tipping in Obihiro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite thanks is appreciated, service charges are uncommon.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in cities; some markets and rural shops may be cash-only. IC cards are used for transit in larger hubs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms and field crops starting; layer up for cool mornings and evenings.
Warm days with long daylight; enjoy markets, outdoor activities, and harvest-season produce.
Harvest time; foliage in Tokachi fields and nearby hills; cooler nights, ideal for exploring and photography.
Cold with regular snowfall; snow activities, hot springs, and cozy cafés; daylight is shorter.
Obihiro at Night
Hiking in Obihiro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Alpine-to-woodland hike with rewarding summit views; best in July–September.
Gentle trails along the river with farmland scenery and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Obihiro by plane.
Domestic flights to Tokyo and Sapporo; a short drive from central Obihiro.
Sapporo's major international hub; reachable by train or bus with a longer journey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Like much of Japan, Obihiro has a significant aging demographic, influencing healthcare and community services.
A mix of family households and agricultural workers connected to Tokachi's farming economy.
Smaller communities of foreign residents and seasonal workers in agriculture and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A signature Tokachi sport featuring heavy horses racing on dirt tracks; held at Obihiro Racecourse.
Common local sports in schools and clubs; you can catch a community game in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Obihiro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable curries and meat-free bowls; ask for dashi-free broths, or request 'vegetarian' options and confirm ingredients.