Things To Do
in Yakumo

A bowl of rice topped with the day’s fresh sashimi—tuna, salmon, squid and shellfish—available at markets and small seaside restaurants.

Must-Try!

Hokkaido is famed for squid; in Yakumo look for simple grilled or simmered preparations at izakayas and harbor stalls.

Creamy soft-serve ice cream, milk puddings and cheesecakes made from local milk—found at cafés and farm shops.

Seasonal hot pots (nabe) using local fish and shellfish—popular in autumn and winter at family restaurants and ryokan.

Small markets and roadside stalls sell fresh-caught fish, seasonal vegetables and grilled seafood snacks—perfect for sampling kaisen-bento and fresh-on-the-spot treats.

Occasional vendors near the fishing port serve grilled fish, squid skewers and seasonal shellfish—best to visit in morning or early afternoon.

Bowing and polite language are common—use basic phrases and a respectful tone in shops and ryokan.

Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional accommodations and some small restaurants—watch for shoe racks and slippers.

Keep voice levels low in public transport and residential areas; avoid loud phone conversations.

Wash thoroughly before entering baths, no swimsuits, and be mindful of tattoos (ask ahead if tattoos are acceptable or look for tattoo-friendly facilities).

Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is expected without extra payment. If you try to tip, staff will typically refuse—show appreciation with a thank-you in Japanese instead.

Cash (Japanese yen) is widely used in Yakumo—carry enough cash for markets, small restaurants and rural shops. Major credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but many small businesses are cash-only; ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson) and post offices accept international cards.

Cool temperatures, budding landscapes and migratory birds—cherry blossoms may bloom later than in Honshu. Good for birdwatching and seeing farmland come alive; bring layers and waterproof gear for changeable weather.

Mild to warm days, long daylight hours and abundant greenery; ideal for coastal walks, cycling and seafood markets. Mosquitoes can be present in wetlands; sunscreen and light rainwear recommended.

Crisp air and vivid foliage in late September–October; harvest season brings fresh produce and local festivals. Nights cool quickly—bring warm layers.

Cold and snowy with opportunities for snowy landscapes, frozen coastal scenes and nearby skiing in higher areas; many rural services reduce hours—check transport and accommodation availability and prepare for icy roads.

Approximately 1–2 hours by car or train (distance varies by route); the closest airport with domestic flights and some international connections. From Hakodate, regional trains and buses link to Yakumo—renting a car gives more flexibility.

Serving Sapporo, New Chitose is larger with many domestic and international flights but is further away (about 2–3+ hours by car or train). Accessible by Shinkansen and limited express trains with transfers; useful if combining Yakumo with broader Hokkaido travel.

Vegetarian options are limited but possible—request vegetable tempura, rice dishes, miso soup (confirm dashi), and pickled or grilled vegetables; carry snacks and translate dietary needs into Japanese to be clear about no fish-based dashi.

Vegan dining can be challenging due to common use of fish stock (dashi) and dairy; plan ahead, pack supplies, use translation cards and visit larger towns for more choices.

Soy sauce and some tempura or prepared foods contain gluten—ask about ingredients, choose plain grilled fish, rice dishes and fresh produce; consider bringing GF soy sauce if strict.

Seafood is central—carry an allergy card in Japanese and inform staff; many kitchens are small, so cross-contact is possible.