Tokachi offers a relaxed and unique travel experience in Hokkaido.
From scenic drives and local food to hot springs and photography, here are the best things to do during your visit.
What makes Tokachi special?
- Wide-open landscapes and peaceful countryside
- Excellent local food and dairy culture
- Relaxing hot spring experiences
- A travel style that is calm, spacious, and unhurried
Explore Tokachi by theme
Scenery Enjoy wide landscapes, big skies, and seasonal views Driving Experience Tokachi through scenic countryside drives Food Discover local specialties, sweets, and dairy products Hot Springs Relax in peaceful hot spring environments Photo Spots Capture unforgettable travel moments Seasonal Guide Explore Tokachi in every season Souvenirs Find local products to take home Rainy Day Ideas Enjoy Tokachi even when the weather changes
Travel styles in Tokachi
Family Travel Comfortable and flexible trips for families Couple Travel Relaxed and memorable trips for couples
Plan your trip
- Start with a model course if you are visiting for the first time
- Use Obihiro as your base
- Travel by rental car for flexibility
- Do not rush — Tokachi is best enjoyed slowly
Signature Tokachi Experiences
Banei Horse Racing. Obihiro is the only place in the world where you can watch Banei keiba, in which powerful draft horses pull heavy iron sleds up two sand ramps. Races are held year-round at the Obihiro Racecourse, and the adjacent Tokachimura complex has produce shops, food stalls, and a hot spring.
The Hokkaido Garden Path. Tokachi lies along the Hokkaido Garden Path, a route that links several of the island’s most beautiful gardens, including Tokachi Hills, Manabe Garden, and Shichiku Garden. They are at their best from late spring through autumn.
Tokachigawa Onsen. Just outside Obihiro, Tokachigawa Onsen is known for its rare “moor” hot-spring water, drawn from ancient plant deposits and prized for leaving skin soft and smooth. It makes an easy day trip or relaxing overnight stay.
Scenic drives and farm country. Patchwork fields, long windbreak tree lines, and enormous skies make Tokachi one of Hokkaido’s finest regions for a road trip. In summer, head for Naitai Highland Farm, Japan’s largest public ranch, for sweeping views over the plain.
Jewelry Ice (winter only). In January and February, clear chunks of river ice wash up on the Toyokoro coast and sparkle like gemstones in the morning sun — a phenomenon seen in very few places on earth.
When to Go
Gardens and farm scenery are best from June to October, while Jewelry Ice and snow landscapes appear from January to February. Banei horse racing, hot springs, and Obihiro’s food scene can be enjoyed in any season.