Table of Contents：
1. Central Tokachi: The Gourmet Heart of Tokachi, Where Traditions Meet Innovation
2. Exploring Northern Tokachi: Skyward Views, Hidden Lakes, and Sweet Discoveries
3. Southern Tokachi: Nature, Sweets, and a Glimpse into Space
4. Ready to Travel? Discover the Wonders of Tokachi
What comes to mind when you think of Hokkaido?
Perhaps it’s vast, untouched nature. Crisp, clean air. Bucolic scenes of open fields stretching to the horizon, dotted with cows and horses. High-quality dairy products. And of course, the rich bounty of flavours that only an agricultural powerhouse can offer.
In fact, these aren’t just images of Hokkaido in general—they perfectly capture the essence of the Tokachi area.
If you’re looking to travel to the real Hokkaido, this is where you’ll find it!
Located in southeastern Hokkaido, the Tokachi region centres around the city of Obihiro and includes 19 surrounding cities, towns, and villages. Blessed with a rich and varied climate, Tokachi takes its name from the mighty Tokachi River, which originates in the Daisetsuzan Mountains—often called the “roof of Hokkaido”—and flows all the way to the Pacific Ocean. As it winds eastward, the river shapes the vast Tokachi Plain, which accounts for roughly 10% of Hokkaido’s total land area. This fertile landscape—nearly five times the size of Tokyo—is home to Japan’s largest agricultural and dairy-producing region.
Often referred to as Japan’s “food base,” Tokachi plays an extraordinary role in feeding the country. Hokkaido itself holds about a quarter of all arable land in Japan—and remarkably, 22% of that is concentrated in Tokachi alone.
But what’s truly astonishing is not just the sheer volume of food produced here—it’s the diversity. From staples like wheat, corn, potatoes, and beans to carrots, green onions, lettuce, sugar beets, and nearly every vegetable you can name, Tokachi grows it all. The region also excels in livestock farming, raising renowned brands such as Tokachi Wagyu, Toyonishi beef, and Obihiro beef. Add to that a wide array of dairy products that have earned international acclaim, and it’s no exaggeration to say: if it’s food, Tokachi probably produces it.
Yet Tokachi’s journey to becoming this agricultural powerhouse was anything but easy. Behind its success lies a history of determined pioneering. While the Japanese government began full-scale development of Hokkaido around 150 years ago, Tokachi stands out for having been shaped not by state-led projects, but by private pioneer groups. This spirit of self-reliance and perseverance remains a defining part of the region’s identity. Through repeated hardships and setbacks, these pioneers laid the foundations for Tokachi’s thriving agriculture—and their legacy continues to shape the region today.
Known for having some of the sunniest weather in Hokkaido, Tokachi offers a comfortable travel experience throughout the year and is the perfect destination to enjoy the beauty of all four seasons. But Tokachi isn’t just one single area—it’s a region full of variety, where each part offers its own unique experiences and attractions. From the natural landscape to local cuisine, every corner of Tokachi reveals a different side to discover.
I had the privilege of living in Tokachi for several years, and I proudly call it my second home. In this column, I’d love to share the many ways to experience and enjoy this remarkable region! Let’s begin our journey by exploring the central area!
Central Tokachi: The Gourmet Heart of Tokachi, Where Traditions Meet Innovation
When talking about central Tokachi, Obihiro naturally takes the spotlight—both geographically and culturally. Located in the heart of the Tokachi Plain, Obihiro is home to around 160,000 residents, making it the fifth largest city in Hokkaido. What makes Obihiro especially unique is how closely it is tied to the surrounding agricultural fields. It’s a rare city where nature and urban life harmoniously coexist. Throughout the city, you’ll find spacious parks, beautifully designed gardens, a zoo, and even natural hot springs—all woven seamlessly into daily life.
Banei Horse Racing: A One-of-a-Kind Spectacle
One of Obihiro’s most iconic and unique attractions is Banei Horse Racing—a dramatic event where agricultural horses unique to the area, which weigh over one ton, pull heavy iron sleds down a straight track, competing in both power and speed. Unlike conventional horse racing, which centres on lightweight thoroughbreds sprinting for speed, Banei features massive draft horses pulling weighted sleds along a 200-meter dirt course.
Each race follows the same setup: a straight 200-meter track with two obstacles—small hills that test the horses’ stamina and technique. What sets Banei further apart is its rules: the finish line is only crossed when the back end of the sled passes it, not the horse. Another key feature is that each horse runs in its own lane — switching tracks or impeding another competitor is not allowed.
To create variation despite the uniform course length and layout, each race uses different sled weights. Some races test pure speed with lighter loads of around 500 kilograms, while others push the horses to their endurance limits with loads weighing up to 1,000 kilograms.
When horses of different classes compete together, handicaps are applied to level the playing field. For spectators, part of the thrill is predicting how each horse will handle the specific weight and course conditions. Watching your chosen horse give it their all, just meters away from you, makes the excitement all the more real.
This thrilling race is unlike anything else in the world—and you can only experience it here in Obihiro. Born from the powerful workhorses of Hokkaido’s pioneering era, Banei Horse Racing lives on as a proud cultural legacy, now designated a Hokkaido Heritage. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that connects past and present, showcasing the strength, resilience, and beauty of these majestic animals.
A Taste of Tokachi’s Fields: Farm Picnic Tour by Itadakimasu Company
Hokkaido offers a wide variety of tours that connect visitors with nature, but one that left a lasting impression on me was the Farm Picnic Tour operated by Itadakimasu Company, accompanied by their friendly “field guides.”
Do you know what itadakimasu means?
In Japanese, itadakimasu is a phrase said before meals, expressing gratitude for the food and all those who helped produce it. It reflects a deep cultural appreciation for life and labour—and that spirit is at the heart of this tour. The company’s mission is to share that feeling by offering meaningful experiences in the beautiful fields of Tokachi.
You’ve probably never heard of a “field guide” before, have you?
This tour is something truly unique to Tokachi: a guided picnic through seasonal farm fields, led by local experts. You’ll stroll through vibrant fields at their seasonal peak, learn about Tokachi’s agriculture in an enjoyable and approachable way, and then—the best part—taste freshly-harvested produce right there in the middle of the field. It’s a rare and heartwarming experience that brings you closer to the land.
Held from June to September in fields near Obihiro, this tour offers fleeting, once-in-a-season views and flavours you can’t find anywhere else. If you want to feel, taste, and understand the richness of Tokachi’s farms, this tour is not to be missed.
Tokachi Wine: The Pioneer of Hokkaido Winemaking
In recent years, wines from Hokkaido have begun attracting international attention — but did you know that the region’s winemaking history dates back to the 1960s? That’s when Tokachi Wine, Hokkaido’s oldest winery, was founded in the small town of Ikeda, located about a 30-minute drive east of Obihiro.
The history of winemaking in Ikeda is as distinctive as the climate itself. Despite Tokachi’s harsh winters, the region found an unlikely hero in wild mountain grapes, which thrive in cold conditions. Over time, local vintners developed new grape varieties suited to the northern climate. Among them, Yamasaichi—a hybrid variety born in Tokachi—made history in November 2020 by becoming the third Japanese grape, and the first from Hokkaido, to be officially recognized by the OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine). Tokachi Wine has rightly earned its place as a pioneer, helping establish Hokkaido’s reputation in the global wine scene.
Nicknamed the “Wine Castle,” the Tokachi Wine building stands atop a hill, offering sweeping views of the Tokachi Plain, with rows of grapevines at your feet—a truly breathtaking sight. On weekends, you can join a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff to learn about the winery’s history and the winemaking process, and enjoy a professional tasting session.
Inside this castle-like facility, visitors can explore a small wine factory, browse museum exhibits, and shop for exclusive local wines. On the fourth floor, the restaurant serves dishes made with Hokkaido’s finest ingredients—Tokachi pork, Hokkaido beef, Ezo venison, and local cheeses—all perfectly paired with their wines. For something lighter, the food counter next to the restaurant offers soft-serve ice cream, coffee, and other casual treats.
Wines from Tokachi—grown in Hokkaido’s cool northern climate—are known for their crisp acidity and dry, food-friendly character. Pairings with the region’s rich array of meats, cheeses, and vegetables bring out the best in both the wine and the dish. Today, Yamasaichi-based wines are also produced at several other wineries across Tokachi. Be sure to discover your own favourite—and savour the perfect pairing of Tokachi wine and food.
Where Tokachi’s Flavors Come Together: Obihiro’s Gourmet Scene
In Obihiro, the heart of Tokachi where the agriculture, dairy, and livestock industries thrive, it’s no exaggeration to say that everything you eat is delicious—and often surprisingly affordable. Among the many local specialties, one dish that truly defines Obihiro’s gourmet scene is butadon: a rice bowl topped with tender pork grilled to perfection and glazed with a sweet-savoury sauce. With over 200 restaurants in the city, you’re sure to find a favourite! If you haven’t tried it yet, it’s an absolute must.
Obihiro is also a haven for those with a sweet tooth. From the famous sweet potato confections at Cranberry to farm-fresh ice cream at Uemon’s Heart, the variety of sweets here is both wide and satisfying. And of course, no discussion of Hokkaido desserts would be complete without mentioning Rokkatei—a beloved name recognized across Japan.
Among their many signature creations, the Marusei Butter Sandwich stands out—a rich, indulgent treat that commemorates both the company’s rebranding and a pivotal moment in Tokachi’s history: the first successful production of butter in Hokkaido in 1905. The sandwich’s smooth cream filling is made with a blend of locally produced fresh butter and white chocolate.
In fact, both butter and white chocolate have deep roots in this region. While Tokachi was the first place in Hokkaido to successfully produce butter, white chocolate also has a meaningful origin here: it was Rokkatei that first created white chocolate in Japan, using milk from Hokkaido. Today, this creamy confection has become a beloved souvenir across the country, but its story began right here in Tokachi—a testament to the region’s creativity and pioneering spirit in the world of sweets.
And if you’re traveling to Obihiro, there’s one more treat you absolutely must try: the Sakusaku Pie. Available only at select Rokkatei locations in the city and with a shelf life of just three hours, this exclusive pastry is filled with velvety custard cream. As the name suggests—sakusaku means “crispy” or “flaky” in Japanese — it’s delightfully crisp on the outside and melts in your mouth with each bite. It’s an unforgettable local delicacy you won’t want to miss.
Stay tuned for a lesser-known Rokkatei spot that holds even more charm. You’ll discover it in our next stop: Southern Tokachi.
Exploring Northern Tokachi: Skyward Views, Hidden Lakes, and Sweet Discoveries
Eastern Daisetsuzan: A Sky of Balloons and Volcanic Majesty
In the northern reaches of Tokachi lies the Eastern Daisetsuzan area, part of the vast Daisetsuzan National Park. This region is home to striking volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and alpine flora that transform with the seasons, offering breathtaking natural beauty year-round.
One of the area’s most charming towns is Kamishihoro, known as the birthplace of hot air ballooning in Japan. The country’s very first hot air balloon festival was held here in 1974, and the skies have been colourful ever since. Today, visitors can enjoy tethered balloon rides, gently floating above the expansive Tokachi Plains. Each February, the Kamishihoro Winter Festival features balloons rising against a snow-covered backdrop—a magical sight. In August, the Hokkaido Balloon Festival draws ballooning enthusiasts and spectators from across Japan and beyond.
From above, you can admire sweeping views of the Tokachi Plain and the distant peaks of the Daisetsuzan mountain range—an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away.
The Phantom Bridge: Taushubetsu’s Vanishing Wonder
Kamishihoro is also home to a mysterious and photogenic site: the Taushubetsu Bridge, often called the “phantom bridge.” This arched concrete railway bridge emerges only in winter and early spring when water levels are low. As the snow melts and the reservoir rises, it gradually disappears beneath the surface — hidden from view in summer and completely submerged by autumn. It’s the only place in Japan where a bridge vanishes and reappears with the seasons, giving it an almost mythical presence.
Due to its fragile condition, access is limited to guided tours organized by the Higashi Taisetsu Guide Centre. These tours—which include a one-kilometre hike in rented boots—ensure safe access while providing insight into the bridge’s history and significance. As erosion continues, the bridge may only last a few more years in its current form—making now the ideal time to travel to this remarkable site.
Lake Shikaribetsu: A Mystical Lake in the Sky
Nearby, Lake Shikaribetsu in the town of Shikaoi is another must-see destination. As Hokkaido’s highest-altitude natural lake, it’s often called the “Lake in the Sky.” Surrounded by untouched wilderness, the lake exudes a mystical charm. One especially surreal sight is the rail track that seems to disappear into the water—a scene straight out of an animated film. These rails are used to pull sightseeing boats ashore before the lake freezes in winter. For the best views, visit on a clear day between spring and autumn.
You can also enjoy canoeing in the peaceful atmosphere of the primeval forest that surrounds the lake—an experience that will surely become one of the most memorable parts of your trip to Hokkaido.
In winter, the lake transforms into Shikaribetsu Kotan, a fantasy-like ice village built atop the frozen surface. Here, you can sip cocktails at an ice bar, unwind in a snow-surrounded hot spring, or even stay overnight in an ice lodge. It’s a dreamlike experience that feels like stepping into a video game or a fairy tale.
Tokachi Millennium Forest: A Living Legacy for Future Generations
Northern Tokachi is also home to some of Japan’s most innovative gardens, including the visionary Tokachi Millennium Forest. Located at the foot of the Hidaka Mountains—Hokkaido’s only mountain range—this expansive green space was designed as a legacy for future generations.
Explore grasslands and forest trails on foot or join a guided Segway tour (two hours, reservation required by 5 p.m. the day before). Beyond scenic exploration, the forest offers enriching hands-on activities: take a class in natural cheese-making, then bake and enjoy your own handmade pizza. Or try nature horse riding, strolling along forest paths dotted with hidden art installations. Whether you’re seeking adventure, learning, or quiet reflection, this forest offers a meaningful connection to nature.
Travel into Flavour: From Cheese-Making to Signature Cakes
Of course, northern Tokachi isn’t just about nature and adventure—it’s also a gourmet paradise. As the largest producing area for a wide variety of agricultural products—including premium brand-name beef, potatoes, sweetcorn, various beans, buckwheat, and wheat—the region offers ingredients of unmatched quality. These local specialties inspire beloved confectioneries that stand proudly alongside famous names like Rokkatei.
In the town of Otofuke, you’ll find one of Tokachi’s most cherished sweet brands: Ryugetsu. Their flagship site, Sweetpia Garden, is a confectionery wonderland spanning 33,000 square meters. The facility features a factory open to tours, a cosy café, scenic gardens, and, of course, a tempting variety of sweets to enjoy.
From the factory’s observation walkway, visitors can watch the entire production process unfold. One of Ryugetsu’s most iconic treats is the Sanporoku—a Baumkuchen cake with a marbled pattern resembling the bark of Hokkaido’s native white birch trees. A local favourite for over 50 years, it’s made with premium Hokkaido ingredients and carefully crafted by skilled artisans. Watching the marbling applied by hand and seeing each cake sliced into log-like pieces is truly mesmerizing. Sanporoku no Kowari is a smaller version of the same cake, conveniently divided into bite-sized pieces—perfect as a souvenir or gift!
The name Sanporoku refers to a traditional firewood measurement used during Tokachi’s pioneering era—a thoughtful nod to local history. If you happen to spot the Sanporoku-shaped benches at Sweetpia Garden, be sure to take a seat!
After your tour, relax at the café with a slice of cake or soft-serve ice cream made from rich Hokkaido milk. Feeling creative? Join a sweet-making workshop—whether you’re baking cookies or decorating cakes, these hands-on sessions are a hit with visitors of all ages.
And the culinary delights don’t stop there. The region is home to major dairy producers like Yotsuba and Meiji. Add their factory tours to your itinerary to see how Hokkaido’s beloved butter, milk, and cheese are made—right at the source.
Southern Tokachi: Nature, Sweets, and a Glimpse into Space
Nakasatsunai: Beautiful Gardens and Farm Fun
During Tokachi’s green season, the southern region bursts into life with gardens—not just of flowers, but of vegetables, fruit, and even conifers. About a 40-minute drive from Obihiro, the town of Nakasatsunai is home to Rokka no Mori and Nakasatsunai Art Village, both operated by the beloved confectionery brand Rokkatei.
If you’ve visited Hokkaido before, you’ve likely seen Rokkatei’s iconic packaging, adorned with delicate floral illustrations. Rokka no Mori is dedicated to the Tokachi Rokka—six kinds of wildflowers native to Hokkaido, beautifully depicted on Rokkatei’s signature wrapping paper. Flowing streams, vast gardens spanning over 100,000 square meters, and the majestic Hidaka Mountains in the background create a tranquil and luxurious setting. Visitors can unwind at the on-site café, where freshly made Rokkatei sweets and light meals—prepared with minimal additives—are served in a spacious, serene environment.
The Nakasatsunai Art Village features scenic boardwalks lined with birch trees, multiple art museums, and charming eateries. While the fresh greenery of spring is beautiful, the autumn foliage is just as breathtaking—making this a delightful destination in any season.
Also in Nakasatsunai is Hanabatake Farm, a popular spot offering hands-on farm fun for all ages. Visitors can interact with goats and other animals, enjoy entertaining farm shows, and explore the recently reopened café and shop, renovated in April 2025. It’s a must-visit stop that continues to evolve with every season.
The Coastal Charms: Crab Feasts and Sea Excursions
Think Tokachi has no connection to the sea? Think again. At the southernmost point of Tokachi, the town of Hiroo thrives on its fishing heritage. Each winter, the town hosts a dynamic seafood festival where freshly boiled hairy crabs, cooked in a massive two-metre pot, are sold on-site. Despite the cold, this exciting event draws large crowds from near and far every year.
In warmer months, visitors can try kelp-drying experiences or board a fishing cruise. Just next door, in Taiki, you can join rare sea fishing tours for a hands-on taste of local marine life.
The area offers unique seasonal experiences such as picnics on pastures, sipping fresh birch sap—the symbolic tree of Hokkaido—and picking haskap, a tart native berry rarely found outside the region. Depending on the season, you can enjoy hands-on, one-of-a-kind moments you won’t find anywhere else.
A Gateway to Space: Taiki and the Spaceport of the North
Tokachi’s spirit of innovation extends far beyond agriculture and fishing. In the coastal town of Taiki, a private aerospace company is now leading Japan’s push into commercial space exploration. Taking advantage of the region’s vast open land and frequent clear skies, they are—quite literally—reaching for the stars.
Taiki is gaining national attention for its role in Japan’s emerging private space industry. The town is home to Hokkaido Spaceport, a facility being developed for use by private companies, universities, and government agencies alike. As part of Japan’s broader efforts to democratise access to space, this spaceport represents a bold step toward the future.
The Taiki Space Community Centre SORA is an exhibition facility where visitors can learn about the town’s space-focused community development efforts. On weekdays, knowledgeable guides offer engaging explanations that bring the exhibits to life. If you’re lucky enough to join a special tour, you’ll experience the excitement of space exploration firsthand.
If you happen to come across it, don’t miss the chance to pick up some Japanese-made space food as a unique souvenir—a fun reminder of Tokachi’s innovative spirit. It’s yet another example of how this region stays deeply connected to its roots while boldly reaching toward the future.
A Nature Lover’s Paradise and Winter’s Sparkling Gift
To conclude your journey through Southern Tokachi, head to Oikamanaito, a tranquil lake nestled along the Pacific coast in the Bansei district. This unique sea-terrace lake is separated from the ocean by a narrow sandbar. Encircled by 12 kilometres of wildflower gardens, it’s a haven for birdwatchers, with over 160 species observed throughout the year.
In summer, canoeing across the calm waters offers a peaceful way to take in the scenery. In early winter, the lake freezes over, creating a magical setting and the chance to enjoy smelt ice fishing. But the most dramatic transformation happens in early spring: as snowmelt swells the lake, the sandbar gives way, allowing the icy waters to rush into the sea. This fleeting event turns the area into a vibrant wetland, where birds of prey such as white-tailed eagles swoop down to catch fish. As water levels stabilise, flocks of greater white-fronted geese and whooper swans arrive—joined by the elegant red-crowned cranes, a species found in only a few places in Japan.
Just a 30-minute drive north along the coast brings you to one of Tokachi’s most breathtaking winter wonders: jewellery ice. In midwinter, ice carried from the Tokachi River flows out to the Pacific and washes ashore on the Otsu Coast. Polished smooth by the waves, the crystal-clear ice fragments sparkle in the sunlight like scattered gemstones. This natural phenomenon transforms the shoreline into a surreal, glittering landscape—so beautiful it feels almost otherworldly.
Ready to Travel? Discover the Wonders of Tokachi
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, why not take on the National Cycle Route Tokapuchi 400—a spectacular way to travel through the Tokachi area? This long-distance course begins and ends in Obihiro, tracing a figure-eight through both northern and southern Tokachi and spanning roughly 400 kilometres. The region offers a wide selection of rental bikes year-round, from city cruisers and road bikes to snow bikes—so whether you’re up for a casual ride or a serious cycling adventure, you’ll find the perfect fit for your goals and fitness level.
Along the Tokapuchi 400, you’ll encounter a wide range of breathtaking scenery: a mountainous stretch reaching Mikuni Pass in the north, and sweeping views of the Hidaka Mountains and expansive plains in the south. Mountains, wide-open fields, and even the sea—when you travel by bike, Tokachi reveals itself in new and exciting ways.
Are you ready to add Tokachi to your travel plans? Not sure how to organise your trip or what to include? Don’t worry—we’re here to help create the perfect bespoke itinerary just for you.
Our team, with expert knowledge of Hokkaido’s landscapes, cuisine, and experiences, can design a fully personalised journey. From the moment you arrive at the airport to your final day, you’ll be supported by a dedicated travel consultant, a private driver, and an English-speaking guide to ensure your trip is smooth, enriching, and truly memorable.
Every journey to Tokachi brings new discoveries. Now is the perfect time to explore. Embark on your adventure into the rich nature and gourmet delights of Tokachi—contact us today!
