The Obihiro & Tokachi area is a region defined by the vast plains and beautiful nature so characteristic of Hokkaido. In summer, refreshing breezes blow through, while in winter, the clear air and snowy landscapes offer a different charm, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons. The central city, Obihiro, is easily accessible and serves as the perfect base for sightseeing.In addition to unique sights, activities, and hot springs that can only be experienced here, the area is also a gourmet paradise – you can’t miss local delicacies like "buta-don" (pork bowl) and delightful sweets. Beyond sightseeing, it’s a place to thoroughly enjoy the local food, culture, and traditions. Alongside must-see attractions, we’ll also introduce hidden gems beloved by locals. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group, our diverse four-day sample itinerary promises an unforgettable experience for everyone!

Start your journey at Obihiro Airport! By taking the Takushoku Bus "Airport Shuttle Bus," you can reach downtown Obihiro in about 40 minutes. All seats are unreserved and feature comfortable, reclining three-row independent seats, making your ride pleasant. You can get off right in front of your hotel, so there’s no need to worry even if you have large luggage. One important note: cashless payment systems in Eastern Hokkaido are not yet widely available. We recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance—you can skip buying tickets at the ticket machine on the day or paying with cash, for a smoother travel experience. If you do not buy your ticket online, you will need to pay in cash, so please prepare the fare beforehand.

・Fare
①Hotels in Obihiro City: 1,000 yen
②Kinos Agricultural Cooperative / Kinos Odori 16-chome / Otofuke Odori 11-chome: 1,100 yen
③Michi-no-Eki Otofuke: 1,200 yen
*Children: Half price
・ Operating Period / Timetable

On your first day in Obihiro, we recommend starting with local cuisine and sightseeing. Within the city, you'll find a variety of unique gourmet spots featuring Tokachi-sourced ingredients, Western-style restaurants focused on local produce, and renowned shops specializing in sweets. Each establishment stands out for its individuality and high quality. Dishes that highlight the excellence of local ingredients are known as "Tokachi Quality" and deliver exceptional flavor. Here, we'll introduce must-visit restaurants perfect for the start of your journey!

On the second day, take the Takushoku Bus “Shikaoi, Shintoku, Lake Shikaribetsu Line” to Tokachi Ranch. Here are the details for getting there!

This is a popular sightseeing spot famous for its idyllic scenery that truly represents Hokkaido. Here, you can observe dairy cows living freely on vast pastures—an experience unique to this area. The landscape created by the blue sky, green fields, and black and white cows is the very image of Hokkaido’s original charm. Take a break from your everyday life and enjoy a healing moment that will lighten your heart.

One of the most popular attractions within the ranch is the beautifully maintained Birch Tree Avenue. This picturesque spot has been featured in commercials and films, and the sight of straight birch trees lining both sides of the road offers a variety of scenic faces throughout the seasons. From spring to summer, the sunlight streaming through the leaves creates a beautiful atmosphere, while in autumn the golden foliage makes it a stunning photo spot. The ranch also has a direct sales shop where you can purchase dairy products made from fresh milk, including silky-soft ice cream, homemade butter, and yogurt—all showcasing the quality of the ingredients. The freshly made ice cream, crafted from milk just collected at the ranch, is particularly creamy and rich—a must-try delicacy. The ranch offers hands-on experiences such as butter-making, making it perfect for families and groups. While relaxing in nature, you can truly feel the richness of Hokkaido’s agriculture and dairy farming, enjoying a fulfilling and memorable visit.

In the afternoon, take the Takushoku Bus “Shikaoi, Shintoku & Lake Shikaribetsu Line” and the Tokachi Bus “Route 2 (Obihiro Station – Shirakaba-dori)” to visit the Obihiro Racecourse, home of the world-renowned Ban’ei Horse Racing. Here’s how to get there:

Ban’ei horse racing is a unique event that can only be experienced here in Obihiro. Unlike conventional horse racing, Ban’ei features draft horses pulling heavy iron sleds along a straight 200-meter track with obstacles. The power and intensity of the "banba" horses, combined with the jockeys’ expert handling, create an impressive spectacle that captivates visitors from around the world.

Admission is just 100 yen, making it very affordable and easy to stop by, which is part of the racecourse’s charm. Betting tickets also start at only 100 yen, so even beginners can try their luck without hesitation. If you’re new to horse racing or feeling unsure, the Beginner’s Corner inside the facility offers friendly staff who will clearly explain everything from how to buy tickets to tips for enjoying the races. Placing a real bet and watching the races firsthand will double the excitement and give you a deeper appreciation for the world of horse racing. Obihiro Racecourse is not just for adults—it's also family-friendly. The “Family Zone” provides a safe play area for children, so families with little ones can visit with peace of mind. There is also an animal interaction area, where children can meet ponies and small animals—perfect for helping them develop a love for animals.

Adjacent to the racecourse is “Tokachimura,” a popular spot bringing together local gourmet food and specialty products. Here you’ll find iconic Obihiro dishes such as butadon (pork rice bowl), fresh dairy products, and sweets made from local produce—delicacies you can only taste here. The shopping area also offers a wide range of souvenirs, including Tokachi cheese, confectionery, and handicrafts, making it easy to find memorable gifts from your trip. Enjoying great food and shopping alongside horse races makes for a day full of Obihiro’s unique experiences!

To travel from Obihiro city center to Tokachigawa Onsen, taking the Tokachi Bus “[45] Tokachigawa Onsen Line” is highly recommended. Here are the details!

Located at the entrance to Tokachigawa Onsen, Garden Spa Tokachigawa Onsen is a unique, multi-purpose spa complex that combines hot springs, gourmet dining, shopping, and hands-on experiences—all in one facility. Unlike typical hot spring establishments, this spa features a swimsuit-required style, allowing men, women, families, and friends to easily enjoy bathing together. Its casual accessibility and the special charm of Tokachi attract many visitors from both inside and outside the region. Inside the facility, you’ll find a variety of bathing options, such as jacuzzis, reclining baths, and walking baths, all using Tokachi’s famous moor hot spring water. Gentle on the skin and known for its beautifying properties, these baths are loved by all ages. There’s also a foot bath area outdoors, perfect for a relaxing break during your travels.

Another highlight of Garden Spa Tokachigawa Onsen is the distinctive Tokachi gourmet cuisine available right inside the facility. One of the most popular menu items is the “Tokachi Wagyu Curry Bread.” This local specialty features juicy curry generously made with premium Tokachi wagyu beef, wrapped in dough that is crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside—a perfect combination! It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists. You can enjoy it freshly fried on the spot or take some with you as a tasty snack for your journey.The menu also offers a variety of other dishes made with local vegetables and dairy products, such as curry rice, hamburg steak, and gelato—perfect for everyone from kids to adults, making it an excellent choice for families. The café-style eat-in area provides a spacious and comfortable setting to relax and enjoy your meal.Inside the facility, you’ll also find “Hinata no Marche,” a direct sales market featuring local produce and souvenirs. From fresh vegetables and fruits to Tokachi dairy products and baked goods from local confectioners, there’s a wide selection of local specialties. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir during your visit.

A special highlight for children is the “Handmade Experience Workshop.” Here, you can join fun, food-related workshops such as cheesemaking using Tokachi ingredients, pizza baking with locally-produced wheat, or making ice cream with rich, local milk. Each course takes about 40 minutes, and since advance reservations are required, it’s easy to fit into your travel schedule and enjoy regardless of the weather. Staff are always on hand to offer careful support, so families with small children can participate with peace of mind. You can enjoy eating your creations right after making them, making it a unique and memorable experience. There are also limited seasonal menus, so every visit brings something new to try, adding to the excitement.

On your second night, enjoy a relaxing stay in the city once again. Obihiro’s downtown area is home to a variety of popular hotels—trying a different hotel from your first night is also highly recommended. Here are some top choices loved by both tourists and locals!

To wrap up your journey, take a short trip from downtown Obihiro to “Tokachi Hills,” a sightseeing spot that encapsulates the beauty of the Tokachi Plain. It is about a 15–20 minute taxi ride from Obihiro Station, and as public transportation is limited, taking a taxi is the most convenient option. Located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, visitors can spend a relaxing time while enjoying the majestic nature of Tokachi.

Tokachi Hills is a "garden and farm-style complex" spreading across the rolling hills southeast of Obihiro City, the heart of Tokachi. Making the most of Tokachi’s rich agricultural soil, Tokachi Hills is designed around the themes of “farming, food, and gardens,” creating a space where visitors can enjoy both local ingredients and beautiful landscapes.The main attraction at Tokachi Hills is undoubtedly the seven themed gardens that stretch across the grounds. Each garden features its own unique design concept, with seasonal flowers blooming in full display throughout the year. Highlights include the colorful “Valley of Flowers,” the “Rose Garden” reminiscent of an English country estate, and the “Japanese Garden” that evokes traditional Japanese aesthetics. Each space offers its own charm and personality, making a stroll through the gardens feel like stepping into a storybook world. There are also many popular photo spots featured on social media, so exploring the grounds while searching for your own perfect photo is highly recommended.The look and feel of the gardens change dramatically with the seasons, allowing you to experience a new side of Tokachi Hills in spring, summer, and fall. Especially from late summer through autumn, the gardens burst into a kaleidoscope of color—sure to inspire you to reach for your camera time and again.

Within the garden, you’ll also find “Garden Cafe NIWAKARA,” a café-restaurant where you can fully enjoy the flavors of the local region. The creative dishes are made using plenty of fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits grown on Tokachi Hills’ own farm. Popular menu items include the seasonal vegetable garden plate and soup & bread sets featuring Tokachi-grown wheat and dairy products. The beautifully presented dishes offer a luxurious dining experience. In addition to indoor seating, terrace seating is available on sunny days, allowing you to enjoy your meal surrounded by flowers and greenery at a relaxed pace.

Before you leave, be sure to stop by the attached “Hills Shop.” Here, you can find vegetables and processed foods harvested on their own farm, herbal teas, jams, and original goods—perfect for picking up souvenirs. There are many limited items only available at Tokachi Hills, making it an ideal place to find a special gift for loved ones or create a memorable keepsake of your trip.

While traveling through the Tokachi area, one experience we highly recommend is a tour of the region’s famous confectionery shops. Tokachi is one of Japan’s leading agricultural areas and is renowned as a treasure trove of essential ingredients for sweets—such as wheat, butter, milk, and beans. The abundance of these high-quality local ingredients has given rise to a vibrant confectionery culture, earning Tokachi the nickname “The Kingdom of Sweets.” Here, we introduce four of the most popular and beloved confectionery shops that are favorites among locals!

For your return journey, depart from Tokachi’s gateway to the skies, Tokachi-Obihiro Airport. Just like on your way in, we recommend using the Takushoku “Airport Shuttle Bus” to get to the airport. The bus conveniently departs from right in front of your hotel, making it ideal for those with large luggage or plenty of souvenirs.

The Tokachi-Obihiro area offers the perfect balance of magnificent natural scenery, unique local cuisine, and authentic cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a returning guest, we highly recommend this region. Here, you’ll find the “best of both worlds”—the beautiful rural landscapes that symbolize Hokkaido, combined with the convenience of Obihiro City, for a truly luxurious journey. Enjoy exquisite dishes made from local ingredients at a leisurely pace, or relax and rejuvenate in soothing hot springs surrounded by nature. Discover your own travel style and experience the delights of Tokachi and Obihiro to the fullest!