Asahikawa is the second-largest city on Japan’s Hokkaido island, positioned near the soaring volcanic peaks of Daisetsuzan National Park. Asahikawa’s museums celebrate the achievements of artists and the Aino people while its commercial streets are packed with boutiques, galleries and ramen restaurants. Throughout the year, enjoy a playground for outdoor adventures in nearby mountains.
Get insights into the ancient history and art heritage at varied museums. Asahikawa City Museum re-creates the life of the Ainu people. The Hokkaido Asahikawa Museum of Art showcases Hokkaido artists. The Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture celebrates Rodin-inspired sculptor Teijiro Nakahara, while the adjacent Yasushi Inoue Memorial Museum honors one of Japan’s favorite authors. Don’t miss displays of ice columns and snowflakes at the Snow Crystal Museum.
Stroll along Kaimono Koen street into the heart of a shopping zone with boutiques, galleries and malls. Furarito Alley is a pedestrian-only street lined with budget Japanese restaurants and lively izakaya saloon-like bars. Slurp on culinary delights at Asahikawa Ramen Village, where multiple bars serve variations of the city’s soya-based ramen noodle soup. Enjoy sake tasting at Otokoyama Sake Brewery.
Take time out from sightseeing at the central Tokiwa Park. Ski at the western edge of the city at Santa Present Park. Polar bear feedings, big cats, playful primates and a penguin parade await you at Asahiyama Zoo.
Plan a trip to Blue Pond, a manmade lake with dazzling blue water. Nearby are the pretty Shirahige Waterfall and Tokachidake Observatory. Ride the Asahidake Ropeway into the foothills of Asahidake, the tallest mountain in Daisetsuzan National Park and Hokkaido. Marvel at the seasonal vegetation, hike to the top of the volcanic peak or ski in the wild backcountry.
Reach Asahikawa by flying to Asahikawa Airport from Osaka, Taipei and Tokyo or travel by train from Sapporo. Expect mild summers and sub-zero temperatures with heavy snowfall in winter. Plan your visit around annual events such as the Asahikawa Winter Festival and San Roku Matsuri summer festival.
