If you come to Hokkaido, you must see it at least once! 11 Spectacular Scenic Spots
Hokkaido, which continues to attract many tourists from Japan and abroad, is home to many spectacular sights created by its overwhelming scale, unspoiled nature, and the lives of the people who live there.
Here are some of the most spectacular spots in Hokkaido that you should visit at least once on your trip to Hokkaido.
Furano Area
Biei Area
- 4 Shirohige Waterfall
- 5 Shirogane Blue Pond
- 6 Shirogane Fudo Waterfall
- 7 Seven Star Tree
- 8 Tokachidake Bogakudai
Tokachi Area
Tomamu
<Hotels with rich individuality to add color to your Hokkaido trip
<Scenic Spots in Hokkaido
Furano Area
1Foothill Township Observation Deck (Furano Jam Garden)
The Rokugo district in Furano City was the location for the TV drama "Kita no Kuni Kara" (From the North). The Furuugo area has been selected by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries as one of the "100 Beautiful Japanese Village Sceneries (100 Rural Sceneries)" because of the colorful rural scenery that can be seen throughout the four seasons due to the crops grown on the vast hilly terrain.
The Luogo Observatory is a superb spot from which one can look out over a wide area of Luogo. The Daisetsuzan and Tokachidake mountain ranges, including Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido, can be seen behind the rural landscape below.
Colorful flower fields are a must-see!
The elaborate flower gardens surrounding the observatory are also a highlight. The best time to visit is from June to October. Verbena blooms in spring, lavender in summer, and peonies in autumn, adding color to the view from the observatory. In addition, the park's "Plaza of Colors" and "Rainbow Road" are designed flower gardens and are popular photo spots.
The Furugo Observation Deck is located within the Furano Jam Garden, and visitors can also enjoy the Furano Jam store, which is popular as a souvenir of Hokkaido, the Sweets Kobo, and the Anpanman Shop, which boasts one of the largest selection of Anpanman products in Japan.
- Furano Jam Garden (Furano Jam Garden)
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Inside Furano Jam Garden, 3 Higashi-Furano-go, Furano-shi, Hokkaido MAP
Approx. 25 min. by car from JR Furano Station
9:00-17:30 (Store)
Year-end and New Year holidays (temporary closing from December to March)
0167-29-2233
Free of charge
2Miyama Pass Observation Terrace
Facing the national road connecting Furano and Biei, the Fukayama Pass Observation Terrace is more like a small hilltop on a gently sloping hillside than a mountain pass. The surrounding area is open 360 degrees, and the vast countryside spreads out within easy reach from the observation terrace. Furthermore, it is a superb spot to enjoy a panoramic view of the Tokachi Mountain Range and the Daisetsu Mountain Range, which are representative of Hokkaido.
The large wooden deck terrace is ideal for relaxing, admiring the scenery, and taking commemorative photos.
Spectacular 360-degree view from the air
In Fukayama Pass, there is a Property called "Fukayama Pass Art Park", which offers a "Trick Art Museum", Craft Experience Activities, Genghis Khan Barbecue with a spectacular view and the famous Gelato, which you can enjoy all day long.
Of these, we recommend the "Tokachidake Art View," a Ferris wheel on the pass that offers a special experience of having the spectacular view of the Fukayama Pass all to yourself. Visitors can walk 50 meters in the air above the ground and look out over the vast countryside from a bird's-eye viewpoint.
- Miyama Pass Observation Terrace
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Fukayama Pass, North 33, West 8 line, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido MAP
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Furano City, 15 minutes by car from Biei Town
Approx. 15 min. by Furano Bus from JR Biei Station to Fukayama-Toge Bus Stop.
0167-45-6667
Free of charge
3Lake Kanayama
Lake Kanayama, located in the southernmost mountains of the Furano area, is an artificial lake with one of the largest water reservoirs in Japan. Surrounded by lush virgin forest, it is a resort-like tourist spot where visitors enjoy walking with their pets and families enjoying Activities.
From late July, the lavenders in the adjacent "Lake Kanayama Lavender Garden" are at their best, creating a beautiful spectacle through the collaboration of the purple of the lavenders, the green of the primeval forest, and the blue of the sky and the lake.
A Variety of Activities
The area is also home to a recreation center, auto campground, dog run, and other properties that attract visitors who enjoy activities such as canoeing and fishing. The fireworks display at the "Lake Kanayama Lake Festival," held once a year in summer, is famous for the fireworks reflected on the lake surface and the longest Naiyagara Falls in Hokkaido that traverse the lake.
Also, during the winter when the lake is completely frozen over, the area is crowded with people enjoying wakasagi (smelt) fishing. The colorful tents lined up on the pure white snowfield above the lake are a sight to behold only during this time of year.
- Lake Kanayama
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Lake Kanayama, Aza Higashikagoshi, Minamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido MAP
10 min. by car from "Roadside Station Minami Furano" or JR Ikutora Station.
Free of charge (separate fees apply for each Property)
0167-39-7000(Minamifurano Community Development Tourism Association)
Free of charge
Biei Area
4Shirohige Waterfall
The Biei River flows through Shirogane Hot Spring and Biei-cho, fed by the Tokachi Mountain Range. Shirohige Falls, located in the upper reaches of the river, is a mysterious and spectacular spot.
The waterfall is classified as a "submerged waterfall," which is rare in Japan, and you can see the underground water gushing out from between the strata of the 30-meter-high cliff, splashing and flowing down into the mountain stream with great force.
The stream is also known as the Blue River because of its beautiful cobalt blue color.
Fantastic atmosphere in winter
The blue color of the waterfall is said to be due to the particles produced by the mixing of the aluminum-containing water from the strata and the Biei River, which changes the reflection of light.
In winter, the contrast between the waterfall's stripes, the white of the snow, and the rock surface becomes more striking, and the spray and steam from the waterfall creates rime on the trees, creating an even more fantastic scene.
Shirohige-no-taki Falls can be viewed from the bridge over the Biei-gawa River, and is a popular photo spot along with Aoi Ike (Blue Pond).
- Shirohige Waterfall
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Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
Approx. 30 min. by car from JR Biei Station
Approx. 30 min. by Dohoku Bus from JR Biei Sta. to Biei Shirogane Hot Spring bus stop, approx. 3 min. walk from the bus stop.
0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
Free of charge
5Shirogane Blue Pond
This spectacular spot attracts many tourists who are fascinated by the fantastic blue surface of the water. The quiet appearance of the "Blue Pond" and the standing dead larch trees that suddenly appear in the midst of the forest surrounded by white birches create a space that is full of mysterious charm.
Photographers began to take notice of the scene, and the area gradually became well known, and is now a very popular spot that attracts tourists from abroad. Another attraction is that the blue color changes from day to day.
The real reason why it turns blue is not known
Aoi Ike" is located about 3 km downstream from "Shirohige Falls" and is fed by the Biei River. It is said that the secret behind the blue color is the same as that of "Shirohige-no-taki": the particles generated by the mixing of aluminum contained in the groundwater and the water of the Biei River act on the reflection of light, making it appear blue to the human eye, but the true reason has not been clarified. It is also said that the sulfur and lime components in the Shirogane hot spring water whiten the rocks and river bottom, which enhances the blue color.
- Shirogane Blue Pond
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Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
Approximately 20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station
20 min. by Dohoku Bus from JR Biei Station to Shirogane Aoi Ike Iriguchi bus stop.
0166-94-3355(Roadside Station Biei "Shirogane Birke)
Free of charge
Night light-up period (November 1 to around the end of April): from sunset to 21:00
Night light-up period (October 24 to April 22, 2025): from sunset to 21:00
6Shirogane Fudo Falls
A 20-minute walk from "Viei Shirogane Hot Spring" is a hidden spot with a spectacular view, "Shirogane Fudo Falls. The waterfall is fed by groundwater from the Tokachi Mountain Range, one of Hokkaido's representative active volcanoes, and flows in stages from a height of 25 meters. The water temperature is low even in summer, and even the locals come here to cool off.
Popular as a power spot
The area is also home to the Fudo-taki Sacred Waterfall, one of the 88 stone Buddha sites in the Shikoku region of Shirokane, and visitors can stroll along the national forest trail as if on a pilgrimage. It is said to be a power spot, and a dignified atmosphere pervades the area.
The footing has deteriorated due to typhoons over the past few years, so please watch your step when visiting.
- Shirogane Fudo Waterfall
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Aza Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
25 min. by car from JR Biei Station
0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
Free of charge
7Seven Star Tree
On the outskirts of Biei-cho, which is famous for its beautiful landscape of rolling hills, the Seven Star Tree is a single oak tree standing alone in the countryside. The tree has been familiar to many people since it was featured on the package of "Seven Star," a brand of cigarettes, in 1976 and was given this name.
The tree's relaxed appearance amidst the vast rice paddies and endless sky makes the vastness of Hokkaido stand out even more, and it is one of the most beloved sights for visitors to Biei.
Beautiful scenery of Biei created by human activity
The area where the Seven Star Tree is located is called "Patchwork Road (Hill)" because of the colorful scenery created by the multiple crops planted on each plot of land, and this slightly elevated spot offers a 360-degree view of Biei's unique scenery.
Also, in winter, the scene where the trees stand dignified in the pure white snowfield with their leaves fallen has a different flavor from that of summer, reminding us of the beauty and harshness of the northern country.
- Seven Star Tree
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Hokuei, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
Approximately 13 minutes from JR Biei Station by car
0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
Free of charge
8Tokachidake Bogakudai
The Daisetsuzan and Tokachidake mountain ranges, designated as national parks, are located almost in the center of Hokkaido and are called "Kamuimintara" (the garden where the gods play) by the Ainu people.
Tokachidake Bogakudai, an observatory located halfway up Mt. Tokachi (2,077 m above sea level), the highest peak in the Tokachidake mountain range and an active volcano, offers a spectacular view where visitors can directly feel the breath of the northern land.
Beautiful and fierce mountains greet you
From Bodake-dai, which is also the trailhead for climbing Mt. Tokachi, Mt. Tokachi rising from the volcanic eruption stands directly in front of you, and the wild traces of lava flow from the eruption continue from Bodake-dai to the summit of the mountain.
Tokachidake, and the dynamic scenery of the Daisetsuzan and Tokachidake mountain ranges, including Asahidake, the highest peak and the roof of Hokkaido, and the rural landscape from Asahikawa City to Furano City spreads out below, providing a 360-degree view of the contrast between nature and human life.
Another feature of Hokkaido is that many alpine plants grow in clusters even at elevations of 2,000 m, and one of the pleasures of this area is the chance to see small alpine plants in the vicinity of Mangakudake-dai.
- Tokachidake Bogakudai
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Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
Approx. 35 min. by car from JR Biei Sta.
Closed during winter
0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
Free of charge
Tokachi Area
9Rokka no Mori
Rokkatei" is a leading confectionery manufacturer in Hokkaido. Rokka-no-mori" was created based on the idea of creating a forest filled with flowers and grasses, just like the floral patterns on their wrapping paper.
Starting from katakuris and obanana enreiso in early spring to ezo-gento in autumn, the 100,000 m2 site is decorated with Hokkaido's wildflowers, including the Tokachi-Rokka flowers that are the motif of the wrapping paper, to delight the viewer.
Artworks related to Hokkaido and Tokachi
The scenery is like a beautiful painting wherever you look, from the 100-year-old elm tree to the clear stream that runs through the garden.
The park is dotted with seven museums displaying works by Tokachi-related artists, a café store, and sculptures. At the "Flower-patterned Wrapping Paper Museum" gallery, walls are covered with Rokkatei flower-patterned wrapping paper painted by the artist Naoyuki Sakamoto, and visitors can view up-close reproductions of the original paintings.
- Rokka no Mori
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249-6 Tokiwa-Nishi 3-line, Nakasatsunai-mura, Kawanishi-gun MAP
Approx. 15 min. by car from Tokachi Obihiro Airport, approx. 40 min. by car from JR Obihiro Station
April 26 - October 20, 10:00 - 17:00 (June 1 - August 31, 9:00 - 17:00)
Open throughout the year (closed in winter from late October to late April)
800 yen (500 yen for elementary and junior high school students)
0155-63-1000
Free of charge
10Shikaribetsu Lake
Lake Shikaribetsu is the highest lake in Hokkaido at 810 m above sea level, and is said to have been formed by a river dammed by an eruption about 30,000 years ago. Located in Daisetsuzan National Park, the largest of Japan's national parks, the lake is surrounded by primeval forests of Abies sachalinensis, Ezo spruce, and downy birch, giving a sense of ancient nature.
On days when there is no wind, the surface of the lake becomes like a mirror, and visitors can enjoy a fantastic view of the surrounding area. The symbol of the lake, "Mt.
Precious wild animals inhabit the area
Precious wild animals live around the lake, and it is especially known as a habitat for the "Ezo-naki-Hare," which is said to be a survivor of the Ice Age.
In winter, "Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan (Kotan means village in Ainu language)" is created with snow and ice on the completely frozen lake surface. Igloos, or igloos, made of snow and ice from the lake are used as bars, chapels, and lodges to welcome visitors.
- Lake Shikaribetsu
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Lake Shikaribetsu, Shikaoi-cho, Kawato-gun, Hokkaido MAP
1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Obihiro Stn.
2 hours and 40 minutes by bus from JR Obihiro Station (including transfers)
1 hour and 50 minutes by bus from Obihiro Airport
0156-69-8181(Lake Shikaribetsu Nature Center)
Free of charge
Tomamu
11UNKAI Terrace
The sea of clouds that appears after enjoying a gondola ride in the morning mist is a gift from nature created by the combination of Tomamu's topography and weather conditions, etc. Since its opening in 2006 as "UNKAI Terrace", the dynamic and spectacular view has attracted much attention and become a summer tradition in Hokkaido.
There are three types of cloud sea patterns in total. The "Pacific Sea of Clouds," which flows in from the Pacific Ocean nearly 100 km away, flows in like a waterfall over the mountains, and the way it changes its appearance over time is breathtaking.
New spots are appearing one after another
A number of new spots have been created to make your time at UNKAI Terrace even more enjoyable. The most popular is "Cloud Pool," a cloud-shaped hammock that was created in September 2017. Everyone's dream experience of lying on the clouds may come true.
The probability of cloud sea is said to be 40% from May to October, when it is open, and the next morning's probability is announced on the website as the "cloud sea forecast.
- UNKAI Terrace
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Aza Naka Tomamu, Shimukappu Village, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido MAP in Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
10 minutes by car from the Tomamu IC of the East Hokkaido Expressway.
13 min. one way by gondola from "Resort Center
May 8 - Oct. 14, 2025 5:00~8:00 (Last gondola ride up), 9:00 (Last gondola ride down)
Operating hours may vary depending on the season.
Operation may be cancelled due to weather conditions.
Open all year round (closed: late October to early May)
Adults 1,900 yen, Elementary school students 1,200 yen, Pets 500 yen
Free for preschool children
Free for guests staying at Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu and Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts.
You can ride as many times as you like on the same day of purchase.
0167-58-1111 (main phone)
Free of charge
<Hotels with rich individuality to add color to your Hokkaido trip
After enjoying sightseeing, spend a relaxing time at a unique hotel.
12Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu
All Guest rooms are spacious and relaxing.
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, about 90 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport, is surrounded by a vast 1,000 hectares of nature and is a resort that can be visited any time of the year. In summer, "UNKAI Terrace" offers spectacular views, and the "Farm Area" lets you experience the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. In winter, you can enjoy not only the ski slopes but also the "Ice Village," a town of ice, where you can fully enjoy your stay even if you don't ski. Within the area, there are two accommodations, "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" and "The Tower," that can be selected according to the purpose of your trip, allowing you to enjoy a stay that is perfect for you.
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" is a hotel nestled on a mountainside surrounded by the resort's forest. The 32-story high-rise hotel has only four Guest rooms per floor. The 32-story high-rise hotel has only four guest rooms per floor, providing a spacious and luxurious atmosphere.
All Guest rooms are suites. All rooms are equipped with a jet bath with magnificent views and a private sauna. Traveling with children can be made even safer and more comfortable.
We also offer the "Mamanakudama Suite" and the "Pet Room" where you and your dog can spend time together. The Tower" is the resort's first and only building with a private sauna.
- Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu
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Nakatomamu, Shimukappu Village, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido MAP
10 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Tomamu Station
0167-58-1145(Reservation)
Available
Click here for reservations
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu Reservation Site
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu Accommodation Plan Reservation Site with Air Tickets
13Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts
Casual and active living
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, about 90 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport, is surrounded by a vast 1,000 hectares of nature and is a resort that can be visited any time of the year. In summer, "UNKAI Terrace" offers spectacular views, and the "Farm Area" lets you experience the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. In winter, you can enjoy not only the ski slopes but also the "Ice Village," a town of ice, where you can fully enjoy your stay even if you don't ski. Within the area, there are two accommodations, "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" and "The Tower," that can be selected according to the purpose of your trip, allowing you to enjoy a stay that is perfect for you.
The Tower by Hoshino Resorts is a landmark of Tomamu, located in the center of the resort. The twin towers of the high-rise hotel are designed to resemble a forest in summer and winter, respectively. The Tower is close to a variety of Restaurants and Property, and is recommended for those who wish to spend their time actively. A total of 535 Guest rooms are available in various types, including standard rooms and family rooms. They can accommodate a wide range of needs, including couples and families. In particular, the Family Twin and Family Force rooms have low beds and are safe for small children.
- Hoshino Resorts Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts
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Naka Tomamu, Shimukappu Village, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido MAP
5 min. by free shuttle bus from JR Tomamu Station
0167-58-1122(Reservation)
Available
Note: For reservations, click here.
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts reservation site
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts Reservation Site
14Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts
A hotel where you don't stop at just sleeping, but rather, where your trip will be more exciting
Asahikawa, a base city with good Direction to Furano and Biei, is a town that fascinates you with its individuality every time you visit, from the Asahiyama Zoo with its many attractions to the seasonal delicacies you will encounter in the local gourmet ladder. Located in the center of Asahikawa, OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts is also the departure point for airport buses, providing convenient Direction. Public spaces that are also part of the city and Guest rooms that emphasize ease of use for tourists, the Property offers a new way to enjoy Asahikawa, not only as a place to stay overnight, but also as a place to keep the excitement of your trip alive for a long time.
- Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts
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9, 6jo-dori, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido MAP
13 min. walk from JR Asahikawa Station
050-3134-8095(OMO Reservation Center/9:30-18:00)
Available
Note: Click here for reservations
Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts Reservation website
Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts Reservation Site for Accommodation Plan with Air Tickets
MAP
- Furano Area
- Biei Area
- Tokachi Area
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- Tomamu
- <Hotels with rich individuality to add color to your Hokkaido trip
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- Hoshino Resorts facilities nearby



