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
<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.
Local Guide
Supporters
A very quiet and pleasant place to stay. There is also a pavilion where you can relax and enjoy your stay.
- 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)
Closed During the Winter
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.
Local Guide
Supporters
Italian gelato made with local ingredients allows you to taste the richness of Furano's four seasons.
- 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, nestled in the mountains at the southernmost tip of the Furano area, is an artificial lake created by the construction of the Kanayama Dam. Surrounded by lush virgin forests, its tranquil shores feature campgrounds and a lavender garden, making it a beloved outdoor destination where visitors can enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
In late July, the adjacent Lake Kanayama Lavender Garden reaches its peak bloom, offering a beautiful landscape where the purple of the lavender, the green of the virgin forest, and the blue of the sky and lake blend together. It is a popular spot in the Furano area where visitors can enjoy the lavender in a relatively relaxed atmosphere.
Activities to Enjoy Throughout the Four Seasons
Lake Kanayama, with its calm waters, offers a wide range of activities to fully enjoy nature, such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and fishing. The lakeside features an auto campground, a recreation center (with day-use bath facilities), and a dog park, where families and outdoor enthusiasts alike spend their time as they please.
At the “Lake Kanayama Water Festival,” held every summer, the highlights include fireworks reflected on the lake’s surface and the “Niagara Falls”—one of the longest of its kind in Hokkaido—spanning the width of the lake. In winter, the lake freezes over, marking the start of the smelt fishing season.The magical sight of colorful tents lined up against a pure white snowfield is a seasonal tradition unique to this time of year.
Local Guide
Supporters
One of the features of Lake Kanayama is that visitors can enjoy a variety of activities depending on the season.
- 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).
Local Guide
Supporters
The water has a mysterious blue hue. At night, it is illuminated, allowing you to enjoy a different atmosphere.
- 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 (Shirogane Tourist Center)
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.
Local Guide
Supporters
At the gift shop, you can enjoy beautifully blue sweets such as “Blue Pond Soft Serve” and “Blue Pond Cream Soda.”
- 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.
- 0166-92-4378（Biei-cho Tourist Association)
- Paid (1,000 yen for standard-sized cars)
During the nighttime illumination period (from around late October to around late April), the park is open from sunset until 9:00 p.m.
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.
Local Guide
Supporters
The cool air is pleasant, and the waterfalls can be viewed in peace and quiet.
- 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)
- None (space for a few cars in the parking area)
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.
Local Guide
Supporters
The impression of the waterfall changes with the seasons and time of day, so you will never get bored no matter how many times you visit.
- 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
Located almost in the center of Hokkaido, the Tokachi-dake Range—part of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, which has been designated a national park—is known to the Ainu people as “Kamui Mintara” (the garden where the gods play) and is a place where nature has remained unchanged since ancient times.
The “Tokachi-dake Viewing Platform,” located midway up the slopes of Mount Tokachi (elevation 2,077 m)—the highest peak in the Tokachi-dake Range and an active volcano—is a scenic spot where you can directly feel the breath of the northern land.
Beautiful and fierce mountains greet you
From the observation deck—which also serves as the trailhead for Mount Tokachi—the mountain looms directly ahead, billowing smoke, and the rugged traces of lava flows from past eruptions stretch all the way from the observation deck to the summit.
Alongside Mt. Tokachi, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the dynamic scenery of the Daisetsuzan Range and the Tokachi Mountain Range—including Mt. Asahidake, Hokkaido’s highest peak and the “Great Roof of Hokkaido”—while the rural landscape stretching from Asahikawa City to Furano City spreads out below, offering a striking contrast between the grandeur of nature and human activity.
Another characteristic of Hokkaido is the abundance of alpine plants growing in clusters even at elevations around 2,000 meters; spotting these small alpine plants near the Mōgakudai observation deck is one of the highlights of the visit.
Local Guide
Supporters
You can feel the power of the beautiful mountains up close. There are many stones, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- 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 vision of building a forest teeming with flowers and plants, much like the floral patterns depicted on the company’s wrapping paper.
Starting with early spring flowers like the dogtooth violet and the large-flowered anemone, and continuing through to the Ezo gentian in the fall, the 100,000-square-meter grounds are adorned with Hokkaido’s wildflowers—including the “Tokachi Rokka” flowers featured on the packaging—which delight visitors.
Artworks related to Hokkaido and Tokachi
With 100-year-old elm trees and a clear stream flowing through the grounds, every view of the landscape resembles a beautiful painting.
Scattered throughout the grounds are seven exhibition buildings dedicated to Naoyuki Sakamoto, as well as a shop and sculptures. In the “Flower-Patterned Wrapping Paper Gallery,” the walls are completely covered with the “Rokkatei” flower-patterned wrapping paper designed by painter Naoyuki Sakamoto, allowing visitors to view reproductions of the original artwork up close.
Local Guide
Supporters
The freshly made butter sandwiches are excellent! Tea and sweets served while looking at the beautiful garden are exceptional.
- 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 24–October 12, 2026 (10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. in April, May, August, and September; 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. in June and July; 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. in October)
- Open throughout the year (closed in winter from late October to late April)
- Adults: 1,200 yen; Elementary and junior high school students: 800 yen
- 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.
Local Guide
Supporters
The lake shows its various faces in each of the four seasons. Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan also has an outdoor hot spring on the ice.
- 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.
Local Guide
Supporters
The Cloud Bar opened on July 23, 2019. It is an observation spot resembling a bar counter where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the sea of clouds and the sunrise.
- 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 13–31, 2026: 5:00–7:00
June 1–August 31: 4:30–8:00
September 1–October 13: 5:00 AM–8:00 AM
(*All times are the last boarding times for the uphill ride)
*Operating hours vary by season
*Operations may be suspended due to weather conditions - Open all year round (closed: late October to early May)
- Adults (12 and older): 2,500 yen; Children (7–11): 1,600 yen; Dogs: 500 yen
*Preschoolers ride free
*Free for guests staying at Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu or Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts
*Unlimited rides on the day of purchase only - 0167-58-1111 (main phone)
- Free of charge
- The Unkai Gondola has introduced a system requiring advance reservations for entry times.
MAP
- Furano Area
- Biei Area
- Tokachi Area
- Tomamu
- Hoshino Resorts facilities nearby
Local Guide who was in charge of this article
- Mineo Takahashi The Reliable Sightseeing Doctor
Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu
Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
A hotel with a spectacular view of the sea of clouds, food made by nature, and a wide variety of Activities.
Access by bus 10 min. by shuttle bus from JR Tomamu Station
- Example of Accommodation Rates
- 1 person per night From 25,400 yen
Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts
Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
OMO7 Asahikawa is the perfect base for excursions to Asahikawa, Furano, Tokachi and Obihiro areas.
Access by bus 5 min. by shuttle bus from JR Tomamu Station
- Example of Accommodation Rates
- 1 person per night From 12,200 yen
OMO7 Asahikawa
Asahikawa, Hokkaido
Direction to Furano and Biei. Full of attractions such as Asahiyama Zoo and local gourmet food.
Access by bus Approx. 15 min. walk from JR Asahikawa Station
- Example of Accommodation Rates
- 1 person per night From ³ ,200