Local Guide
 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.

 Panorama of Furano's rural landscape and seasonal flowers
Panorama of Furano's rural landscape and seasonal flowers

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!

 Observatory built on a hill full of flowers
Observatory built on a hill full of flowers

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 Comment
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)
  • Address Inside Furano Jam Garden, 3 Higashi-Furano-go, Furano-shi, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 25 min. by car from JR Furano Station
  •  Business hours 9:00-17:30 (Store)
  •  Closed Year-end and New Year holidays (temporary closing from December to March)
  •  TEL 0167-29-2233
  •  Parking Free of charge
 The Tokachi Mountain Range in early summer with beautiful lingering snow
The Tokachi Mountain Range in early summer with beautiful lingering snow

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

 Enjoy the famous gelato and the view from the Ferris wheel
Enjoy the famous gelato and the view from the Ferris wheel

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 Comment
Italian gelato made with local ingredients allows you to taste the richness of Furano's four seasons.
Miyama Pass Observation Terrace
  • Address Fukayama Pass, North 33, West 8 line, Kamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 30 minutes by car from Furano City, 15 minutes by car from Biei Town
  •   Direction Approx. 15 min. by Furano Bus from JR Biei Station to Fukayama-Toge Bus Stop.
  •  TEL 0167-45-6667
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Kanayama
Kanayama" comes from the gold mine area where gold sand was extracted in the past.

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

 Canoeing is an easy Experience even for beginners
Canoeing is an easy Experience even for beginners

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.

Local Guide Comment
One of the features of Lake Kanayama is that visitors can enjoy a variety of activities depending on the season.
Lake Kanayama
  • Address Lake Kanayama, Aza Higashikagoshi, Minamifurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction 10 min. by car from "Roadside Station Minami Furano" or JR Ikutora Station.
  •  Admission fee Free of charge (separate fees apply for each Property)
  •  TEL 0167-39-7000(Minamifurano Community Development Tourism Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Underground water gushing out of the rocks
Underground water gushing out of the rocks

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 black rock surfaces, white waterfalls, and blue mountain streams are beautiful.
The black rock surfaces, white waterfalls, and blue mountain streams are beautiful.

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 Comment
The color of the water is mysterious blue. It is illuminated at certain times of the year, giving it a different appearance.
Shirohige Waterfall
  • Address Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 30 min. by car from JR Biei Station
  •   Direction 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.
  •  TEL 0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Reflecting the sun's rays, the water shines in blue.
Reflecting the sun's rays, the water shines in blue.

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

 A mysterious sight created by nature
A mysterious sight created by nature

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 Comment
At the store, you can also enjoy beautiful blue sweets such as "Aoi Ike Soft" and "Aoi Ike Pudding.
Shirogane Blue Pond
  • Address Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station
  •   Direction 20 min. by Dohoku Bus from JR Biei Station to Shirogane Aoi Ike Iriguchi bus stop.
  •  TEL 0166-94-3355(Roadside Station Biei "Shirogane Birke)
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo 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
 Clear streams flowing down through the rocks
Clear streams flowing down through the rocks

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

 Take your time to stroll around while paying your respects.
Take your time to stroll around while paying your respects.

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 Comment
The cool air is pleasant, and the waterfalls can be viewed in peace and quiet.
Shirogane Fudo Waterfall
  • Address Aza Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction 25 min. by car from JR Biei Station
  •  TEL 0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 A single tree stands out in the vast field
A single tree stands out in the vast field

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

 A tree stands out against the snowy landscape
A tree stands out against the snowy landscape

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 Comment
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
  • Address Hokuei, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 13 minutes from JR Biei Station by car
  •  TEL 0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Piled stones of the watchtower at the entrance of the trail and Tokachi-dake
Piled stones of the watchtower at the entrance of the trail and Tokachi-dake

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

 The early arrival of autumn leaves and snow-capped mountains are even more beautiful
The early arrival of autumn leaves and snow-capped mountains are even more beautiful

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.

Local Guide Comment
You can feel the power of the beautiful mountains up close. There are many stones, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Tokachidake Bogakudai
  • Address Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 35 min. by car from JR Biei Sta.
  •  Closed Closed during winter
  •  TEL 0166-92-4378(Biei-cho Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Ezo ryukinka
Ezo ryukinka" in full bloom in the forest after the snow melts

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

 Each of the old houses relocated from Croatia has been turned into a museum.
Each of the old houses relocated from Croatia has been turned into a museum.

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.

Local Guide Comment
The freshly made butter sandwiches are excellent! Tea and sweets served while looking at the beautiful garden are exceptional.
Rokka no Mori
  • Address 249-6 Tokiwa-Nishi 3-line, Nakasatsunai-mura, Kawanishi-gun MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 15 min. by car from Tokachi Obihiro Airport, approx. 40 min. by car from JR Obihiro Station
  •  Business hours April 26 - October 20, 10:00 - 17:00 (June 1 - August 31, 9:00 - 17:00)
  •  Closed Open throughout the year (closed in winter from late October to late April)
  •  Admission fee 800 yen (500 yen for elementary and junior high school students)
  •  TEL 0155-63-1000
  •  Parking Free of charge
 Lake Shikaribetsu reflects the scenery like a mirror. Mount Kuchibiru in front
Lake Shikaribetsu reflects the scenery like a mirror. Mount Kuchibiru in front

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

 The Ezo nakiebagi (Ezo nakiebagi) is designated as a quasi-endangered species.
The Ezo nakiebagi (Ezo nakiebagi) is designated as a quasi-endangered species.

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 Comment
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
  • Address Lake Shikaribetsu, Shikaoi-cho, Kawato-gun, Hokkaido MAP
  •  Direction 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from JR Obihiro Stn.
  •   Direction 2 hours and 40 minutes by bus from JR Obihiro Station (including transfers)
    1 hour and 50 minutes by bus from Obihiro Airport
  •  TEL 0156-69-8181(Lake Shikaribetsu Nature Center)
  •  Parking Free of charge
 The breathtaking view created by nature is breathtaking.
The breathtaking view created by nature is breathtaking.

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

 Cloud Pool
Cloud Pool" where you can enjoy a floating sensation as if you are above the clouds.

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 Comment
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
  • Address Aza Naka Tomamu, Shimukappu Village, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido MAP in Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
  •  Direction 10 minutes by car from the Tomamu IC of the East Hokkaido Expressway.
    13 min. one way by gondola from "Resort Center
  • Hours of Operation 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.
  •  Regular holiday Open all year round (closed: late October to early May)
  •  Admission Fee 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.
  •  TEL 0167-58-1111 (main phone)
  •  Parking Free of charge

After enjoying sightseeing, spend a relaxing time at a unique hotel.

All Guest rooms are spacious and relaxing.

 Guest rooms are suites of more than 100 square meters
Guest rooms are suites of more than 100 square meters

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

Casual and active living

 Diverse Guest room types from twin to four-suite (Photo: Family Four-suite)
Diverse Guest room types from twin to four-suite (Photo: Family Four-suite)

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

A hotel where you don't stop at just sleeping, but rather, where your trip will be more exciting

 Superior Rooms
Superior Rooms" have storage space under the bed and can be used spaciously by two or three persons.

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
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.