Takikawa Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Takikawa, Hokkaido with our comprehensive travel guide and discover the top things to see and do in this serene Japanese town.


Introduction to Takikawa

Welcome to Takikawa! A quaint countryside town situated in the Central Circuit of the Hokkaido region in Japan, Takikawa is known for its serene natural beauty, outdoor adventure activities, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of around 40,000, this peaceful town offers a host of exciting experiences for travelers looking to explore Japan off the beaten path.

List of Places to Visit in Takikawa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Takikawa has plenty of museums and historical sites that tourists can explore to learn more about the town’s culture and history. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Takikawa City Museum Of Art and History: The museum features displays of Takikawa’s history, including ceramics, traditional crafts, and folk art.

  • Takikawa Local Museum: The museum showcases the history and traditions of Takikawa, featuring exhibits on the town’s local industry, folk art, and agriculture.

Natural Attractions of Takikawa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Takikawa’s serene environment offers numerous outdoor activities and scenic views that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Takikawa:

  • Sunflower Fields: During late July to mid-August, Takikawa is covered with vast fields of sunflowers that adorn the town.

  • Hiking and Biking Trails: The region around Takikawa is dotted with scenic hiking and biking trails, such as the Takikawa Glade Forest Path, which leads to a peaceful pine grove.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Takikawa

Takikawa town and the surrounding area feature incredible hiking and biking trails, offering stunning views of the countryside. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Takikawa:

  • Takigawa Kogen Nature Trail: This is a picturesque trail that is an excellent choice for hikers seeking a moderate and enjoyable paced trek.

  • Takikawa Pit-Sided Park: It is an old coal mine now transformed into a beautiful park situated on a hilltop, featuring hiking trails with stunning views of the town.

Best Things to Do in Takikawa: Activities and Tours

Takikawa offers a wide range of activities and tours to make the most of your travel experience. Some of the best things to do in Takikawa include:

  • Visiting the Otokoyama Sake Brewery: This is a local sake distillery specializing in premium, award-winning sake brewed from Japan’s finest wild rice.

  • Horse Riding: Enjoy a horse riding tour with gorgeous views of a serene countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Takikawa

If you are planning a week-long trip to Takikawa, we recommend the following itinerary for a fulfilling experience:

  • Day 1: Explore the town and visit the Takikawa Local Museum.
  • Day 2: Hike the Takikawa Kogen Nature Trail or Takikawa Pit-Sided Park.
  • Day 3: Visit the Otokoyama Sake Brewery and taste premium sake.
  • Day 4: Visit the sunflower fields and watch the sunset.
  • Day 5: Take a horse riding tour or bike along the Takikawa Glade Forest Path.
  • Day 6: Discover the history of Takikawa at Takikawa City Museum Of Art and History.
  • Day 7: Spend a leisurely day exploring local shopping and attractions.

Food and Drink Scene of Takikawa

Must-Try Dishes

Takikawa has an abundance of tasty and locally favored cuisine. Some of the mouth-watering dishes to try while in Takikawa include:

  • Soba: Locally grown buckwheat used in making handmade soba noodles with a unique flavor is a Takikawan staple.
  • Kyogoku-Style Curry: A specialty of the Kyogoku region with a thicker consistency reflecting the timeless traditions of the area.
  • Otokoyama Sake: This is the locally distilled premium sake with a strong aroma and a refreshing taste.

Local Beverages

When it comes to beverages, Takikawa has a lot to offer. Some popular beverages that tourists can try include:

  • Premium Sake: Otokoyama is a local brand of sake, made with the finest local wild rice variety and is considered one of the best sakes of Japan.
  • Kamuix: It is a traditional fermented drink with a unique sour and sweet taste, made from millet, wheat, and barley.

Where to Stay in Takikawa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Takikawa has plenty of accommodation choices, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some recommended places to stay in Takikawa:

  • Takikawa Terminal Hotel: A comfortable hotel located near Takikawa Station, with excellent amenities and facilities.

  • Kanayamaza: Guesthouse situated in a picturesque location, with comfortable rooms and a charming ambiance.

What to Buy in Takikawa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Takikawa has a wealth of local products and souvenirs that tourists can bring home to cherish their memorable trip. Here are some recommended items to purchase:

  • Soba: Take home packs of locally grown buckwheat used in making handmade soba noodles with a unique flavor.

  • Otokoyama Sake: Premium sake from Takikawa that you can bring home as a reminder of your visit.

Local Culture and Customs of Takikawa

Takikawa has a rich and vibrant cultural heritage that visitors should understand to make the most of their trip. The local people have strong beliefs in nature, and many festivals and events are rooted in the seasons of the year.

Best Time to Visit Takikawa

The best time to visit Takikawa is during the late summer to early autumn, typically from late July to October, when the sunflower fields come into full bloom, and the autumn leaves paint the town golden.

Do’s and Don’ts of Takikawa

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and your surroundings.
  • Respect the culture and customs of the local people.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages while enjoying your stay.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter in public places
  • Do not talk loudly or be disrespectful of nature during your visit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Takikawa

Takikawa is a safe and peaceful town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take general safety precautions to avoid any issues.

Health in Takikawa

Takikawa has excellent medical facilities available in the town. In case of a medical emergency, call 119 for medical emergency response services.

Getting to Takikawa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Takikawa

Takikawa is approximately 75 km from New Chitose International Airport (CTS), which offers both international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Takikawa

Takikawa has a bus station located near Takikawa station, providing buses to the rest of the town and the region.

Other Options

Takikawa is well connected by railways, and the town has excellent road routes with well-maintained highways for self-driving tourists.

How to Get Around in Takikawa

Visitors can rent a car or bike to explore Takikawa’s countryside or take the bus and train service within the town.

Where to Go Next from Takikawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Takikawa’s central location in Hokkaido provides easy access to several nearby destinations and exciting excursions. Some recommended places to visit include:

  • Furano: This is a popular skiing destination with world-renowned flower fields nearby.
  • Asahiyama Zoo: A great place to learn about the local wildlife of Hokkaido while experiencing them firsthand.
  • Sapporo: The capital city of Hokkaido is home to various cultural and culinary experiences.

Conclusion

Takikawa town is a hidden gem of the Central Circuit Hokkaido region. It offers an authentic and serene Japanese experience that needs to be added to your bucket list. With stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and excursions to nearby destinations, Takikawa promises to offer a memorable trip for visitors.