Engaru Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Engaru, Japan. Explore the cultural and natural attractions, including hiking/biking routes and local cuisine.
- Introduction to Engaru
- List of Places to Visit in Engaru
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Engaru
- Best Things to Do in Engaru: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Engaru
- Food and Drink Scene of Engaru
- Where to Stay in Engaru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Engaru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Engaru
- Best Time to Visit Engaru
- Do’s and Don’ts of Engaru
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Engaru: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Engaru
- Where to Go Next from Engaru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Engaru
Located in the eastern circuit of Japan’s Hokkaido region, Engaru is a picturesque town that showcases the beauty of East Asia. With a backdrop of the magnificent Hidaka Mountains, Engaru has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take a closer look at the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Engaru.
List of Places to Visit in Engaru
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Engaru is rich in history, and there are several culturally significant places to visit.
Engaru Folk Museum
If you wish to learn more about the town’s traditions and culture, the Engaru Folk Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is home to more than 3,000 exhibits that explain the history of the town, from its inception to the present day.
Tokachi Kogen 8 Shinden Historical Park
This spectacular park showcases eight reconstructed samurai residences from the late Edo to early Meiji periods. Visitors can explore the houses and learn about the samurai way of life.
Natural Attractions of Engaru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Engaru is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its pristine forests, majestic mountains, and scenic views.
Lake Nukabira
Lake Nukabira is a picturesque crater lake set amidst mountains, and it’s perfect for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities. The lake is also a popular destination for hot spring enthusiasts, as there are several natural hot springs nearby.
Mount Pinneshiri
Mount Pinneshiri is the tallest mountain in Engaru, and it offers spectacular views of the surrounding areas. With hiking trails that suit beginners and seasoned hikers alike, Mount Pinneshiri is a must-visit destination.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Engaru
Engaru has several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings.
Nukabira Gensenkyo Hiking Trail
This hiking trail takes visitors through the beautiful Nukabira Gensenkyo area, where they can see gorges, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. The trail is also perfect for bird-watching enthusiasts, as there are many bird species that inhabit this area.
Engaru Cycling Road
For those who prefer biking, the Engaru Cycling Road is a great way to see the town and its surroundings. The road is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the nearby mountains and forests.
Best Things to Do in Engaru: Activities and Tours
Engaru has several activities and tours that cater to different interests.
Nukabira Ski Resort
For ski enthusiasts, the Nukabira Ski Resort is the perfect destination. With several slopes, trails, and other winter activities, the resort provides an excellent winter vacation.
Tokachi Hills
If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, the Tokachi Hills winery is a great place to relax and taste some of the local wines. With guided tours and wine tastings, visitors can learn more about the local wine-making traditions.
Week-Long Itinerary for Engaru
For those who want to explore Engaru at length, here’s a week-long itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Engaru Folk Museum and Tokachi Kogen 8 Shinden Historical Park |
| 2 | Hike Nukabira Gensenkyo Hiking Trail |
| 3 | Visit Lake Nukabira and nearby hot springs |
| 4 | Explore Mount Pinneshiri |
| 5 | Bike along Engaru Cycling Road |
| 6 | Visit Nukabira Ski Resort |
| 7 | Visit Tokachi Hills and nearby wineries |
Food and Drink Scene of Engaru
Must-Try Dishes
Engaru has several traditional dishes that visitors must try.
Ishikari Nabe
This hot pot dish is a local specialty that features salmon, vegetables, and other ingredients cooked in a rich broth. Ishikari Nabe is a must-try for anyone visiting Engaru.
Soup Curry
Soup Curry is another local dish that features a spicy broth filled with meats, vegetables, and other ingredients. This dish is perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Local Beverages
Engaru has several local beverages that visitors must try.
Sake
Sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine, and Engaru has several indigenous breweries that produce this drink. Visitors can go on sake-tasting tours and learn more about the local wine-making traditions.
Shochu
Shochu is a distilled beverage that is similar to vodka. Engaru has several local brands that produce this drink, and visitors can try it at local bars and restaurants.
Where to Stay in Engaru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Engaru has several options for accommodation, from hotels to guesthouses.
Hotel Daiheigen
This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Engaru and offers luxurious accommodation with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains.
Guesthouse Kaki-no-Ie
This guesthouse is perfect for budget travelers who want to experience the local culture. The rooms are traditional and offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese living.
What to Buy in Engaru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Engaru has several souvenirs and local products that visitors can purchase.
Local Honey
Engaru is known for its local honey, which is produced by the bees that inhabit the nearby forests. Visitors can purchase this honey at local markets and stores.
Woodcrafts
Engaru is also known for its woodcrafts, which are made by local craftsmen. Visitors can purchase these woodcrafts as souvenirs or gifts for their loved ones.
Local Culture and Customs of Engaru
Engaru has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
Onsen Etiquette
In Japan, it’s customary to bathe before entering a natural hot spring bath. Visitors should follow this custom and be respectful of others who are using the same facility.
Bowing
In Japan, it’s customary to bow when greeting someone. Visitors should follow this custom and bow when meeting someone for the first time.
Best Time to Visit Engaru
The best time to visit Engaru is from May to October when the weather is mild and the town’s natural beauty is at its best. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and visiting outdoor attractions during this time.
Do’s and Don’ts of Engaru
Do:
- Follow local customs and traditions
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
- Treat others with respect
Don’t:
- Smoke in non-designated areas
- Be loud and disruptive in public places
- Wear shoes inside someone’s home or a sacred place
Safety and Health
Safety in Engaru
Engaru is a safe town, and visitors can enjoy their stay without worrying about safety concerns. However, visitors should be cautious when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
Health in Engaru
Engaru has a well-equipped medical center, and visitors can seek medical attention if needed.
Getting to Engaru: Transportation Options and Logistics
Engaru is easily accessible by several modes of transportation.
Airports Near Engaru
The nearest airport to Engaru is Asahikawa Airport, which is located about 160 kilometers away.
Bus Stations Near Engaru
Engaru has several bus stations that connect it to other towns and cities in the region.
Other Options
Visitors can also travel to Engaru by train, car, or taxi.
How to Get Around in Engaru
Engaru is a small town, and visitors can explore it on foot. However, visitors can also rent a bike or a car to get around more easily.
Where to Go Next from Engaru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Engaru is surrounded by several other towns and cities that offer their own unique attractions.
Obihiro
This nearby city is famous for its sweets, and visitors can enjoy local delicacies like Marusei Butter Sandwich and Rokkatei’s Yubari King Melon Jelly.
Sounkyo Onsen
This scenic hot spring town is located near Engaru and is perfect for those who want to relax and soak in the natural hot springs.
Conclusion
Engaru is a charming town that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie. With its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, Engaru is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan.
