Horonobe Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do and see in Horonobe, Hokkaido, Japan. Discover the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and more. Plan your next trip with this comprehensive Horonobe travel guide.


Introduction to Horonobe

Nestled in the Northern Circuit of Hokkaido, Japan, Horonobe is a picturesque town that promises extraordinary experiences to visitors. Horonobe is a small town with a population of around 5,000, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful escape.

Horonobe is rich in history and culture, has bountiful natural beauty, and is home to various outdoor recreational activities. From hiking to scenic views and cultural landmarks, Horonobe is a perfect destination for adventurous travelers looking for an offbeat experience. This Horonobe travel guide will take you through everything you need to know about this fascinating destination.

List of Places to Visit in Horonobe

Here is a list of the must-visit places in Horonobe:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Horonobe History Museum: Located in the center of the town, the Horonobe History Museum is the perfect place to learn about the town’s history and culture. It also showcases various antique exhibits, including tools, machines, and furniture that were used in the past.
  • Memorial Hall of Hidaka Horonobe: The Hall pays tribute to the region’s culture and history while providing a unique view of the area’s wildlife, including wild boars, deer, and other animals.

Natural Attractions of Horonobe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Horonobe Reindeer Ranch: The ranch is a must-see destination for those who love outdoor activities. Visitors can interact with the reindeer, ride on horse-drawn carriages or sleds, and enjoy the beautiful, unspoiled winter scenery of the surrounding hills.
  • Horonobe Visitor Center: The center is located on the west side of Horonobe-machi, overlooking the Hiyamizu-dai Plateau. The center has a superb view of the plateau and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching or stargazing at night.
  • Horonobe Coast: The coast stretches for 18 km, starting from the village of Sarufutsu in the west and stopping at the cape of Soya in the east. It’s perfect for cycling, hiking, or just taking in the scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Horonobe

Horonobe has well-established hiking and biking trails that take you through some fantastic sceneries. The most popular trails include the Hiyamizu Nature Trail, the Osono Forest Trail, and the Flower Road Cycling Trail. These trails offer tourists an opportunity to explore the town’s diverse landscapes while enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Horonobe: Activities and Tours

Horonobe is rich in adventure activities and tours, from nature walks to snowmobile rides. Here are some of the best things to do in Horonobe:

  • Horse Riding: Enjoy horseback riding through the snowy paths of Horonobe. The horse riding tour also takes you to some nearby attractions, including the Horonobe Visitor Center and Hidaka Maruyama.
  • Nature Walks: Take a leisurely walk through Horonobe’s beautiful forests and enjoy the fresh air and soothing sounds of nature.
  • Skiing: Horonobe is the perfect place to experience the thrill of skiing. The town has a small ski resort where visitors can ski on beginner-friendly slopes.
  • Ice Fishing: Horonobe is also known for its ice fishing activities, where visitors can experience the traditional fishing style of ice fishing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Horonobe

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Horonobe, here’s an itinerary to make the best of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Horonobe and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely walk around the town and visit the Horonobe History Museum in the evening.
Day 2 Start your day with a guided hiking or biking tour on the Hiyamizu Nature Trail. After lunch, visit the Horonobe Visitor Center and go birdwatching or stargazing in the evening.
Day 3 Take a day trip to the Horonobe Reindeer Ranch and go for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the beautiful winter landscape.
Day 4 Enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the morning at the town’s ski resort. In the afternoon, take a snowmobile tour to explore the surrounding winter landscape.
Day 5 Take a day trip to the beautiful Horonobe Coast to enjoy hiking or cycling.
Day 6 Visit the Memorial Hall of Hidaka Horonobe in the morning and then enjoy ice fishing in the afternoon.
Day 7 Spend the day relaxing and soaking in the hot springs of Horonobe no Yu. In the evening, enjoy traditional local dishes at one of the many restaurants in the town.

Food and Drink Scene of Horonobe

Hokkaido is well-known for its delicious cuisine, and Horonobe is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Horonobe:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hokkaido Ramen: Horonobe’s local restaurants serve the best Hokkaido Ramen, which is a popular dish made with a savory broth, noodles, vegetables, and meat.
  • Salmon in Horonobe style: This is a dish made with fresh salmon from the Horonobe river, marinated in a sweet soy sauce and grilled over charcoal.
  • Kaisen-Don: Fresh seafood is a popular dish in Hokkaido, and the Kaisen-Don is a popular seafood bowl that incorporates fresh, raw fish.

Local Beverages

  • Horonobe Sake: Horonobe is also known for its Sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine. The town has several Sake breweries, and visitors can go for a brewery tour and tasting.

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

Horonobe has several accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the best hotels in Horonobe include Horonobe Soh Hotel, Horonobe Kanko Hotel, and Takinoyu Ryokan. For budget travelers, there are several guesthouses, hostels, and homestays available in the town.

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

Horonobe is famous for its local products, including:

  • Horonobe Nabe Pot: A traditional Japanese cooking pot that is made from special clay found only in Horonobe.
  • Horonobe Reindeer meat: Reindeer meat is a specialty food in Horonobe, and visitors can buy it in various forms, including steaks and jerky.
  • Horonobe Sake: As mentioned earlier, Horonobe is known for its Sake, and visitors can buy it in several varieties as a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Horonobe

Horonobe has a rich culture and customs, including traditional dance performances, festivals, and ceremonies. One of the most popular festivals is the Hidaka Horonobe Summer Festival, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy dancing, food, and fireworks.

Best Time to Visit Horonobe

The best time to visit Horonobe is during the winter season, which runs from December to February. The town is blanketed with snow, creating a beautiful winter landscape perfect for skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Horonobe

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately when visiting places of worship
  • Carry cash as most local businesses don’t accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Be disrespectful to locals
  • Engage in risky behavior such as disregarding safety warnings on hiking trails or skiing.

Safety and Health

Safety in Horonobe

Horonobe is relatively safe. However, visitors should exercise caution when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly during the winter season.

Health in Horonobe

Visitors should be prepared for the cold weather during the winter season, dress appropriately, and take necessary precautions against the cold.

Getting to Horonobe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Horonobe

The nearest airports to Horonobe are:

  • Wakkanai Airport: 75 kilometers away
  • Asahikawa Airport: 180 kilometers away

Bus Stations Near Horonobe

Horonobe is well-connected with nearby towns and cities via bus. The main bus station in the town is the Horonobe Bus Terminal, which offers bus services to various destinations in Hokkaido.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Horonobe via car or train. The town has a train station that connects to various cities in Hokkaido.

How to Get Around in Horonobe

Horonobe is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, visitors can also rent a bicycle or hire a taxi to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Horonobe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Horonobe is well-connected to various cities and towns in Hokkaido. Some of the popular nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Wakkanai: Located 80 km away, Wakkanai is the northernmost city in Japan, and it’s famous for its beautiful scenery, including the Soya Cape.
  • Asahikawa: Asahikawa is located around 170 km away from Horonobe, and it’s famous for its zoo and the Asahiyama Snow Sculpture Contest.

Conclusion

Horonobe is a charming destination that promises extraordinary experiences to visitors. From its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities to its historical landmarks and delicious cuisine, Horonobe is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido, Japan. With this comprehensive Horonobe travel guide, visitors can plan their next trip with ease and ensure an unforgettable experience.