Higashikawa Hokkaido
Higashikawa, Hokkaido: A town renowned for its exquisite furniture craftsmanship and gateway to the majestic Daisetsuzan National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage
Higashikawa Hokkaido
Best Time
Vibrant fall foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Higashikawa, Hokkaido: A town renowned for its exquisite furniture craftsmanship and gateway to the majestic Daisetsuzan National Park.
"Discover the serene beauty of Hokkaido, from its artisan furniture to the breathtaking landscapes of Daisetsuzan."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Higashikawa is best explored with a rental car, offering flexibility to visit natural sites and breweries.
🧥 Pack for All Seasons
Hokkaido weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including warm clothing for winter and rain gear for other seasons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Daisetsuzan National Park
Surrounding Higashikawa
Hokkaido's largest national park, offering breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse hiking trails.
Asahidake Ropeway
Mount Asahidake
Ascend to stunning alpine vistas, especially vibrant with autumn colors or blanketed in snow.
Higashikawa Furniture
Various workshops and stores
Discover the town's renowned craftsmanship in high-quality, locally made wooden furniture.
Michizakura Sake Brewery
Higashikawa
Sample exquisite sake brewed with local rice and pristine Daisetsuzan mountain water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Winter Wonderland
A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Higashikawa is best explored with a rental car, offering flexibility to visit natural sites and breweries. 
🧥 Pack for All Seasons
Hokkaido weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including warm clothing for winter and rain gear for other seasons.
☕ Support Local Artisans
Explore Higashikawa's famous furniture workshops and discover unique, handcrafted pieces.
🍶 Taste Local Sake
Visit Michizakura Sake Brewery to sample high-quality sake made with local ingredients.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Higashikawa is best explored with a rental car, offering flexibility to visit natural sites and breweries.
🧥 Pack for All Seasons
Hokkaido weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, including warm clothing for winter and rain gear for other seasons.
☕ Support Local Artisans
Explore Higashikawa's famous furniture workshops and discover unique, handcrafted pieces.
🍶 Taste Local Sake
Visit Michizakura Sake Brewery to sample high-quality sake made with local ingredients.
📸 Drone Photography Hotspot
Capture stunning aerial views of Higashikawa's natural beauty with your drone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Higashikawa is praised for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its winter landscapes and proximity to Daisetsuzan National Park. Visitors also appreciate the town's renowned furniture craftsmanship and the unique experience of tasting local sake. Some find the winter weather challenging, and accessibility to certain natural attractions can be seasonal.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Higashikawa is by flying into Asahikawa Airport (AKJ), which is very close to the town. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a local bus. Alternatively, you can take a train to Asahikawa City and then a bus or taxi to Higashikawa. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area.
While there are local buses, having a rental car offers the most flexibility to explore Higashikawa and its surrounding natural attractions like Daisetsuzan National Park.
For travel between cities, trains and buses are available. However, for scenic drives and accessing remote natural spots, a rental car is ideal.
The 'Chuo-dori' (Route 1164) offers scenic views, especially during autumn. Driving around Daisetsuzan National Park provides access to various hiking trails and viewpoints.
Winter roads can be challenging due to heavy snowfall and ice. It's crucial to have a vehicle equipped for snow and to drive cautiously. Some roads may be temporarily closed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Daisetsuzan National Park itself is free to enter. However, specific attractions within the park, such as the Asahidake Ropeway, will have their own fees.
It's generally advisable to check the official website for the Asahidake Ropeway for any advance booking recommendations, especially during peak seasons.
Opening hours for Michizakura Sake Brewery can vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
Some furniture workshops may offer tours or demonstrations. It's recommended to contact individual workshops like YAMAtune to inquire about their availability.
No, Higashikawa is a town and does not have an admission fee. You are free to explore its streets, shops, and natural surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Higashikawa offers stunning natural landscapes. Key spots include Daisetsuzan National Park, the Asahidake Ropeway for panoramic views, and the scenic autumn foliage.
Drone photography is popular in Higashikawa, offering unique aerial perspectives of the natural beauty. Always be mindful of local regulations and privacy.
Higashikawa is renowned for its winter landscapes, vibrant autumn colors, and the majestic scenery of Daisetsuzan National Park.
Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Early mornings can also offer clearer air and fewer crowds.
Photography policies may vary by workshop. It's polite to ask for permission before taking photos inside private businesses.
🍽️ 🍶 Food & Dining
While specific local dishes aren't highlighted, Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood, dairy products, and ramen. Higashikawa also offers local sake from Michizakura Brewery.
Higashikawa has a selection of local eateries. For a unique experience, consider trying the sake at Michizakura Sake Brewery.
Options might be limited, especially in smaller towns. It's advisable to research restaurants in advance or communicate dietary needs clearly.
Michizakura Sake Brewery produces high-quality sake using local rice and pristine water from the Daisetsuzan mountains, offering a taste of the region.
Yes, Higashikawa has cafes, including those that focus on specialty coffee, reflecting a growing appreciation for quality beverages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the town is known for its furniture, some workshops might offer insights or demonstrations that could interest older children. The unique 'Chobonai Road' is an intriguing natural wonder, though its limited accessibility might make it challenging to plan around. Always check for seasonal closures and weather conditions before planning family outings.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
+1Plan your route to include stops at local furniture workshops and the Michizakura Sake Brewery. The 'Chobonai Road' is a unique driving experience, but its seasonal availability requires careful planning. Be prepared for varying road conditions, especially during winter.
+1🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
Explore the diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy the crisp, clean air. The changing seasons offer different but equally spectacular natural displays, from vibrant autumn leaves to serene winter snowscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Craftsmanship of Higashikawa Furniture
+1Visitors can often visit these workshops, see the artisans at work, and even purchase unique furniture items. The emphasis is on sustainable practices and using local wood, making each piece a testament to the region's resources and skills. Experiencing this craftsmanship firsthand offers a unique insight into the town's identity and its connection to nature.
This focus on furniture making has also fostered a community of artisans who share their passion and expertise. The town actively promotes its furniture heritage, making it a significant draw for those who appreciate design, quality, and the story behind their possessions.
+1Winter Adventures in Higashikawa
+3The Asahidake Ropeway provides access to breathtaking snowy landscapes, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Hokkaido's highest peak. While the winter months bring beauty, they also require preparedness. Travelers should be equipped with warm clothing and be aware of potential road closures due to snow.
Despite the cold, the unique charm of a snow-covered Higashikawa draws many. The quiet serenity and the stark beauty of the winter scenery offer a different perspective on Hokkaido's natural splendor, making it a memorable destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
+1The Mystical 'Chobonai Road'
This ephemeral road, stretching 12.4 km, is a rare sight and is often referred to as a 'phantom road' because of its limited accessibility. During winter, it's covered in snow, and in spring and summer, melting snow and water make it impassable due to safety concerns. The brief window of accessibility makes it a highly sought-after experience for those who can time their visit correctly.
The 'Chobonai Road' is a testament to the dynamic natural forces at play in Hokkaido. Its fleeting existence adds to its allure, offering a unique adventure for those who seek out its seasonal passage.
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