What is the best way to get to Asahikawa from Sapporo?

The most convenient way is by JR Limited Express train (like the 'Kamui' or 'Lilac'), which takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Alternatively, highway buses are a cheaper option, taking around 2 hours.

When can I see the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo?

The popular 'Penguin Walk' event typically runs during the winter season, from late December to mid-March, once or twice a day. It allows visitors to see the penguins up close as they walk through the snow.

What are the must-visit places in Biei during winter?

A key attraction in Biei is the Shirahige Waterfall (Whitebeard Falls), which is stunning against the white snow. Nearby, you can relax at the Shirogane Onsen to warm up while enjoying the snowy landscape.

What is Asahikawa Ramen Village?

Asahikawa Ramen Village (Ramen Mura) is a complex where eight of Asahikawa's most famous ramen shops are gathered. It's the perfect place to try Asahikawa's signature shoyu (soy sauce) ramen, known for its rich broth.

Are there good onsen (hot spring) hotels in Asahikawa?

Yes, for a full onsen experience, you can stay in the Shirogane Onsen area near Biei (e.g., Shirogane Park Hills Hotel). If you prefer staying in the city, hotels like Dormy Inn Asahikawa offer convenient access and public baths.

Asahikawa Winter Guide: 3-Day Onsen Trip & Top Attractions

When planning a winter trip to Hokkaido, Asahikawa is an unmissable destination. It's the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful snowy landscapes of Biei, often called the 'home of snow fairies,' along with relaxing in a warm Asahikawa onsen (hot spring). This article provides a comprehensive guide to a 3-day, 2-night winter Asahikawa travel itinerary, including transportation, accommodation, and restaurant recommendations.

Asahikawa

Winter Travel in Asahikawa: Transportation Guide

When planning your winter Asahikawa travel, it's wise to check transportation options in advance. You can primarily get there either from Sapporo or by using Asahikawa Airport.

From Sapporo to Asahikawa

The most convenient way is to take the JR Limited Express train from Sapporo Station. By taking the 'Kamui' or 'Lilac' express, you can reach Asahikawa Station in about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Highway buses are also available, with a travel time of about 2 hours. Buses have the advantage of being cheaper than the JR trains. If you're not used to driving on snowy roads in winter, using the JR or highway bus is highly recommended over renting a car.

From Asahikawa Airport

If you arrive at Asahikawa Airport, you can take the airport bus to the city center. It takes about 30-40 minutes by bus to Asahikawa Station. The buses are scheduled according to flight arrival times for convenience. Buses are also available from the airport to major tourist destinations like Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, and Furano.

Asahikawa Airport Bus

Things to Do in Asahikawa: Must-Visit Winter Attractions

Asahiyama Zoo

This is an essential tourist spot that cannot be missed on a winter trip to Asahikawa. The 'Penguin Walk,' held during the winter season, takes place 1-2 times a day from late December to mid-March. You can create special memories by watching the penguins walk along the snowy path right in front of you.

Asahiyama Zoo

Asahikawa Biei & Shirogane Onsen

Biei is famous for its beautiful snow-covered landscapes in winter. The Shirahige Waterfall (Whitebeard Falls), where blue water streams contrast with the white snow without freezing, boasts an even more mystical appearance in winter. To relieve the fatigue of your Biei tour, you can enjoy a bath at the nearby Shirogane Onsen. Soaking in a hot spring while gazing at the beautiful snowy scenery is the romance of a Hokkaido winter trip.

Shirahige Waterfall

Asahikawa Winter Festival

Held annually in early February, the Asahikawa Winter Festival is the second-largest winter event in Hokkaido after the Sapporo Snow Festival. It is famous for the world's largest massive snow sculpture installed on the banks of the Ishikari River and offers various activities such as snow sledding, snowmobiling, and ice sculpture exhibitions. During the festival, free shuttle buses run from Asahikawa Station to the event venue, providing convenient access.

Winter Festival

Asahikawa Ramen Village (Ramen Mura)

This is where you can taste Asahikawa ramen, considered one of Hokkaido's top three ramens. The Ramen Village brings together several famous shops, making it easy to choose a ramen that suits your taste. It is particularly known for its shoyu (soy sauce) ramen, which blends pork bone and seafood broth. A warm bowl of ramen is perfect for melting away the winter chill.

Ramen Mura

Kamui Ski Links

If you enjoy skiing or snowboarding, Kamui Ski Links is highly recommended. Located about 30 minutes from Asahikawa city center, it offers great accessibility and high-quality powder snow. With a variety of courses from beginner to advanced, even first-timers can enjoy it with confidence.

Kamui Ski Links

Recommended 3-Day, 2-Night Asahikawa Itinerary

The key to an Asahikawa trip is to efficiently enjoy the main tourist spots amidst the beautiful snowy scenery. We hope you enjoy Asahikawa in winter with this efficient 3-day, 2-night itinerary.

Day 1: Asahiyama Zoo and City Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Asahikawa and drop off your luggage at the hotel.

Afternoon: For your first stop, visiting the Asahiyama Zoo is recommended. Don't miss the penguin walk during the winter season.

Evening: After the zoo, return to the city and have a warm ramen dinner at the Asahikawa Ramen Village, or try local Hokkaido cuisine at a Jingisukan (grilled mutton) restaurant.

Day 2: Biei and Onsen Experience

Morning: On the second day, head to Biei, which is easily accessible from Asahikawa. You can use the JR Furano Line or a local tour package for convenience.
Afternoon: Visit Biei's iconic landmark, the Shirahige Waterfall, to see the mystical winter landscape. Afterward, move to Shirogane Onsen to relax in the warm hot springs and relieve your travel fatigue.
Evening: After soaking in the onsen, return to Asahikawa city for a rest at your hotel, or consider visiting the Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum.

Day 3: Asahikawa City and Departure

Morning: On your last day, visit the Snow Crystal Museum (Yukitsuri Museum) or enjoy souvenir shopping around Asahikawa Station.
Afternoon: Head to Asahikawa Airport to conclude your trip.

Top 3 Restaurants in Asahikawa

Here are some representative dishes you must try during your Asahikawa travel, focusing on the most famous and popular local restaurants.

Jingisukan Daikokuya & Kitchen Yoshimi

Jingisukan Daikokuya (大黒屋) This restaurant specializes in Jingisukan, Hokkaido's most popular grilled mutton dish. It's known for its tender lamb with minimal odor, making it popular among both locals and tourists. Expect long waits, so it's recommended to visit right at opening time.

Kitchen Yoshimi (YOSHIMI) You can enjoy Sapporo's famous curry in Asahikawa. The warm curry with soft chicken and plenty of vegetables is a winter delicacy. Besides chicken, you can choose various ingredients to create your own curry.

Asahikawa Ramen Village With several famous ramen shops gathered in one place, you can choose from various flavors. There are eight ramen shops, especially famous for their soy sauce ramen made with a blend of pork bone and seafood broth. It's perfect for warming up with a hot bowl of ramen in chilly weather.

Asahikawa Onsen Trip: Hotel Recommendations

When planning an Asahikawa onsen trip, it's best to choose accommodation based on location and purpose. You can decide on your accommodation's location depending on whether you prioritize the onsen experience or accessibility to the city center.

Shirogane Onsen Area Hotels If you are planning a Biei tour and focusing on the onsen experience, staying in the Shirogane Onsen area is recommended. Places like Shirogane Park Hills Hotel are convenient as they are near major attractions like the Shirahige Waterfall, and you can enjoy the onsen while looking out at nature from the public bath.

Shirogane Park Hills Hotel

Asahikawa City Center Onsen Hotels If you are traveling mainly around Asahikawa city, an onsen hotel near the station is convenient. Dormy Inn Asahikawa is close to Asahikawa Station, offering easy transport, and has public bath facilities to relieve travel fatigue.

Dormy Inn Asahikawa

So far, we've summarized the essential courses and key information for a winter Asahikawa trip. Asahikawa is a wonderful destination with many attractions, from the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo and the beautiful snowy landscapes of Biei to warm onsens. We hope you refer to the courses and information introduced in this article to make unforgettable warm memories in Hokkaido on a cold winter day.

Hokkaido Itinerary: Planning Your Trip to Sapporo, Otaru, Biei & Furano - GybeLife

Plan your perfect Hokkaido itinerary. This guide covers the 4 key cities: Sapporo, Otaru, Biei, and Furano. Discover top attractions and transport tip

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