Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

A historic distillery featuring traditional coal-fired distillation and ten buildings designated as National Important Cultural Properties.

Located at the base of the Shakotan Peninsula, the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery began operations in 1934. Yoichi was chosen by Taketsuru Masataka as a site for whisky production because of its cool, humid climate.

The grounds include ten buildings designated as National Important Cultural Properties, including the Still House and Kiln Tower (First Drying Tower). These historic structures retain the character of the early distillery, with red roofs and buildings constructed from locally quarried Yoichi stone. Rows of copper pot stills inside the Still House provide a glimpse into the distillery’s traditional production methods.

Today, the distillery continues traditional direct coal-fired distillation. At the Nikka Museum on the grounds, visitors can learn about the history of whisky making and the life of founder Taketsuru Masataka. The historic buildings, production facilities, and museum exhibits offer an introduction to the history of Nikka Whisky and the craft of whisky making. Visitors can also enjoy the distinctive atmosphere created by the historic architecture and the sea breeze that reaches the distillery from nearby Ishikari Bay.

Surrounded by nature and conveniently located, Asarigawa Hot Spring is a peaceful hot spring resort area and an ideal base for exploring Otaru.

Nestled among gentle mountains, Asarigawa Hot Spring offers a tranquil escape just 20 minutes by car from central Otaru. Long regarded as the city's hidden retreat, it has remained a favorite destination for generations of visitors seeking relaxation between sightseeing adventures. Away from Otaru's bustling streets, guests are welcomed by fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a slower pace of life.

The area offers a range of accommodations, including traditional hot spring inns, cozy cottages, pensions, and campgrounds. This variety attracts both travelers and local residents looking for a refreshing getaway. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy soothing hot spring baths and the beauty of the changing seasons. In winter, the area is also popular for skiing and other snow activities. Combining easy access with a peaceful natural setting, Asarigawa Hot Spring invites visitors to relax, recharge, and enjoy Otaru's natural beauty year-round.

Relive the Taisho-era romance at this nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property. Built over six years by a family of wealthy fishing magnates, this lavish villa envelops you in the luster of lacquer and the vibrant beauty of over 100 ceiling paintings.

Nestled in the Shukutsu district of Otaru, the Former Aoyama Villa stands as a breathtaking monument to the "herring magnates" who once dominated the region's seas. Constructed with the combined efforts of the Aoyama family during the early 20th century, this expansive 628-square-meter residence features 18 refined rooms. As you enter, the deep sheen of massive zelkova pillars and polished lacquer floors immediately captures the eye, reflecting a legacy of immense prosperity.

Every detail within the villa speaks of master craftsmanship. The intricate carvings of rosewood and sandalwood in the transoms exude a subtle, elegant fragrance, grounding you in the atmosphere of this grand estate.

At the adjacent Otaru Kihinkan, the experience reaches a stunning visual highlight. Looking up in the main hall, your gaze is met by 119 vivid ceiling panels painted by renowned artists with ties to Hokkaido. To complete your journey, savor signature herring dishes at the restaurant while overlooking the seasonal gardens. Between the savory flavors and the gentle sound of the wind, you will find a serene sanctuary where century-old beauty still thrives.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Jozankei Hot Spring is one of Hokkaido's leading hot spring destinations, where mineral-rich waters and seasonal scenery meet.

With more than 150 years of history, Jozankei stretches along the Toyohira River, lined with traditional ryokan inns and modern hotels. The area is fed by 56 hot spring sources, producing approximately 8,600 liters of thermal water every minute. The clear sodium chloride waters gently warm the body and provide lasting comfort.

Each season brings a different beauty to the valley. Autumn is especially stunning, as brilliant red and golden foliage transforms the gorge. The iconic Futami Suspension Bridge offers one of Jozankei's finest views, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the river and birdsong.

Outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round. From spring to autumn, visitors can enjoy hiking and river rafting, while winter brings excellent powder snow to nearby ski resorts. Free foot baths throughout the town offer a relaxing stop during a stroll.

Combined with Hokkaido's seasonal cuisine, Jozankei offers a refreshing retreat where nature and hot spring culture restore both body and mind.

A hands-on facility for food and agriculture in Kitahiroshima, near Sapporo, featuring farming experience programs, a buffet restaurant, and a Farmers’ Market.

Hokuren Kururu no Mori is a complex facility focused on agriculture and food. Its hands-on programs allow visitors to learn about the connection between farming and food through activities ranging from sowing seeds and harvesting crops to cooking. Around 50 different programs are offered throughout the year, with activities varying by season, including planting in spring and harvesting in summer. Indoor programs are also available.

The on-site Farmhouse Restaurant serves buffet-style meals featuring seasonal Hokkaido ingredients. Its varied menu includes a selection of dishes prepared with fresh vegetables grown by local farmers and other regional produce.

The adjacent farm market sells fresh agricultural produce, Hokkaido food products, and processed goods. From hands-on farming activities to dining and shopping, it is an experiential complex where visitors can learn about Hokkaido's food culture and agriculture throughout the year.

An environmental theme park in Eniwa. The facility introduces connections between nature and daily life through sheep grazing, environmental learning, and hands-on programs.

Eco-rin Village is an environmental theme park covering a total area of about 150 hectares in Eniwa. Up to 1,000 sheep graze on farmland within the site. With themes focused on reducing environmental impact and resource recycling, the park engages in multifaceted initiatives including agriculture, dairy farming, flower cultivation, and restaurant operations.

As part of its environmental efforts, the park has introduced systems for recycling food waste and livestock manure, as well as technologies to reduce CO2 emissions. Visitors can participate in hands-on programs such as wool crafts and forest activities, and can also visit Tomato Forest, known for its large-scale hydroponic cultivation.

The site includes the Rakuda-ken restaurant and Welcome Center, where visitors can enjoy meals made with local ingredients and shopping. Through initiatives in agriculture and environmental conservation, hands-on programs, and food, it is a facility where visitors can learn about the connection between nature and everyday life.

An interactive freshwater aquarium located along the Chitose River. Visitors can observe salmon migration and the ecology of freshwater fish.

Chitose Salmon Aquarium is a freshwater aquarium located along the Chitose River in the Hanazono area of Chitose City. The facility displays about 10,000 aquatic creatures, mainly freshwater fish from around the world. Large tanks allow visitors to observe a variety of aquatic life, including white sturgeon and ito, one of Japan's largest freshwater fish species.

Its main feature, Japan's first "Underwater Observation Zone," allows visitors to directly observe the riverbed of the Chitose River through glass. Visitors can observe river life changing with the seasons up close, such as salmon fry in spring, dace and cherry salmon in summer, and salmon migrating upstream to spawn from autumn through winter.

The facility also features a touch pool where visitors can touch baby sturgeon, as well as a "doctor fish" experience corner. Through various exhibits and hands-on activities, visitors can comprehensively learn about the local natural environment and the ecology of aquatic life.