Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Since a section of the Hokkaido Expressway (Otaru JCT to Yoichi IC) opened in 2018, access from New Chitose Airport to Yoichi has been dramatically improved. Now you can enjoy a more comfortable and stress-free drive without worrying about getting lost.

The opening of this route is a significant benefit for anyone planning a trip to Hokkaido. It shortens the travel time to Yoichi, allowing you to get to your destination smoothly from the very start of your journey. Get ready for a pleasant driving experience that lasts from beginning to end.

The restaurant is set in a cozy, retro-style traditional house, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their signature dish, the "Smoked Beef Simmered in Red Wine," is a must-try. This rich and deeply flavored dish is made with tender smoked beef stewed slowly in red wine, filling your mouth with a wonderful aroma and savory taste.

Be sure to also try their smoked coffee—a unique and delicious treat you can only find here.

This is the first distillery built by Masataka Taketsuru, the man who was the model for the protagonist of the NHK TV drama "Massan." The free distillery tour (reservations required) is especially popular, where you can learn about the whisky production process and the history of Nikka Whisky.

The shop inside the distillery offers a wide range of exclusive souvenirs that you can only get here, including limited-edition Yoichi Distillery whiskies. Why not choose a special bottle to commemorate your trip?

The owner-chef, who was so captivated by Yoichi that he moved here from Sapporo, puts his heart into every dish. You can enjoy exquisite Italian cuisine made with local ingredients and Yoichi's unique local wines to your heart's content. Then, you can enjoy a luxurious stay by simply heading upstairs to your room.

The dynamic Cape Kamui, which juts out into the vast open sea, has been certified as a Hokkaido Heritage site.

From the parking lot to the tip of the cape, you'll walk for about 20 minutes along the "Charenka's Path," a promenade with stunning views of the Sea of Japan on both sides. Once you reach the tip of the cape, a grand 300-degree panoramic view of the Shakotan sea spreads out before you.

On a windy day, the trail may be closed, so it's recommended to check the weather beforehand.

Shakotan is home to many shops where you can enjoy an exceptional "Uni-don" (sea urchin bowl). You'll find a wide variety of places, from restaurants run by local fishermen to shops that serve all-natural, additive-free sea urchin.

During the peak sea urchin season, the town is bustling with energy as tourists from all over Japan come to experience this irresistible dish.

Otaru is a treasure trove of charming sightseeing spots! Around the canal, the Sakaimachi Shopping Street is lined with souvenir shops, and you'll find plenty of cozy cafes and sweet shops perfect for a break.

In addition to historical buildings and art museums, there are also numerous hands-on workshops where you can try your hand at music box or glassmaking. With so much to see and do, you might find that one day simply isn't enough to explore it all.