Gardens, Views, and Hot Springs: A Journey to Heal Your Soul in Hokkaido

Gardens, Views, and Hot Springs: A Journey to Heal Your Soul in Hokkaido
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Days required
3 days and 2 nights
Main methods of transportation
Car

Ready to step away from your hectic daily life? Why not refresh your mind and body on the magnificent lands of Hokkaido?


Hokkaido offers the perfect blend of beautiful gardens where vibrant flowers bloom in every season, breathtaking scenery shaped by vast wilderness, and famous hot springs that warm you to the core.


This guide introduces a relaxing itinerary that takes you from Asahikawa to Obihiro, centered around the Hokkaido Garden Path—a journey showcasing the region's uniquely beautiful landscapes.


As you stroll through the exquisite gardens, walk among the flower fields, and gaze upon the magnificent panoramic views of the great earth, the fatigue of your daily routine will naturally melt away. You will feel the true joy of a Hokkaido trip deep within your soul.


This travel plan is gentle on both the mind and body, allowing you to fully experience the delights of Hokkaido sightseeing while indulging in superb local gourmet food and soaking in therapeutic hot springs.

  • * The spots and experience menus introduced in the course are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.
  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Start
Day1
Asahikawa Airport
About 30 minutes by car

Ueno Farm (Hokkaido Garden Path)

A Garden Stroll Surrounded by Seasonal Flowers

Ueno Farm, one of the most popular stops on the Hokkaido Garden Path, welcomes visitors with flowers blooming throughout the seasons. Inspired by British garden design, the gardens are adapted freely to the northern climate and natural conditions, creating an open, natural beauty.


A leisurely stroll through the garden immerses you in a colorful, enchanting landscape. The garden shop offers seasonal plants and original goods, while the café provides a relaxing space to enjoy the view of the flowers. For a break during your Hokkaido sightseeing, Ueno Farm is truly a “paradise of flowers and greenery” that delights every visitor.

Address
旭川市永山町16-186
Telephone Number
0166-47-8741
Open
Late April to mid-October (closed in winter)
Business hours: 10:00-17:00
Closed
Open all year round (closed in winter from late Oct. to late Apr.)
About 50 minutes by car

Daisetsu Mori-no Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)

Nature Surrounded by the Majestic Daisetsu Mountains

Spread across hills overlooking the Daisetsu Mountain Range, Daisetsu Mori-no Garden is a beautiful garden filled with colorful flowers and lush greenery. It is one of the most popular spots on the Hokkaido Garden Path, celebrated for its seamless integration with nature.


The garden is divided into three main areas:

- Forest Flower Garden: Enjoy a vibrant display of perennial flowers and seasonal blooms from spring through autumn.

- Forest Guest House: A tranquil retreat surrounded by natural trees and delicate wildflowers.

- Playful Forest: A mysterious, almost hidden area where visitors can feel like explorers wandering through the forest.


This spot is highly recommended for those wanting to enjoy both natural beauty and garden elegance during a Hokkaido sightseeing trip.

Address
上川町字菊水841-8(大雪高原旭ケ丘)
Telephone Number
01658-2-4655
Open
◾Summer Business Hours
Apr. 26, 2025 (Monday) - Oct. 13, 2025 (Monday, national holiday)
9:00 - 17:00 (last admission 16:00)
Free of charge] Apr. 26th (Mon) - May 16th (Fri)
Free of charge] April 26th (Mon.) - May 16th (Fri.) *Only the forest flower garden area will be open free of charge.
Free of charge] May 17 (Mon.) - October 13 (Mon.)
All areas of the Forest Garden, Forest Guest House, and Play Forest will be open for a fee.
◾Winter Business Hours (Snow Activity Experience)
Scheduled to be held from the beginning of January to the end of Mar. every year.
Closed
Mid-October - Mid-April
About 30 minutes by car

[Accommodation] Sounkyo Hot Spring

Northern Hokkaido’s Largest Hot Spring Area with Stunning Seasonal Views

Located within Daisetsu National Park, Sounkyo Hot Spring is the largest hot spring area in northern Hokkaido, attracting more than 2 million visitors annually.


The hot spring town is nestled along a canyon surrounded by sheer cliffs, evoking the atmosphere of a Canadian mountain resort. Spring showcases colorful flowers, summer unveils fresh greenery, autumn paints the canyon in vibrant foliage, and winter turns waterfalls into frozen wonders. Each season offers breathtaking canyon views, making Sounkyo Hot Spring an ideal place to refresh both body and mind while enjoying Hokkaido’s natural grandeur.

Address
上川郡上川町層雲峡
Telephone Number
01658-2-1811
Day2
About 30 minutes by car

Mikuni Pass Observatory

Panoramic Views of Hokkaido’s Majestic Landscapes

Mikuni Pass Observatory sits at an elevation of 1,139 m within Daisetsu National Park, making it the highest pass along Hokkaido’s national roads.


The observatory provides sweeping views of the dense forest and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect stop to break up a drive. On clear days, visitors are treated to a grand panorama of Hokkaido’s vast landscapes, leaving first-time travelers awestruck. Mikuni Pass is a must-visit for those who wish to experience the sheer scale of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

Address
三股
Telephone Number
01564-7-7272
About 25 minutes by car

Former JNR Shihoro Line Concrete Arch Bridges (Taushubetsu River Bridge)

A “Phantom Bridge” Submerged in the Lake

The Taushubetsu River Bridge was originally built as part of the Former JNR Shihoro Line. After the dam was constructed, the line was abandoned, and the bridge occasionally emerges from Lake Nukabira.


During periods of low water, the entire structure emerges above the lake, creating a surreal, time-transcending scene. From the observatory, visitors can view this “phantom bridge” up close, making it a popular photography spot. It’s a unique location where natural beauty and history intersect, highly recommended even for first-time visitors to Hokkaido.

Address
上士幌町ぬかびら源泉郷
Telephone Number
01564-4-2224
About 45 minutes by car

Naitai Kogen Farm, Naitai Terrace

Expansive Green Views to the Horizon

Naitai Kogen Farm, nestled in the northwestern hills of Kamishihoro, spans an impressive 17 million m². One of Hokkaido’s largest-scale farms, its rolling green pastures stretch to the horizon, offering a sense of freedom and openness.


At the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Tokachi Plain from the observatory or relax in the Naitai Terrace, featuring large glass windows overlooking the spectacular scenery. Take your time and immerse yourself in the vast beauty of Hokkaido’s landscape and pasturelands.

Address
上士幌町字上音更128-5
Telephone Number
01564-7-7272
Open
[Farm] (Jun.-Sep.) 7:00-19:00, (May and Oct.) 7:00-18:00
[Terrace] 9:00-17:00
Closed
Late Oct.- early Apr.
About 25 minutes by car

Michi-no-Eki Pia 21 Shihoro[Lunch]

Savor the Local Flavors of Shihoro Town

Located along National Route 241, Michi-no-Eki Pia 21 Shihoro showcases the culinary delights of Shihoro Town. The menu focuses on the locally sourced Shihoro beef, featuring signature dishes like the “Shihoro Beef Sword Tip Steak/Hamburger” served on a real shovel-shaped iron plate.


Other specialties include juicy Shihoro Beef Hamburgers and savory Shihoro Beef Buns. This spot is perfect for enjoying Hokkaido's specialty cuisine while experiencing the unique flavors of the region.

Address
河東郡士幌町字士幌西2線134-1
Telephone Number
01564-5-3940
Open
9:00-17:00 *Varies depending on the season and store.
Closed
The New Year's holiday

Tokachi Millennium Forest (Hokkaido Garden Path)

Relax Amidst Beautiful Nature

Surrounded by expansive nature, Tokachi Millennium Forest was founded to leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views while experiencing the seasonal beauty of the forest.


The forest offers educational programs on Hokkaido’s dairy farming and food culture, along with hands-on cheese-making experiences. It’s a place where visitors can learn about Hokkaido’s rich traditions through immersive nature activities.

Address
上川郡清水町羽帯南10線
Telephone Number
0156-63-3000
Open
9:30-16:00
Closed
Open throughout the period
About 60 minutes by car

Shichiku Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)

A Vast Garden Filled with Loving Care

Shichiku Garden, located in the Tokachi Plain, was created by a single woman’s vision and spans about 60,000 m². Around 2,500 varieties of flowers bloom, the scenery shifting with each season to captivate every visitor.


A stroll through the garden reveals ever-changing views, with fragrant flowers and vibrant colors creating a relaxing atmosphere. The garden also features a shop and café where visitors can enjoy refreshments surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Address
帯広市美栄町西4線107
Telephone Number
0155-60-2377
Open
Third Saturday in April - Late October
Hours: 8:00-17:00
Closed
Open throughout the year
*Restaurant is open after the park is closed (after December 1) (Reservations required for the winter restaurant).
*Reservations are accepted only for groups during the winter season.
About 50 minutes by car

[Accommodation] Tokachigawa Hot Spring

Rare “Moor Hot Spring” for a Soothing Experience

Tokachigawa Hot Spring is known globally for its rare “Moor Hot Spring” waters, which flow through layers of decomposed plant material over long periods.


The plant-based, silky water warms the body deeply even after a brief soak, leaving you comfortably warm afterward. Its moisturizing properties have earned it the nickname “beauty hot spring,” cherished by locals and tourists alike. Stay here to enjoy a luxurious time rejuvenating both body and mind while exploring Hokkaido.

Address
音更町十勝川温泉
Telephone Number
0155-32-6633
Day3
About 25 minutes by car

Manabe Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)

A Vast Space with Diverse Gardens

Covering about 83,000 m², Manabe Garden features three distinct types of gardens. The Conifer Garden showcases imported conifers and seasonal colors, the Japanese Garden offers a traditional aesthetic, and the Landscape Garden allows visitors to walk through a forest-like setting.


Take your time to explore each garden and fully experience the charm of the Hokkaido Garden Path.

Address
帯広市稲田町東2-6
Telephone Number
0155-48-2120
Open
8:30-17:30 (Depends on the season)
Closed
Late Nov. to late Apr.
About 10 minutes by car

Tokachi Hills (Hokkaido Garden Path) [Lunch]

Garden Lunch with Flowers and Fresh Produce

Perched on a hill overlooking the Tokachi Plain, Tokachi Hills is a unique garden park blending flowers, food, and agriculture. Visitors can explore seasonal landscapes including a rose garden, herb gardens, fruit trees, and edible flowers.


The on-site café serves a variety of dishes using seasonal ingredients, making it the ideal lunch stop during a leisurely garden stroll. Surrounded by flowers and fruit trees, visitors can enjoy the best of Hokkaido’s nature and cuisine simultaneously.

Address
中川郡幕別町字日新13-5
Telephone Number
0155-56-1111
Open
9:00-17:00 (Mid-Apr. - Mid-Oct.)
Closed
Open every day during the period
About 30 minutes by car

Rokka no Mori (Hokkaido Garden Path)

A Harmony of Wildflowers and Art

Rokka no Mori, run by the popular confectioner Rokkatei, features wildflowers depicted on Rokkatei’s signature floral packaging. The garden also features pieces by Naoyuki Sakamoto, including paintings and sculptures, seamlessly blending art with nature.


Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the flowers while purchasing limited-edition souvenirs only available here. This garden perfectly embodies how nature and art come together on the Hokkaido Garden Path.

Address
河西郡中札内村常盤西3線249-6
Telephone Number
0155-63-1000
Open
10:00-16:00 (April to October)
10:30-16:00 (Convenience Store)
11:00-15:30 (coffee shop)
Closed
Open daily during the period
About 15 minutes by car
Obihiro Airport
Goal
  • Ueno Farm (Hokkaido Garden Path)
  • Daisetsu Mori-no Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)
  • [Accommodation] Sounkyo Hot Spring
  • Mikuni Pass Observatory
  • Former JNR Shihoro Line Concrete Arch Bridges (Taushubetsu River Bridge)
  • Naitai Kogen Farm, Naitai Terrace
  • Michi-no-Eki Pia 21 Shihoro[Lunch]
  • Tokachi Millennium Forest (Hokkaido Garden Path)
  • Shichiku Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)
  • [Accommodation] Tokachigawa Hot Spring
  • Manabe Garden (Hokkaido Garden Path)
  • Tokachi Hills (Hokkaido Garden Path) [Lunch]
  • Rokka no Mori (Hokkaido Garden Path)

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