The Ultimate Hokkaido Adventure: Starry Nights, E-Bike Trails, and a Sky-High Lake

The Ultimate Hokkaido Adventure: Starry Nights, E-Bike Trails, and a Sky-High Lake
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Days required
4 days and 3 nights
Main methods of transportation
Train, Car

Centered around Obihiro, Eastern Hokkaido is a treasure trove of untouched natural wonders.


This 4-day model course is designed for active travelers who seek more than just sightseeing — it’s for those who want to feel the land, connect with nature, and discover breathtaking landscapes that stir the soul.


Ride an E-Bike up the spectacular “Mikuni Pass,” one of Hokkaido’s most scenic routes, and glide across the mystical “Lake Shikaribetsu” by kayak — a journey that brings you closer to the wild heart of Hokkaido. Under vast skies filled with countless stars, you’ll find yourself part of the landscape itself.

  • * 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

New Chitose Airport

Hokkaido's main gateway to the skies

The airport is complete with hot springs, cinemas, gourmet dining, and souvenir shops, enriching your Hokkaido experience from the moment you land.

About 2 hours and 30 minutes by JR Rapid Airport and Limited Express Train

JR Obihiro Station

The center station of the Tokachi region

About 80 minutes by car

Higashitaisetsu Nature Center

A Gateway to the Wonders of Nature and Local Discovery

The Higashitaisetsu Nature Center brings together two facilities — the Nukabira Gensenkyo Visitor Center and the Kamisihoro Town Higashitaisetsu Museum. Together, they share the natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage of the eastern region of Daisetsuzan National Park.


Inside, visitors can explore the unique ecosystems of this vast mountain area through engaging exhibits that highlight its flora, fauna, and seasonal transformations. Knowledgeable guides and interactive displays offer deeper insight into the harmony between local life and nature in this highland region.


Whether you’re planning a hiking trip, relaxing in the nearby hot springs of Nukabira, or simply admiring the serene landscapes, this is the perfect starting point for your journey into the heart of eastern Hokkaido.

Address
河東郡上士幌町ぬかびら源泉郷48-2
Telephone Number
01564-4-2323
Open
8:00-18:00 in July and August
Closed
Wednesdays (or the following day if it is a public holiday) and the year-end and New Year holidays

Nukabira Hot Spring Village

A Hot Spring Retreat Surrounded by Untouched Nature

Nestled on the southwestern shore of Lake Nukabira, Nukabira Hot Spring Village is a peaceful hot spring resort embraced by pristine forests. The area is blessed with abundant natural hot spring water, and every inn here offers baths with pure, free-flowing hot spring sources — no recycling or reheating.


Visitors can soak in the soothing waters while listening to the sounds of nature and gazing at the tranquil landscape of the surrounding mountains. Each season paints a different picture — from the fresh greens of spring and deep summer forests to the fiery autumn leaves and serene winter snow. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and a genuine connection with Hokkaido’s wild beauty.

Address
河東郡上士幌町ぬかびら源泉郷
Telephone Number
01564-7-7272

[Accommodation] Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya

A Nostalgic Inn with Heartwarming Hospitality and a Sky Full of Stars

Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya is a charming inn known for its nostalgic atmosphere and heartfelt hospitality. The moment you step inside, you’ll feel a sense of warmth — as if time slows down and you’ve returned to a simpler, gentler era.


One of the highlights here is the mixed open-air bath, where guests can experience a truly magical moment. There’s a special button that turns off the bath’s lights, allowing the night sky to unfold above you in breathtaking clarity. On a clear evening, countless stars fill the sky — a view so vivid it feels close enough to touch.


From the comforting scent of wood throughout the inn to the delicious meals made with local Hokkaido ingredients, every detail at Nakamuraya reflects the owners’ dedication to creating a relaxing, memorable stay in harmony with nature.

Address
河東郡上士幌町字ぬかびら源泉郷南区
Telephone Number
01564-4-2311
Day2

Tokachi Cycling Tour (About 5 Hours)

E-Bike Hill Climb to Mikuni Pass!

Ride across “the Roof of Hokkaido” on an E-Bike! This thrilling cycling tour takes you up to Mikuni Pass, standing at an elevation of 1,139 meters — one of Hokkaido’s most stunning autumn foliage spots. With the smooth electric assist of your E-Bike, you can enjoy the exhilarating climb effortlessly while soaking in breathtaking mountain views and crisp highland air.


Along the way, the landscape unfolds dramatically — from lush forests and deep valleys to panoramic vistas that seem to stretch endlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure and comfort, letting you fully experience the grandeur of Hokkaido’s natural scenery.

Some of the spots you will visit on the tour

Former JNR Horoka Station Site
Former JNR Horoka Station Site
The Former Horoka Station Site preserves the quiet remnants of a once-active station on the Former JNR Shihoro Line, which was closed in 1978. Today, the original platform and a stretch of rail still remain, offering a rare glimpse into Hokkaido’s railway past. Surrounded by forest and mountain silence, it feels as if time has stopped — you can almost hear the faint echo of the trains that once passed through. This small but meaningful site captures the nostalgia of Japan’s Showa-era travel days and stands as a humble yet powerful reminder of the region’s history.
Taushubetsu River Bridge
Taushubetsu River Bridge
Located within the vast Daisetsuzan National Park, Mikuni Pass rises 1,139 meters above sea level — the highest point on any national highway in Hokkaido. The view from the observation deck is spectacular: endless green valleys in summer, golden hues in autumn, and snow-dusted peaks in winter. The clear mountain air and panoramic scenery make this a beloved destination for cyclists, photographers, and road trippers alike. For those joining the Tokachi Cycling Tour, the ride to Mikuni Pass offers both a physical challenge and the unforgettable reward of seeing Hokkaido from its “roof.”
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Mikuni Pass
Mikuni Pass
Located within the vast Daisetsuzan National Park, Mikuni Pass stands at an elevation of 1,139 meters, making it the highest pass on any national highway in Hokkaido. From the observation deck, sweeping views stretch across endless forests and valleys — a truly breathtaking panorama, especially during autumn when the mountains burst into vivid shades of red and gold. It’s one of Hokkaido’s most celebrated scenic drives and a must-visit highlight of the Tokachi Cycling Tour.
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[Accommodation] Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya

Day3
About 30 minutes by car

Lake Shikaribetsu

The “Lake in the Sky” – Hokkaido’s Highest Natural Lake

Lake Shikaribetsu, located within Daisetsuzan National Park, is known as the “Lake in the Sky” — the highest natural lake in Hokkaido. Surrounded by untouched wilderness, it offers a mystical landscape where mountains and sky blend seamlessly into the water’s surface. The lake’s calm, mirror-like beauty changes with each season, from lush summer greens to shimmering autumn colors and serene winter snow.


Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Lake Shikaribetsu is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, and winter ice experiences. Whether you come for adventure or tranquility, this hidden gem invites you to feel the pure spirit of Hokkaido’s great outdoors.

Address
鹿追町然別湖畔
Telephone Number
0156-66-4034
Open
9:00-17:00

Kayak & Forest Walking Experience (About 4 Hours)

A Double Adventure: Paddle Across Lake Shikaribetsu and Trek to Lake Shinonome

This half-day adventure combines the best of both worlds — kayaking and trekking in the heart of nature. Start by paddling a stable two-seater kayak across the calm waters of Lake Shikaribetsu, surrounded by deep green forests and mountain reflections. After crossing the lake, enjoy a short round-trip trek of just under 1 km to reach Lake Shinonome, a hidden gem embraced by untouched woodland.


The journey offers a rare sense of peace, as if you’ve stepped into a world where time moves gently with the rhythm of the forest and water. Perfect for nature lovers, this experience lets you feel the true tranquility of Hokkaido’s wilderness through both motion and stillness.

Address
河東郡鹿追町北瓜幕無番地
Telephone Number
0156-69-8181 (Lake Shikaribetsu Nature Center)
About 80 minutes by car

[Accommodation] Hotel Nupka Hanare

A Renovated Heritage Hotel Filled with the Warmth of Tokachi

Hotel Nupka Hanare is a fully renovated historic hotel that beautifully blends nostalgic charm with modern Tokachi style.


Its calm, cozy spaces invite guests to relax and feel connected to local life.

From handcrafted furnishings to meals made with Tokachi-grown ingredients, every detail reflects the region’s creativity and warmth.


A stay here offers a gentle rhythm of comfort — an authentic taste of Tokachi’s hospitality and craftsmanship.

Address
帯広市西2条南10丁目20-3
Telephone Number
0155-20-2600

Column

“Basha Bar” A One-of-a-Kind Experience with Draft Horses and Local Flavor

In Obihiro, the only city in the world that celebrates the culture of Banei Horse Racing, you can enjoy a truly unique night experience — the Basha Bar, a horse-drawn carriage bar led by retired racehorses. Departing from and returning to Hotel Nupka Hanare near JR Obihiro Station, the 2 km route takes about 50 minutes at a leisurely pace through the city’s evening lights.


As you sip local craft beer and enjoy snacks made with Tokachi ingredients, you’ll pass lively spots such as Kita-no-Yatai and the station area, viewing the city from a completely new perspective. This relaxing journey lets you feel the history of Hokkaido’s pioneering spirit and the deep connection between Tokachi and its powerful draft horses. (Advance reservation required.)

“Basha Bar” A One-of-a-Kind Experience with Draft Horses and Local Flavor
Day4
JR Obihiro Station
About 2 hours and 30 minutes by Limited Express Train and Rapid Airport
Arrive at New Chitose Airport
Goal
  • New Chitose Airport
  • JR Obihiro Station
  • Higashitaisetsu Nature Center
  • Nukabira Hot Spring Village
  • [Accommodation] Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya
  • Tokachi Cycling Tour (About 5 Hours)
  • [Accommodation] Nukabira Onsen Nakamuraya
  • Lake Shikaribetsu
  • Kayak & Forest Walking Experience (About 4 Hours)
  • [Accommodation] Hotel Nupka Hanare

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