Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Banei horse racing, held only at Obihiro Racecourse, is the only race of its kind in the world. Watching massive draft horses pull heavy sleds is a truly breathtaking experience.

Obihiro Racecourse (Banei Tokachi) hosts Banei horse racing throughout the year, a spectacle that can be seen nowhere else on earth. In these races, enormous draft horses weighing about 1 ton compete in power and endurance by pulling heavy iron sleds that also weigh up to 1 ton. The 200-meter straight track features two obstacles (slopes), and the intense sounds of the horses’ breathing and their powerful hoofbeats resonate all the way to the spectator seats. This sport, rooted in the strength contests of farm horses from the pioneering era, is designated as a Hokkaido Heritage.

Between races, we recommend visiting the Fureai Zoo on the grounds to feed carrots to retired draft horses, ponies, and rabbits. You can feel a true bond with the animals by sensing the warm breath of the horses against your palm and touching their soft coats. Additionally, at the adjacent Tokachi Mura, you can enjoy a market filled with the aroma of fresh local produce or savor Tokachi specialties such as Jingisukan and pork rice bowls. From watching powerful races to enjoying local gourmet food, immerse yourself in the full charm of Tokachi.