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Overview
Asahikawa is the perfect base for your Hokkaido powder belt adventure, think of Asahikawa as a Hokkaido’s very own Queenstown, with great shopping, restaurants, bars and entertainment while being easy access from Sapporo and New Chitose via express train. Ski resorts are a short drive away or there are hotel courtesy buses or buses from Asahikawa station to some resorts, although it’s easier with a car or a guide that picks you up and takes you to the best resorts each day.
Kamui links is the closest resort and is only 20kms or about 30 minutes by car or bus, Asahidake Hokkaido’s highest mountain is close by as well as Pippu, Furano, Kurodake and Tokachidake which can all be accessed from Asahikawa making the city the ideal for those that want to chase the powder while enjoying some great culture that this city offers.
Asahikawa city has fantastic bars, restaurants, izakayas (Japanese style bars) and entertainment aplenty all within easy walk from the centre of the city and our preferred accommodation partner Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa.
Asahiyama Zoo is also another highlight in Asahikawa and a great option for a rest day, its Japan top rated zoo with over 3 million visitors each year, top exhibits include a penguin and seal aquarium with a walk through tunnel, as well as polar bear display and Orangutan enclosures where you can get up and enjoy close viewing.
Featured Accommodations
Adventures & Attractions
Our recommended resort highlights.
Asahikawa City Museum
Asahikawa City Museum highlights the region's history, culture and natural beauty featuring exhibits on local heritage, art and scientific collections.
Asahikawa Science Centre
Asahikawa Science Centre offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows, making science fun and engaging for visitors of all ages in Hokkaido.
Furarito Alley
Furarito Alley is a cosy, retro street filled with small bars and eateries offering a charming glimpse into local food and nightlife culture.
Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo is renowned for its innovative exhibits including the unique penguin walk and immersive enclosures, offering close animal encounters.
Kamui Links
Kamui Links is a popular ski resort offering diverse terrain, beautiful powder snow and scenic views perfect for skiers of all levels.
Asahidake Ropeway
Asahidake Ropeway offers breathtaking views of Mt Asahidake, stunning alpine scenery with access to hiking and skiing in the Daisetsuzan National Park.
Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan National Park in winter offers stunning snow-covered landscapes, perfect for skiing, snowshoeing and spotting rare wildlife.
Asahikawa Winter Festival
The second largest snow festival in Hokkaido, featuring massive snow sculptures, ice slides and illuminations.
Sounkyo Gorge
Sounkyo Gorge offers stunning cliffs, frozen waterfalls, hot springs making it a scenic winter destination for hiking, ice festivals and onsens.
- How to Reach Asahikawa
- Resorts & City Guide
By Air
Asahikawa is accessible via New Chitose Airport, just over 2 hours by express train. Asahikawa Airport also offers domestic flights and limited international services, about 30 minutes from the city by shuttle.
By Train
Express trains run from New Chitose Airport to Asahikawa, taking about 2 hours. Trains are a comfortable and fast way to reach the city.
By Car
Driving to Asahikawa from New Chitose Airport via the freeway takes around 2.5 hours. Rental car options are available for convenience.
By Bus
Chuo Bus and Resort Liner services offer regular trips to Asahikawa from Sapporo (2 hours) and New Chitose (3 hours).
By Private Transfer
Private transfers from New Chitose Airport can be arranged for individuals or groups up to 40 people, offering a flexible travel option.
Below are some PDF tourist maps to help you navigate and enjoy your time at Asahikawa.
