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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kitami.
Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Kitami is a jewel of an experience waiting to be discovered.
From its picturesque landscapes to its bustling city center, Kitami offers a plethora of activities to cater to every traveler’s dreams.
Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrills or a foodie looking for scrumptious treats, Kitami invites you to discover its secrets and experience a journey like no other.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kitami:
1. Lake Saroma
Lake Saroma is a picturesque lake located in Kitami city, Hokkaido, Japan. With an area of around 150 square kilometers, it is the third largest lake in Japan.
What to see or do: The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it a popular spot for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and cycling.
There are also several hiking trails around the lake for those who want to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Lake Saroma is the stunning sunset view from the Onneyu hot spring resort. Visitors can soak in the hot springs while admiring the magnificent hues of orange and pink over the lake.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in fishing, Lake Saroma is known for its salmon and smelt fishing. You can even try ice fishing during the winter months.
Additionally, the best time to visit the lake is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking.
2. Kitami Mint Memorial Museum
A museum that showcases the history and production of mint in Kitami, a city in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: – Learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing of mint through interactive exhibits.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to make your own mint oil, which you can take home as a souvenir.
Insider travel tips: – The museum offers guided tours in Japanese, but English audio guides are available.
3. Kitami City Museum of Art
A museum dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of Kitami City, located in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the permanent collection of over 3,000 pieces of Japanese and Western art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The museum’s outdoor sculpture garden featuring unique works of art by local and national artists.
Insider travel tips: The museum is conveniently located near Kitami Station, and admission is free for all visitors. Check the museum’s website for information on current and upcoming exhibitions.
4. Kitami Observatory
Kitami Observatory is an astronomical observatory located in Kitami City, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the observatory’s various facilities including its planetarium, telescope dome, and exhibition hall. The observatory also offers guided tours and stargazing sessions.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the massive 1.85-meter reflecting telescope, which is used by researchers to observe distant astronomical phenomena.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit ahead of time as the observatory is closed on Mondays and certain holidays.
5. Notsuke Peninsula
A remote and pristine peninsula located in eastern Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the wilderness of the peninsula and observe various wildlife species such as deer, foxes, and brown bears. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the coastline with sea cliffs and rugged rocks.
Visit the Notsuke Lighthouse, which was built in 1872 and climb its observation deck for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: Take a boat ride from Notsuke Bay to the peninsula to witness the unspoiled beauty of the area. Go birdwatching and spot the endangered Blakiston’s fish owl, which is the largest owl species in the world.
Enjoy the delicious seafood in nearby towns, such as scallops, crabs, and sea urchin.
Insider travel tips: Bring proper outdoor gear and clothes as the weather can be unpredictable. Plan a visit during spring or summer to witness the beautiful wildflowers that cover the peninsula.
Book accommodations in advance as there are limited options on the peninsula. Respect the wildlife and follow safety guidelines when in their habitat.
6. Lake Mashu
Lake Mashu is a caldera lake located in Akan-Mashu National Park in eastern Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Marvel at the clear blue water that changes color depending on the season and weather conditions. Take a boat ride to get closer to the lake’s unique surroundings.
Enjoy hiking on the trails that offer scenic views of the lake and its surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: Take a hike to the Observation Deck located on Mount Mashudake to get a bird’s eye view of the lake and its surroundings.
Make sure to visit the nearby Mount Iō for stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Lake Mashu is during the autumn season when the foliage around the lake turns bright red and orange.
However, the weather can be unpredictable, so bring warm clothes and be prepared for sudden rain or fog. Check the weather forecast before you go.
7. Kitakitsune Farm
A farm located in Kitami, Hokkaido that specializes in producing red foxes.
What to see or do: At Kitakitsune Farm, visitors can observe and interact with the farm’s resident foxes.
The farm offers guided tours that allow visitors to feed and pet the animals, while also learning about the farm’s breeding and care practices.
Don’t miss: Seeing the adorable and playful baby foxes in the spring and early summer.
Insider travel tips: Remember to dress warmly as Hokkaido can be quite chilly, even in the summer months.
It’s also a good idea to book your tour in advance as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.
8. Otonrui Wind Farm
Otonrui Wind Farm is a large-scale wind energy generation facility located in Kitami, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the site to see the 21 wind turbines that make up the facility, which generates 45,000 kW of clean, renewable energy.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the technology and how it is powering Japan’s transition to more sustainable energy sources.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the observation room, where visitors can watch videos about the history and operations of the wind farm.
The room also offers a stunning panoramic view of the turbines against the backdrop of Hokkaido’s breathtaking natural scenery.
Insider travel tips: Bring warm clothing, as the winds can be chilly even in the summer months.
Guided tours are available in Japanese only, so it may be helpful to bring a translator or brush up on your Japanese language skills before visiting.
9. Kitami Station
Kitami Station is a train station located in Kitami City, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: While Kitami Station itself is small and relatively uneventful, the Kitami region has plenty to offer for visitors.
Kitami itself is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and sprawling fields of lavender, as well as its delicious local cuisine like fresh seafood and ramen.
Other nearby attractions include the Kitami Mint Memorial Museum, the scenic Lake Saroma, and the popular Abashiri Prison Museum.
Don’t miss: If you’re visiting in early May, don’t miss the Kitami Tulip Fair, a yearly event that celebrates the blooming of thousands of tulips in the area.
It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful flowers, sample local foods and crafts, and mingle with locals.
Insider travel tips: Consider renting a car to explore the Kitami region, as many of the best sights and tourist spots are spread out.
Be sure to sample the local ramen, which is said to be some of the best in Hokkaido.
And don’t forget to bring warm clothing even in the summer, as the temperature can drop quickly once the sun goes down.
10. Kenichi Sawazaki Memorial Museum
The Kenichi Sawazaki Memorial Museum is a small museum located in Kitami, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Kenichi Sawazaki, who was a renowned painter and calligrapher. Visitors can see a large collection of his paintings, calligraphy works, and personal belongings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see Sawazaki’s masterpiece works such as “Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove,” “Buddhist Scriptures,” and “Hokkaido Scenery.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit Kitami, the Kenichi Sawazaki Memorial Museum is a must-see attraction.
The museum is best accessed by car, and it can take up to an hour to get there from the Kitami city center.
Admission is affordable, and there is an English brochure available at the entrance, making it more accessible to non-Japanese speakers.
11. Kitami Family Land
Kitami Family Land is an amusement park located in Kitami City, Hokkaido, Japan, known for its retro feel.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the vintage roller coasters, carnival games, and rides such as a Ferris wheel, carousel, and bumper cars. The park also features a small zoo area with animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and goats.
Don’t miss: The park’s standout attraction is the Thunder Dolphin roller coaster, which offers a thrilling ride with views of the surrounding countryside.
The park also holds seasonal events such as a haunted house during Halloween and a light-up event during the Christmas season.
Insider travel tips: – Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
12. Yukara-Expedition Snow Shoe Trek
Yukara-Expedition offers a snowshoe trekking experience in Kitami, a city in the northern region of Japan’s island of Hokkaido.
What to see or do: You can explore the beautiful snowy landscapes of Kitami during the winter by going on a snowshoe trek.
The treks are led by a local guide who will take you through stunning forests and hills, past frozen lakes and rivers, and even on top of mountains for breathtaking panoramic views.
Don’t miss: Experience the Onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring after a long, invigorating trek in the snow.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress warmly in waterproof layers and rent or buy proper snowshoes before heading out on your adventure. It is also recommended to have some basic knowledge of how to use snowshoes.
For great food, don’t miss out on trying the local Ramen noodles, famous for their delicious taste and hearty ingredients.
13. Shinise Memorial Hall
Shinise Memorial Hall is a small museum located in Kitami city, Hokkaido prefecture, dedicated to the history and culture of traditional Japanese shops and businesses, known as shinise.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the history and evolution of these businesses, and see exhibits featuring a variety of products, tools, and other artifacts that were used by the shinise.
There is also a recreated traditional Japanese street that visitors can walk through and experience the atmosphere of a bygone era.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the interactive displays, which allow visitors to try their hand at traditional Japanese crafts and games, such as calligraphy and kendama (a wooden toy).
In addition, the museum hosts special events throughout the year, including workshops and demonstrations.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is open year-round, but hours may vary depending on the season, so it’s best to check the official website before visiting.