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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Takikawa sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to Takikawa, a city blessed with the natural beauty of Hokkaido.
From blooming gardens to enchanting hot springs, Takikawa offers a plethora of activities to indulge in.
Whether it’s strolling through the serene parks or feasting on local delicacies, each experience is tailored to delight the soul and invigorate the senses.
With so much to see and do, let’s dive into the top things that await you in Takikawa.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Takikawa:
1. Takikawa City Museum
A local history museum located in Takikawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and culture of Takikawa, with a collection of artifacts and exhibits including a recreated traditional Japanese house, agricultural tools, and historical documents.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of Ainu artifacts, which includes traditional clothing, tools, and musical instruments from the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located near Takikawa Station and is easily accessible by train.
2. Takikawa Station
What to see or do: Takikawa Station is not a tourist attraction, but it serves as a convenient transportation hub for those traveling to and from various destinations in Hokkaido.
Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area during your train ride.
Don’t miss: If you have some time to spare, consider taking a stroll around Takikawa Station’s neighborhood, which has a charming retro ambiance with buildings from the Showa era.
Insider travel tips: Consider purchasing the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass if you plan on traveling extensively by train in Hokkaido, as it can save you money on transportation costs.
Additionally, be sure to check the train schedules ahead of time, especially during peak travel periods.
3. Takikawa Shrine
Takikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Takikawa City, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the beautiful shrine architecture, including the torii gate, main hall, and honden (inner shrine). The shrine also has a large and scenic garden with a pond, bridges, and a traditional teahouse.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit during the spring months when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. The shrine grounds are transformed into a beautiful pink wonderland.
Insider travel tips: Take a stroll around the nearby Takikawa River, where you can see salmon swimming upstream during the autumn months. Also, try Kururu Soba, a local soba noodle dish made with the crystal-clear waters of the nearby Higashikawa River.
4. Mount Maruyama
A dormant volcano located in Takikawa, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Mount Maruyama is a popular spot for hiking, especially in the autumn when visitors can enjoy the stunning fall foliage.
A cable car and chair lift are also available for those who prefer a more leisurely way to enjoy the view from the summit.
Don’t miss: The Mount Maruyama Zoo, located at the base of the mountain, is home to a variety of animals including tigers, bears, and monkeys.
There is also a walking path where visitors can spot various birds and enjoy the tranquil forest scenery.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit during the autumn season for the best views of the fall foliage. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes, as some parts of the trail can be steep and rocky.
The cable car and chair lift can get crowded during peak season, so it is best to arrive early if you want to skip the crowds.
5. Ishikari River
Ishikari River, located in Takikawa, is one of the most important rivers in Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the river by taking a leisurely boat ride. Also, the river is home to an abundance of wildlife, including salmon and various bird species.
Don’t miss: The annual salmon run, where thousands of salmon swim upstream to spawn. The peak run is usually from September to October.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit the Katsurazawa Dam, which provides stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. Also, try some local seafood dishes that feature salmon caught in the Ishikari River.
6. Takikawa Asahigaoka Golf Course
A magnificent golf course located in Takikawa, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a challenging game of golf with panoramic views of the Hokkaido landscape.
The course offers 18 holes spread across 7,002 yards, featuring scenic ponds and bunkers that will challenge even the most seasoned golfers.
Don’t miss: Take a break from golfing to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque course, taking in the stunning natural surroundings. The course also has a clubhouse where you can enjoy a meal or drink after your game.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is pleasant. Make sure to reserve your tee time in advance as the course can get quite busy, especially on weekends.
Be prepared for some challenging shots, and don’t forget to bring plenty of golf balls!
7. Takikawa Fall Festival
Takikawa Fall Festival is an annual Japanese festival that celebrates autumn with colorful events, street performances, and food stalls.
What to see or do: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the festival as you watch traditional dances, parades, and fireworks performances. Try delicious Japanese cuisine from the food vendors lining the streets, and browse through local crafts and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the takibi taiko (bonfire drums) performance and the kagura (Shinto ceremonial dance) show. The yosakoi soran dance troupe is also a must-see!
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the festival’s opening parade. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the festival can get crowded and lively.
Try some of the unique local dishes, such as Takikawa’s famous potato-stuffed fried bread.
8. Yamanaka Nature Park
Yamanaka Nature Park is a serene nature park located in Takikawa, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers picturesque walking trails, beautiful gardens, and a serene landscape that you can explore and enjoy. You can also witness the stunning Yamanaka Pond, which is surrounded by lush greenery and has a crystal clear water.
Don’t miss: Do not miss out on taking a leisurely walk on the trails that lead to the pond. Also, don’t forget to visit the famous Yamanaka Onsen, which is a hot spring resort located nearby the park.
Insider travel tips: It is best to visit the park during autumn when the colors of the leaves change into a beautiful mixture of red, orange, and yellow, making it the perfect time for photography enthusiasts.
Also, if you are visiting in winter, do not forget to bring snowshoes or skis to enjoy the snowy landscape.
Lastly, try out the local Japanese cuisine at the various nearby inns and restaurants; it’s a unique culinary experience that you would not want to miss.
9. Tappu No Yu Onsen
Tappu No Yu Onsen is a hot spring resort located in Takikawa, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: At Tappu No Yu Onsen, you can enjoy soaking in a variety of indoor and outdoor hot spring baths. The resort also offers sauna facilities, massage services, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try out the outdoor bath featuring a waterfall, which is truly a unique and relaxing experience. You can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains while soaking in the outdoor baths.
Insider travel tips: If you are looking for a more secluded and private experience, Tappu No Yu Onsen also offers private hot spring baths that can be reserved in advance.
Additionally, visiting during the winter months offers a beautiful snowy landscape as well as the opportunity to witness “Yukimi”, or snow viewing, from the outdoor baths.
10. Takikawa Rose Garden
A beautiful rose garden located in Takikawa, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire over 2,000 roses of various colors and varieties, including rare roses that are only found in this garden. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
There are also benches and gazebos to sit and relax.
Don’t miss: The Rose Festival held every year in early June, where the garden is decorated with thousands of colorful roses and hosts various events and performances.
Insider travel tips: Visit the garden early in the morning or in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Check the weather forecast before visiting as the best time to see the roses is on a sunny day.
Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
11. Takikawa Art Plaza
A contemporary art museum located in Takikawa, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Takikawa Art Plaza features various exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, showcasing the works of both Japanese and international artists. The museum has a wide range of exhibits including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the outdoor sculpture garden, featuring stunning works of art set amidst the natural backdrop of Hokkaido.
Also, don’t miss the permanent exhibition “A Wall of Flowers,” a breathtaking display of thousands of pressed flowers covering an entire wall.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a fan of contemporary art, Takikawa Art Plaza is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido.
The museum is easily accessible by public transportation, so consider taking a day trip from Sapporo or Asahikawa to explore this unique art museum.
Plan your visit during the annual “Flower Art Fair” held in August, where visitors can enjoy a variety of floral-themed art installations both inside and outside the museum.
12. Hokkaido Green Land
Hokkaido Green Land is an amusement park nestled in the city of Takikawa, in the northern island of Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: If you’re a fan of roller coasters, Hokkaido Green Land has some thrilling rides that are worth trying, like the Mega Coaster, which boasts an impressive height of 58 meters.
The park also offers kid-friendly attractions and a beautiful garden for a relaxing stroll.
Don’t miss: One highlight of the park is the “Night Rainbow Illumination” event, where the park is lit up in a dazzling display of colorful lights.
It’s an enchanting sight to see and shouldn’t be missed.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds and long lines.
13. Takikawa City Gymnasium
Takikawa City Gymnasium is a modern sports facility located in Takikawa City, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: The gymnasium is home to various sports events throughout the year, including basketball, volleyball, futsal, and more. Visitors can attend matches or games to witness top-level competitions.
Don’t miss: If you’re a sports enthusiast, don’t miss the opportunity to see a live sports event at Takikawa City Gymnasium. It’s a great place to cheer on your favorite team or athlete.
Insider travel tips: Before attending any event, check the event schedule in advance. Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue’s ticket booth.
Additionally, it’s essential to arrive early to secure a good seat and avoid the rush of the crowd.
14. Takikawa Citizen’s Forest
Takikawa Citizen’s Forest is a vast park located in Takikawa city of Hokkaido Island, Japan.
What to see or do: You can enjoy walking, cycling, and have a picnic with your family or friends in the well-maintained green surroundings.
The walking trails cater to different skill levels, from beginner to avid hiker, and meander through lush green forests and open fields.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic view of the park from the observation deck on the hilltop, where you can see the whole of Takikawa city from above.
There are also several species of plants and animals, including rabbits, foxes, and deer, that you can observe in their natural habitat.
Insider travel tips:
15. Takikawa Central Park
Takikawa Central Park is a spacious and picturesque public park located in the heart of Takikawa City, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreational activities in the park, including picnicking, strolling, jogging, cycling, and playing sports.
The park features vast lawns, walkways, playgrounds, tennis courts, and baseball fields.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful natural scenery in the park, with its seasonal flowers and trees that offer a different backdrop throughout the year.
Additionally, visitors can stroll through the small zoo in the park that houses rabbits, chickens, goats, ponies, and various birds.
Insider travel tips: To get the most out of the park, it is recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season in late April and early May, when the entire park is filled with stunning pink blooms.
Parking can be difficult during peak hours, so it is recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a spot.
Be sure to pack a picnic and relax in the tranquil atmosphere of the park.