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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Tomakomai sharing quite a few of those!
Tomakomai, a city nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
From breathtaking natural wonders to delectable gastronomic delights, there’s no shortage of things to do in this hidden gem of a destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tomakomai:
1. Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is a volcanic caldera lake situated in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park on the island of Hokkaido, Japan.
It is one of the clearest lakes in the world with visibility up to 30 meters and is surrounded by forests and mountains.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely hike around the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the blue waters and surrounding scenery.
In the summer, swimming, canoeing, and fishing are popular activities. In the winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice fishing and ice walking tours.
Don’t miss: A must-see attraction at Lake Shikotsu is the Eniwa Valley located on the west side of the lake. It is a unique forest with trees that are over 300 years old.
Another highlight is the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival held every January and February where visitors can see ice sculptures and participate in various winter activities.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Lake Shikotsu is during the autumn foliage season in mid-October when the trees in the surrounding mountains turn shades of red and yellow.
2. Tarumaezan
Tarumaezan is an active stratovolcano located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike to the summit of the volcano, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby Lake Shikotsu.
The hike takes around 2-3 hours and is considered moderate in difficulty.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views from the summit of the volcano and the chance to see volcanic activity up close. It is also recommended to visit the nearby Lake Shikotsu and indulge in water activities and hot springs.
Insider travel tips: It is important to wear proper hiking shoes and clothing, as the terrain can be treacherous. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions before embarking on the hike.
The best time to visit is from May to October.
3. Tomakomai Port
Tomakomai Port is a seaport located in the city of Tomakomai in Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll along the portside promenade and enjoy the views of the sea and the ships. The area is also known for its seafood, with many restaurants serving fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
Don’t miss: The Tomakomai Salmon Museum, located near the port, is a great attraction to learn about the local salmon breeding and farming industry.
Visitors can also enjoy salmon dishes at the museum’s restaurant.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Tomakomai Port is during the early morning when the fishing boats arrive with their fresh catch.
Also, take a ferry from Tomakomai to Higashi-Muroran Port across Uchiura Bay for scenic views of the Hokkaido coast.
4. Oji Paper Museum
The Oji Paper Museum in Tomakomai is a museum dedicated to the history of paper making and the technology used by one of Japan’s oldest paper companies, Oji Holdings Corporation.
What to see or do: Visitors can learn about the process of paper making and its deep roots in Japan’s cultural history.
The museum houses various exhibits and displays of old and new paper-making machinery, as well as an impressive collection of paper products from around the world.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to make your own sheet of paper by hand using traditional methods at the museum’s “Paper-making Experience Corner”.
The museum also features a beautiful garden where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Insider travel tips: Check out the museum’s calendar for seasonal exhibitions and special events.
5. Chitose Outlet Mall Rera
Chitose Outlet Mall Rera is an indoor shopping destination featuring over 400 shops and restaurants, located in Tomakomai city, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Shop to your heart’s content at the wide range of stores that sell anything from high-end fashion brands to outdoor gear.
Kids will love the indoor amusement park and the petting zoo. There is also a food court and restaurants where you can sample local Hokkaido cuisine.
Don’t miss: The “Hokkaido Food Plaza” zone where you can try tasty treats such as Jingisukan (grilled mutton), sushi, seafood bowls, and sweets made with local ingredients.
Also, check out the impressive “Four Seasons Garden” on the rooftop, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Insider travel tips: If you have time, visit the nearby Lake Shikotsu, one of Japan’s clearest freshwater lakes, for a scenic drive or a relaxing onsen (hot spring) experience.
Also, check the official website for coupons and discounts and plan to visit on weekdays, which can be less crowded than weekends.
6. Chitose Salmon Aquarium
Chitose Salmon Aquarium is an aquarium situated in the city of Tomakomai in Japan. The aquarium is renowned for its impressive collection of salmon species and its interactive exhibits.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the aquarium’s different zones, which include salmon tanks featuring several varieties of the fish, and a touch pool where visitors can get up close and personal with creatures such as starfish and sea urchins.
Additionally, the aquarium features a stunning underwater tunnel where visitors can observe different species of salmon and other marine life swimming around them.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness the salmon hatchery show, which gives visitors an insight into how salmon are bred, raised and released into the wild.
Visitors can also observe salmon jumping up a waterfall, a spectacular sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and take in all the exhibits leisurely.
Make sure to catch the different shows and feeding times throughout the day, and be sure to grab a snack or meal at the aquarium’s restaurant, which serves delicious seafood delicacies.
7. Sunflower Field
A vast field full of vibrant sunflowers, located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the sunflowers, snap some photos with the stunning backdrop, and enjoy the peaceful and picturesque scenery.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking view of the numerous rows of sunflowers in full bloom which creates an absolute feast for the eyes.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is from late July to early August, as this is the peak blooming season.
8. Salmon Park
Salmon Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan. It is a museum that showcases the life cycle of Pacific salmon and its importance to the region.
What to see or do: Visitors to Salmon Park can explore various exhibits that demonstrate the different stages of salmon development and migration. The park offers interactive displays and educational activities such as salmon fishing simulation games and salmon dissection demonstrations.
Outdoor facilities include a salmon hatchery, fish ladder, and a large aquarium.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see salmon swimming upstream in the fish ladder from late August to early October. Visitors can also buy fresh salmon and salmon products at the gift shop.
Insider travel tips: The best time to see salmon swimming in the fish ladder is during the early morning or late afternoon.
9. Shizunai Nijukken Road
A scenic drive through the countryside of Tomakomai, Hokkaido.
What to see or do: Enjoy the picturesque views of farmland, rolling hills, and idyllic rural landscapes along the 20-kilometer long Shizunai Nijukken Road. There are several lookout points along the road where you can stop and take photos of the stunning scenery.
You may also spot wild animals like Ezo deer and foxes.
Don’t miss: The Shichiku Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden nestled in the countryside near the end of the drive.
There is a small admission fee to enter, but it is well worth it to see the meticulously manicured gardens, koi ponds, and traditional Japanese buildings.
Insider travel tips: The best time to drive the Shizunai Nijukken Road is during the autumn months when the leaves change color and the scenery becomes even more stunning.
It is also recommended to pack some snacks and drinks as there are limited shops and restaurants along the route.
Lastly, make sure to fill up your gas tank before starting the drive as there are no gas stations along the way.
10. Toya Lake
Toya Lake is a volcanic caldera lake located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan. The lake is surrounded by mountains and hot springs.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake, take a dip in one of the nearby hot springs, or hike in the surrounding mountains.
There are also several observation decks and viewpoints that offer stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.
Don’t miss: Visitors should not miss the opportunity to try some of the local Hokkaido cuisine, particularly seafood and dairy products.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit Toya Lake during the winter months when the lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the nearby ski resorts offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Visitors should also bring warm clothing as the area can be quite cold and windy.
11. Mukawa Mizu no Eki
A rest area and tourist attraction in Tomakomai, Japan, known for its unique water-themed experiences.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as bathing in hot springs, kayaking on the nearby Mukawa River, watching a water-themed light show, or trying local seafood at the restaurants.
Don’t miss: The “Water Tower,” a 60-meter tall tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area, including nearby Lake Utonai.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in kayaking, make sure to check the weather and water conditions beforehand, as strong winds can make it difficult and dangerous.
Additionally, if you’re planning on staying overnight, consider booking a room at one of the local hotels or inns, as they often offer package deals that include access to the hot springs and other attractions.
12. Noboribetsu Jigokudani
Noboribetsu Jigokudani is a valley of geothermal activity in Tomakomai, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness the power of nature as hot steam and boiling water erupt from the earth’s surface.
There are also several walking trails that take you through the different areas of the valley, including the Oyunuma and Oku-no-Yu ponds.
Don’t miss: The Oyunuma pond, which is the largest hot water pond in the valley, with a diameter of 50 meters. It has a beautiful turquoise color and it is surrounded by steam vents and boiling mud pools.
Another must-see spot is the Jigokudani footbath, where visitors can relax and soak their feet in the natural hot spring water.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, as the walking trails can be muddy and slippery.
13. Cape Chikyu
Cape Chikyu is a scenic cape located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the cape’s boardwalk and admire the breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and the Chitose Mountains.
Visitors can also explore the nearby lighthouse and enjoy a picnic in the park.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view from the observation deck, which provides unobstructed views of the stunning coastline.
Insider travel tips: – To avoid crowds, visit Cape Chikyu on a weekday morning.
14. Tomakomai Golf Resort
Tomakomai Golf Resort is a premium golf destination located in Tomakomai, Japan. The resort features three 18-hole championship courses, a driving range, and luxurious accommodations.
What to see or do: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing on any of the three world-class courses – each with its unique layout and magnificent scenery.
The courses are designed by renowned golf architects, boasting immaculate fairways and greens that challenge players of all levels. Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s practice facilities, including a driving range, short game area, and putting green.
Don’t miss: Apart from golf, visitors can indulge in various leisure activities offered by the resort, such as tennis, swimming, spa treatments, and dining in the gourmet restaurants.
Tomakomai city is also nearby, where guests can explore its natural beauty and cultural attractions, including parks, museums, and hot springs.
Insider travel tips: – Book a tee time in advance, especially during peak season (April to October).
15. Yamakoshi Alps Park
Yamakoshi Alps Park is a nature park located in Tomakomai, Hokkaido, Japan.
What to see or do: – Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Don’t miss: – The Japanese Garden, which features a pond filled with koi fish and a traditional tea house where you can enjoy matcha tea.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during autumn for the bright and beautiful foliage.