"Tokapuchi" means "Tokachi" in Ainu. The vast area stretches from the center of Tokachi to the Hidaka Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, and is full of attractions. Head to Tokapuchi in the winter for food, hot springs, winter scenery and more!

This route coordinator

This drive route

Tokachi Scenic Byway Toka Puchi Magnificent Space

"Tokapuchi" means "Tokachi" in Ainu. The central Tokachi area is literally the center of the Tokachi Plain, with the Tokachi River flowing through the vast, flat, field and dairy farming area stretching from the Hidaka Mountains in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east. The area is also attractive for its good accessibility via the Doto Expressway and Hiroo Expressway. In addition to the rich and diverse local ingredients and sweets, the area is also characterized by its mall hot springs and the opportunity to enjoy the interaction between people in the city center.

Let's go for a drive right away!

1 Jewelry Ice (Toyokoro Town)

"Jewelry ice" is a beautiful, transparent block of ice that washes up on the Otsu coast. When the sunlight hits it, it sparkles like jewels scattered on the beach, making it a must-see! It's a popular spot for tourists and photographers as it allows for photogenic shots. The best time to see the flowers is from mid-January to late February, and we recommend visiting during the morning or evening sun. Please be sure to take precautions against the cold.

Jewelry Ice (Toyokoro Town Tourism Association)

2 Ikeda Town Grape and Wine Research Institute (Wine Castle)

Founded in the 1950s as Japan's first municipal winery and built in 1974, commonly known as "Wine Castle," was renovated in June 2020! There's plenty to do, including a tour course, an underground aging room, a gallery museum, and a shopping area. We also recommend enjoying Tokachi produce and wine on the rooftop terrace or on the lawn on the premises while watching the sunset, which has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Sunsets in Japan."

Ikeda Town Grape and Wine Research Institute (Wine Castle)

3 Obihiro Racecourse (Ban'ei Tokachi)

The only Ban'ei horse racing in the world held all year round. The sight of horses weighing over one ton pulling an iron sled is truly a spectacular sight to see up close! On the premises, there is a petting zoo where you can interact with cute animals, as well as a direct-from-farm market with a wide selection of Tokachi souvenirs, and restaurants and sweets shops that use ingredients from Tokachi. We also recommend the Horse Museum and the backstage tour.

Obihiro Racecourse (Ban'ei Tokachi)

4 Horse-drawn Carriage BAR (HOTEL NUPKA)

After enjoying your drive, why not park your car and head out into the nightlife of Obihiro for a drink at the new tourist spot, "Basha BAR"? Along the way, you can feed the horses carrots and take commemorative photos when they take a break. Listening to the sound of their hooves on the asphalt and swaying to the unique rhythm of the horses' gait is an exceptional experience. In winter, enjoy a brief moment of the extraordinary with illuminations and snowy scenery.

Carriage BAR Hotel Nupka

5 Ikinuki Street North Food Stall

"Kita no Yatai" on Ikinuki Street in Obihiro City. There are about 20 stalls, including yakitori and izakaya, as well as French, Chinese, Korean and obanzai, which are rare in yatai! If you're having trouble choosing a restaurant, why not try bar hopping, one drink at a time? With menus and drinks made with ingredients from Tokachi, you can fully enjoy Tokachi. Enjoy a unique moment at a food stall that will warm your body and soul during the cold season.

Ikinuki Street North Food Stall

summary

How was it? This route was one that allowed us to fully enjoy the beautiful and eye-opening blue of Hokkaido's winter. We hope you'll take this route for a drive, armed with delicious natural water brought about by the snow in Hokkaido and local gourmet information. Hokkaido's long winter is about to begin, but be sure to enjoy a drive while taking proper precautions against infectious diseases.