It has no sea, no airport, and no major tourist facilities. But this is an area where you can feel the forest, the water, and the people—a place where the joy lies in immersing yourself in grand nature and discovering your own ways to have fun.

This Route's Coordinator

This Drive's Route

Teshio River Scenic Byway

By incorporating the name of the Teshio River, a major natural feature representing the area, the route aims to spread awareness of its initiatives among local residents, foster a sense of familiarity and affection, and, for visitors, to connect them with the region's diverse offerings through the river. The name "Teshio River Scenic Byway" was chosen with the hope that people will enjoy taking side trips and detours from the Teshio River.

Introducing Spots You'll Want to Visit!

1 〈Viewpoint / Excellent Road〉A Food Landscape Born from Daily Life: The Road of Japan's Best Soba

Because this area is the undisputed champion of Japan in both soba production volume and planted area, the landscape of soba fields stretches as far as the eye can see. In summer, pure white flowers bloom across the fields, and in autumn, the red stems left after the harvest are as beautiful as a coral reef. The view from the 'Soba Flower Viewpoint' recommended by the region is simply breathtaking. The fragrant new-harvest soba (shin-soba) season begins from late August to early September. Be sure to give it a try!

Horokanai Town Tourism Association

2 〈Scenic Cafe〉bakery & cafe cotori

Their homemade sourdough bread is made with a blend of local "Haruyo Koi" wheat and other Hokkaido wheat, using only coarse salt and beet sugar. The gentle flavor of the soup, made with local vegetables, is heartwarming. They also serve delicious coffee for participants of the TEPPEN-RIDE, a cycling event co-hosted by the Teshio River Scenic Byway and Soya Scenic Byway. The smiling owners make this a cafe you'll want to visit again and again.

bakery & cafe cotori

3 The Great River of the North: Teshio River

The Teshio River, a Hokkaido Heritage site, is one of Japan's rare pristine rivers. A highlight is the dynamic sight in spring when the river surface, frozen solid during the severe cold of midwinter, breaks up and chunks of snow and ice flow downstream like drift ice. Many people also enjoy canoeing along the gentle current amidst nature. The riverbank is also home to the 'Birthplace of the name Hokkaido,' a famous spot said to be conceived by the late Edo/early Meiji era explorer Matsuura Takeshiro.

Introducing Events You Might Want to Join!

1 [Nayoro Observatory "Kitasubaru"] Uranus and Neptune Viewing

This year again, we will hold a viewing event for the 7th planet, Uranus, and the 8th planet, Neptune, which are far away in our solar system. They won't appear extremely large, but it's a rare opportunity to see them. Why not take this chance to have a look?
[Notes]
・Please be sure to wear a mask when you visit.
・Reservations are required, so please be sure to sign up.
・Viewing may not be possible in cloudy weather. We appreciate your understanding.
・It gets chilly at night. Please wear warm clothing.
・For safety reasons, please refrain from using playground equipment on the premises.
・You are responsible for any troubles involving vehicles on the premises.

2 Shibetsu City Museum Special Exhibition: "Top 3 Recommended Rocks of Shibetsu!"

Introducing three recommended types of rocks found in Shibetsu through panels, actual specimens, videos, and more!
*When visiting, please take precautions against COVID-19, such as checking your health condition in advance, wearing a mask, disinfecting your hands, and maintaining physical distance.

Conclusion

What did you think?
This route was a journey to spots where you can enjoy the blessings of Hokkaido's land with both your mouth and your eyes!
As the temperature drops in Hokkaido, the air becomes clearer. The crisp air might just make the natural landscapes look even more beautiful than usual.

Please continue to take thorough infection control measures and enjoy your drive.