Tokachigawa Onsen

Hokkaido Garden "Tokachi Millennium Forest" is a popular spot where you can feel the great nature of the Tokachi Plain. Within the vast grounds, there are five gardens where you can enjoy the changing flowers and plants throughout the seasons. You can also enjoy an activity where you ride a Segway and stroll through nature. In the 135-minute tour, even beginners can easily participate as you can learn the basic operation of the Segway.

Kofuku Station in Obihiro became famous for its catchphrase "From the Land of Love to Happiness" after being featured in NHK's 1973 program "Shin Nihon Kikou". The station building that was used at the time is still standing, and it is covered in numerous pieces of paper with wishes written on them. Nowadays, it is a popular power spot where people come to seek happiness, and it has also become a popular dating spot for couples and married couples. Additionally, the trains that were used at the time are displayed on the premises, making it a great spot for taking photos.

"Ban'ei Racing" is a thrilling spectacle where horses pull sleds weighing about one ton and jump over obstacles. It is the only horse racing event in the world held exclusively in Obihiro, and even those who are not horse racing fans should see it at least once in their lifetime. Races are often held from daytime to night on weekends, so be sure to check the schedule on the official website when visiting.

If you come to Tokachigawa Onsen, be sure to try the local specialty of Obihiro, the "pork bowl". The pork, cooked and coated in a sweet and savory sauce, is placed on top of rice and enjoyed by both adults and children. There are several restaurants in the city that offer pork bowls, each with their own unique taste depending on the cut of meat, such as loin or tenderloin, and cooking method, such as charcoal-grilled.

While dinner at a hot spring inn is recommended, if you're staying for multiple nights, be sure to visit "Kita no Yatai" food stall area. The area is made up of about 20 shops offering unique menus such as yakitori and French cuisine. Tokachi is known for its dairy and agriculture, so you can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes that emphasize local production and consumption. As shops change every few years, one of the attractions is being able to enjoy different flavors each time you visit.