How to get to Asahikawa

Located in the center of Hokkaido, Asahikawa serves as a vital transport hub and an ideal starting point for exploring the rugged beauty of northern nature. This second-largest city in the region attracts travelers with its famous zoo, winter festivals, and convenient accessibility.

You can reach it in various ways: by direct flight, high-speed train, car, or by using the network of intercity buses connecting the city with other centers in Japan.

The fastest way to reach the region is to fly into Asahikawa Airport (AKJ), which serves over a million passengers annually. The air harbor is conveniently located relative to the center, allowing travelers to easily begin their exploration of the city immediately after landing.

Alternatively, you can consider flying into neighboring cities, such as Sapporo or Monbetsu, located approximately 100–115 kilometers away. From there, the journey to your final destination continues via comfortable ground transport.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and comfortable ways to get to the city of Asahikawa. A large, modern station is located here, serving as a major hub of the JR Hokkaido network, where trains arrive from various corners of the island.

Regular express trains connect the city with the region's administrative center, Sapporo; the travel time is about 1.5 hours. It is also convenient to travel by rail from the cities of Monbetsu or Obihiro, enjoying picturesque views of Japanese nature from the window.

Bus services play an important role in the island's transport system, offering tourists a budget-friendly and scenic alternative to trains. The most popular and regular routes connect the city with the transport terminals of neighboring Sapporo.

Comfortable intercity liners allow you to reach your destination while enjoying views of the northern nature. Travel time varies depending on weather conditions and traffic, but modern buses make the trip as convenient as possible.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to see the hidden beauties of Hokkaido. One of the most popular routes leads from the city of Sapporo: a distance of 137 km can be covered in approximately 1.8 hours on high-quality roads.

Tourists also often arrive from Monbetsu (about 148 km, travel time — 2.3 hours) or from the city of Obihiro, from where the distance is 167 km (about 3 hours drive). Renting a car or taking a taxi allows for flexible scheduling and stops at picturesque locations along the way.

A trip to Asahikawa will leave the warmest memories if you prepare in advance for the local lifestyle and climate. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations to make your journey comfortable.

1. Clothing and Gear: Winters here are harsh and snowy, so be sure to pack thermal underwear and a windproof jacket. Summers are mild, but a light windbreaker for the evenings is useful.
2. Transport: To visit remote natural attractions, it is better to rent a car, as public transport does not reach everywhere.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Yen. Cards are accepted in many places, but cash is often required in small restaurants and on buses.
4. Health and Safety: Tap water is safe to drink. Having travel insurance is recommended, as medical services are paid and can be expensive.
5. Communication: English is not understood everywhere. Download an offline translator and learn simple Japanese greeting phrases.
6. Local Etiquette: Maintain silence on public transport and always remove your shoes when entering homes, temples, and certain traditional restaurants.
7. What to Avoid: Do not leave tips — in Japan, this is not customary and may put the staff in an awkward position.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to try the local soy sauce-based ramen, which is considered the city's gastronomic pride. We recommend checking for Halal-friendly versions of this dish to suit your dietary requirements.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid awkward situations and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the hospitable Japanese north.