Feel the wind in the northern lands! 4 recommended touring spots in Tomakomai

Hokkaido is a dream destination for riders. Straddling your beloved bike and riding at your own pace across its vast landscapes is truly a luxurious experience. Among the many places in Hokkaido, Tomakomai stands out as a familiar spot for riders, as it serves as the gateway to the island with Tomakomai Port, where many travelers arrive by ferry with their motorcycles or bicycles.

This time, we have carefully selected the best touring spots in Tomakomai. Why not enjoy encounters with magnificent nature and exquisite gourmet delights?

1. Mount Tarumae

Tarumae Mountain is an active volcano located in the northwestern part of Tomakomai. It stands at an elevation of 1,041 meters and is counted as one of the three mountains of Shikotsu, alongside Fuppushi-dake and Eniwa-dake. It is approximately 32 km from Tomakomai Port, and if road conditions are good, you can reach it in about 45 minutes by motorcycle. You can fully enjoy Hokkaido’s stunning natural scenery here.

Once you arrive at Tarumae Mountain, be sure to hike up. There is a parking lot at the 7th station, and starting from there is recommended. The hike from the 7th station takes about 50 minutes. The trail is generally gentle, making it relatively easy for beginners, but fog tends to form, reducing visibility. Be sure to prepare properly before starting your ascent.

Along the trail, you can see the impressive lava dome, seasonal flowers, and if you're lucky, you might spot a cute squirrel crossing the path. On clear days, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Yotei and Tomakomai City from the summit. If you're looking for a mountain to visit during your Tomakomai tour, Tarumae Mountain is a great choice.

2. Tarumae Garo

Tarumae Garo is a forested gorge located at the foot of Tarumae Mountain. The word "Garo" comes from the Ainu language and means "a place where a river flows between cliffs." In 1979, it was designated as a natural environment conservation area by Tomakomai City. The gorge, covered in lush greenery, creates a mystical landscape with sunlight filtering through the trees. Since it is close to Tarumae Mountain, a day trip combining both locations is possible if you are staying in Tomakomai City.

There is a signboard along Route 36, and after turning in, you will find a parking lot about 3 km ahead. The gorge has cold flowing water, making it feel cool even in summer. The area is full of moss-covered rocks, making the ground slippery, so wearing slip-resistant shoes is recommended. Additionally, Tarumae Garo is a habitat for brown bears. To stay safe, wear a bear bell, talk loudly to make your presence known, and avoid entering during early morning or evening hours when bears are most active.

3. Roadside Station Lake Utonai

For riders, roadside stations serve as a much-needed oasis. Many enjoy visiting multiple roadside stations during their touring trips. Located along Route 36, "Roadside Station Utonai Lake" quickly became a major tourist attraction, recording over one million visitors in less than a year after opening in 2009. It is always bustling with travelers taking a break from touring or driving.

Its popularity comes from its excellent location and rich selection of local gourmet food. The roadside station is adjacent to Utonai Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy meals at the restaurant while taking in the beautiful lake view. Utonai Lake is also a well-known stopover for migratory birds such as geese and swans, with tens of thousands of birds arriving during migration seasons. Visitors can even walk close to the lake to observe these birds up close.

The must-try gourmet dishes include "Hokki Rice" and the "Hokki Rice Burger," both made with Tomakomai's famous surf clams. For something unique, try the "Hokki Tama"—a dish that looks like takoyaki but is made with plenty of surf clams and grilled with butter. It's a perfect snack during your tour. The station is about a 15-minute ride from Tomakomai City and is highly recommended as a stop during your trip.

4. Tomato Kashiwabara Observatory

Located in the eastern part of Tomakomai City, the "Tomatoh-Kashiwabara Observatory" is a small observatory on a hilltop. From here, you can get a panoramic view of the vast Yufutsu Plain and Tomakomai's eastern industrial area. With no obstacles blocking the view, visitors can enjoy a stunning 180-degree landscape. Around May each year, the slopes are covered in vibrant moss phlox flowers.

However, this site is not a public facility but rather private property owned by Tomatoh Corporation. The company has generously opened it to the public as the Tomatoh-Kashiwabara Observatory, so visitors are expected to follow proper etiquette while using the site.

The observatory is open from April to late November, except on weekends, holidays, and July 30th. The hours of operation are from around 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It is closed during the winter season. Since not many people visit, this is a quiet and hidden gem for touring in Tomakomai.

◎ Summary of recommended touring spots in Tomakomai

Tomakomai is rich in natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for motorcycle touring. Facing the Pacific Ocean, it offers cool summers and relatively mild winters with little snowfall. Having good weather conditions is an important factor for touring. Touring is not just about visiting famous spots but also about enjoying the scenery along the roads and connecting with people you meet along the way. You may even discover the hidden charms of Tomakomai that few have experienced before.

Search

Customer Support

Feel the wind in the northern lands! 4 recommended touring spots in Tomakomai