Popular Resort Destination in Hokkaido! What Tourist Attractions Can You Enjoy in Tomamu?

Tomamu, one of Hokkaido’s premier mountain resort destinations, is located in the central region of Hokkaido, surrounded by vast nature. It is famous for the large-scale resort facility "Hoshino Resort Tomamu," but if you look beyond it, you'll find many tourist attractions and activities to enjoy. This time, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots in and around Tomamu! You will surely be captivated by the majestic beauty of Hokkaido's nature.

1. Hoshino Resort Tomamu

Hoshino Resort Tomamu is one of Japan's premier large-scale resort facilities, offering various activities such as swimming pools and skiing. It attracts many tourists throughout the year. Additionally, with gourmet dining options and luxurious hotels, you can spend an entire day enjoying the resort. Why not take the opportunity to relax in this nature-surrounded paradise?

◆ Unkai Terrace

The highlight of summer sightseeing in Tomamu is the Unkai Terrace. From the resort center of Hoshino Resort Tomamu, you can take a gondola ride for about 13 minutes. At the summit of Mount Tomamu, 1,239 meters above sea level, you will find yourself above the clouds, in a completely different world from the base. The appearance of the sea of clouds changes constantly depending on the weather and season. Its beauty, shimmering in the sunlight, is beyond words.

This phenomenon is created by the complex terrain of the Hidaka Mountains, the distance from the Pacific Ocean, and Tomamu’s unique geography. A miraculous sea of clouds, something humans cannot artificially create, can be witnessed here in Tomamu. It’s a breathtaking view that can only be seen in this location. Another recommended experience is the Cloud Walk, a scenic walking path that gives you the illusion of walking on the clouds of Tomamu.

At the summit of Mount Tomamu, there is also an observation terrace. You can relax with a warm bowl of soup or a cup of coffee while admiring the magnificent beauty of nature. Please note that Unkai Terrace is open from mid-May to the end of October, so plan your visit accordingly.

◆ Rime Ice Terrace

In winter, you can enjoy the Rime Ice Terrace. Rime ice forms when water vapor in the air freezes onto tree branches at sub-zero temperatures. Under the blue sky, the pure white frost-covered trees sparkle in the morning sunlight, creating a breathtakingly divine scene.

◆ Blooming Tomamu

In May, the late spring season arrives in Tomamu. This is when vibrant and colorful flowers bloom all around, enveloping Hoshino Resort Tomamu in a festive atmosphere. Blooming Tomamu is a special event held only from late April to early May. In the courtyard of The Tower, one of the two major hotels of Hoshino Resort Tomamu, intricate patterns are created using brightly colored flower petals.

At night, why not enjoy the sound of a violin while sipping a glass of wine? There’s also a café where you can admire the flowers while indulging in floral-themed puddings and sweets, paired perfectly with wine. Other local delights such as asparagus and maple syrup are also available. This is truly a flower-filled sightseeing event.

◆ Mina-Mina Beach

The pool at Hoshino Resort Tomamu is one of Japan’s largest wave pools, offering a tropical vacation atmosphere all year round. The glass-walled facility is clean and stylish, creating a refreshing environment.

While relaxing on the beachside is enjoyable, the highlight is the Wave Time, where large waves roll in every 30 minutes. The floating sensation when riding over these waves is incredibly exhilarating! There are also thrilling activities such as the Slackline, where you can test your balance, a kids' pool that is safe for young children, and popular water activities like SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) and Cyber Ball.

◆ Tomamu Ski Resort

Tomamu Ski Resort is a popular destination with 29 different courses catering to beginners and advanced skiers alike. Beginners can also rent equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The resort provides high-quality Atomic-brand skis, which are always well-maintained and updated regularly.

Ski maintenance is handled by professional staff, and they also assist with ski selection and fitting, making it easy for even first-time skiers to enjoy the slopes. The rental station within Tomamu Resort allows easy returns and even size exchanges, making it convenient for all skiers.

There are also extensive ski lessons available, including classes for adults and special lessons for children as young as 3 years old. Beginners can feel at ease, as instructors provide detailed and patient guidance, making it a great experience even for those seeing snow for the first time.

For women interested in snowboarding, the "Debut for Girls Snowboard" program is highly recommended. The lesson fee includes snowboard and boot rentals, making it a budget-friendly option. Additionally, there are advanced courses and various sightseeing events, allowing visitors to fully enjoy skiing in Tomamu. Experience the powder snow and make the most of your time on the slopes!

◆ Water Chapel & Ice Chapel

Tomamu Resort is home to two wedding venues that many couples dream of: the Water Chapel and the Ice Chapel. Designed by the world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, these chapels offer a truly unique wedding experience. In summer, the Water Chapel is surrounded by water, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. During winter, when temperatures drop below -20°C, the Ice Chapel, a one-of-a-kind structure made entirely of ice, appears. This magical space, enclosed in ice, feels like a mystical world—making it the perfect place to create unforgettable memories.

2. Kanayama Lake

Located about 15 km northwest of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Kanayama Lake is a man-made lake created by the construction of the Kanayama Dam in 1967. It is a popular destination with scenic viewpoints and walking trails, offering stunning landscapes. It has also been selected as one of the "Top 100 Dam Lakes" by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. Featured in many travel guides, the lake attracts numerous visitors.

Kanayama Lake is also a well-known spot for fishing, camping, and canoe training. The lake is home to various fish species, including Ito and the rare Oshorokoma, making it a famous fishing destination. During winter, when the lake is covered with over 30 cm of ice, visitors can enjoy smelt fishing.

The lake also hosts exciting events. Every late July, the Kanayama Lake Water Festival takes place, featuring live music and delicious food, drawing many tourists. Visitors can also enjoy sports like canoeing and rafting, and the lake serves as a venue for canoe competitions.

3. Michi-no-Eki Shizen Taikan Shimukappu

Right after exiting the Shimukappu Interchange on the Doto Expressway, you will find Michi-no-Eki Shizen Taikan Shimukappu. This roadside station provides local tourism information about Shimukappu Village, as well as travel tips for nearby areas like Biei, Furano, and Tomamu. It is a convenient stop for travelers.

Inside the facility, there is a restaurant and a souvenir shop, making it an ideal place to take a break during a trip to Tomamu. The station offers local specialties, such as wild vegetable dishes, handmade wooden crafts, and rich, flavorful ice cream, all of which are highly popular among visitors.

For those coming from Sapporo, this roadside station serves as the gateway to the Tomamu area. You can gather sightseeing information here and plan the rest of your trip. If you're exploring Tomamu, this is definitely a recommended stop!

4. Michi-no-Eki Minami Furano

Located near Kanayama Lake, Michi-no-Eki Minami Furano stands out with its unique canoe-shaped architectural design. As you enter, you'll notice a large aquarium that captures attention. The aquarium showcases freshwater fish such as Ito and Ugui, which inhabit Kanayama Lake. Additionally, exhibits featuring Mizunara oak and Todomatsu fir trees, which grow naturally in Minami Furano, allow visitors to experience the local vegetation and nature.

Inside, you'll find a restaurant, a souvenir shop selling wooden crafts and local handicrafts, and a bakery. If you get hungry while driving, this is the perfect place for a snack! You can also gather information about tourist attractions around Kanayama Lake, Tomamu, and other surrounding areas. Be sure to stop by during your Tomamu sightseeing trip!

5. Fukiage Onsen Hoyou Center Shirogane-so

If you venture past Kanayama Lake toward Furano, you will find Fukiage Onsen Hoyou Center Shirogane-so, a self-catering accommodation and hot spring facility. Primarily used by hikers heading to Mt. Tokachi, its most remarkable feature is its onsen (hot spring).

The onsen includes indoor and open-air baths that emit the soothing aroma of hinoki cypress. All baths are well-maintained, ensuring a clean and relaxing bathing experience. There are various bath types, including a shallow bath for young children, a deep 1-meter bath, and even a mixed-gender open-air bath, making it a great place for families. Additionally, the facility offers resting areas, allowing visitors to unwind after a warm soak.

6. Fukiage Roten-no-Yu

Fukiage Roten-no-Yu is considered one of the most famous open-air hot springs in Hokkaido. It even appeared in the popular Japanese drama "Kita no Kuni Kara", where actress Rie Miyazawa bathed in this onsen. The hot spring is about 30 minutes by town bus from JR Kamifurano Station. From the nearby parking lot, a steep downhill path leads to two open-air baths. The smaller, upper bath tends to be hotter, while the larger, lower bath is usually at a more comfortable temperature.

Since the Tokachidake volcanic range is active in this area, the hot spring temperature may change depending on volcanic activity. It's best to check the water temperature before entering. The water is a gypsum saline spring, colorless and odorless, with a smooth texture. However, since there is no changing area, women are advised to wear a towel or swimsuit while bathing.

7. Tokachidake Onsen Ryounkaku

Tokachidake Onsen Ryounkaku is famous as the highest open-air hot spring in Hokkaido. As its name suggests, it is so high that it seems to rise above the clouds, attracting many visitors. From the open-air bath, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tokachidake mountain range. Each season offers a unique and stunning landscape, for example, Spring and summer: lush green scenery, Autumn: vibrant autumn leaves, and Winter: a striking contrast between blue skies and snow-covered peaks.

The hot spring water is a calcium and sodium sulfate spring, rich in iron and minerals, offering a deep sense of nature’s blessings. The water flows directly from the source, and since it is slightly lukewarm, visitors can enjoy a long and relaxing soak.
Located not far from Tomamu, this hidden gem is a must-visit for those exploring the Tomamu area.

8. Farm Tomita

Farm Tomita is one of the most famous sightseeing spots in Furano, known for its lavender fields and colorful seasonal flowers that bloom from spring to autumn. The farm is filled with various flowers, creating a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. After the long winter, crocuses bloom in April, followed by tulips in May, bringing vibrant colors to the farm.

The best time to visit is late June, when the lavender fields are in full bloom, making it the busiest and most lively season at Farm Tomita. The farm also offers a variety of souvenirs made from flowers, such as dried flowers, essential oils, soaps, and keychains.

Visitors can also enjoy lavender-flavored soft serve ice cream, which is highly popular for its rich and creamy taste. Additionally, the greenhouse displays plants like geraniums, while the scent experience corner and lavender museum add even more charm to the visit.

9. Shikisai-no-Oka

Shikisai-no-Oka is a stunning hill where visitors can enjoy vibrant flower fields arranged in an orderly fashion. One of its most impressive features is the unique landscape formed by the rolling hills, creating an artistic pattern of flowers and slopes that stretches into the distance.

Each season brings a different charm, for example, Spring: Canola flowers and tulips bloom beautifully, Summer: Flax flowers with bluish petals, sunflowers, and cosmos create a colorful spectacle, Autumn: Salvia and golden marigolds bring warm tones to the fields, and Winter: The area transforms into "Snowland", where visitors can enjoy snowmobiling and snow rafting.

The souvenir shop offers a variety of products, including cosmetics made from flower extracts, postcards, and handmade dried flower wreaths. The restaurant serves dishes made from fresh Hokkaido ingredients, such as curry soup and soft-serve ice cream, making it a great stop for both sightseeing and dining. Unlike Farm Tomita, Shikisai-no-Oka offers a different kind of beauty, making it a must-visit spot in Hokkaido.

10. Christmas Tree No Ki

The "Christmas Tree No Ki" is a famous solitary tree located near Biei. It is named for its striking resemblance to a Christmas tree. This spruce tree stands alone on a gently sloping hill, surrounded only by farmland, making it an impressive and eye-catching sight.

While the tree looks beautiful against the lush green fields in summer, the best time to visit is winter. Standing in the middle of a pure white snowfield, it creates a picturesque and magical winter scene. Please note that the land around the tree is private property, so visitors cannot approach it closely. However, even from a distance, the tree’s mysterious charm is captivating.

11. Mild Seven Hill

Mild Seven Hill earned its name after being featured in a 1978 commercial for the "Mild Seven" cigarette brand. The symmetrical row of trees atop the hill creates a perfect contrast with Biei’s vast landscape, making it a truly iconic Hokkaido scene. This spot is easily accessible by car, but parking space is limited. Visitors should be mindful of not obstructing traffic when stopping to admire the view.

12. Zerubu Hill

"Zerubu Hill" is located along Route 237, making it easy to spot for tourists traveling toward Asahikawa. The name "Zerubu" comes from the last three letters of the Japanese words for wind (kaze), fragrance (kaoru), and play (asobu). This hill offers a stunning flower field that changes beautifully with the seasons.

The viewing platform at the top provides breathtaking scenery of Biei's rolling hills and a clear view of the famous "Ken and Mary Tree." For a fun experience, visitors can explore the area using buggies and carts, making it an exciting spot for families with children. If you're feeling tired from a long drive from Tomamu, Zerubu Hill is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

13. Ken and Mary Tree

The "Ken and Mary Tree" is located near Zerubu Hill. It was named after the theme song of a Nissan car commercial, which featured the song "Ken and Mary."
Just like Mild Seven Hill, this tree is a symbol of Biei’s picturesque landscapes, attracting many visitors. Standing tall by the roadside, it offers a quintessentially Biei-like atmosphere when viewed from afar. Please note that the tree is on private property, so visitors should admire it from a distance.

14. Oyako no Ki (Parent and Child Tree)

On top of a hill, there stand three oak trees, which resemble a parent and child, giving them the name "Oyako no Ki" (Parent and Child Tree). However, in October 2015, a strong windstorm hit the area, causing the middle "child tree" to fall.

Thankfully, with the support of the local community, a new tree was planted in June 2016, restoring the beloved sight. This effort reflects the love and dedication of the people of Biei in preserving its beauty. Please note that there is no parking space nearby, so visitors should be mindful of traffic and avoid stepping onto private property.

15. Blue Pond

The "Blue Pond" has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, becoming one of the must-visit attractions in Biei. Located in Shirogane, Biei, the pond’s vibrant blue waters and standing dead trees create a mystical and breathtaking atmosphere.

Interestingly, the Blue Pond is not a natural formation—it is an artificial pond created as part of a dam project to control mudflow from Mount Tokachi. The unique blue color is due to the mixing of underground spring water with river water, which reflects sunlight in a striking way. The pond appears most vivid on clear, sunny days, while its color may look murky when it rains. Despite this, the Blue Pond remains a spectacular spot that is well worth a stop if you're traveling from Tomamu.

◎ Summary

Located in central Hokkaido, Tomamu is one of Japan’s top resort destinations, attracting many tourists from across the country. However, even for a day trip, visitors can enjoy plenty of exciting sightseeing spots and activities. A short trip from Tomamu takes you to the rolling hills of Furano and Biei, famous for their stunning lavender fields. Whether in Tomamu or its surrounding areas, you’ll be able to experience the breathtaking landscapes that define Hokkaido.

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Popular Resort Destination in Hokkaido! What Tourist Attractions Can You Enjoy in Tomamu?