When you think of Yubari, Yubari melons and the international film festival often come to mind, but there are plenty of other attractions besides melons and movies. From outdoor activities like rafting and mountain climbing, to experiences unique to a town of cinema, Yubari is full of charm. And of course, in winter you can enjoy winter sports as well. Since you’ve come all the way to Yubari, you’ll want to create plenty of fun memories through experiences. At times like this, be sure to use these recommendations as a reference and enjoy sightseeing in Yubari to the fullest.
1. Yubari Nature Experience School
The “Yubari Nature Experience School” is a popular attraction for tourists, offering a variety of activities unique to Yubari. From enjoying the great outdoors to trying unusual experiences like special effects makeup, there’s plenty to choose from. With so many courses, you might have trouble deciding which to pick.
Here are some of the experience courses available. Please note that some courses are only available for limited periods, so plan accordingly. Reservations are also required, so once you’ve chosen the course you’d like, be sure to contact them in advance.
◆ Leisurely River Descent on the Yubari River
For those who don’t want intense rafting, the leisurely river descent on the Yubari River is a perfect option. You can relax and take in scenery that you can’t see from a car or on foot. Floating along the clear river while surrounded by Yubari’s great nature will surely become a wonderful memory.
This experience is open to children from the age of 3, making it an excellent family-friendly activity in Yubari. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes and a towel.
◆ Shuparo Dam Lake Surface Tour
Exploring the lake surface of the Shuparo Dam, one of Japan’s largest dams, is truly a rare experience. Completed in 2015 for flood control, water supply, and power generation, this new dam offers unique opportunities. On this tour, you can explore the submerged Kashima district, paddling through trees that still peek above the water by canoe. It’s an extraordinary experience you can’t often have—don’t miss it! Again, be sure to bring a change of clothes and a towel.
Name: Yubari Nature Experience School
Address: 22 Takemicho, Nanbu, Yubari City, Hokkaido
Official/Related Website: http://yubari-taikenjyuku.com/
2. Heidi Farm
At Heidi Farm in Yubari, you can try various activities. One of the most popular is horseback riding. Children as young as 3 can ride with an adult, so even families with small kids can enjoy it. The course takes about 10 minutes, with staff walking alongside to ensure safety. From the age of 4, kids can try riding solo, so why not take on the challenge during your trip to Yubari?
Another surprisingly popular activity is kite flying. Though not commonly seen these days, flying a kite in the midst of Yubari’s natural surroundings is refreshing. Kites are available for free rental here, so why not give it a try?
Other activities include archery, darts, and fishing ponds. Park golf, available for ages 3 and up, is also offered with rental equipment, so you can enjoy it even if you come empty-handed. Playing golf with your family during a trip is quite a treat. Animal interaction experiences are also available, including milking cows and bottle-feeding baby goats—all for free. Definitely take part and create wonderful memories.
Name: Heidi Farm
Address: 2 Minami 9, Higashi Line, Naganuma Town, Yubari District, Hokkaido
Official/Related Website: http://heidi-farm.com/
3. Mount Racey Ski Resort
When you think of Hokkaido’s winter, winter sports are a must—and you can of course enjoy them in Yubari. “Mount Racey Ski Resort” offers many courses suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers, each equipped with its own lift. With a junior park available, families can also enjoy Yubari’s snow to the fullest.
The ski and snowboard schools are well-equipped, offering everything from group lessons to private lessons. There are also kids’ lessons available from age 3. If you’re not confident about skiing on your own, consider joining. Rentals for equipment and clothing are also available, so even if you arrive empty-handed, you can still enjoy your Yubari ski experience.
Located right in front of Yubari Station, access is excellent. And if you stay at the directly connected Hotel Mount Racey, you can enjoy winter sports even more conveniently.
Name: Mount Racey Ski Resort
Address: 2-4 Suehiro, Yubari City, Hokkaido
Official/Related Website: http://www.yubari-resort.com/winter.php
4. Yuni Garden
“Yuni Garden” is a garden facility where you can enjoy seasonal plants and the fragrance of herbs. Since the scenery changes depending on the time of year, it’s a spot worth visiting again and again.
For groups of 15 or more, reservations can be made for herb experience workshops. These include pressed flower crafts or strap-making, with lunch included. Experiences using herbs are unique to this garden, and the duration varies by course, so you can choose according to your schedule.
The facility also operates the “Sorachi-hime Carriage,” a trolley bus that tours the garden in about 20 minutes, letting you enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for everyone from small children to the elderly. Restaurants and shops are also available on site, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
Name: Yuni Garden
Address: 134-2 Fushimi, Yuni Town, Yubari District, Hokkaido
Official/Related Website: http://www.yuni-garden.co.jp/
◎ Summary
We’ve introduced a variety of experiences you can enjoy in Yubari. Even activities you might not normally try can feel approachable when surrounded by Yubari’s great outdoors. Think of it as a chance to discover a different side of yourself, and take part in as many experience courses as you can.
There are plenty of family-friendly courses, too, so why not include them in your travel plans? Enjoy delicious food, breathtaking nature, and unique activities you can only try here—and create unforgettable memories of your trip to Yubari.