Winter play guide in Asahikawa Taisetsu Areas

It's not just about skiing and snowboading! Check out the recommended spots.

Winter play guide in Asahikawa Taisetsu Areas

The charm of winter in the Asahikawa Taisetsu area lies not only in its stunning scenery but also in the pure joy of playing in its world-class, fluffy powder snow.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, a variety of activities await that families and beginners can easily enjoy.
From cross-country trekking through silent forests and snowshoeing across vast white fields to ice skating under neon lights and the thrill of snow tubing—there’s something for everyone.
Discover our top recommendations and create unforgettable winter memories here.

Cross-country

Cross-country skiing is a wonderful way to glide through snowy fields and forests on specialized skis.
Moving at your own pace through the quiet beauty of nature, you can enjoy stunning landscapes while getting gentle aerobic exercise.

With many flat courses available, beginners can easily join lessons or guided tours.
It’s also the perfect activity for birdwatching or capturing the beauty of the winter scenery, leaving you with a pleasant sense of accomplishment.
With plenty of rental facilities and rest spots along the way, you can enjoy your adventure with peace of mind.

Recommended spot "Kitasaito Walking Ski Course"

Located right behind JR Asahikawa Station, Kitasaito Garden opens a cross-country ski course in winter, offering a quick escape into nature within the city.
You can enjoy a "hands-free" experience by renting skis at the Asahikawa Tourist and Product Information Center inside the station.
The course is flat and gentle, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a refreshing outdoor break.
Glide through the snowy scenery along the river and trees—it’s an ideal spot to stop by during sightseeing or even on a business trip.

Spot Name Kitasaito walking ski course
Business Period From mid-January to mid-March
Business hours 10:00~16:00 *Rental Pickup & Return Hours.
Access 〈Asahikawa Tourism Information Center〉
JR Asahikawa Station, East Concourse Area
Parking lot None

Snowshoes

Snowshoeing is a simple and fun activity that involves walking over snow using specialized wide footwear.
Because they prevent you from sinking, you can easily trek through deep, untouched snowfields and freely explore quiet forests or frozen lakesides.

The exhilarating feeling of being the first to step onto a pure white world, combined with the steady grip of the snowshoes, is truly special.
A wide variety of themed tours are available—including guided night walks and wildlife tracking—making it a perfect activity for everyone from children to seniors.
Dress warmly, relax, and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.

Recommended spot - 1 "Sounkyo"


Sounkyo is a world of breathtaking natural icefalls and spectacular winter scenery.
Through the snowshoe guided tours offered on this website, you can explore this frozen wonderland with ease.

Our professional guides provide careful instructions on how to use snowshoes and will lead you to hidden, breathtaking viewpoints that you might miss on your own.
To make your trip even more memorable, the tour includes photos and video data of your adventure. There is no better way to fully experience the magic of Sounkyo in winter!

For details, Check out the snowshoe guided tour to enjoy Sounkyo in winter!

Recommended spot - 2 "Asahidake"

 

Explore the area around the 5th station of Mt. Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido.
Thanks to its high altitude, the snow lingers late into the season, allowing you to enjoy snow activities until early May!

On a clear day, you can witness the majestic peak of Mt. Asahidake right before your eyes and trek near the powerful, steaming volcanic vents.
Experience the raw energy of Hokkaido’s grand nature in this spectacular alpine setting.

For details, Check out the snowshoe guided tour to enjoy Asahidake!

Outdoor Skating

Ice skating at both indoor and outdoor rinks is a classic and popular winter activity for families and couples.
Most facilities are fully equipped with rental skates and support gear, making it easy for everyone to join in.

Rather than a formal lesson, this is a time to simply enjoy skating to your heart's content, surrounded by beautiful illuminations and snowy landscapes.
With many rinks located in easily accessible areas, you can conveniently enjoy local gourmet food or shopping right after your time on the ice.

Recommended spot "Yukki Link ASAHIKAWA"

Yukki Rink ASAHIKAWA" is a special free skating rink that appears right in front of JR Asahikawa Station every winter, typically from mid-January to mid-February.

Everything you need—including rental skates, helmets, and cones for beginners—is available for free, so you can join in without any preparation.
At night, the rink is beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.
Its prime location makes it easy to pop in for a quick skate during your sightseeing or while waiting for a train.

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Spot Name Yukki Link ASAHIKAWA
Business Period January 17th to February 15th, 2026
Business hours Weekdays 13:00~19:00
Saturdays, Sundays, Asahikawa Winter Festival Period 10:00~19:00
*This is information from last year.
Notes Hats and gloves are required: Please wear them at all times to prevent injuries.
Weather Conditions: Since this is a naturally cooled outdoor rink, it may close without notice due to weather, temperature, or heavy snow.
Access Located right outside the North Exit (West Side) of JR Asahikawa Station.
Parking lot None

Snow Tubing

Snow tubing is one of the most casual and fun activities for both children and adults.
All you need to do is hop on a round, air-filled tube and slide down the snowy slopes!
The exhilarating sense of speed and the feeling of "floating" through the air are so addictive that you'll want to go down again and again.

Many locations feature dedicated snow parks and courses equipped with lifts to take you back up, ensuring a safe and effortless experience.
Since no skiing or snowboarding experience is required, it’s the perfect activity for families and groups looking to play in the snow together.

Recommended spot "Chibikko Ski Resort (Starkhin Stadium)"

Starkhin Stadium in Hanasaki Sports Park is a "little ski resort" in winter, where you can enjoy tube skating using the slope of the outfield stands.
Tube rental is free. There is also a special slope for infants, so you can enjoy it safely while being thrilling.
In addition to tube skiing, skiing and snow mazes also appear. It is a popular spot for families who can easily enjoy it empty-handed.

Fromhours

Spot Name "Chibikko Ski Area" at Starffin Stadium
Business Period late December to the end of February *Closed: 12/31~1/1
Business hours

Regular Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Night Operations: Until 7:00 PM

Access By car
From JR Asahikawa Station: Approx. 15 minutes
Parking lot Yes (free of charge)