Asahikawa Tokiwa Roundabout

The Asahikawa Tokiwa Roundabout, completed in 1936, sits in the heart of the city and is a historic urban landmark. Rising from its central plaza is a symbolic tower about 35 meters high and 6 meters wide, topped by a silver sculpture that abstractly evokes Asahikawa’s ice, snow, and icicles. Six roads radiate from the roundabout, forming a key traffic node that links core areas such as Asahibashi and the Heiwa‑dori Shopping Park. Nearby are Tokiwa Park and art museums, creating a harmonious setting of greenery and public art.

Since 2000, the Asahikawa Street Light Illumination has lit the area in winter: lights radiate outward from the tower and street trees and other structures from Midoribashi Street to Asahibashi are spectacularly illuminated. The display adds a warm glow to snowy nights and has become a memorable winter tradition for pedestrians and train passengers alike. By day the roundabout pulses as a transport hub; by evening it transforms into an art‑like lightscape—truly a landmark that captures the spirit of Asahikawa.