Understand

Welcome to Obihiro, a city that was founded by settlers from Honshu in 1883. Designated as a city in 1933, Obihiro may seem architecturally undistinguished at first glance, but it holds a few quirky pachinko palaces that add a touch of kitsch. As you navigate through the city's regular north-south grid, you'll discover its main attractions lying diagonally - the railway line with the main JR station and the beautiful Midorigaoka Park. This green hill is home to the city's museum, zoo, and other fascinating sites. While many Japanese visitors are captivated by the dairy farms of the Tokachi Plain, I'm sure as a foreign visitor, you're already familiar with cows and wheat fields. So, allow me to introduce you to the breathtaking natural wonders surrounding Obihiro. Have you ever witnessed the majestic volcanic peaks of Daisetsuzan? This national park boasts extraordinary alpine flora that will leave you in awe. And if wildlife fascinates you, don't miss a visit to the Shiretoko Peninsula, nestled within the remarkable Shiretoko National Park. Obihiro serves as a convenient gateway to these major attractions, allowing you to bypass the bustling city of Sapporo and explore the wonders of western Hokkaido.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing