Welcome to the Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with Kids Guide, your quick resource for discovering the best things to do and hotel options in Asahikawa, Furano & Biei as a family. From snowy adventures to cultural discoveries, Asahikawa, Furano & Biei attractions offer a mix of playful charm and natural wonder, making it one of the most exciting places to visit in Hokkaido for families. Whether you’re exploring local art spots, scenic parks, or unique things to see around Asahikawa, Furano or Biei, this guide will help you plan a trip filled with comfort, fun, and authentic northern magic for every age.
As you plan your family trip to Asahikawa, Furano or Biei this guide is the perfect place to start. For broader inspiration, explore our Ultimate Guide to Family Attractions in Japan with Kids, featuring castles, shrines, theme parks, and cultural adventures across the country. Families exploring Hokkaido can easily combine their trip with nearby Sapporo with Kids for city fun or Otaru with Kids for canals and glass workshops, or Hakodate with Kids for historic streets, scenic harbors, and sparkling night views, creating a journey that captures the best of northern Japan’s snowy charm and warm hospitality.
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Best Things to Do in Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with Kids
Wondering which family attractions in Asahikawa, Furano & Biei are best for your crew? Here’s a quick breakdown of our top picks by age to help you plan your perfect adventure, from toddler-friendly parks and flower fields to scenic ropeways and winter wonderlands. If you’re planning to explore multiple spots, the Asahikawa area can easily be paired with nearby Furano or Biei for even more family fun across central Hokkaido.
|
Age Group |
Best Picks |
|---|---|
|
Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 2–4) |
Asahiyama Zoo, Tokiwa Park, Ueno Farm (The Gnomes’ Garden) |
|
Young Kids (Ages 5–8) |
Asahikawa Science Museum & Planetarium, Panoramic Flower Gardens Shikisai-no-oka, Kamikawa Shrine, Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum |
|
Tweens/Teens (Ages 9+) |
Daisetsuzan Sōunkyō Kurodake Ropeway, Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike), Shirahige Waterfall |
|
All Ages |
Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa Winter Festival, Tokiwa Park |
1. Asahiyama Zoo
- Why It’s Awesome: Asahiyama Zoo is one of Japan’s most famous and family-loved attractions, known for its innovative enclosures that let kids see animals from every angle, underwater, overhead, and up close. Penguins waddle through snowy paths in winter, seals swim above your head in glass tunnels, and polar bears dive straight into icy blue pools. It’s educational, fun, and endlessly fascinating, making it a must-see stop for families in Hokkaido.
- Age Recommendations: All ages
- Duration: 2–4 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for penguin parades and snowy enclosures; spring and autumn for milder weather and active animals.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with some slopes; ramps and elevators available throughout.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many penguins you can spot during the parade, bonus points if one waddles right in front of you!
2. Asahikawa Science Museum
- Why It’s Awesome: Curious minds will love the Asahikawa Science Museum, a hands-on space where learning feels like play. Kids can launch mini rockets, explore exhibits on Hokkaido’s natural environment, and discover how light, sound, and motion work through interactive experiments. The planetarium show is a highlight, taking families on a dazzling journey through the stars, perfect for curious young astronomers.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5–10
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Rainy or snowy days are ideal, as it’s one of Asahikawa’s top indoor attractions for families.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with elevators, ramps, and baby rest zones.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Can you spot all eight planets during the planetarium show? Bonus points if you remember which one is the hottest!
3. Panoramic Flower Gardens Shikisai-no-oka
- Why It’s Awesome: Located just outside Asahikawa in the beautiful town of Biei, Shikisai-no-oka is a rainbow-colored landscape that stretches across the hills of central Hokkaido. Kids can hop on tractors, pose with alpacas, and stroll through endless flower fields that change with each season, from tulips in spring to lavender in summer and dahlias in autumn. It’s one of those magical spots where the scenery feels straight out of a storybook, perfect for playful exploration and family photos.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 3+
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn (May–October) when the flowers are in full bloom and the tractor rides are operating.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with wide gravel paths; some slight slopes near the upper fields. Rest areas, shaded benches, and cafés available on-site.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many different flower colors you can find, can you spot all seven of the rainbow?
4. Kamikawa Shrine
- Why It’s Awesome: Nestled among tall trees near central Asahikawa, Kamikawa Shrine offers a peaceful family-friendly escape that introduces kids to Japan’s Shinto traditions. It’s a lovely place for a quiet walk beneath torii gates, where families can ring bells, write wishes on wooden ema plaques, and explore the serene grounds surrounded by nature. In winter, the shrine is especially beautiful, with snow blanketing the paths and lanterns glowing softly at dusk.
- Age Recommendations: All ages
- Duration: 30–60 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms or winter for a calm, snow-covered atmosphere. Summer festivals bring a lively, cultural energy.
- Cost: Free
- Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly, with flat paths and a few gentle steps near the main hall.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Count how many animal statues or carvings you can spot around the shrine, foxes, dragons, or even turtles might be hiding in plain sight!
5. Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum
- Why It’s Awesome: The Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum offers a fascinating window into the culture and traditions of the Ainu, the Indigenous people of Hokkaido. Families can explore handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and tools while learning how the Ainu lived closely with nature. The museum’s size makes it easy for kids to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed, and the personal stories shared here help bring history to life in an engaging, meaningful way.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 5+
- Duration: 45–90 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, it’s a great indoor stop for rainy or cold days in Asahikawa.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly indoors, with some small steps between exhibition room floors.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find an artifact or object that reminds you of something from home, what do you think it was used for?
6. Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway
- Why It’s Awesome: For families who love mountain views and fresh air, the Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway is one of the most scenic adventures in Hokkaido. The cable car glides high above the Daisetsuzan National Park, offering sweeping views of valleys, forests, and snow-capped peaks. At the upper station, families can take short nature walks or simply enjoy the lookout, it feels like standing on top of the world! During autumn, the slopes burst into color, while winter brings a sparkling, snowy landscape.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Autumn for colorful foliage and clear skies, or summer for gentle hiking. Winter visits are also stunning, though colder and more limited to the ropeway ride itself.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Ropeway is not very stroller-friendly, as mountain paths at the top have uneven terrain.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: How many colors can you spot from the top?
7. Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)
- Why It’s Awesome: One of Hokkaido’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Shirogane Blue Pond looks like it’s been painted straight from a dream. Its brilliant turquoise water reflects the sky and surrounding birch trees, creating a surreal scene that fascinates both kids and adults. Families can stroll along the gentle walking path that circles the pond, snap photos from different angles, and watch the color shift with the light, it’s a peaceful, magical experience in every season.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+
- Duration: 45–90 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn for clear reflections and vibrant blue hues. In winter, the pond is equally beautiful when framed by snow, especially after a fresh snowfall.
- Cost: Free
- Accessibility: Partially stroller-friendly with compact gravel paths; some sections near the water have gentle slopes.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Try to count how many shades of blue you can see, it changes every time the clouds move!
8. Shirahige Waterfall
- Why It’s Awesome: Just a short drive from the Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall (meaning “White Beard Waterfall”) cascades dramatically from the cliffs of Biei into a deep blue river below. The sight of the water streaming through the forest and misting into the air feels almost otherworldly, especially when seen from the nearby bridge. It’s a quick but unforgettable stop for families exploring the Biei and Asahikawa area, and in winter, the frozen falls sparkle under soft illumination, pure Hokkaido magic.
- Age Recommendations: Best for ages 6+
- Duration: 30–60 minutes
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round. The lush green backdrop in summer and the glowing blue hues of winter both make for stunning views.
- Cost: Free
- Accessibility: Viewing areas and the bridge are stroller-friendly.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Stand on the bridge and count how many waterfalls you can see, can you spot all the separate streams pouring down?
9. Ueno Farm (The Gnomes’ Garden)
- Why It’s Awesome: Ueno Farm, affectionately known as The Gnomes’ Garden, is a charming English-style garden just outside Asahikawa that feels straight out of a storybook. Families can wander through colorful flower paths, hidden arches, and whimsical garden sculptures, all surrounded by soft mountain views. Every corner offers something new, from buzzing butterflies to miniature wooden houses that look like homes for forest fairies. It’s calm, imaginative, and an easy favorite for younger children who love open space and a touch of magic.
- Age Recommendations: All ages
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn (May–October) when the flowers are in full bloom.
- Cost: ¥
- Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly with gentle slopes and gravel paths. Benches, shaded rest areas, and a small café with local treats are available inside.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the garden’s tiniest gnome, and then count how many you can find!
10. Tokiwa Park
- Why It’s Awesome: Tokiwa Park is Asahikawa’s favorite family gathering spot, a peaceful city park filled with playgrounds, a boating pond, and wide tree-lined paths that are perfect for strolls in any season. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a dreamy pink canopy, while autumn brings golden leaves that crunch underfoot. Families can rent swan boats, feed ducks, or simply enjoy a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature. It’s the ideal place to slow down and enjoy Asahikawa’s gentle side.
- Age Recommendations: All ages
- Duration: 1–2 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for seasonal colors, summer for paddle boating and open-air picnics, or winter for quiet snowy walks.
- Cost: Free (small rental fee for boats)
- Accessibility: Fully stroller-friendly with paved paths, rest benches, and public restrooms.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Ride a swan boat across the pond, can you spot real ducks or turtles from your boat before they paddle away?
11. Asahikawa Winter Festival
- Why It’s Awesome: Every February, Asahikawa transforms into a snowy playground during the Asahikawa Winter Festival, Hokkaido’s second-largest winter celebration after Sapporo’s. Families can marvel at enormous snow sculptures, zip down icy slides, and explore glowing ice tunnels lit up at night. Kids love the snow maze and creative snow art zones, while parents can enjoy warm local foods like ramen and sweet amazake to stay cozy. It’s an unforgettable winter wonderland that captures the magic of Hokkaido in full.
- Age Recommendations: All ages
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Best Time to Visit: February during the official festival week. Evenings are especially beautiful when the sculptures are illuminated.
- Cost: Free
- Accessibility: Paths are stroller-accessible but snowy; sleds for toddlers work best. Rest areas, food stalls, and heated tents are available throughout the venue.
- Luca & Nico’s Challenge: Find the biggest snow sculpture in the park and come up with your own name for it, what would your family’s snow castle be called?
Why Asahikawa, Furano & Biei are Great for Families with Kids
- Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei form one of Hokkaido’s most scenic and family-friendly regions, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and open countryside.
- Families can explore three distinct destinations in one trip, each offering a mix of nature, comfort, and adventure.
- In Asahikawa, kids can meet penguins at the world-famous Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s top family attractions.
- The Asahikawa Winter Festival transforms the city into a snowy wonderland with giant sculptures and sledding areas.
- Summer brings colorful parks and riverside walks, perfect for gentle family strolls or picnics.
- Just an hour away, Furano shines in summer with lavender fields, flower farms, and scenic rides on the Furano Ropeway.
- Families love visiting Ningle Terrace, a fairytale-like village of log huts where kids can watch crafts being made or buy tiny handmade souvenirs.
- Biei is pure Hokkaido magic, from the glowing Blue Pond to the rolling Patchwork Hills that change color with every season.
- Stop by Shikisai no Oka for tractor rides, flower mazes, and a chance to meet alpacas in the fields.
- For a breathtaking view, ride the Daisetsuzan Ropeway and watch clouds drift across mountain peaks.
- Each town offers easy access, stroller-friendly paths, and warm hospitality that make travel with kids feel relaxed and natural.
- Don’t miss local favorites like Asahikawa ramen, Furano’s soft-serve ice cream, and cozy cafés that keep both kids and parents happy.
Parent Insight: Travel doesn’t need to be fast to be meaningful. In Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei, slower days filled with fresh air, gentle adventures, and shared discoveries remind kids that wonder often lives in the quiet moments, watching snow fall, spotting a fox in the fields, or finding color in the simplest things.
For year-round planning, explore our Japan Seasonal Guides for Families, including detailed resources for spring, summer, autumn, winter, and our full Best Time to Visit Japan with Kids guide.
How to Get to Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with Kids
- By Train: Families can reach Asahikawa easily from Sapporo on the JR Limited Express Kamui or Lilac trains, which take about 1.5 hours. From Tokyo, take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, then transfer to a Limited Express train heading north to Asahikawa. From there, it’s a short and scenic ride to Furano (about 1 hour) and Biei (about 30 minutes) on local JR lines.
- By Plane: Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) is the most convenient option, located about 30 minutes from the city center by bus or taxi. It offers daily domestic flights from Tokyo Haneda, Nagoya, and Osaka, plus limited seasonal international routes. Rental cars are available at the airport for families planning to explore Furano and Biei more freely.
- By Bus: Highway buses connect Asahikawa with Sapporo (about 2 hours), Biei (around 40 minutes), and Furano (approximately 1 hour). This is a great budget-friendly option for families who prefer relaxing rides through the scenic Hokkaido countryside.
If your trip includes bullet trains, don’t miss our Shinkansen With Kids guide for tips on seats, luggage, and navigating stations with little travelers. Parents comparing rail options can also see our Japan Rail Pass Guide to understand when the pass is worth it for families. And if you want stress-free station transfers, our Japan Luggage Delivery Guide explains how to send suitcases ahead so your family can travel light and move easily between cities.
Family-Friendly Hotels In & Near Asahikawa, Furano & Biei
- Luxury
- Hotel La Vista Daisetsuzan – A scenic mountain retreat with natural hot springs, cozy rooms, and stunning forest views, perfect for families seeking a peaceful nature escape.
- Shin Furano Prince Hotel – An upscale resort with ski access, onsen baths, and spacious rooms for families exploring both Furano and Asahikawa.
- OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts – A stylish family resort blending playful design with comfort, featuring large rooms and guided local experiences.
- Mid-Range
- ART HOTEL Asahikawa – Spacious rooms, a relaxing spa, and a central location make this one of Asahikawa’s most convenient family stays.
- Hotel WBF Grande Asahikawa – Modern and clean with an onsen bath and hearty breakfast, just steps from Asahikawa Station.
- Hotel Route-Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae – Reliable and family-friendly, with free breakfast, laundry facilities, and easy zoo access.
- La Vista Furano Hills – A quiet boutique-style hotel featuring rooftop onsen baths and warm hospitality, ideal for families visiting both regions.
- Budget
- JR INN Asahikawa – Compact, clean, and directly connected to the train station, ideal for families on the go.
- Dormy Inn Asahikawa – A cozy favorite with free ramen nights, public baths, and a relaxed family-friendly vibe.
Choosing the right base can make all the difference when exploring Japan’s lesser-known towns and rural regions. Our Best Family Hotels in Japan guide highlights kid-friendly stays across every part of the country, from cozy ryokan and hot spring retreats to modern hotels with spacious family rooms and easy transport access. If you’re comparing options in larger cities before or after your visit, you can also explore our dedicated hotel guides for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka, Kobe, and Nagasaki.
If you’re mapping out your wider Japan route, start with our Japan 14-Day Family Itinerary for a balanced mix of major cities, culture, and kid-friendly highlights. Families comparing trip lengths often find it helpful to look at multiple options, including classic 7-day and 10-day Japan itineraries that show how to pace Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with kids.
For even more support planning your trip, our Japan Family-Friendly Travel Hub brings together every city guide, attraction, and resource in one place, while our Planning a Family Trip to Japan and Japan Budget Family Travel Tips guides help parents navigate budgets, routes, and practical details.
FAQs About Visiting Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with Kids
Here are quick answers to common questions families ask when visiting Asahikawa, Furano or Biei with kids, covering everything from stroller access and transportation to the best time to visit, free attractions, and family-friendly activities across these northern Hokkaido cities.
A: The best time to visit Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with kids depends on the season your family enjoys most. Winter brings the famous Asahikawa Winter Festival and snow-covered adventures at Asahiyama Zoo. Summer is ideal for exploring Furano’s lavender fields and Biei’s Blue Pond under clear skies. Families who prefer mild weather and fewer crowds will love spring and autumn, when the scenery glows with blossoms or red leaves.
A: Most families spend 3 to 4 days in Asahikawa, Furano & Biei to enjoy the highlights at a relaxed pace. Two nights in Asahikawa give time for the zoo, parks, and ramen spots, while a full day each in Furano and Biei lets kids explore flower fields, farms, and mountain views without rushing. If your family loves nature photography or slow travel, extending to 5 days allows even more time for peaceful drives and quiet countryside walks.
A: Yes, families can easily make day trips from Asahikawa to Furano & Biei thanks to short travel times and convenient transport. Biei is only 30–40 minutes by train or car, perfect for visiting the Blue Pond or Shikisai no Oka flower farm. Furano is about 1 to 1.5 hours away, ideal for lavender fields, Ningle Terrace, and local craft shops. Many families base themselves in Asahikawa for comfort and use it as a gateway to explore both towns in one or two easy day trips.
A: The easiest way to reach Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with kids is by train, plane, or car. From Sapporo, families can take the JR Limited Express Kamui or Lilac to Asahikawa in about 1.5 hours. From Tokyo, fly into Asahikawa Airport (AKJ) or take the Hokkaido Shinkansen to connect north. Once there, local JR lines or scenic drives make Furano (1 hour) and Biei (40 minutes) simple day trips filled with countryside views.
A: Families visiting Furano and Biei with kids can enjoy colorful outdoor adventures all year. In Furano, explore Farm Tomita’s lavender fields, ride the Furano Ropeway, and wander through Ningle Terrace, a magical village of wooden huts and crafts. In Biei, visit the famous Blue Pond, go for tractor rides at Shikisai no Oka, or take scenic drives past the Patchwork Hills. Both towns are perfect for family photos, picnics, and easy countryside walks.
A: Families visiting Asahikawa with kids will find plenty of fun and memorable attractions for all ages. The top highlight is the world-famous Asahiyama Zoo, where kids can watch penguins, seals, and polar bears up close. In winter, don’t miss the Asahikawa Winter Festival, featuring giant snow sculptures and slides. For outdoor fun, Tokiwa Park offers open lawns, swan boats, and cherry blossoms in spring, while Asahikawa Science Museum adds hands-on learning indoors.
A: Even on rainy or snowy days, Asahikawa, Furano & Biei offer plenty of fun for families. In Asahikawa, kids can explore the Science Museum, discover culture at the Ainu Memorial Museum, or enjoy indoor play zones at AEON Mall Asahikawa Ekimae. In Furano, visit Furano Cheese Factory to make ice cream or pizza, while in Biei, cozy cafés and art galleries offer warm spots to rest and recharge.
A: Families visiting Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with kids will find delicious local favorites perfect for all ages. Asahikawa is famous for its soy-based ramen, best sampled at Asahikawa Ramen Village, where kids can try mini bowls from different shops. Furano offers creamy Hokkaido milk soft-serve, local cheeses, and fresh farm dishes, while Biei is known for its vegetable-based curries and scenic café meals made with local produce.
A: Absolutely! Asahikawa, Furano & Biei are among Hokkaido’s most rewarding destinations for families. Together they offer a rare mix of outdoor adventure, peaceful scenery, and family-friendly comfort. Kids can meet penguins, pick lavender, ride tractors, and watch snow sculptures, all within short, easy travel distances. Whether you visit in winter or summer, these three towns create a perfect balance of fun, nature, and relaxation for every age.
A: Families visiting Asahikawa, Furano & Biei can enjoy colorful festivals in every season. Winter brings the famous Asahikawa Winter Festival, where kids can see giant snow sculptures and ice slides. Summer is all about Furano’s Lavender Festival, featuring endless flower fields and fun photo spots. In Biei, the Shikisai no Oka Flower Festival and fall foliage events make it easy for families to enjoy local food, tractor rides, and vibrant scenery together.
A: The easiest way to explore Furano & Biei with kids is by car, giving families flexibility to stop at flower farms, viewpoints, and cafés along the way. Driving between Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa is simple, with clear roads and scenic views in every direction. For families without a car, local JR trains and sightseeing buses connect major attractions during summer, though renting a car makes it easier to reach rural spots like Blue Pond and Farm Tomita.
A: Yes, Asahikawa, Furano & Biei offer a wide range of family-friendly hotels and resorts. In Asahikawa, families love OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts for its playful atmosphere and large rooms. In Furano, the New Furano Prince Hotel is perfect for easy access to Ningle Terrace and ski lifts, while Biei Shirogane Onsen Hotels offer hot springs and nature views. Each area features family-sized rooms, on-site dining, and amenities designed for comfortable stays with kids.
A: Yes, Asahikawa, Furano & Biei are generally stroller-friendly and family-accessible. Asahikawa Zoo, parks, and shopping areas offer wide paths and elevators. Furano’s flower farms and Ningle Terrace have paved or compact paths suitable for strollers, though some slopes may require light assistance. In Biei, major viewpoints like Shikisai no Oka and the Blue Pond provide easy access and parking close to the entrance, making sightseeing comfortable for parents with little ones.
Until Next Time…
Asahikawa, Furano & Biei with kids is where nature, imagination, and northern charm come together. From penguins and flower fields to snow castles and cozy cafés, this region invites families to slow down and explore at their own pace. Whether you’re watching seals glide through the water, tasting soy ramen at Asahikawa Ramen Village, or chasing snowflakes at the Winter Festival, every moment here feels like a small adventure. In Hokkaido’s heartland, families discover that the best journeys aren’t about rushing, they’re about finding joy in quiet wonders and simple, shared discoveries.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
