
Guide to Tobetsu Town
Get off the beaten path and into the heart of Hokkaido’s bread basket by visiting Tobetsu, a small agricultural town just 40 minutes from Sapporo. Known for its high-quality produce, especially its vast wheat fields, Tobetsu’s harvests contribute to some of Japan’s most delicious noodles and baked goods. This farming community has perfected the art of transforming their golden wheat into everything from artisanal bread to traditional Japanese noodles while producing premium dairy products from their local farms. Though many visitors to Hokkaido focus on Sapporo’s busy streets or Furano’s lavender fields, Tobetsu offers a chance to experience authentic rural Japan, where you can meet the farmers, bakers, and craftspeople who help feed the nation.
Getting there

From Sapporo Station, take the Gakuentoshi Line directly to Tobetsu Station (approximately 40 minutes). If you’re coming from New Chitose Airport, take the rapid airport train to Sapporo Station, then transfer to the Gakuentoshi Line (the total journey is about 90 minutes). For more flexibility in exploring rural areas, consider renting a car near Sapporo Station or the airport, as Tobetsu’s farms and attractions are spread throughout the countryside.
Gettings around Tobetsu City

While the central area around Tobetsu Station is walkable, many of the city’s sights and attractions are spread across the agricultural district. Local buses run limited services between major spots, but a rental car is recommended for visiting farms and wheat fields.
Tourist attractions
Tobetsu’s charm lies in its picturesque rural landscape, where scenic drives reveal a patchwork of golden wheat fields, orchids, and peaceful grazing grounds. The winding country roads offer countless photo opportunities, particularly in the early morning when the mist rolls over the farmland or at sunset when the fields glow in amber light.


One of the area’s most unique attractions is Sweden Hills, a slice of Scandinavia in Hokkaido, where distinctive red and white Nordic-style houses complete with steep roofs create an unexpected European atmosphere — especially enchanting during the winter season.

Royce' Cacao & Chocolate Town is an immersive chocolate-themed facility that opened in August 2023. Visitors can learn about the unique journey through the world of chocolate, from cacao cultivation to the production process. There's also a hands-on workshop to create custom chocolates, making it a must-visit for chocolate enthusiasts of all ages.
Local foods

For a taste of modern rural life, Nordic Winds of Michi-no-eki Tobetsu serves as both a roadside station and local produce market, where visitors can sample and purchase fresh local products. From just-baked breads to seasonal vegetables, its offerings make it an essential stop for experiencing Tobetsu’s treasures.
Local udon noodle restaurants serve noodles made fresh daily from Tobetsu’s wheat. Standout venues include Kabato Seimen (open from April to November), where the noodles are made fresh right in front of the customers and are famous for their firm, chewy texture.
Seasonal attractions

When the summer crops have been harvested and winter blankets Tobetsu in snow, part of the city transforms into a welcoming ski resort. Ishikari Heigen Ski Area, though modest in size, offers perfect skiing for beginners and families, along with stunning views over the snow-covered agricultural plains below.
Nearby destinations

Neighboring Otaru, just an hour away by car and 90 minutes away by train, offers some of Hokkaido’s most popular tourist attractions. This historic port city charms visitors with its beautifully preserved canal district, where converted stone warehouses now host restaurants and boutiques. The famous Otaru Music Box Museum, housed in a large historic building, displays thousands of antique and contemporary music boxes, while the city’s glasswork shops along Sakaimachi Street showcase local craftspeople at work.
Where to stay
1. Chateraise Gateaux Kingdom Sapporo Hotel & Resort

Located just 30 minutes by car from Tobetsu City, this unique resort combines a hotel with a working confectionary factory. Chateraise Gateaux Kingdom Sapporo Hotel is famous for its sweets and service. It features multiple restaurants, a large indoor and outdoor swimming pool with a food kiosk, a full-size indoor and outdoor hot spring bath, and a German-style sauna, so this hotel has something for every family member. The cozy rooms come with all the necessities, such as high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable bedding, flat-screen TVs, and even bathtubs. The hotel’s location along the Tobetsu-Sapporo route makes it convenient for exploring both areas, while its spacious grounds and family-friendly facilities provide a different kind of countryside experience.
2. Hotel Reborn Nopporo

Situated in the peaceful Nopporo area, just a 30-minute drive from Tobetsu, this contemporary hotel offers a comfortable base for exploring the region. Just a five-minute walk from Nopporo Station, Hotel Reborn Nopporo offers exceptional value for money. The property's comprehensive breakfast buffet has earned praise for its variety, providing a hearty start to the day. Each well-appointed room comes equipped with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs, reliable Wi-Fi, private ensuite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, and abundant on-site parking.
3. Hotel MyStays Sapporo Station

While located in central Sapporo (45 minutes from Tobetsu City by car), Hotel MyStays Sapporo Station is a practical base for those wanting to combine rural exploration with city convenience. The property's direct access to Sapporo Station makes day trips to Tobetsu straightforward. Rooms are well equipped for business and leisure travelers, and the hotel’s location within Sapporo offers easy access to Hokkaido’s best dining and shopping districts after a day exploring the countryside.
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