10 Things to Do in Sunagawa City

10 Things to Do in Sunagawa City

Sunagawa (砂川市) is a city in the Sorachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido, Japan. The name of the city is derived from the Ainu words ``Ota, Ushi, Nai'' (sand beach, shore, river) which was transliterated into 砂 (suna) – sand and 川 (kawa/gawa) - river.


For those planning to visit the city of Sunagawa to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Sunagawa:

Sunagawa City manhole covers

1. Take a picture of the manhole covers of Sunagawa City. So far, I have seen 2 unique manhole covers. They are commonly seen around town. However, the colored version is installed near Sunagawa City Hall.

Sunagawa Shrine

2. Visit the Sunagawa Shrine (砂川神社). It’s the main shrine of Sunagawa City. You can pay your respects and offer prayers here any time of the day. Don’t forget to avail of the shrine’s goshuin if you are collecting them.

Sunagawa Highway Oasis

3. Stop by Sunagawa Highway Oasis (砂川ハイウェイオアシス) when you’re driving along Hokkaido Expressway. It’s not one of the 128 roadside stations of Hokkaido but it serves like one. There are clean toilets, rest areas and plenty of food shops inside. Aside from that, you can also buy souvenirs.

Sunagawa City Local Reference Room

4. Visit Sunagawa City Local Reference Room (砂川市郷土資料室) and learn about the history of the city. The entrance is free.

Iwase Ranch

5. Try the gelato of Iwase Ranch (岩瀬牧場). These are made from the milk of the dairy cows of the ranch.

Ya Yell

6. Try the sweets of Ya Yell (ヤ・エール). Soft cream is highly recommended. The incredible view of the Sunagawa Yusui Pond both inside and outside the shop adds to its appeal.

Sunagawa Yusui Pond

7. Do some water-related activities at Sunagawa Yusui Pond (砂川遊水池) like canoeing and smelt fishing to name a few.

Sunagawa Oasis Park

8. Visit Sunagawa Oasis Park (砂川オアシスパーク) and enjoy the fresh air while strolling around Sunagawa Yusui Pond. The park is also pet-friendly. You can take your dog, cat, pig, snake, and unicorn for a walk here as long as you clean after them.

Kitakaro

9. Buy pastry at Kitakaro (北菓楼 砂川本店). Their creampuff is highly recommended. Aside from pastry, you can also order pasta. There are several types to choose from.

Hokkaido Kodomo no Kuni / Hokkaido Children's Country

10. Explore Hokkaido Kodomo no Kuni / Hokkaido Children's Country (北海道子どもの国), a sprawling park offering a multitude of amenities. While its primary aim is to provide children with a safe and enjoyable environment, adults will also find themselves thoroughly entertained. Within the park, you will discover replicas of renowned global landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, The Great Pyramid, and even the Great Wall of China.


I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Sunagawa gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this city in central Hokkaido.

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