10 Things to Do in Yoichi

10 Things to Do in Yoichi, Hokkaido
10 Things to Do in Yoichi

Yoichi (余市町) is a charming town in Hokkaido’s Shiribeshi Subprefecture, Japan. It is best known for its apples, whisky, and its unique fascination with space exploration. The name Yoichi has been in use since the Edo period, when it was designated as a city.

There are several theories regarding the origin of the name. One suggests it comes from Yuseochi, meaning “a place with hot springs.” Another traces it to Iochi, meaning “dizzy eyes,” while yet another connects it to Iochi, meaning “a place of abundance.” 

For those planning to visit this beautiful town to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Yoichi:

 

Yoichi manhole cover
Yoichi manhole cover

1. Take a photo of Yoichi's manhole cover design. I have seen 1 unique manhole cover design. It is commonly found in the town.

 

余市神社
Yoichi Shrine

2. Visit Yoichi Shrine (余市神社), the town’s main Shinto shrine, to pay your respects and offer prayers. Located in the heart of Yoichi, it’s also a great spot to collect a goshuin for your stamp book.

 

フゴッペ洞窟
Fugoppe Cave

3. Uncover the mysteries of Yoichi’s prehistoric past at Fugoppe Cave (フゴッペ洞窟). Famous for its ancient petroglyphs—carvings made by early humans—this site gives visitors a rare glimpse into life thousands of years ago. Explore the cave and see intricate rock carvings of animals, humans, and symbols, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

 

道の駅 スペース・アップルよいち
Roadside Station “Space Apple Yoichi”

4. Visit Roadside Station “Space Apple Yoichi” (道の駅 スペース・アップルよいち), where you’ll find a cozy souvenir shop offering local products, especially apple-based and apple-themed goods. If you’re a fan of collecting roadside station stamps, be sure to get the stamp from this spot—it’s a must!

 

円山公園
Maruyama Park

5. Bring your kids to the spacious Maruyama Park (円山公園for a relaxing day outdoors. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through its wide paths, and if you visit in spring, you’ll experience the beauty of hanami as the park transforms into a stunning sea of cherry blossoms in full bloom. 

 

ローソク岩
Candle Rock

6. Check out Candle Rock (ローソク岩). This unique-looking rock formation makes an interesting photo during sunset when you align the tip of the rock with the setting sun, making it look like a floating candle on the sea.  

 

えびす岩と大黒岩
Ebisu Rock and Daikoku Rock

7. Check out and snap some photos of Ebisu Rock and Daikoku Rock (えびす岩と大黒岩), two uniquely shaped rock formations along the coast. One of them even features a small torii gate perched on top, making it a picturesque and iconic spot.


旧下ヨイチ運上家
Shimoyoichi Unjoya Trading Post

8. Step back in time at the Shimoyoichi Unjoya Trading Post (旧下ヨイチ運上家), a window into Yoichi’s early trading history. Discover how Japanese settlers and the indigenous Ainu people interacted, and explore preserved buildings and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s cultural and economic past. History buffs and curious travelers alike will find this site a fascinating stop on their Yoichi adventure.

 

余市宇宙記念館
Yoichi Space Memorial Museum 

9. Learn about space travel and the wonders of the universe at Space Dome Yoichi, officially known as the Yoichi Space Memorial Museum (余市宇宙記念館). The museum features numerous exhibits, including interactive displays that make learning both fun and engaging. Before you leave, don’t forget to pick up some space food as a unique souvenir.

 

ニッカウヰスキー 余市蒸溜所
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

10. Visit the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery (ニッカウヰスキー 余市蒸溜所). You can explore the free museum or book a guided tour for full access to the distillery itself. Before heading home, consider picking up a bottle of some of Nikka’s finest whisky available for sale.

I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Yoichi gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this charming town in the Shiribeshi Subprefecture of Hokkaido.

#Yoichi

#YoichiHokkaido

Read more:

Hokkaido 179

Japan Diaries 4: Summary

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