10 Things to Do in Shikaoi
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| 10 Things to Do in Shikaoi |
Shikaoi (鹿追町) is a charming town in Hokkaido’s Tokachi Subprefecture, Japan. It is famous for its dairy farms and wide stretches of farmland that yield potatoes, wheat, and beans. The town’s name comes from the Ainu word “Kutekuushi.” In this term, “K” refers to a bow, specifically a mechanical bow (amapo). “Kuteku” describes a place where deer are hunted by building a fence and setting up an amapo. Thus, “Kutekuushi” means “a place with a deer-catching fence.” In Japanese, this name is translated as “Shikaoi.”
For those planning to visit this charming town
to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Shikaoi:
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| Shikaoi's manhole cover designs |
1. Take a photo of Shikaoi's manhole cover
designs. I have seen 4 unique manhole cover designs. They are commonly found in
the town. The colored manhole cover can be seen near the Urimaku Roadside
Station.
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| Shikaoi Shrine |
2. Visit Shikaoi Shrine (鹿追神社), the town's main shrine,
to pay respects and offer prayers. You can get a goshuin here for your
collection.
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| Osakaya |
3. Dine at Osakaya (大阪屋), a well-loved local restaurant where you can enjoy authentic
flavors of Hokkaido. One of the highlights here is their horumonyaki, a savory
dish made with grilled offal that pairs perfectly with a cold drink. Another
must-try is the famous jingisukan, Hokkaido’s signature grilled mutton dish
cooked right at your table. Both dishes offer a hearty and flavorful experience
that reflects the region’s food culture.
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| Sweets Atelier Shikaoi Roku |
4. Try the desserts at Sweets Atelier Shikaoi Roku (お菓子のアトリエ しかおいroku,
formerly Patisserie Roku). This local favorite is known for its beautifully
crafted sweets that are as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds.
The fluffy pancakes are a must-try, and the rich, dome-shaped chocolate is another
standout treat that dessert lovers will surely enjoy.
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| Shikaoi Roadside Station |
5. Visit the Shikaoi Roadside Station (道の駅 しかおい), one
of the two roadside stations in town. Although it is small, it offers a wide
selection of fresh, locally grown produce that highlights Shikaoi’s
agricultural heritage. What makes this roadside station unique is its aquarium,
which features several sturgeon fish that are rarely seen in other stations.
Before leaving, make sure to collect the official roadside station stamp, a
popular keepsake for travelers exploring Hokkaido’s many michi-no-eki.
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| Lake Shikaribetsu Submerged Railway Track |
6. Visit the Lake Shikaribetsu Submerged Railway Track (湖底線路),
a unique spot that feels straight out of a fantasy world. When the water level
is low, you can see the old railway tracks stretching into the lake, creating a
mysterious and nostalgic atmosphere. Many visitors say it gives off a Spirited
Away vibe, making it a fascinating stop for photography and quiet reflection by
the lakeside.
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| Fukuhara Sansou |
7. Visit Fukuhara Sansou (福原山荘) in autumn to
experience its stunning fall foliage. The gardens come alive with vibrant
shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.
It is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the crisp autumn air,
and capture beautiful seasonal photos.
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| Ogigahara Observatory |
8. Enjoy the sweeping panoramic views of
the Tokachi Plains from the Ogigahara Observatory (扇ヶ原展望台). On clear days, you can see the vast patchwork of fields
stretching endlessly across the horizon, offering a breathtaking perspective of
Hokkaido’s agricultural heartland. It is an ideal spot for photography and for
simply taking in the natural beauty of the region.
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| Fukuhara Memorial Museum |
9. Visit the Fukuhara Memorial Museum (福原記念美術館), an art museum showcasing a wide range
of works by a local artist. The exhibits highlight the creativity and talent of
the region, offering visitors an intimate look at the local art scene. It is a
great stop for art lovers and anyone interested in experiencing Shikaoi’s
cultural side.
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| Urimaku Roadside Station |
10. Visit the Urimaku Roadside Station (道の駅 うりまく), where you can browse a charming souvenir shop and enjoy a unique horseback riding experience. Inside the station, there is a mechanical horse for a fun and interactive ride, while outside at the Shikaoi Riding Park, you can ride real horses and take in the scenic surroundings. This makes Urimaku a great stop for both families and visitors looking for a memorable experience in Shikaoi. Before leaving, make sure to collect the official roadside station stamp, a popular keepsake for travelers exploring Hokkaido’s many michi-no-eki.
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Shikaoi gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this charming town in the Tokachi Subprefecture of Hokkaido.
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