Popular Transport in Tokachi

The Tokachi region is vast, making self-driving the most recommended way to travel, allowing for flexible exploration of diverse attractions. Recommended routes include the 'Pastoral Scenery and Gourmet Tour,' passing through Obihiro city and Tokachi River Onsen, where you can savor local pork bowls and desserts, then visiting agricultural sites like Rokkatei Forest Park and Manabe Garden. Another option is the 'Nature Scenery and Activities Tour,' starting from Obihiro and heading to Lake Shikaribetsu in Shikaoi Town for activities like boating and lakeside hot springs, or hiking around Daisetsuzan National Park. Each season offers unique beauty, and routes can be adjusted based on your interests.

From Obihiro Airport (Tokachi-Obihiro Airport) to the main city of Tokachi, Obihiro, there are several transportation options. The most convenient is taking the airport bus, which aligns its schedule with flights and provides direct service to the front of Obihiro Station, taking approximately 40-50 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi, which is more expensive but takes you directly to your destination, saving the hassle of transfers. If you plan to self-drive in Tokachi, you can also rent a car directly at the airport for your subsequent itinerary.

When traveling in Tokachi, renting a car offers greater convenience and flexibility compared to public transportation. Attractions in the Tokachi region are spread out, and many farms, gardens, and secluded hot springs are less accessible or not directly served by public transport. Driving allows you to freely plan your itinerary and stop to enjoy the scenery at your leisure. If you are uncomfortable driving in snowy conditions or have a limited budget, and your itinerary is concentrated in and around Obihiro city, public transport (like buses and JR trains) can still serve as basic options, but exploring deeper into Tokachi might be challenging. Overall, self-driving is the best choice for experiencing Tokachi's landscapes.

Tokachi's winter road conditions are affected by snowfall, with roads often covered in snow or ice, requiring special attention. It is recommended to rent a vehicle equipped with snow tires (Studless Tires) or studded tires to ensure driving safety. When driving in snow, always reduce speed, maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead, and avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or sharp turns. Be particularly careful on turns or inclines to prevent skidding. Before departing, check the weather forecast and road information, and ensure your fuel tank is full to cope with potential road condition changes. For those unfamiliar with driving in snow, it is advisable to consider using public transportation or booking local tours.

Sightseeing bus services are available in the Tokachi region, especially during specific seasons or event periods, with limited-time routes that make it convenient for travelers to visit popular attractions. These sightseeing buses typically connect multiple popular spots, such as flower fields, farms, or wineries, saving the trouble of planning your own transportation. Some services may also offer multi-day passes, allowing travelers unlimited rides on specific routes within a designated period. This is a good option for those who prefer not to self-drive or wish to experience local transportation. It's recommended to check relevant information when planning your itinerary.

To travel to the Tokachi region from other major Japanese cities, the primary transportation methods include domestic flights, JR trains, and long-distance buses. If departing from mainland areas like Tokyo or Nagoya, the fastest option is to take a domestic flight directly to Obihiro Airport, followed by a bus or rental car to various parts of Tokachi. From Sapporo, you can opt for a JR Limited Express train, which takes about 2.5 hours to reach Obihiro Station, offering scenic views along the way. Alternatively, you can take a highway bus, which takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Each mode of transport has its advantages, and you can choose based on your budget and time.

The Obihiro city loop bus is a convenient way to explore the city's attractions. Its main routes connect the core facilities in the city center, such as shopping streets, parks, and museums around Obihiro Station. For instance, some routes pass through Midorigaoka Park, Obihiro Shrine, or areas with a concentration of famous dessert shops. This type of bus allows travelers to easily move between major shopping, dining, and cultural attractions within the city, especially suitable for those who don't drive or want to experience local daily life. You can check detailed route maps and schedules at the bus stop in front of Obihiro Station to plan your city sightseeing tour.

To travel from Sapporo to the Tokachi region (usually Obihiro Station) by JR train, you can take a Limited Express train. There are several ways to book tickets. You can purchase tickets directly at the JR station's 'Midori no Madoguchi' (Green Window) or at ticket machines, where staff will assist you. Alternatively, you can make online reservations through the official JR Hokkaido website. For more flexible booking services and Chinese support, you can book relevant transportation tickets through KKday, which offers Chinese customer service and flexible cancellation policies, eliminating language barriers and making trip planning more secure and convenient.

For visiting famous flower field attractions in the Tokachi region, such as Tokachi Hill, Tokachi Millennium Forest, or Manabe Garden, renting a car is the most recommended mode of transport. Since these flower fields are often spread out and may be located in suburban areas, driving allows for more flexible itinerary planning, enabling you to stop and take photos at your leisure. If you prefer not to drive, some attractions might be served by local buses, but their frequency may be low, so checking the timetable carefully is necessary. Additionally, you could consider joining a one-day bus tour organized by local travel agencies, which usually cover multiple flower fields or farm attractions, saving you the trouble of arranging transportation.

To rent a car and drive in Tokachi, in addition to your domestic driver's license, you must also have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Taiwanese travelers visiting Japan to rent a car need to present their valid Taiwanese driver's license, a Japanese translation of their license (obtainable from the Motor Vehicles Office), and their passport; all three are required. Please ensure your International Driving Permit was issued under the framework of the 1949 Geneva Convention. Rental car companies will require you to present these documents for verification to ensure your driving qualifications meet local regulations in Japan.