Kyōwa(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Kyōmachi, stay at Kyōwakō Onsen Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn offering private outdoor baths overlooking the Furano Hills. The property blends authentic wooden architecture with modern comfort, serving locally sourced Hokkaido kaiseki cuisine. Nearby, Yukino Mori Minshuku provides cozy cabin-style lodging with forest views, ideal for families seeking a peaceful retreat. Both offer immersive experiences in rural Hokkaido life.

The best time to visit Kyōmachi is during summer (June to August) when the Furano Plains bloom with lavender fields, creating a breathtaking purple landscape. In autumn (September to October), the maple trees turn vibrant red and gold along the Tokachi River, perfect for photography. Winter (December to February) offers serene snowscapes and excellent opportunities for skiing and hot spring relaxation in quiet mountain surroundings.

Visitors to Kyōmachi can participate in the annual Northern Farming Festival (held in July), where guests learn to plant rice and use traditional farming tools. Hands-on workshops include pottery-making using local clay, and night-time stargazing tours led by local guides reveal the Milky Way from one of Japan’s top dark-sky locations. These activities deepen understanding of Ainu culture and the region’s deep connection to nature.

Yes, Kyōmachi boasts natural hot springs with mineral-rich waters beneficial for health and relaxation. The Kyō Onsen area features open-air baths with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. At Kyōwakō Onsen Ryokan, guests enjoy private soaking pools surrounded by forest, while some facilities offer herbal baths and forest meditation treatments—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Absolutely. Kyōmachi is ideal for families seeking a calm, nature-filled getaway. The Furano Kids Farm lets children feed sheep and milk cows, while the Kyōmachi Nature Education Center offers guided eco-tours for kids. Many guesthouses provide family rooms, play areas, and breakfast featuring farm-fresh ingredients, ensuring a safe, engaging, and memorable experience for all ages.

Travel from Sapporo to Kyōmachi Station via the JR Super Okhotsk train, taking about 1 hour 30 minutes. Alternatively, drive along National Route 273, a scenic route covering 90 km through lush countryside. For added convenience, private car rental or charter services are available, especially useful for groups or those with heavy luggage. Upon arrival, pick up free maps and event guides at the station’s tourism information center.

Must-try dishes in Kyōmachi include Furano Beef Burger, tender and juicy with fresh local vegetables. Another highlight is Potato Dumplings, made from Hokkaido-grown potatoes, served warm with honey or sweet soy sauce. Don’t miss Yuki no Hikari sake, brewed locally with crisp, fruity notes. Many restaurants also serve farm-to-table breakfasts with organic produce, offering a true taste of northern Hokkaido.

Kyōmachi’s night scenery is renowned for its unpolluted starry skies. With minimal light pollution, it’s one of Japan’s premier spots for stargazing. During summer, the Starlight Festival offers telescopes and expert-led sessions on constellations. Some ryokans even provide rooftop viewing decks with blankets and warm drinks, allowing guests to marvel at the Milky Way under a vast, silent sky.

Top photography locations in Kyōmachi include the lavender fields (June–August), which stretch like a purple carpet across the Furano Plains. The Tokachi River Valley at dawn, shrouded in mist, creates dreamy reflections. Scenic viewpoints along the Furano Hills Trail capture changing seasons in stunning detail. In winter, snow-covered cabins beneath moonlight resemble scenes from a fairy tale, perfect for tranquil, atmospheric shots.

While remote, Kyōmachi has reliable transport options. The Kyōmachi Station connects daily to Sapporo via JR trains. Local tourist buses link key attractions like farms, onsen, and festivals. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring off-the-beaten-path trails and hidden valleys. Most hotels offer free shuttle services, making transfers easy and stress-free for travelers of all ages.