
Heiwa Dori Shopping Park Asahikawa
Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only street, featuring sculptures and a quiet, historic atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More shops open, livelier vibe

Heiwa Dori Shopping Park Asahikawa
Best Time
More shops open, livelier vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only street, featuring sculptures and a quiet, historic atmosphere.
"A quiet stroll down Japan's first pedestrian-only street, adorned with sculptures."

Check Shop Hours Carefully
Many shops close early or are permanently shut. Verify hours before you go! :clock1:
Embrace the Stroll
Enjoy the sculptures and unique atmosphere, even if shopping isn't the main draw. :walking:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pedestrian-Only Street Charm
Heiwa Dori
Stroll down Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only street, lined with sculptures and trees.

Outdoor Sculptures
Along Heiwa Dori
Discover a variety of unique outdoor sculptures that add artistic flair to the street.

Evening Ambiance
Heiwa Dori
Experience a different vibe as some restaurants and izakayas come alive after dark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Heiwa Dori
Manage Expectations for Shopping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Shop Hours Carefully
Many shops close early or are permanently shut. Verify hours before you go! :clock1:
Embrace the Stroll
Enjoy the sculptures and unique atmosphere, even if shopping isn't the main draw. :walking:
Evening Dining Options
Restaurants and izakayas are more likely to be open in the evening. :knifeforkplate:
Winter Wonderland
Hokkaido in winter offers a magical backdrop for your visit. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Shop Hours Carefully
Many shops close early or are permanently shut. Verify hours before you go! :clock1:
Embrace the Stroll
Enjoy the sculptures and unique atmosphere, even if shopping isn't the main draw. :walking:
Evening Dining Options
Restaurants and izakayas are more likely to be open in the evening. :knifeforkplate:
Winter Wonderland
Hokkaido in winter offers a magical backdrop for your visit. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Heiwa Dori Shopping Park is noted for its historical significance as Japan's first pedestrian-only street, featuring unique sculptures. However, many visitors report a disappointing number of closed shops, leading to a quiet atmosphere. While some restaurants and izakayas are open, especially at night, it's not a bustling shopping destination.
"super dead street, most of the shops were closed whether we visited in the evening or in the morning. just a handful of clothes shops and restaurants (mostly izakaya) open. still nice to stroll down if you have nothing else to do, i guess."
Nadya Majeed
"Absolute ghost town, most of the shops were either closed or permanently abandoned. A couple were open but nothing much really. Just a long strip of nothing. A quiet place to stroll around if that’s what you’re looking for."
Atlas Dione
"Asahikawa Heiwa-dori is a shopping street in Hokkaido, Japan. Opened in 1972, Heiwa-doti Kaimono Koen is Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only street. It extends around 1 km to the north near Asahikawa Station, with various unique shops, sculptures and trees. It's a shame, when I visited it was quiet and almost all the shops were closed."
Setiawaty Lukman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heiwa Dori Shopping Park is conveniently located near Asahikawa Station, extending about 1 km north. It's easily accessible on foot from the station, making it a straightforward destination for visitors.
Yes, it's a prominent pedestrian street easily identifiable by its sculptures and shops. Its proximity to Asahikawa Station makes navigation simple.
The best way to explore is by walking. Take your time to appreciate the sculptures and the unique character of Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only street.
While it's a pedestrian street, there are likely parking facilities available in the vicinity of Asahikawa Station. It's advisable to check local parking information if you are arriving by car.
Absolutely! Asahikawa Station is a major transport hub, and Heiwa Dori is a short walk from it, making it very accessible via train or bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Heiwa Dori Shopping Park is a public pedestrian street and does not require an entrance ticket. You can stroll through it freely.
Heiwa Dori itself is always accessible as a public street. However, individual shop opening hours vary greatly, and many can be closed, especially outside of peak times.
The sculptures along Heiwa Dori are part of the streetscape and are free to view. There are no admission fees associated with them.
Many visitors suggest late afternoon or early evening might offer a slightly better chance of finding shops open, though it's still unpredictable.
Yes, the street is accessible at night, and some restaurants and izakayas remain open, offering a different, potentially livelier atmosphere.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Historically, it featured various unique shops. However, many reviews indicate a significant number are now closed or abandoned, with a few clothing stores and izakayas remaining.
While many shops are closed, some restaurants and izakayas are open, particularly in the evening. It's best to check current listings for dining options.
It's possible, but not guaranteed. Given the number of closed shops, souvenir hunting might be challenging. Consider exploring other areas of Asahikawa for more reliable options.
Prices can vary widely depending on the shop. One review mentioned hotels costing around 1,xxx yen, but this is for accommodation, not shopping on the street itself.
Information on cafes is scarce, and with many shops closed, it's uncertain. It's advisable to look for cafes near Asahikawa Station if you need a coffee break.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
The unique outdoor sculptures are excellent photo opportunities. The street itself, especially with its historical significance, can also make for interesting shots.
Yes, Hokkaido in winter is picturesque. Snow-covered streets and sculptures can create a beautiful, serene winter scene.
The atmosphere is often described as quiet or even a 'ghost town' due to many closed shops. However, it can feel more lively in the evenings with open restaurants.
Information on regular events is limited. It's best to check local Asahikawa event listings closer to your visit for any potential happenings.
Heiwa Dori is notable for being Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only shopping street, established in 1972.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Explorers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Evolution of Heiwa Dori
Despite its pioneering status, recent visitor experiences suggest a decline in its vibrancy. Many reviews mention a significant number of shops being closed or permanently abandoned, leading to a quiet or even 'ghost town' atmosphere. This stark contrast between its historical significance and current state is a recurring theme in traveler feedback. While some restaurants and izakayas remain open, particularly in the evenings, the overall shopping experience may not meet expectations for those seeking a bustling commercial hub.
Despite the challenges, Heiwa Dori still offers a unique glimpse into urban development history and a chance to appreciate the remaining sculptures and the architectural character of the street. For those interested in urban planning or seeking a quiet, contemplative stroll, it can still hold appeal. Visiting in the late afternoon or early evening might offer a slightly more active experience as some eateries begin to open.
Navigating Heiwa Dori: Tips from Travelers
The street itself is about 1 km long and is adorned with various outdoor sculptures, which are a key attraction for many. These artistic installations provide visual interest and make for good photo opportunities. While the shopping aspect might be limited, the experience of walking down this historically significant street, appreciating the art, and perhaps enjoying a meal at one of the open restaurants or izakayas in the evening can still be a worthwhile part of a visit to Asahikawa.
For those visiting during winter, the snowy landscape can add a unique charm to Heiwa Dori, transforming it into a picturesque winter scene. Despite its quiet nature, it remains a landmark in Asahikawa, offering a different pace compared to more commercialized shopping districts.
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