Kaguraoka Park
1 / 10

Kaguraoka Park Asahikawa

4.1
·531 reviews·Asahikawa, Japan

A vast natural park in Asahikawa, offering stunning winter illuminations and lush summer forests with free camping and wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter Evenings (Nov-Mar)

Magical illumination displays

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Kaguraoka Park

Kaguraoka Park Asahikawa

Best Time

Winter Evenings (Nov-Mar)

Magical illumination displays

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast natural park in Asahikawa, offering stunning winter illuminations and lush summer forests with free camping and wildlife.

4.1
(531 reviews)

"Fabulous garden and forest space, ideal for trekking, wildlife spotting, and free camping."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Dress for Winter

Bundle up for the winter illumination; warm layers are essential for enjoying the outdoor displays.

🦊 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for foxes and other wildlife, especially during quieter times in the park.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Asahikawa Winter Illumination

Asahikawa Winter Illumination

City Center

Millions of lights create a breathtaking winter spectacle, illuminating the streets and parks.

Kamikawa Shrine

Kamikawa Shrine

Within Kaguraoka Park

A significant and beautiful shrine nestled within the park's natural surroundings.

Lush Forests & Wildlife

Lush Forests & Wildlife

Kaguraoka Park

Explore expansive wild forests, spot diverse bird species, squirrels, and even foxes.

Waterfall

Waterfall

Kaguraoka Park

A serene waterfall adds to the natural beauty and tranquility of the park.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Winter Wonderland Illumination

Experience the magical 'Asahikawa Winter Illumination' from late November to early March. This dazzling event transforms the city center with millions of lights, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for evening strolls. Arrive after dark to witness the full spectacle.

Summer Nature Escape

Kaguraoka Park is a vast, natural escape, especially vibrant in summer. Explore its extensive forests, discover diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy free camping. It's ideal for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat with opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Best Times

When
Winter Evenings (Nov-Mar)
Why
Magical illumination displays
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Ideal for nature walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Asahikawa (Hokkaido) The winter night in Asahikawa was special ‼︎☃️❄️🥰👍 #japan #hokkaido #asahikawa #japantravel #japantrip #japan2024 #北海道 #北海道旅行 #北海道観光 #japannight
@japan_walker_
15.7K likes • 180.1K views

🧥 Dress for Winter

Bundle up for the winter illumination; warm layers are essential for enjoying the outdoor displays. TikTok

🦊 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for foxes and other wildlife, especially during quieter times in the park. Reddit

過去最大級の23万球の イルミネーションが 旭川の冬空を彩る ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ あさひかわ 街あかり イルミネーション ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ 今年も始まりました✨ 今年は過去最大級の23万球が 中心街にきらめきます✨ 星と雪と光が降りそそぐ きらきらの冬を楽しめます❄️ 会場がたくさんあるので ぜひお気に入りのスポットを 見つけに来てくださいね✨ ────────────── 💫あさひかわ街あかりイルミネーション 📍開催日時 2024.11.30(土)〜2025.3.9(日) 点灯時間(lighting time) 16:30 〜 23:00 📍場所 ・緑橋通 なながどイルミネーション ・平和通買物公園 フレンドリーイルミネーション ・常盤ロータリー ロータリーイルミネーション ・7条緑道 緑道イルミネーション ・昭和通り ウェルカムイルミネーション 📍アクセス 旭川駅から徒歩圏内 📍...
@mi_tan_official
4.5K likes • 78.8K views
🩷💕💞🎏💜🍥🐥🇯🇵❤️#japan #kamakura #traveltiktok #tokyo #asahikawa #sapporo #fyp
@aiganymska
2.4K likes • 9.5K views

🏕️ Free Camping

Bring your own gear for a free camping experience in the park's designated areas. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trekking Trails

Be prepared for challenging trekking routes if exploring the wilder parts of the park. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Dress for Winter

Bundle up for the winter illumination; warm layers are essential for enjoying the outdoor displays. TikTok

🦊 Wildlife Spotting

Keep an eye out for foxes and other wildlife, especially during quieter times in the park. Reddit

🏕️ Free Camping

Bring your own gear for a free camping experience in the park's designated areas. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Trekking Trails

Be prepared for challenging trekking routes if exploring the wilder parts of the park. Reddit

🚗 Ample Parking

Large, free parking lots are available, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(531 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kaguraoka Park is lauded for its vast natural beauty, offering both challenging trekking routes and serene spots like a waterfall and the Kamikawa Shrine. Visitors appreciate the abundant wildlife and the unique opportunity for free camping. The winter illumination event is a major draw, transforming the area into a magical spectacle.

"Fabulous garden and forest space."

Nick White

"Must be the largest park in Asahikawa, filled with plenty of cherry blossoms and many other trees & plants of all kinds. Although most of them was mere wild forest, and the routes were quite challenging too - more suitable for trekking than a walk. The Kamikawa Shrine inside is also an especially great one."

Quinn'z Land

"Wide & wild park literally. When walking in the park, I saw 3 wild foxes. 2 of them are too quick to catch (take photos, i mean). There are many birds, squirrels as well. You can also camp here, with your own equipment for free. Love it so much, especially in the summer"

Yen Ngo

What People Like

Vast natural beauty
Free camping opportunity
Winter illumination magic

What People Dislike

Challenging trekking routes
Crowds during illumination

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kaguraoka Park is accessible by car, with several large, free parking lots available. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is recommended if you're not driving. Reddit

The park is quite extensive. Using GPS or a map is advised, especially if you plan to explore its deeper sections. The main illumination areas are usually well-signposted during winter. TikTok

For the winter illumination, walking is best. For summer exploration, consider a mix of walking and light trekking, depending on your fitness level and desired route. Reddit

Kaguraoka Park itself is generally free to enter. The main attraction during winter, the illumination event, is also typically free to view. TikTok

While direct bus routes might exist, checking the latest schedules is crucial. Many visitors opt for taxis or drive due to the cold and potential for infrequent bus services. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are not required for the Asahikawa Winter Illumination. It's a public event enjoyed by all, transforming the city center into a festive wonderland. TikTok

Kaguraoka Park is generally open year-round. The winter illumination typically runs from 16:30 to 23:00 daily during its season. TikTok

For the illumination, visiting after sunset is essential. For nature exploration, early mornings or late afternoons in summer offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, local tourism information centers may offer suggestions or self-guided route maps, especially for the illumination event. TikTok

General park rules apply. During the illumination, stick to designated paths. In summer, respect wildlife and avoid disturbing the natural environment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

During winter, the illuminated streets and trees offer stunning photo opportunities. In summer, the waterfall, shrine, and lush forest provide picturesque backdrops. TikTokReddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed throughout Kaguraoka Park. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive flash photography, especially at night. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance and a tripod can help capture the magic of the illumination. Consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the scale of the displays. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, always be respectful of the environment and other visitors. Avoid drone usage unless permitted and ensure you're not obstructing pathways. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons are often best for spotting and photographing wildlife like birds and squirrels, as they are most active during these times. Reddit

🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience

In winter, enjoy the spectacular light displays. In summer, you can hike, camp for free (with your own gear), observe wildlife, and visit the Kamikawa Shrine. Reddit

The main areas, especially during the illumination, are suitable for leisurely walks. However, some parts of the park are wilder and better suited for trekking. Reddit

Restroom facilities are usually available, particularly near main access points. Cafes or dining options are more likely to be found in the city center rather than deep within the park itself. TikTok

Visitors have reported seeing crows, birds, squirrels, and even wild foxes in the park. Reddit+1

The main paths during the illumination event are generally accessible. However, the wilder, natural areas of the park may present challenges due to uneven terrain. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kaguraoka Park offers a mixed experience for families. During the winter illumination, the dazzling lights provide a magical spectacle that children will love. It's a great opportunity for evening strolls and enjoying the festive atmosphere. TikTok+1 However, be prepared for cold weather and ensure everyone is warmly dressed. TikTok

In the summer, the park's vastness and natural elements can be exciting. Kids might enjoy spotting wildlife like squirrels and birds, and the open spaces are great for running around. Reddit The free camping option is also a unique adventure for families. However, be aware that some trails are challenging and better suited for trekking, so stick to more accessible paths with younger children. Reddit

🏕️ Budget Travelers & Campers

Kaguraoka Park is a dream for budget travelers, especially those who love the outdoors. The park offers free camping with your own equipment, making it an incredibly cost-effective way to experience Hokkaido's nature. Reddit This allows for an extended stay immersed in the park's environment without accommodation costs. Reddit

Beyond camping, the park itself is free to enter, and the popular winter illumination event requires no admission fee. TikTok With ample free parking, arriving by car is also budget-friendly. This makes Kaguraoka Park an excellent destination for travelers looking to maximize their experience while minimizing expenses, offering both natural beauty and a vibrant light show without breaking the bank. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to explore the great outdoors, Kaguraoka Park is a must-visit. Its extensive wild forests and natural landscapes offer a true escape. Reddit While some paths are challenging trekking routes, they provide an authentic wilderness experience for seasoned hikers. Reddit The park's diverse flora and fauna, including opportunities to spot wild foxes and various bird species, make it a prime location for wildlife observation and nature photography. Reddit

Even if you're not looking for strenuous hikes, the park offers beautiful scenery with its lush trees and a serene waterfall. Reddit The chance to camp for free adds to its appeal, allowing for a deeper connection with the natural environment. Reddit Whether you're seeking adventure on rugged trails or a peaceful walk amidst nature, Kaguraoka Park delivers a rich and rewarding experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Asahikawa Winter Illumination

From late November to early March, Asahikawa transforms into a winter wonderland, with the Asahikawa Winter Illumination being a major highlight. This event, often centered around the city's main streets and parks, features millions of dazzling lights that create a truly magical atmosphere. Videos showcase the sheer scale of the illumination, with lights adorning trees and buildings, turning the night into a vibrant spectacle. TikTok+1 The illumination typically runs from 16:30 until 23:00, making it a perfect evening activity. It's a chance to experience the festive spirit of Hokkaido during its coldest months, offering a warm glow against the snowy landscape. TikTok

Visitors often describe the experience as breathtaking and enchanting. The sheer number of lights, with some events boasting over 230,000 bulbs, creates an immersive environment. TikTok While the exact locations can vary slightly year to year, key areas like Nanagodo Street and Heiwa Dori are frequently featured. TikTok It's an ideal setting for a romantic evening stroll or a family outing, providing a memorable contrast to the natural winter beauty of Hokkaido. TikTok

Exploring Kaguraoka Park's Natural Beauty

Kaguraoka Park is a sprawling natural haven, particularly enchanting during the warmer months. It's described as a fabulous garden and forest space, one of the largest in Asahikawa. Reddit The park boasts a diverse array of trees and plants, creating a rich ecosystem. For nature enthusiasts, it offers a chance to explore wild forests with routes that are more suited for trekking than casual walks. Reddit The presence of a waterfall adds to the serene ambiance, making it a peaceful retreat from the city. Reddit

The park is also a haven for wildlife. Visitors have reported sightings of wild foxes, numerous birds, and squirrels, adding an element of adventure to any exploration. Reddit The opportunity to camp for free with your own equipment is a significant draw for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Reddit The park's vastness and natural state make it a unique destination for those who appreciate untamed landscapes and the chance to connect with the outdoors. Reddit

The Significance of Kamikawa Shrine

Nestled within the expansive Kaguraoka Park is the Kamikawa Shrine, an important spiritual site that adds cultural depth to the natural landscape. It's noted as an 'especially great one' by visitors, suggesting a unique or particularly well-maintained presence within the park. Reddit The shrine offers a place for quiet contemplation and a glimpse into local traditions, set against the backdrop of the park's natural beauty. Reddit

While the shrine itself is a point of interest, its integration within Kaguraoka Park means visitors can easily combine a spiritual visit with outdoor activities. Whether you're exploring the park's trails in summer or enjoying the winter illuminations nearby, the Kamikawa Shrine stands as a serene landmark. Its presence enhances the overall experience, offering a blend of nature, culture, and tranquility. Reddit

You may also like