Asahikawa is Japan’s saké-brewing, seafood and ramen noodle centre. Amuse yourself at its zoo, sculpture museum, pottery village, ski slopes and beautiful gardens.
One of the world’s largest and most cutting-edge cities is at the heart of this region that’s blessed with sacred shrines, gorgeous coastlines and lush mountain landscapes.
Cats of all shapes and sizes have taken over this purr-fect petting zoo, with a cat train and friendly staff who let you watch the pets during feeding times.
Look for the brightly colored origami cranes around this memorial and then discover the story of tragedy and hope behind this monument to the child victims of the atomic bomb.