Transportation
A rental car is essential for exploring the sprawling horse ranches and coastal viewpoints effectively.
Hokkaido, Japan
City·Quiet, Coastal, Rural
Urakawa is a peaceful coastal city located in the Hidaka region of Hokkaido. With a population of around 12,800, it maintains a quiet, authentic atmosphere that contrasts with Hokkaido's busier hubs. The area is most famous for its thriving horse-breeding industry, with numerous ranches dotting the landscape against the backdrop of the Hidaka Mountains. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the Pacific coast, local seafood, and a slow-paced lifestyle. It is an ideal stop for travelers seeking to explore the rural beauty and agricultural heritage of northern Japan.
Urakawa is a peaceful coastal city located in the Hidaka region of Hokkaido. With a population of around 12,800, it maintains a quiet, authentic atmosphere that contrasts with Hokkaido's busier hubs. The area is most famous for its thriving horse-breeding industry, with numerous ranches dotting the landscape against the backdrop of the Hidaka Mountains. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the Pacific coast, local seafood, and a slow-paced lifestyle. It is an ideal stop for travelers seeking to explore the rural beauty and agricultural heritage of northern Japan.
You might want to ask
Highlights
Picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean coastline.
Home to numerous thoroughbred horse-breeding ranches.
Authentic, small-town atmosphere in southern Hokkaido.
Proximity to the scenic Hidaka Mountain range.
Before you go: Urakawa essentials
The town is quite small with limited nightlife and shopping options.
English signage may be less prevalent than in Hokkaido's larger tourist hubs.
Coastal weather can be unpredictable and windy, even during the summer months.
Local Industry
Urakawa is a major producer of kombu (kelp); look for local shops selling high-quality seaweed products.
Best For
Horse-breeding heritage and quiet coastal exploration.
Currency
JPY ¥
Average Cost
$70-$120 p/day
Languages Spoken
Japanese, English
Horse Watching
Many ranches allow viewing from the road, but visitors should remain quiet and avoid entering private pastures.
Best time to visit Urakawa
May-October
Best Season
Spring
A beautiful time to see the newborn foals in the pastures and enjoy mild coastal weather.
Best Season
Summer
The climate is pleasantly cool compared to the rest of Japan, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.
Best Season
Fall
The surrounding mountains turn vibrant shades of orange and red, peaking in mid-to-late October.
Winter
The area sees significant snowfall and cold winds, offering a quiet, snowy landscape for hardy travelers.
Location
Urakawa, Hokkaido, Japan
