Asahikawa (旭川) is a large city in Hokkaido that is mainly used as a transport terminal or somewhere to stop along on a journey. It also has a nearby zoo.
Budget travel tips
- Get some food here before heading off into the mountains or countryside towns (such as Biei or Naka-Furano), as food there can be expensive or nonexistent!
Places of interest
One of the best zoos in Japan, with all sorts of animals and great shows to see. Full guide here.
Main shopping street
Walk out of the north exit to reach this main shopping street, with a few cheap shops and restaurants.
How to get there
Without the Japan Rail Pass
From Sapporo station, take the bus from the Bus Terminal to Asahikawa (2 hours, 2060 yen).
With the Japan Rail Pass
From Sapporo station, take the Limited Express train to Asahikawa station (85 mins).
Map
Hostels and Cheap Hotels
Mimatsuso Ryokan
Super cheap place with excellent service (free Japanese confectionery and tea on arrival!) and a good location near Asahikawa station. Check prices at Booking.com
More at Booking.com
Super Cheap Japan 