With crisp breezes and endless blue skies, the Obihiro and Tokachi region of Hokkaido is at its absolute best right now. Here are seven hand-picked spots recommended by the Obihiro Tourism Convention Association — covering everything from outdoor adventures to unforgettable local cuisine.

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1. Fresh Bread with a Side of Horses: Masuya Pan Mugi-ne Horse Park

Opened in April 2026 on the grounds of the beloved Masuya Pan Mugi-ne bakery, this new horse park is a living showcase of Tokachi's circular agriculture project. Retired ban'ei racehorses Musashikoma and Piano roam the spacious paddocks alongside native Hokkaido horses — a deeply calming sight. On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors can enjoy horse interactions and carriage rides. Grab a loaf of freshly baked bread and soak in the region's unique blend of nature and industry.

Details: Inada-machi, Obihiro (on the Mugi-ne bakery grounds). About 15 minutes by car from Obihiro Station. Free parking for approximately 150 vehicles. Grazing hours 7:30 am–3:00 pm (bakery open 6:55 am–6:00 pm). Closed around New Year. Tel: 0155-67-4659.

2. Dine in the Middle of a Field: Itadakimasu Company Farm Picnic

Step onto a real working farm — normally off-limits to the public — guided by an expert who brings the fields to life. The highlight? Harvesting sweet corn and seasonal vegetables yourself and eating them right there amid the crops. Three sessions run daily, with a lighter "snack tour" and a more filling "lunch tour" to choose from. The season runs from June through September — an unforgettable way to taste Tokachi's agricultural bounty at the source.

Details: Office at Kawanishi-cho, Obihiro. Tour farm in Memuro (exact address provided upon booking). About 30 minutes by taxi from Obihiro Station. Tel: 0155-29-4821.

3. Gardens, Goats, and Gourmet Cheese: Tokachi Millennium Forest

This stunning garden set against the backdrop of the Hidaka Mountains is a summer holiday dream. The standout activity is the natural cheese-making workshop — craft your own cheese, then enjoy it melted onto a freshly baked pizza on the spot (open to elementary school age and up). Add in Segway rides, horse trekking, and goat-petting, and you have a full day of family fun. Don't miss the Earth Garden for jaw-dropping panoramic views.

Details: Shimizu Town, Hokkaido. About 45 minutes by car from Obihiro Station. Summer hours (Jul–Aug): 9:00 am–5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm). Cheese workshop: ¥4,900 adults / ¥3,900 children. Tel: 0156-63-3000.

4. The Seafood Bowl You've Been Craving: Tokachi Kaisen Shokudo

Finding a proper seafood donburi at lunchtime in Tokachi is harder than you'd think — which makes Tokachi Kaisen Shokudo a genuine gem. Fish arrives daily from the market, meaning every bowl showcases whatever is at peak freshness. The cold-smoked soy sauce and locally grown wasabi elevate the natural flavours beautifully.

Details: Tokachimura East Building, Obihiro Racecourse. About 7 minutes by car from Obihiro Station. Hours: Tue–Fri 11:00 am–3:00 pm, Sat–Mon 11:00 am–6:00 pm. Closed Wednesdays. Tel: 0155-34-7307.

5. Potato Chips Fried in Wagyu Fat: PO Potato Chip Speciality Shop

Taking Japan's No.1 potato harvest and frying it in Tokachi wagyu beef fat, this newly opened shop inside Tokachimura has turned a humble snack into something extraordinary. Nine house-made dipping sauces let you customise every bite. Grab a takeaway pack — it makes a brilliant edible souvenir.

Details: Inside Tokachimura, Obihiro Racecourse. Open 10:00 am–5:00 pm. Closed Tue–Thu (Mon irregular). Tel: 080-6084-7903.

6. The World's Only One-Tonne Horse Race: Obihiro Racecourse (Ban'ei Keiba)

Nowhere else on Earth does ban'ei keiba exist — a unique form of horse racing where massive draft horses pull iron sleds up a steep incline. The raw power on display is mesmerising, and night races add an extra layer of drama. The on-site petting zoo lets kids get up close with the gentle giants, while the summer "Ban'ei Fuwafuwa Land" (through August 10 on Sat–Mon) offers free inflatable play equipment. Yakiniku House Renga, inside the grounds, serves top-quality grilled meat on race days.

Details: Nishi 13-jo Minami 9-chome, Obihiro. About 7 minutes by car from Obihiro Station. Free entry. Tel: 0155-34-0825.

7. Summer Festival: The 79th Obihiro Heigen Matsuri

Held on August 14–15, 2026, this is Obihiro's signature summer celebration. Expect Bon dancing, thunderous taiko drumming, street performers, and an expanded food zone with food trucks serving all day. The festival takes over central Obihiro (Nishi 2-jo Minami 7~11-chome, Hirokoji, and Yume no Kita Hiroba). Entry is free and the atmosphere is electric.