Tokachi Millennium Forest, Hokkaido Travel Guide

4 (768)

Discover Hokkaido's horticultural gem: a thousand-year forest blending nature, art, and sustainability at the foot of the Hidaka Mountains.

Home
Travel Guides
Japan
Hokkaido
Tokachi Millennium Forest

Tokachi Millennium Forest is a sprawling horticultural site at the foot of the Hidaka Mountains in Hokkaido, Japan. Conceived by newspaper magnate Mitsushige Hayashi, the forest aims to offset his company's carbon footprint and offer a space for people to reconnect with nature. The grounds feature diverse gardens, meadows, and forests, providing a unique and immersive experience.

A brief summary to Tokachi Millennium Forest

Haobi, 南１０線, Shimizu, 南１０線 Haobi, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, 089-0356, JP
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Tokachi Millennium Forest.

Visit during spring or summer to witness the gardens in full bloom and enjoy the vibrant colors.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the forest features extensive walking paths.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to fully enjoy the outdoor attractions.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
Consider taking a Segway tour for a fun and efficient way to explore the expansive grounds.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Sapporo Clock Tower

Tanukikoji Shopping Street

Historical Village of Hokkaido

Hokkaidō Government Office

Goryōkaku Tower

Explore Tokachi Millennium Forest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Tokachi Millennium Forest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Tokachi Millennium Forest via public transportation, take the JR Hokkaido train service to Shimizu Station. From major cities like Sapporo, a direct train to Tokachi-Shimizu Station takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes and costs between ¥5,000 and ¥7,000. Alternatively, a bus from Sapporo to Shimizu Station takes around 2 hours and 33 minutes and costs between ¥2,800 and ¥4,000. From Shimizu Station, take a taxi to Tokachi Millennium Forest, which is about a 15-minute ride costing approximately ¥2,000 to ¥3,000.
Car

If driving, take the Hokkaido Expressway (道央自動車道) towards the Tokachi area. Depending on your starting point, use Route 38 or Route 241 to reach Shimizu City. Follow the signs for Tokachi Millennium Forest, located at 〒089-0356 Hokkaido, Kamikawa District, Shimizu, Haobi, 南１０線. Parking is available on-site. Be prepared for potential parking fees. Tolls on the Hokkaido Expressway vary depending on the distance traveled.

Discover more about Tokachi Millennium Forest

Tokachi Millennium Forest, located in Shimizu, Hokkaido, is more than just a garden; it's a visionary project blending ecological conservation with artistic landscape design. Founded by Mitsushige Hayashi, the forest spans nearly 1,000 acres and was created to offset the carbon footprint of his newspaper business while preserving the natural landscape for future generations. Opened to the public in 2008, the forest features a variety of distinct areas, including the Meadow Garden, Earth Garden, Forest Garden, and Farm Garden, each offering a unique perspective on Hokkaido's flora and fauna.The Meadow Garden showcases naturalistic planting inspired by the region's grasslands, while the Earth Garden features sculpted landforms and vibrant flower displays. The Forest Garden offers a tranquil retreat into the native woodlands, and the Farm Garden highlights sustainable agricultural practices. Visitors can explore the grounds on foot via well-maintained paths, or opt for a Segway tour for a unique and engaging experience. The forest is also home to a herd of goats that contribute to the on-site cheese-making activities.Throughout the year, Tokachi Millennium Forest hosts various events and activities, including cheese-making workshops, guided nature walks, and seasonal festivals. The forest's design incorporates both Japanese and Western influences, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural elements. The site has garnered international recognition for its innovative approach to landscape design and environmental stewardship, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.