Karikachi Pass Observatory
狩勝峠展望台
A mountain pass observatory at 644 metres on Route 38, with sweeping views over the vast Tokachi Plain, and a must-stop on any road trip.
Karikachi Pass lies on the border between Minami-Furano and Shintoku towns, where Route 38 crosses the northern end of the Hidaka Mountains at an altitude of about 644 metres. The observation deck faces east, with layers of forest below and the fields of the Tokachi Plain stretching to the horizon. On clear days you can see the Tokachi River and the Daisetsuzan mountain range. The former Nemuro Main Line once crossed this pass, and the scenery is hailed as one of Japan's three great train-window views. The observation deck has a car park and a small shop, and entry is free. It is about 30 km and roughly 35 minutes by car from Hoshino TOMAMU, and it can be linked with road-trip routes toward Furano or Tokachi.
Opening hours
Open all day (watch for snow on winter roads)
Nearby sights
- Church on the Water
- Ice Village
- Mina-Mina Beach
- Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Ski Area
- Unkai Terrace
- Ikutora Station (Poppoya filming site)