Northern Horse Park

Must Do Experiences

• Embark on a guided five-minute horseback riding trail through the park's scenic, flower-lined fields.

• Hand-feed and groom the gentle resident horses in the interactive paddock areas.

• Glide through a snowy wonderland on a traditional horse-drawn sleigh during the winter months.

• Stroll along the peaceful walking paths to admire the vibrant seasonal blooms and lush greenery.

Hidden Gems

• Visit the K's Garden Front area early in the morning to see the horses being exercised and trained before the main crowds arrive.

• Look out for the park's dedicated horse memorial and learning center, which offers deep insights into the history of Hokkaido's indigenous Dosanko horse breed.

• Take the free shuttle bus from New Chitose Airport and ask the driver for recommendations on the best seasonal photo spots within the park.

What Makes it Special

• The park seamlessly blends equestrian education with hands-on family fun, allowing visitors of all ages to safely interact with majestic animals.

• Its strategic location near New Chitose Airport, complete with a complimentary shuttle service, makes it an incredibly convenient first or last stop on your Hokkaido itinerary.

• The landscape transforms dramatically with the seasons, offering everything from vibrant summer floral displays to magical, snow-covered winter sleigh rides.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The park is beautiful year-round, but late spring and summer offer the most vibrant floral displays and comfortable weather for outdoor riding. If you prefer a winter wonderland experience, visit between December and February for the magical horse-drawn sleigh rides, but be sure to arrive early as daylight hours are shorter.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the horses grazing against the backdrop of the Yufu Mountains during the golden hour just before sunset for stunning, warm-toned portraits.

• Use a fast shutter speed when photographing the horses in motion during the riding or training sessions to ensure crisp, blur-free action shots.

• Respect the animals and staff by avoiding flash photography directly in the horses' eyes, especially when you are close to the paddocks.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese equestrian culture places a high value on respect and calm behavior around animals, so speak softly and avoid sudden movements when approaching the horses. Always ask the staff for permission before feeding the horses, and follow their instructions carefully to ensure a safe and harmonious interaction. Tipping is not customary in Japan, so a polite bow and a simple thank you are the best ways to show appreciation to the guides.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Winter Snow Festival features spectacular illuminated night sleigh rides and snow sculpting activities, transforming the park into a glowing wonderland.

• Spring and Autumn Flower Festivals showcase the park's meticulously maintained gardens, offering special guided nature walks and floral photography workshops.

• Summer Pony Club events allow children to engage in extended grooming sessions and learn basic equestrian skills in a fun, supervised environment.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always approach the horses from the front or side where they can see you, and never stand directly behind them to avoid accidental kicks.

• Keep a close eye on young children at all times, especially near the paddocks and riding trails, and ensure they follow the staff's safety instructions.

• During winter visits, wear slip-resistant footwear and dress in warm layers, as the open fields and sleigh ride routes can become quite chilly and icy.