For travelers coming to Obihiro and Tokachi in winter from regions not used to snow and severe cold, it is natural to feel unsure and ask, “What should I wear?” or “Will my usual winter gear be enough?”
Winter in Obihiro and Tokachi often feels colder than the temperature numbers suggest. In December, January, and February, sub-zero days continue, and if you misjudge your clothing, you may find yourself thinking, “It’s much colder than I expected,” or “It’s too cold to enjoy sightseeing at all…”
To avoid mistakes when choosing what to wear for winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, this guide summarizes and explains key outfit points by mode of transportation and a checklist of things to bring—information you will want to know before you travel.Even if it’s your first time visiting Obihiro and Tokachi in winter, please use this as a reference so you can stay properly protected from the cold and still enjoy sightseeing comfortably.
年末年始の北海道は、まさに冬のベストシーズン。中でも十勝エリアは、雄大な自然と豊かな食、そして心まで温まる温泉がそろう人気の旅先です。冬の十勝で体験したい「温泉」と「グルメ」を中心に、その魅力をたっぷりと紹介します。
Contents
- Average Monthly Temperatures in Obihiro and Tokachi (December–February)
- Why –5°C Here Feels Completely Different: Why Winter in Obihiro and Tokachi Feels So Cold
- Winter Clothing Tips by Transportation Style — Unique to Obihiro & Tokachi
- What to Pack for Winter Sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi (for Adults and Children)
- Clothing Pitfalls to Avoid During Winter Sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi
- Popular Winter Events You Can Enjoy Only in Snow Country
- Dress Warmly and Enjoy Winter in Obihiro & Tokachi Even More
Average Monthly Temperatures in Obihiro and Tokachi (December–February)
For winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, the first important step is to understand the general temperature range. Here, we introduce average temperatures that are useful when choosing what to wear, along with notes on how the temperatures feel in real life.
| December | January | February | |
| Average High | 2℃ | -2℃ | 0℃ |
| Average Low | -8℃ | -14℃ | -13℃ |
December marks the true start of winter. Some days may feel relatively comfortable during the daytime, but temperatures drop sharply in the early morning and at night. Snow is still relatively light in this period, but roads can already freeze, so both cold-weather protection and footwear precautions are essential.
January is the coldest month of the year. Although there are many sunny days, the air is extremely cold, and if you stay outside for long periods, the chill reaches deep into your body. This is the time when serious cold-weather gear—outerwear, gloves, hats, and so on—is absolutely necessary.
In February, the harsh cold continues, though there are days when it feels slightly milder. That said, sub-zero temperatures are still the norm, so it is safest to plan your clothing with the same level of protection you would use in January.
Why –5°C Here Feels Completely Different:
Why Winter in Obihiro and Tokachi Feels So Cold
For visitors coming from outside Hokkaido, winter in Obihiro and Tokachi often feels colder than the temperature numbers alone would suggest. For example, when you hear “–5°C,” you might think, “That doesn’t sound so bad.” But once you actually go outside, you may be surprised by the gap between expectation and reality—your skin can sting sharply, and your body may start shivering on its own, even when you’re not moving.
This is because winter in Obihiro and Tokachi is characterized by dry air, few buildings or trees to block the wind, and strong radiative cooling that causes especially intense cold in the mornings and evenings.
How Wind Changes the Way the Cold Feels
The factor you should pay particular attention to is whether it is windy or not. On calm days, it can feel relatively manageable, but once the wind picks up, the perceived temperature drops dramatically.
That is why, when dressing for winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, it is crucial to think in terms of “temperature + wind.” Choosing outerwear that is not only warm but also windproof can greatly change how cold it feels.
Rather than relying only on the temperature shown in the forecast, prepare your clothing based on the assumption that it will feel cold—this is the key to enjoying winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi comfortably.
Winter Clothing Tips by Transportation Style —
Unique to Obihiro & Tokachi
For winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, the ideal clothing will differ slightly depending on your main mode of transportation. While traveling by car is common in this region, be sure to adjust your cold-weather strategy to match your sightseeing style.
If You Mainly Use a Rental Car
Many visitors to Obihiro and Tokachi choose to rent a car. Since the heater keeps the inside of the car warm, wearing too many layers can actually make you feel hot.
Point
- Choose outerwear that is easy to put on and take off
- Don’t over-layer your innerwear
- Dress to withstand short periods of cold between the car and buildings
It becomes easier to decide what to wear if you keep in mind that “it’s cold, but you won’t be outdoors all the time.”
十勝・帯広を観光するなら、移動が便利なレンタカー利用がおすすめ。帯広市内のレンタカー営業所を、帯広空港発と帯広駅発の2つに分けて紹介します。到着場所に合わせて、使いやすいお店を選ぶ参考にしてください。
If You Use Buses or Public Transportation
If you plan to use buses or other public transportation, protecting yourself from the cold while you wait is especially important. You also need to consider the time spent walking from the bus stop to your destination, so solid cold-weather clothing and proper winter footwear are essential.
Point
- Gloves, a hat, and a neck warmer are must-haves
- A hooded outer jacket gives extra peace of mind
- Choose footwear with both warmth and good traction
We recommend clothing that assumes you will spend at least a little time outside standing and walking.
If You Plan to Do a Lot of Walking
If you are mostly sightseeing on foot around the station area or town center, the most important factors are cold protection and safety at your feet.
Point
- Outerwear that blocks the wind
- Thermal innerwear such as HEATTECH or similar
- Non-slip winter boots
When you move around on foot, you will quickly notice how easily your feet get cold, and there is always a risk of slipping and falling, so the footwear you choose will have a huge impact on how comfortable you feel.
What to Pack for Winter Sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi
(for Adults and Children)
For winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, preparing items that will keep you properly warm is crucial. Below is a checklist, divided into adults and children, of things you should review before your trip.
Adults: Winter Packing List for Obihiro & Tokachi Sightseeing
- Warm outerwear (that blocks the wind)
- Lightweight layer (for adjusting body temperature, such as an ultra-light down jacket)
- Winter boots (with good traction and insulation)
- Gloves
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Hat or earmuffs
- Innerwear (thermal tops and bottoms such as HEATTECH)
- Disposable body warmers (keep them in your pockets or use in-shoe types to help prevent cold feet—highly recommended!)
- Portable battery *Smartphone batteries drain more quickly in the cold
Children: Winter Packing List for Obihiro & Tokachi Sightseeing
- Snowsuit (one-piece jumpsuit)
- Waterproof, insulated shoes or boots
- Gloves (attaching a string helps prevent them from getting lost!)
- Knit hat (also cushions the head if they fall; hats that cover the ears are ideal)
- Scarf or neck warmer
- Moisture-absorbing innerwear (children tend to sweat easily)
Children feel the cold more than adults, and their clothes are also more likely to get wet from snow and sweat, so it is a good idea to prepare extra changes of clothing.
You Can Also Buy Small Items After Arriving in Obihiro
For small items like gloves, hats, and neck warmers, one option is to wait until you actually feel the cold and then buy what you need locally.In Obihiro City, you will find stores such as AEON, Workman, and Nishimatsuya (for children’s goods), making it relatively easy to get winter items. Since luggage tends to increase in winter, consider reducing what you bring by purchasing some items after you arrive.
Clothing Pitfalls to Avoid During Winter Sightseeing
in Obihiro and Tokachi
Even if you think you have dressed warmly for winter sightseeing in Obihiro and Tokachi, there are still some unexpected situations where you might feel, “I messed up…”To help you enjoy your trip in comfort, here are some common mistakes and things to watch out for, including ones that even locals sometimes make.
Overdressing, Getting Sweaty, and Then Getting Chilled Outside
If you think “It’s cold, so I’ll just wear as many layers as possible,” you may end up sweating indoors or in the car. If you then go outside like that, your body can cool down rapidly, making you feel even colder.In winter in Obihiro and Tokachi, it is important to choose outfits that you can put on and take off easily so that you can regulate your body temperature.
Forgetting to Protect Your Face and Neck
It is easy to forget about protecting your face. Even if your hands and body are well covered, if your cheeks and neck are exposed to cold wind, the perceived temperature drops dramatically and your skin can feel very dry.Simply covering your face and neck with a mask or neck warmer can greatly change how cold you feel.
Smartphones Becoming Unusable in the Cold
In winter in Obihiro and Tokachi, the cold can cause smartphone batteries to drain rapidly.
It is not uncommon to find that your phone has shut down just when you want to take a photo.To prevent this, keep your smartphone in a warm inner pocket when you’re outside, and carry a portable battery with you.
It’s Often Better Not to Carry an Umbrella
Even on snowy days, hats and hooded outerwear are usually more practical than umbrellas.Snow is light, and when it is windy, umbrellas often don’t help much and can even feel cumbersome. Also, if you happen to slip and fall, holding an umbrella can be dangerous.With a hat or hood, your hands remain free, making it safer and easier to move around.
Popular Winter Events
You Can Enjoy Only in Snow Country
While winter in Obihiro and Tokachi is harshly cold, this season also brings many events that can only be enjoyed at this time of year. With proper cold-weather measures, you can fully experience the magical scenery and unique winter activities.
Get your warm clothing ready and make the most of the winter-only charms of Obihiro and Tokachi!
Obihiro Ice Festival (Obihiro City)
The Obihiro Ice Festival is one of the signature winter events of Tokachi, drawing many visitors every year. The venue features ice slides and other hands-on attractions to enjoy on the snow, making it an event that appeals to all generations, from children to adults.
In the evening, rows of ice and snow sculptures and delicate ice carvings are illuminated, creating a fantastical landscape quite different from daytime. There are many photo-worthy spots, making it perfect for creating winter memories.
Between strolls, you can also enjoy the food area at the venue, where steaming hot local dishes warm you from the inside. There is also a free shuttle bus from Obihiro Station, which makes access convenient even for tourists. It is a representative winter event of Obihiro where you can enjoy snow and ice, food, and art all at once.
Otofuke Tokachigawa Swan Festival Sairinka® (Otofuke Town)
The Otofuke Tokachigawa Swan Festival “Sairinka®” is an event held in the Tokachigawa Onsen area that creates a magical winter night atmosphere. In Tokachigaoka Park, the main venue, countless illuminated objects shimmer in time with the music, wrapping visitors in a sparkling space.
You can walk from the hot spring town to the venue along a lighted pathway through the forest, and as you approach, you are gradually drawn into a world that feels far from everyday life. Along the way, the “winter cherry blossoms” make a striking appearance and are a popular photo spot for many visitors, including tourists from overseas.
At the venue, you can enjoy winter-only activities such as snow rafting and frozen soap bubble experiences. In addition, special gourmet foods available only during the event are lined up, adding another pleasure as you stroll around. It is a romantic night-time event perfect not only for families but also for couples looking to create special winter memories.
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan (Shikaoi Town)
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan is a special spot that appears only in winter, on the frozen surface of Lake Shikaribetsu in Shikaoi Town. Buildings made from snow and ice are scattered across the area, creating an extraordinary world. The sight is as if a small village has appeared on the lake—something you can experience only in this season.
At the venue, you can bathe in open-air hot springs and footbaths surrounded by ice, and the warmth you feel in the crisp, cold air is unforgettable. There are also snowmobile rides, night nature observation, and even a bar made of ice—plenty of ways to fully enjoy winter.
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan is a place where the harshness and beauty of nature coexist, offering a dreamlike experience you can’t find anywhere else. If you are visiting Tokachi in winter, it is one special destination you will definitely want to include in your plans.
北海道十勝・帯広エリアの冬は、ただの雪国の冬ではありません。今回は外国人にも人気の高い冬の観光スポットを14か所厳選。さらに、効率的に最高の体験ができるモデルコースもご紹介します。雪と光が織りなすドラマティックな冬の旅へと出かけましょう。
Dress Warmly
and Enjoy Winter in Obihiro & Tokachi Even More
Although winter in Obihiro and Tokachi is severely cold, that is precisely why you can encounter scenery and experiences that are only available in this season. If you understand the key points of clothing and what to bring, you can enjoy winter sightseeing without being at the mercy of the cold.
In particular, it is important to:
- Pay attention not only to the temperature numbers, but also to how cold it feels in reality
- Wear layers that are easy to put on and take off to avoid getting chilled by sweat
- Protect not only your body but also your feet and the area around your face
Advance preparation is essential for fully enjoying winter-only events and natural scenery.Make sure your cold-weather gear is in order, and come experience the unique charm of winter in Obihiro and Tokachi—clear, crisp air and enchanting landscapes you can only find this time of year.
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