Asahikawa City is the central city of northern Hokkaido where the Daisetsuzan mountains and Ishikari River are located. Because of its location, Asahikawa is an important transport and logistics hub in Hokkaido. A great number of crops are cultivated around the city which plays a big role in the supply of food. In addition, manufacturing industries have flourished there for many years. The Asahikawa Winter Festival is Hokkaido's second-largest winter festival after Sapporo's Snow Festival held on the banks of the Ishikari River every winter. It attracts tourists from the world over, taking advantage of the cold weather and snow. Every year a massive sculpture is made as a stage for music and other performances. It is located at the Asahibashi Site by the riverside. The most famous place in Asahikawa is definitely Asahiyama Zoo. Animals living in Asahiyama Zoo are able to behave naturally in the environment which lessens their stress levels and visitors can be closer to them.

Official Language: Japanese

Currency: Yen (JPY)

Time Zone: UTC+9

Calling Code: +81