Asahikawa Station, reopen in 2011, was designed by renowned Japanese architect Hiroshi Naito under the concept of creating a “Living Room of the City”—a warm, welcoming public space shared by residents and visitors alike.

The station’s architecture prominently features locally sourced Japanese Larch wood, harmoniously combined with steel structures and expansive glass curtain walls. These transparent facades allow natural light to flood the interior while offering scenic views of the Chubetsu River and, on clear days, the majestic Daisetsu Mountain Range. The platform area is supported by distinctive tree-like steel pillars, symbolizing Hokkaido’s vast forests.

One of the station’s most meaningful design elements is its wooden interior walls engraved with the names of over 10,000 Asahikawa residents and volunteers, representing strong community participation and civic pride in the station’s creation.

As a major hub of JR Hokkaido, Asahikawa Station connects four key railway lines:

• Hakodate Main Line – linking to Sapporo

• Furano Line – a scenic route to Biei and Furano

• Soya Main Line – heading north to Wakkanai, Japan’s northernmost city

• Sekihoku Main Line – extending east to Kitami and Abashiri

Inside the station, travelers will find a large food court and souvenir zone showcasing local specialties from northern Hokkaido. The station is also directly connected to AEON Mall Asahikawa Ekimae, making it a convenient destination for dining, shopping, and relaxation between journeys.

• From Sapporo: Limited Express trains run every 30–60 minutes; travel time approx. 85–90 minutes

• From Asahikawa Airport: Airport shuttle bus, approx. 35 minutes

• To Asahiyama Zoo: Bus from Platform No. 6 in front of the station (North Exit), approx. 40 minutes

• Best photography spots include the second-floor connecting walkways and third-floor platform level, offering excellent architectural angles and city views

• Winter snowfall can be heavy; always check real-time train updates via station displays or the JR Hokkaido website

• Don’t miss Asahikawa ramen, known for its soy-sauce-based broth topped with a thin oil layer that retains heat in cold weather

Admission Fee

• Free entry to public areas
  (Access to platforms requires a valid train ticket or platform pass)

Opening Time:

• Open 24 hours daily
  (Train operations, shops, and facilities follow individual schedules)