Northern Horse Park

Hokkaido is Japan’s horse country, breeding most of the nation’s racehorses on wide green pastures, and Northern Horse Park near New Chitose Airport is where visitors get to meet them. Part working showcase, part family park, it fills a gap between flights or opens a Hokkaido trip on exactly the right note.

Meet the horses

The park is home to dozens of horses across many breeds, from tiny ponies to retired thoroughbreds who once ran on the big stage. Depending on the season you can ride in a horse drawn wagon, take a led ride, watch training sessions or simply lean on a fence and enjoy the animals being magnificent. Staff clearly love their charges, and the atmosphere is relaxed rather than showy.

Beyond the stables

Cycling paths, seasonal gardens, snow activities in winter and a well regarded restaurant scene round out the park; Hokkaido produce features heavily on the menus. Families can easily spend half a day here, and the gardens alone justify a wander in the green months.

Getting there

The park sits a short drive from New Chitose Airport, with a free shuttle bus operating from the airport on most days; taxis cover the gap quickly too. From Sapporo, take the JR Rapid Airport service to the airport first, making this a natural first or last stop on a Hokkaido itinerary.

We may earn a commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Details and inclusions can change, so always check the booking page for the latest.