It snowed recently, but the cherry blossoms are starting to bloom little by little. Snow still dresses the mountains, and on clear days you can enjoy beautiful mountain views, so here are a few highlights. ■Tokachi Millennium Forest @tokachi_millennium_forest From the vast grounds you can see the Hidaka Mountain Range. During Golden Week, May 3–6, the Spring Garden Festa takes place. ■Tokachigaoka Observatory Located near Tokachigawa Onsen, it offers views of the Tokachigawa River, the hot spring town, and the Hidaka Mountain Range. It’s also a lovely spot for watching the sunset. ■Shinarashiyama Sky Park Observatory The Tokachi Plain spreads below like a patchwork quilt, making it a perfect panorama point, with the Hidaka Mountain Range visible behind. ■Obihiro Shrine @obihirojinja Cherry trees along the approach and within the shrine grounds are beginning to bloom. The hanachozu (flower-filled water basins) are decorated with pink, white, yellow, and other flowers, creating a festive scene. ■Nupuka no Sato @nupukanosato Located within Daisetsuzan National Park at an elevation of 600 meters, Nupuka no Sato offers sweeping views of Tokachi. With cottages and camping areas, it’s a place for outdoor experiences. At night you may be treated to a beautiful moon and starry sky. Events are also held during Golden Week! For event details, please check the URL below. Why not come visit Tokachi? You might even catch the cherry blossoms. https://tokachibare.jp/event/