Northern Circuit, Geographic region in northern Hokkaido, Japan
The Northern Circuit stretches across the upper section of Hokkaido island, encompassing cities like Asahikawa, Furano, and Wakkanai along with surrounding areas. The terrain combines urban centers with vast open landscapes of farmland and natural wilderness.
The region received its current geographical classification in 1905 as a distinct administrative territory within Hokkaido. This division established how the northern and southern sections of the island are organized today.
The area blends mainland Japanese traditions with local customs visible in regional festivals, food preferences, and farming methods. Daily life reflects the influence of cold winters and rural surroundings on how people work and gather.
Access the region through Asahikawa Airport or Wakkanai Airport, with JR train lines and ferry services available throughout. Public transportation and rental cars allow you to move between towns and explore the surrounding landscapes.
Asahikawa, the second-largest city in the area, records winter temperatures among the coldest ever measured in Japan. These extreme cold spells shape daily routines and influence how people live and work here.
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