Explore Japan Hidaka Thoroughbred Horses

Discover Hidaka, Hokkaido’s unique thoroughbred racehorse region with ranch visits, history and nature experiences.

The Hidaka area lies along the southeastern coast of Hokkaido, in northern Japan. It spreads from the Hidaka mountain range to the fertile plains that lie between the mountains and the sea. While much of the land is steep and forested, these lowland plains are widely used for farming. Amid the patchwork of fields and farms, a distinctive sight sets this region apart: the breeding of Thoroughbred racehorses.

Horses have been raised here since the late nineteenth century, and today the area is home to nearly seven hundred ranches dedicated to horse breeding. The Hidaka region supplies the majority of Japan’s Thoroughbreds. These horses have achieved success not only within Japan but also in races overseas, helping the area attract attention from enthusiasts around the world. For travellers to Hokkaido, Hidaka has become a notable point of interest.

The Geographic Charm Of The Hidaka Area

Stretching roughly two hundred kilometres along the coast, the Hidaka area is dominated by the long ridge of the Hidaka mountains, often referred to as the backbone of Hokkaido. These mountains, together with the nearby Daisetsu range, divide the island into distinct regions. The valleys at the foot of the mountains contain fertile soil ideal for farming, and it is here that the towns of Biratori, Hidaka, Niikappu, Shinhidaka, Urakawa, Samani, and Erimo are located. These towns, small and spread across the countryside, allow expansive space for agriculture and horse breeding.

Public transport in the area is limited, with buses serving most routes; the train service halted after storm damage in 2015. Travelling by car is the most practical way to explore Hidaka. From Chitose Airport the drive to Biratori takes about fifty minutes, while a journey from Sapporo to Biratori is approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. Because distances between the towns can be significant, careful planning is recommended for a smooth visit.

Hidaka The Heart Of Japan’s Thoroughbred Breeding

Once one of several horse-breeding regions in the country, Hidaka has grown to dominate the Thoroughbred industry in Japan. Today, over 90 per cent of the nation’s Thoroughbred horses are born and raised here, leading the area to be known as the “Home of Thoroughbreds”. Some twenty-five thousand Thoroughbreds reside in the region, and each year around two thousand yearlings are sold at the auction in Shizunai in Shin-Hidaka Town. In recent years, horses bred in Hidaka have not only excelled domestically but have also claimed victories in races abroad, bringing the region increasing international admiration.

Hidaka’s suitability for horse breeding stems in part from its climate and geography. Summers remain comparatively cool and dry, while winters see lighter snowfall than many other parts of Hokkaido. The many valleys between the mountains provide generous space for raising and training horses. These factors together create an environment well suited to producing world-class Thoroughbreds.

The History Of Thoroughbred Breeding In Hidaka

The story of horse raising in the Hidaka area began in 1872 with the establishment of Niikappu Ranch, guided by American engineer Edwin Dunn. Initially, horses were raised for use in agriculture, but by 1907 the focus shifted, and the Hidaka Stallion Farm in Urakawa began breeding horses for the Imperial Army. Over time, the region became increasingly central to horse breeding in Hokkaido.

Before the Second World War, crop cultivation dominated agriculture in Hidaka. After the war, the focus shifted towards horse production as restrictions limited breeding elsewhere in Japan. As interest in horse racing grew, so too did the number of foals born in the region, peaking in the early 1990s. While the number of foals has since declined, breeding today emphasises quality over quantity. Travellers who include Hidaka in their Hokkaido tour can see these carefully bred Thoroughbreds up close.

Meeting Horses In Hidaka Ranch Visits And Experiences

Visitors to Hidaka have opportunities to encounter these famous horses. Some ranches welcome visitors, allowing them to meet retired racehorses and, in select cases, participate in riding experiences. One such place is the Versailles Resort Farm in Hidaka town, where guests can enjoy horseback riding, grooming sessions and walking with the horses. Children over eight can take part, with gear and insurance included in the experience. Proceeds help support the ongoing care of retired racehorses.

When preparing a visit, it is important to remember that most ranches exist primarily for breeding rather than tourism. Visitors should contact ranches in advance and follow the rules during their visit. This respect ensures the safety of both guests and horses, especially given the value of some stallions.

Nature And Outdoor Activities In Hidaka

Beyond horse ranches, the Hidaka area offers abundant nature and outdoor opportunities. The Hidaka Erimo Quasi-National Park spans much of the western range of the mountains, encompassing virgin forest, diverse flora and fauna, and unique landforms from the Ice Age. In coming years, this park is set to expand into a full national park, enlarging the protected area to over two hundred thousand hectares. Hiking, rafting, canoeing and river walking are among the activities featured in tour plans.

Whether you wish to meet the proud Thoroughbreds that Japan is known for, explore the striking landscapes, or take on outdoor adventures, a customised tour of Hidaka promises memorable encounters with horses and nature alike.