Niseko Panorama Line: A Rider’s Dream Route
One of Japan’s most scenic motorcycle mountain roads - Plus Info on Hokkaido Motorcycle Storage
Some of us split the year between Japan and our home countries. For me it's Hokkaido and Arizona. As a GS Adventure rider, I live for the contrast — wide, dry highways back home and Hokkaido’s lush mountain roads that come alive from May to October. The changing colors, clean air, and endless curves make every ride unforgettable.
With the Japanese yen low, it’s the perfect time for travelers to explore Japan — great food, friendly locals, and some of the best motorcycle touring routes in the world.
In this series, Top Motorcycle Roads in Hokkaido, I’ll share scenic routes, local flavors, and travel tips for riders. These stories are supported by SilkCrane.com— offering flat-rate, year-round, English-friendly motorcycle storage in Hokkaido, ideal for seasonal riders or travelers storing their bikes between adventures.
🏍️ Overview of the ride: Niseko Panorama Line
The Niseko Panorama Line (DoDo-66) is one of Hokkaido’s most loved motorcycle routes, stretching between Rankoshi and Kyowa near the base of Mt. Yotei, often called “Ezo Fuji.”
It’s a winding mountain road with open curves, alpine forests, and views that make every kilometer feel cinematic — especially from May to October.
Whether you’re based in Sapporo, landing at New Chitose Airport (CTS), or renting and storing your motorcycle in Hokkaido, this route is one of the best day trips or weekend rides to experience Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
🗺️ Getting to the Panorama Line
From Sapporo City Center
- Distance: ~120 km / about 2 hours.
- Route: Take Route 230 (Nakayama Pass Road) southwest toward Kutchan.
- Stop at Nakayama Pass Observation Deck for a coffee and view of Mt. Yotei.
- Continue toward Niseko Town and turn onto the Panorama Line (道道66) at Rankoshi Town.
- Riding Highlight: The stretch after Rankoshi is pure flow — a mix of smooth switchbacks, farmland, and mountain air.
From New Chitose Airport (CTS)
- Distance: ~130 km / about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- Route: Follow the Hokkaido Expressway to Niki IC (Exit at Otaru → Yoichi), then connect to Route 5 toward Rankoshi.
- Tip: Fuel up near Kutchan or Niseko — few gas stations beyond Rankoshi.
🌄 Don't Miss Motorcycling Viewpoints
-
- On a clear day, you’ll see Mt. Yotei and the Sea of Japan. Great for drone shots and photos.
- There’s often a small coffee truck in summer — perfect mid-ride stop.
-
Milk Kobo (ミルク工房) – Higashiyama Area
-
Niseko Goshiki Onsen
- A small detour off the Panorama Line brings you to hot springs with milky-white mineral water and a view of the mountains.
- A small detour off the Panorama Line brings you to hot springs with milky-white mineral water and a view of the mountains.
🍽️ Great Food Stops for Riders
- Restaurant Prativo Takahashi Dairy Farm (Niseko) – Buffet of local vegetables with Mt. Yotei view; biker-friendly parking.
- Sabo Sakamoto – Curry and rice lunch spot in Rankoshi Town; warm welcome to touring riders.
-
Makkari Roadside Station (道の駅真狩フラワーセンター) – Souvenir shop with rest area, soft serve ice cream, and local vegetables.
🏨 Motorcycle-Friendly Stays Nearby
- Hotel Kanro no Mori (Niseko) – Covered parking and onsen access included.
- Niseko Annupuri Onsen Yugokorotei – Traditional Japanese inn welcoming riders.
-
Niseko Backpacker Hostel & Cafe Bar – Budget stay with garage space for motorcycles.
📸 Niseko Viewpoints & Photo Spots Along the Route
- Mt. Yotei View Park – Photogenic sunset view of Ezo Fuji.
- Niseko Village & Annupuri Resort – Summer activities like zipline and mountain biking.
-
Kyowa Fukidashi Spring Park – Fill your water bottle with fresh natural spring water at the end of the ride.
🧭 Hokkaido Motorcycle Rider Tips
- Best season: Late May – Mid October (road closed in winter due to snow).
- Traffic: Quiet on weekdays but busy on summer weekends.
- Weather: Sudden fog and temperature drops are common; carry a jacket.
- Fuel: Refuel in Kutchan before entering the Panorama Line.
🏍️ Where to Keep Your Bike in Hokkaido Off-Season or Year-round
👉 Silk Crane’s Reliable & Easy Motorcycle Storage in Hokkaido, Japan
- Indoor, English-friendly, flat-rate monthly storage service designed for riders who live or travel through Hokkaido.
- You simply fill out a form, pay online, and store your bike securely for as long as you need.
- Perfect for winter months or when you fly home between rides.
🧭 Extra Suggestions for Hokkaido Riders
- Use year-round storage if you’re doing seasonal rides.
- Pair this route with the Shakotan Blue Line coastal road for a 2-day tour.
- Visit Otaru Canal Town on your way back for seafood and souvenirs.
-
Ready to ride Hokkaido? Plan your trip ahead and reserve secure monthly motorcycle storage before the snow arrives!
