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The Jet Coaster Road (Jet Coaster no Saka) is a road located on West 11-sen in Kamifurano, Hokkaido. The name comes from the way the road undulates intensely over rolling hills, creating a sensation similar to riding a roller coaster. The straight road is approximately 2.5 kilometers long (or about 4.2 km if including sections that may be closed in winter). With a maximum elevation difference of about 65 meters, the northern half alone offers a thrilling experience with three major ups and downs.
This area is part of the Tokachi-dake Geopark. Geologically, the road is built upon undulating hills known as wavy hills (hajo kyuryo). By preserving the natural topography, the road provides a unique visual and physical experience for tourists and drivers alike, serving as a symbol of the region's distinctive landscape.
The greatest appeal is the continuous sequence of ups and downs experienced while driving. In the northern section, the terrain creates three distinct surges in elevation. As you drive, the view of the Tokachi mountain range unfolds, offering a vast and quintessential Hokkaido landscape. The constant change between the open vistas and the moments where the terrain briefly obscures the view makes the drive truly captivating.
The best time to visit is from March to October. For the most enjoyable driving experience with clear views, daytime during sunny weather is highly recommended. Please note that during winter, road surfaces can become icy and dangerous, so exercise extreme caution. While the scenery changes with the seasons, the road is generally accessible year-round.
The primary activity is a scenic drive or enjoying the view from your car window. Because it is a straight road, the landscape changes rapidly, providing a unique sensation. You can also use the roadside parking areas to take photographs with the majestic Tokachi mountain range in the background. However, since this is a functional roadway, please ensure you only stop or walk in designated safe areas.
The area is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Tokachi-dake Geopark and serves as an excellent gateway to famous tourist destinations like Biei and Furano. Many local tourist facilities in Kamifurano can be easily incorporated into a driving itinerary.
As this is a public road, there are no specific dress codes or entry fees, but it is wise to dress for changing weather. While there are no fees to use the road itself, please have cash or cards ready if you visit nearby facilities. English signage is limited, so using a digital map or GPS is highly recommended. It is strictly forbidden to enter farmland or private property. Please drive carefully, avoid excessive speed, and be mindful of visibility issues caused by the terrain.