Banei Tokachi (Obihiro Horse Racetrack)

The only one of its kind in the world! A race in which horses pull iron sledges.

Banei Tokachi is a race in which large horses called Banba, weighing over one ton, compete to reach the finish line while pulling a sled weighing 500 kg to a maximum of one ton. Originally started as a contest of strength between workhorses performed during rural festivals, this kind of race is now held only in Obihiro. At the Obihiro Racetrack, where the Banei horse races are held, you can experience the power of the Banba horses up close. At the Beginner's Section, you can learn how to buy the betting tickets in a simple and detailed manner, so even first-timers can feel at ease. The adjacent Tokachimura offers Tokachi food products such as vegetables directly from the farm, bread from famous stores, freshly brewed coffee, pork bowls, and sweets.