This is the terrifying moment a violent tornado whirled across fields in Hokkaido, Japan today.

The twister touched down in the Tokachi district of the northern region, reportedly tearing up farmers' crops on May 30.

The Obihiro Weather Station confirmed detecting a 'tornado-like phenomenon' around three kilometres north of Obihiro Airport.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or casualties, local media citing police reported.

However, the Obihiro Taisho Agricultural Cooperative said farmers' crops and equipment were damaged after the tornado hit.

Flights to Haneda Airport were also delayed by an hour, according to the Obihiro Airport Office.

Dust devil tornadoes are types of whirlwinds that form when the sun heats a patch of land and the air above becomes warmer and rises quickly.

Cooler air then moves into the low-pressure gap left by the rising warm air. The new drafts of cooler air also heat up and rise and the cycle continues, picking up dust and debris and making the spiral visible.

They are not as dangerous as supercell tornadoes, which can cause severe damage.