Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a dream destination included in many Japan trip packages because of its natural beauty, fresh food, and peaceful cities. Hokkaido tourism is famous for snowy winters, flower-filled summers, and wide open landscapes. Top places to visit include Sapporo, Otaru Canal, Furano flower fields, Noboribetsu hot springs, and Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy activities like skiing in Niseko, soaking in outdoor onsens, hiking around volcanic lakes, and exploring charming seaside towns. Food lovers will enjoy Hokkaido’s fresh seafood, butter ramen, cheese, soft-serve ice cream, and Sapporo beer. Don’t miss local markets like Nijo Market and Hakodate Morning Market for crabs, scallops, and melons. The island is also known for its wildlife, lavender fields, and winter festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival.

So come to Hokkaido and enjoy its calm nature, delicious food, friendly cities, and unforgettable experiences on your trip to Japan.

1. Type of destination: Nature, adventure, culture, food, winter sports

2. Prime season: June to September (best for flowers, hiking, and pleasant weather)

3. Snow season: December to March (ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and winter festivals)

4. Languages spoken: Japanese (primary), English (basic in tourist areas)

5. Exploration time: 7 to 10 days

6. Local modes of transport available:

• Private taxis (available across major cities like Sapporo, Hakodate, and Asahikawa)
• Local trains and the JR Hokkaido railway network
• Buses (city buses + intercity buses connecting tourist regions)
• Rental cars (most convenient for exploring remote nature spots)

Domestic flights (Sapporo ↔ other Hokkaido cities)

Best Time to Visit Hokkaido

Summer in Hokkaido

• Months: June to September
• Avg. Temperature: 15°C to 27°C
• Weather: Warm, clear, and pleasant—perfect for flower fields, hiking, lakes, and outdoor festivals.
• Crowd density: High
• Budget: Moderate to high
• Clothes to pack: Light jackets, breathable clothes, sturdy walking shoes, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses

Rainy Season in Hokkaido

(Hokkaido has a very mild monsoon compared to the rest of Japan)

• Months: July to August
• Avg. Temperature: 18°C to 25°C
• Weather: Mostly clear with occasional showers; great for sightseeing as humidity is low.
• Crowd density: Moderate
• Budget: Moderate
• Clothes to pack: Light layers, waterproof jackets, comfortable footwear, caps, small umbrellas or ponchos

Winter in Hokkaido

• Months: December to March
•  Avg. Temperature: -15°C to 0°C
•  Weather: Extremely cold with heavy snowfall; ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and winter festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival.
•  Crowd density: Moderate to high
•  Budget: Moderate to high
•  Clothes to pack: Heavy winter jackets, thermals, insulated boots, gloves, mufflers, woollen socks, heat packs

How to Reach Hokkaido

• By Air (Most Convenient): The primary gateway is New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo, offering frequent domestic flights from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and international connections from Seoul, Taipei, and more. From the airport, rapid trains and buses provide smooth access across Hokkaido.
• By Rail (Hokkaido Shinkansen): You can reach Hokkaido via the Hokkaido Shinkansen, which runs from Honshu through the Seikan Undersea Tunnel. Bullet trains connect Tokyo, Sendai, and Aomori to Hakodate, from where express trains continue toward Sapporo, Asahikawa, and eastern regions.
• By Road (Highways + Ferry Links): While no direct road bridge connects Honshu to Hokkaido, road travelers commonly pair highway driving with a ferry crossing. Drive to ports like Aomori or Niigata, load your car onto a ferry, and continue exploring Hokkaido upon arrival.
• By Water (Ferries): Regular ferries operate to Hokkaido from Aomori, Akita, Niigata, Tottori, and Toyama, arriving at ports like Otaru, Hakodate, and Tomakomai. This slow but scenic option is ideal for travelers seeking budget-friendly travel with beautiful sea views.

Places to Visit in Hokkaido

Here are the top places to visit in Hokkaido that offer nature, culture, and beautiful scenery:

1. Sapporo City

 Sapporo is Hokkaido’s lively capital known for its food, nightlife, and winter charm. Visit Odori Park, the Clock Tower, and Nijo Market, or explore café streets and shopping zones. In winter, the famous Snow Festival adds giant ice sculptures and magical illumination.

2. Lake Toya

 A peaceful volcanic lake surrounded by mountains, Lake Toya is perfect for relaxing hot springs, scenic boat rides, and lakeside walks. The nearby active volcano, Mount Usu, offers ropeway rides and crater viewpoints that showcase the island’s geological beauty in a very accessible way.

3. Furano & Biei

 Known for their summer flower fields, rolling hills, and bright landscapes, Furano and Biei look like living paintings. Lavender farms, cycling paths, and gentle viewpoints like Blue Pond make this region ideal for photography lovers and travellers seeking calm, open countryside vibes.

4. Shiretoko National Park

 A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shiretoko is one of Japan’s most untouched natural areas. Expect waterfalls, drifting ice (in winter), wildlife like foxes and deer, and guided nature cruises. It’s great for people who enjoy raw landscapes, adventure walks, and peaceful coastal views.

5. Otaru

 A charming port town with historic canals, glass shops, and music box stores, Otaru canals feels warm and nostalgic. Stroll along the canal, enjoy fresh seafood, taste unique desserts, and explore old warehouses that now host cafés, museums, and cute boutique stores.

Things to Do in Hokkaido

Here are some exciting activities to do in Hokkaido that showcase the island’s beauty and culture:

1. Experience Hokkaido’s Winter Sports

 Try skiing or snowboarding at renowned resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu, or Kiroro. These spots offer powder snow, excellent slopes for all levels, and cosy lodges, making winter adventure one of the most fun experiences in the region.

2. Relax in Natural Hot Springs (Onsens)

 Hokkaido has some of Japan’s best hot spring towns, like Noboribetsu and Jozankei. Enjoy mineral-rich baths, open-air pools, and peaceful mountain surroundings that offer the perfect break from travel fatigue.

3. Join Wildlife & Nature Cruises

 Take a nature cruise in areas like Rausu or Otaru to spot whales, dolphins, sea birds, and drift ice in winter. These guided tours give you a closer look at Hokkaido’s marine life and dramatic coastlines.

4. Indulge in Hokkaido’s Food Scene

 Try famous local dishes like soup curry, miso ramen, fresh seafood bowls, and dairy-based desserts. Visit local markets, ice-cream stalls, and specialty cafés to enjoy flavours unique to the island.

5. Explore Local Festivals

 Attend seasonal celebrations like the Sapporo Snow Festival, Yosakoi Dance Festival, or summer firework shows. These events offer colourful performances, art displays, street food, and a lively look at Hokkaido’s community traditions.

Key Experiences to Have in Hokkaido

Here are the top key experiences that make Hokkaido truly unforgettable:

1. Witness the Drift Ice in Abashiri

 Sail through the frozen Sea of Okhotsk on an icebreaker cruise, watching massive drift ice move across the water. It’s a rare natural spectacle found in very few places and a must-have winter experience.

2. Explore the Flower Fields of Furano & Biei

 Walk through endless lavender fields, rainbow-coloured flower patches, and gentle rolling hills. The scenery feels almost unreal and offers the perfect backdrop for peaceful walks and photography.

3. Stay in a Traditional Farm Stay

 Enjoy Hokkaido’s countryside by staying on a local farm where you can help with simple activities, taste fresh produce, and experience warm rural hospitality, an experience that adds depth to Hokkaido tourism.

4. Discover Indigenous Ainu Culture

 Visit Ainu museums and cultural parks to learn about Japan’s indigenous community through craft demonstrations, performances, and traditional food. It’s one of the most meaningful cultural experiences among the famous attractions in Japan.

5. Chase Northern Lights in Lake Shikaribetsu Area

 During rare winter nights, parts of Hokkaido offer sightings of faint auroras. Combine this with stargazing and icy lake scenery for a magical, atmospheric experience few travellers get to witness.

Tips to Visit Hokkaido

• Check weather forecasts often because Hokkaido’s climate changes quickly, especially in winter.
• Book transport early; trains and buses can fill fast during the flower and snow seasons.
• Carry cash, as many rural shops and eateries may not accept cards.
• Rent a car if you want flexibility; many scenic spots have limited public transport.
• Dress in layers and pack waterproof gear, especially for snowy or rainy months.
• Try local seasonal dishes like seafood in winter, melons and dairy in summer.
• Plan extra travel time during snowfall or festival periods.