Hokkaido, Northern Japan

Hokkaido

Niseko . Sapporo . Hakodate . Otaru . Noboribetsu

Japan's northernmost and second largest region with no surrounding prefectures, and characterised by its cool climate throughout the year.

Recommended Seasons

All Year Round

Recommended Length of Stay

7 days, 6 nights

Undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Japan, Hokkaido is best known for its nature and vast landscape. A land of pine forests, national parks, towering mountains and volcanic lakes, Hokkaido is a natural wonderland for travellers. Aside from the spectacular scenery, Hokkaido is renowned for having the most fresh and high quality seafood in Japan. The island is surrounded by cool water inhabited by countless marine creatures.

Hokkaido's dramatic volcanic landscape is not only an impressive scenery but also means the region is dotted with onsens (natural hot springs). From fine powdery snow and top skii resorts in Niseko to bursting colours of flower fields in Furano in spring and summer, Hokkaido is a great destination all-year-round. Hokkaido's cool climate in summer offer a relief from the humidity and heat in central Japan.

Sample Itinerary

7-Day, 6-Night Activity Highlights

Local Food Specialties

In a country synonymous with seafood, Hokkaido scallops, crabs and sea urchin reign supreme in Japan. The cool ocean waters surrounding Hokkaido carry a plenty of plankton for local fish to feed upon. One can expect to find fresh catch to enjoy in the seaside port towns of Otaru and Hakodate. Some of the daily catch also makes its way to top restaurants serving sushi and seafood in Niseko and Sapporo. Aside from seafood, the prefecture is commonly associated with flavourful miso ramen and a special type of BBQ-style, Genghis Khan (Mongolian BBQ).

Photos by: Peak Experience Japan, CNN, Live Japan, Timeout

Recommended Activities

Kindly note the activities vary depending on the season and your travel dates. While our sample itinerary focuses on winter activities, Hokkaido is a great all year round destination. Contact us to find out more & start planning your escape.

Photo by:Basho Trip

Furano

Hot Air Balloon

Hop on a hot air balloon for breathtaking views of Furano, famous for its vast fields of lavender in spring and summer. The basin is covered in soft powedery snow during winter.

Photo by: Viki Pandit

Tokachi

Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan

Igloo Ice Village. Located in the largest national park in Hokkaido is lake Shikaribetsu with the highest elevation amongst the lakes in the prefecture. An annual winter event isheld in Shikaoi town. It features an ice village with igloo lodges, onsen baths, ice bars amongst a variety of ice-made and a host of winter activities.

Otaru

Snow Light Path

Stroll along the charming canal in Otaru lined with warehouses converted into shops and restaurants. In February, the Snow Light Path Festival is a winter spectacle that illuminates the town with candles.

Photo by: Prince Hotel

Furano

Ningle Terrace

Lined with boutique cottages housing local specialty arts and crafts. The surrounding forest of pine trees fill the atmosphere with a fresh scent.

Biei

Shirogane Blue Pond

A manmade phenomenon resulting from the construction of dams in the Biei river to protect it from mudflows from Mt. Tokachi after its volcanic eruption in 1988.

Water containing minerals from Shirahige Falls stream into the pond. When settled, the mineral-infused water reflects and scatters sunlight producing a blue hue. The colour intensity varies depending on the season and weather.

Niseko

Snow Adventures

Famous for its high quality powdery snow, Niseko is home to the best ski resorts in the world. The main ski area, known as the "Niseko United" consists four interlinkes resorts, "Annapuri, Niseko Village, Grand Hirafu and Hanazono". Niseko offers an array of snow activities and is a perfect destination for a family winter holiday.

Furano

Alpaca Ranch

Let's get up close and personal with these fluffy friends. Try feeding the alpacas, or simply taking funny pictures with them. This activity is children-friendly.

Furano

Farm Tomita Lavender

With its iconic, orderly fields of flowers, Farm Tomita is one of the most photographed spots in Hokkaido and a major draw in summer time. For lavender enthusiasts, the peak period to witness the captivating sight of hills adorned with a purple carpet is estimated to be mid to late July. Don't forget to taste the famous lavender soft-serve.

Recommended Accomodation

Oku Jozankei Onsen Kasho Gyoen

Located in Sapporo, this secluded villa sits on 2.5 acres of land in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Surrounded by the enchanting "Ancient Forest". An inn that encompasses all the seasons.

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