As I set foot on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, I was immediately captivated by its wild beauty and unique charm. Known for its pristine nature, delicious seafood, and fascinating blend of Japanese and indigenous Ainu culture, Hokkaido offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best places to go in Hokkaido, sharing my personal insights and tips to help you plan an unforgettable adventure in this enchanting region of Japan.
1. Sapporo: Hokkaido’s Vibrant Capital
As I stepped into Sapporo, the vibrant capital of Hokkaido, I was immediately struck by its perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. This dynamic city, renowned for its beer, ramen, and annual snow festival, offers a plethora of experiences for every traveler.
One of the first places I visited was the Odori Park, a lush green space that cuts through the heart of the city. In winter, this park transforms into a magical wonderland during the sapporo snow festival, featuring stunning ice sculptures and illuminations.
For beer enthusiasts, a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must. Here, I learned about the history of Japan’s oldest beer brand and, of course, enjoyed a refreshing tasting session. Additionally, food lovers should not miss the chance to savor Sapporo’s famous miso ramen, a hearty dish perfect for Hokkaido’s cold climate.
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to take a trip up the Sapporo TV Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains!
2. Otaru: A Charming Canal City
As I strolled along the picturesque canal in Otaru, I was instantly transported to a bygone era. This charming port city, located just a short train ride from Sapporo, captivated me with its romantic atmosphere and rich history. The Otaru Canal, lined with beautifully preserved warehouses from the Meiji Era, is undoubtedly the city’s main attraction.
During my visit, I discovered that Otaru is not just about its canal. In fact, the city is renowned for its exquisite glasswork. I spent hours exploring the quaint Sakaimachi Street, where numerous glass shops showcase intricate handmade pieces. Moreover, food enthusiasts will be delighted by Otaru’s fresh seafood offerings. I particularly enjoyed sampling the local sushi, which was some of the best I’ve ever tasted.
To truly appreciate Otaru’s charm, I recommend visiting during winter when the city hosts its magical Snow Light Path Festival. The canal and streets are illuminated by thousands of candles, creating a mesmerizing winter wonderland that’s simply unforgettable.
3. Furano and Biei: Lavender Fields and Rolling Hills
As I journeyed through central Hokkaido, I found myself in awe of the picturesque landscapes of Furano and Biei. These charming rural areas are renowned for their breathtaking flower fields and gently rolling hills, creating a scene straight out of a postcard.
In Furano, I was mesmerized by the vast lavender fields that stretched as far as the eye could see. The best time to visit is undoubtedly during July when the lavender is in full bloom, painting the countryside in vibrant shades of purple. However, even outside the peak season, Furano’s flower gardens offer a colorful spectacle with sunflowers, poppies, and other seasonal blooms.
Meanwhile, Biei captivated me with its patchwork of colorful fields and its famous “Blue Pond”. This man-made pond’s ethereal blue hue, set against the backdrop of lush green trees, created a truly magical atmosphere. Furthermore, I highly recommend taking a scenic drive along the winding roads to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty.
Pro-tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the flower fields and rolling hills at your own pace. It’s an eco-friendly way to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery!
4. Shiretoko National Park: Hokkaido’s Natural Wonder
As I ventured into Shiretoko National Park, I was awestruck by its untamed beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is, without a doubt, one of the best places to go in Hokkaido for nature enthusiasts. The park’s rugged coastline, dense forests, and diverse wildlife create a breathtaking landscape that’s truly unforgettable.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Shiretoko Five Lakes. These pristine bodies of water, surrounded by lush greenery, offer spectacular views of the Shiretoko mountain range. Moreover, I was fortunate enough to spot some of the park’s famous residents, including brown bears and Steller’s sea eagles.
For those seeking adventure, I highly recommend taking a boat tour along the park’s coastline. Not only did I get to see dramatic cliffs and hidden waterfalls, but I also had the chance to observe playful seals and porpoises in their natural habitat. It’s an experience that will stay with me forever.
Pro tip: The best time to visit Shiretoko National Park is from June to September when the weather is mild and most trails are open.
5. Niseko: Best Place to Go in Hokkaido for Winter Sports
As I arrived in Niseko, I was immediately struck by its reputation as the powder capital of Japan. This world-renowned ski resort area is, without a doubt, the best place to go in Hokkaido for winter sports enthusiasts. With an average of 15 meters of snowfall annually, Niseko offers some of the most reliable and high-quality powder snow I’ve ever experienced.
During my visit, I discovered that Niseko is not just about skiing and snowboarding. In fact, the area boasts a variety of winter activities. From snowshoeing through pristine forests to relaxing in natural hot springs after a day on the slopes, there’s something for everyone. Moreover, the vibrant après-ski scene and international atmosphere add another layer of excitement to the Niseko experience.
Pro tip: If you’re a beginner, consider taking lessons from the English-speaking instructors available at most resorts. They’ll help you make the most of Niseko’s famous powder snow!
6. Hakodate: Historical Port City with Stunning Views
As I stepped off the train in Hakodate, I was immediately struck by the city’s unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. This charming port city, located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s history and boasts some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever encountered.
The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the trip to Mount Hakodate. As night fell, I took the ropeway to the summit and was rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The twinkling lights spread out below, creating a mesmerizing night scene that’s often compared to the views of Hong Kong or Naples.
During the day, I explored the historic district of Motomachi, where I found myself surrounded by well-preserved Western-style buildings from the late 19th century. The area’s atmosphere transported me back in time, offering a unique perspective on Japan’s period of international opening. Additionally, no visit to Hakodate is complete without sampling the fresh seafood at the bustling Morning Market, where I indulged in some of the best sushi I’ve ever tasted.
7. Lake Toya: Scenic Volcanic Caldera
As I approached Lake Toya, I was immediately struck by its serene beauty. This picturesque caldera lake, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, is a must-visit destination in Hokkaido. The crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush forests and mountains, create a breathtaking panorama that’s hard to forget.
During my visit, I found that Lake Toya offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. First and foremost, I recommend taking a leisurely boat cruise to fully appreciate the lake’s splendor. Additionally, the area is renowned for its onsen (hot springs), where you can soak away your worries while enjoying stunning views.
For those seeking more active pursuits, the nearby Mount Usu provides excellent hiking opportunities. Moreover, don’t miss the chance to visit the Showa-Shinzan, a young volcanic mountain that emerged in the 1940s. As night falls, the lake transforms with a spectacular fireworks display, creating a magical end to a perfect day in this natural wonder.
8. Asahidake: Hokkaido’s Highest Peak
As I stood at the base of Asahidake, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at its majestic presence. This impressive mountain, towering at 2,291 meters, is not only the highest peak in Hokkaido but also an active volcano. The journey to Asahidake is an adventure in itself, offering breathtaking views and unique experiences along the way.
One of the highlights of my visit was taking the Asahidake Ropeway, which whisked me up to an elevation of 1,600 meters. From there, I embarked on a scenic hike, surrounded by alpine flowers in summer and pristine snow in winter. The landscape is truly otherworldly, with steam vents (called fumaroles) creating an almost lunar-like atmosphere.
Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Asahidake is also a paradise for wildlife spotting. During my trek, I was fortunate enough to catch glimpses of adorable pika and various bird species. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking stunning vistas, Asahidake is undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Hokkaido for natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
9. Noboribetsu: Onsen Paradise in Hokkaido
As I stepped into Noboribetsu, I was immediately enveloped by the distinct aroma of sulfur, a telltale sign of this renowned onsen town. Noboribetsu is, without a doubt, the ultimate destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in Hokkaido’s natural hot springs.
The heart of Noboribetsu is Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” a spectacular volcanic valley that serves as the source of the town’s hot spring waters. As I walked along the trails, I was mesmerized by the otherworldly landscape of steaming vents and bubbling pools.
However, the true highlight of my visit was indulging in the various onsen experiences. From traditional public baths to luxurious private ryokan baths, I found myself spoilt for choice. Daiichi Takimotokan, one of the largest hot spring resorts in Hokkaido, offered an impressive array of baths with different mineral compositions, each promising unique health benefits.
Pro-tip: Don’t miss the chance to try a mud bath, a specialty of Noboribetsu that left my skin feeling incredibly soft and refreshed.
10. Kushiro: Wetlands and Wildlife Sanctuary
As I ventured into Kushiro, I was immediately struck by the vast expanse of untouched nature. This city is home to Japan’s largest wetland and a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the Kushiro Wetlands National Park, where I had the opportunity to spot the iconic red-crowned cranes.
To fully appreciate the wetlands, I took a guided canoe tour. Gliding silently through the marshes, I felt completely immersed in nature. The experience was not only peaceful but also educational, as our guide shared fascinating insights about the ecosystem.
Another must-visit spot is the Kushiro City Red-crowned Crane Natural Park. Here, I observed these majestic birds up close, learning about conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. The sight of these graceful creatures was truly unforgettable.
Pro-tip: Visit in winter for the best chance to see the red-crowned cranes perform their mesmerizing mating dance against a snowy backdrop.
