❄️ Hokkaido is Japan’s northern gem—a land of snow-capped mountains, fresh seafood, soothing hot springs, and wide-open landscapes. Whether you’re planning a winter wonderland escape or a summer retreat, this Hokkaido travel guide has everything you need.
Whether you’re traveling in winter for the snow festivals or summer for flower fields and hiking, Hokkaido is truly a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and families alike.
✅ Top Things to Do in Hokkaido
1. Explore Sapporo
- Visit the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park
- Ride to the top of Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views
- Winter highlight: Sapporo Snow Festival (Feb) with giant ice sculptures
🎡 Planning to visit Sapporo in February? Don’t miss our full “Sapporo Snow Festival Guide” for tips, dates, and highlights.
2. Ski in Niseko or Furano
- World-famous for powder snow
- Family-friendly ski resorts, rental gear, and lessons available
- Apres-ski in cozy onsens (hot springs) with mountain views
👉 Official Link: “Niseko United (Ski Area Info)“
3. Otaru Canal & Glass Streets
- A romantic, walkable port town
- Known for glassware, music boxes, and nostalgic shops
- Try fresh seafood at the Otaru Sankaku Market
4. Soak in Noboribetsu Onsen
- One of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring areas
- Visit Jigokudani (Hell Valley) with steaming volcanic vents
- Kid-friendly onsens and monster-themed foot baths
5. Visit Lake Toya
- A stunning caldera lake surrounded by mountains
- Scenic boat cruises and walking trails
- Nightly fireworks in summer (June–October)
6. Shikisai no Oka (Biei) & Furano Flower Fields
- Lavender season peaks in July
- Rainbow-colored flower landscapes perfect for photos
- Ride farm buggies or walk through hilltop fields
🍜 What to Eat in Hokkaido
1. Hokkaido Ramen (Misos & Broths)
- Sapporo = miso ramen
- Asahikawa = soy sauce ramen
- Hakodate = clear salt ramen
2. Seafood Donburi
- Crab, scallops, salmon roe, and sea urchin on rice
- Best eaten at Nijo Market (Sapporo) or Otaru markets
3. Soup Curry
- Spicy, soup-based curry with veggies and chicken
- A local specialty in Sapporo — flavorful and comforting
4. Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) BBQ
- Lamb grilled on a dome-shaped skillet
- Often eaten at beer gardens or traditional restaurants
5. Hokkaido Dairy & Desserts
- Soft serve ice cream, milk pudding, butter, cheese, and melonpan with ice cream
- Try Shiroi Koibito cookies or LeTAO cheesecakes
🛏️ Where to Stay in Hokkaido
| Area | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | City base, easy transport | Great for festivals, food, shopping |
| Niseko | Skiing, snowboarding | International vibe, family resorts |
| Otaru | Culture, seafood, romantic vibes | Great for 1–2 night stays |
| Furano/Biei | Summer flowers, cycling, peaceful stays | Perfect in July and August |
| Noboribetsu | Relaxing hot springs & nature walks | Great for 1-night onsen retreat |
How to Get Around Hokkaido
- JR Hokkaido Pass (3/5/7-day options) — great for long-distance trains
- Renting a car is best for exploring Furano, Biei, or Lake Toya
- Sapporo city is walkable and has a subway
🚗 Note: Winter roads can be icy — only rent a car if confident in snow driving.
Best Time to Visit Hokkaido
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Sapporo Snow Festival, skiing, snowboarding |
| Spring (Apr–May) | Cherry blossoms (later than Tokyo), cool weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Lavender fields, hiking, fireworks |
| Autumn (Sep–Oct) | Gorgeous foliage, fewer crowds |
Packing Tips for Hokkaido
- Winter: Heat packs, snow boots, layers, waterproof gloves
- Summer: Hat, sunscreen, light jacket (it’s cooler than Tokyo)
- All Year: Cash (some rural areas are cash-only), translation app, coin purse
Conclusion: Hokkaido is Japan’s Hidden Treasure
Whether you’re chasing lavender fields, watching snow fall in a mountain onsen, or slurping miso ramen in Sapporo — Hokkaido offers a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and relaxation. It’s a slower, richer Japan that welcomes families, couples, solo travelers, and explorers of all kinds.
Starting in Tokyo or Osaka? Use our “Ultimate Japan Travel Guide” to connect Hokkaido to your national itinerary.
— Joy