travel blog to hokkaido

How to Plan Your Perfect Hokkaido Itinerary In 2024

• Last Updated: January 26, 2024

We visited some of the best parts of Japan in this 12-day Hokkaido itinerary , and want to inspire you to do the same!

Make no mistake about it, Hokkaido is big. Very big. Distances are vast, the landscape wild and untamed and the weather can change at the drop of a hat. That’s what makes planning your Hokkaido itinerary so difficult.

This is easily one of the most beautiful places we have ever had the pleasure of visiting.

Full of dramatic natural scenery, hot springs, delicious food, national parks, ski resorts, and charming towns, there is so much to see and do here.

It is also very likely that you will share this stunning scenery with very few people.

So if you have time for a Hokkaido road trip, definitely fit it into your Japan trip.

Table of Contents

Getting Around Hokkaido

When to visit hokkaido, day 1 – sapporo, day 2 – sapporo to asahikawa, day 3 – asahikawa to utoro (gateway to the shiretoko national park), day 4 – shiretoko national park, day 5 – shiretoko national park, day 6 – shiretoko national park to akan national park, day 7 – mashu-ko and mashu-dake, day 8 – mount io, kussharo-ko and akan-ko, day 9 – akan national park to new chitose via kushiro wetlands, day 10 – shakotan peninsula, day 11 – noribetsu onsen and lake toya, save this pin for later, hokkaido travel tips.

If you’re trying to design your Hokkaido itinerary there are a few things you need to keep in mind first. These are some of our Hokkaido travel tips.

READ MORE: Check out our other guide on the absolute best  things to do in Japan !

The best way to get around Hokkaido for this 12 day itinerary is by renting a car. You can check out our post on how to rent a car here .

Hokkaido does offer a JR pass, but services to the major national parks are limited and even then you will still need to take a bus or taxi to get into the parks proper.

Some of the most stunning scenery we saw was when we were driving. Having your own set of wheels will make your experience infinitely more enjoyable and convenient.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Hokkaido has 4 very distinct seasons and each of them have their merits.

Spring brings blossoming flower fields, summer brings bright sunny days, autumn gives us the changing of the leaves and winter dumps a few feet of snow all over the island.

We ended up doing our Hokkaido itinerary in autumn, which gave us beautiful colours and very few tourists. That being said it did bring some cold weather and occasional rain.

However depending on what your interests are you may prefer to travel in a different season. A Hokkaido 12 day itinerary can be beautiful at any time of year.

Our 12 Day Hokkaido Itinerary

This is the exact trip we did during our travels in Hokkaido, with a list of the places we visited, what we did and where we stayed. From the Sapporo Beer Museum and Beer Garden, to the national parks and lakes, this Hokkaido 12 Day Itinerary is packed with cool attractions!

We picked up our wheels and headed for Sapporo City at the start of our 12 day itinerary. This is a great opportunity to pick up some cold weather clothes if you haven’t got that many with you.

Outside of summer, it can get really cold, especially in Shiretoko and Akan. We brought some extra warm clothes and it was definitely a worthwhile investment.

Sapporo is a lovely city to wander around. Checking out the Sapporo TV Tower Observation Deck, Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, Sapporo Beer Museum, and the botanical gardens is a great way to spend an afternoon.

In the evening we headed to the top of Mount Moiwa for a beautiful nighttime view over the city. The Sapporo TV Tower also has an incredible view from the Observation Deck, if you didn’t get the chance to visit there earlier in the day.

The fresh seafood is amazing, Hokkaido has the best sashimi in Japan according to the Japanese.

• Where To Eat: Ramen Yokocho and any izakaya serving sashimi.
• Where We Stayed:  We stayed in an AirBnB in Sapporo . This place does have parking, it is important to check that the places you stay in Hokkaido, be it hotels, guesthouses or airbnb’s have parking as it is not always a guarantee. Click here to get $35 off your first AirBnB stay .

Check out our brand new and complete guide on the best  things to do in Sapporo !

Next on our 12 day itinerary, this is where our Hokkaido Expressway Pass came into use. You save a few hours taking the highway to Furano. After getting off the highway it’s stunning scenery all the way to Furano.

If you’re visiting in winter, Furano Ski Resort is one of the best places to go skiing and snowboarding.

But you’ll likely be doing a road trip outside of winter when the weather is more favorable.

Be sure to check out Farm Tomita for a mind blowing display of colour. They sell everything lavender, including a rather delicious lavender ice cream. It sounds awful, but like almost everything in Japan it was delicious.

From here you can take route 237 winding through the Japanese countryside to the quaint little town of Biei. From here you can head to the Blue Pond, a place that you will find on many Japanese postcards.

We elected not to do the above. Instead we attempted to get to the Asahidake cable car station for sunset. The weather had been really cloudy all day until around 3:00 so we decided to go for it.

Around 800m we were surprised with a snow storm. Within a few minutes the road was slippery and our windscreen wipers creaking under the weight of snow. Unsurprisingly we abandoned our plans and headed towards Asahikawa for the night.

Where To Eat: Farm Tomita is a good start for a lavender based snack. An advantage of the hotel is the amazing little izakaya over the road from the hotel serving great food for an even better price.

Where We Stayed: Trend Hotel Asahikawa – Nice hotel, but you can probably find something cheaper when you visit Hokkaido, we booked very late in the day.

We had originally planned to spend the day exploring the Daisetsuzan National Park and then drive onto Shiretoko the next day, but the rain put pay to our plans. One advantage of this was it gave us extra time for later in the trip.

We took route E39 from Asahikawa, but be warned the area circling the northern end of the Daisetsuzan National Park will make you forget about the previous day.

This is a long drive, it probably took us between 4 and 5 hours with rest stops included. This and the previous days drive were where Hokkaido Express was invaluable. It saved us so much time by being able to use the highway.

Utoro is a tiny village at the edge of the Shiretoko National Park. As a result most restaurants stay open till around 8pm.

As a side note, the next town down from Utoro is Shari. Accommodation is usually a little cheaper here, but you a now an hour from the park as opposed to 15 minutes in Utoro.

Where To Eat: Options are pretty limited in terms of choice, however there is a great ramen restaurant and a lovely izakaya about 10 minutes walk from the hotel. Staff inside recommended these places to us.

Where We Stayed: Iruka Hotel – Great little guesthouse with friendly staff and a good breakfast .

We checked out the Shiretoko Go-Ko (5 lakes). The long walk around is pretty amazing and you get to sit through a rather interesting safety video about how to avoid bears. The main thing to take away from the video is that if a bear attacks you there is nothing you can do, so best avoid them.

We then checked out the Fureppe Waterfalls, which offers some pretty incredible views. Later on in the day we enjoyed a free foot bath. The guesthouse staff can mark them on a map for you.

One thing to note about Shiretoko is that the weather can change very quickly. Most of our time there was cloudy, but no rain and a fair few blue skies.

Where We Stayed: Iruka Hotel – Great little guesthouse with friendly staff and a good breakfast.  This guesthouse has a number of WOOFERs working there who can also offer great advice on what to do when you visit Hokkaido.

We spent day 5 of our Hokkaido trip on the eastern side of the peninsula around the port town of Rausu.

To get there follow the road to the Shiretoko pass. The pass is absolutely stunning and is a must if you’re in the area. you get amazing views over the coast, and if you are lucky you will be able to see the summit of Mount Rausu.

When you arrive in Rausu take a left and follow route 87 and check out some of the beach foot spas that run along the coastline. It’s a surreal experience to dangle your feet into a foot spa whilst waves from the sea of Okohtsk crash onto the beach.

The Kamuiwakka Hot Falls back towards Utoro make a great place to stop off on your way back. Do be aware that this is an unsealed 10km road. As soon as dusk hits be on the lookout for deer.

Where To Eat: Sashimi in Rausu. A tiny little restaurant south of the centre right on the coast gave us an incredible meal.

We drove via Abishiri along the Okhotsk road which offers some spectacular coastal views. Abishiri has a really interesting prison museum where you can learn about Hokkaido’s history.

From here we headed on to our onsen hotel close to Teshikaga in the Akan National Park. We entered the park along route 102 which takes you through a pass that gives you incredible views of Lake Kussharo. Try and get there around sunset for the best views.

Lots of accommodation in the area offers breakfast and dinner. We decided not to do dinner to give us the chance to go out and explore the nearby towns. Here it is the same story as Shiretoko, restaurants close early, so try and avoid eating late.

The rooms at the hotel do not have showers or baths in the rooms. You wash in the onsens  in the hotel. A word of warning, it can take a bit of practice to get the temperature right as the taps are extremely sensitive, but its a great way to start and finish your day.

Where To Eat: The nearest town is Teshikaga which has 2 restaurants and a bunch of convenience stores. Your choices are ramen or tempura. On the plus side, both are fantastic.

Where We Stayed: Hotel Parkway . Great little onsen hotel .

One of Hokkaido’s top hikes. Getting to the top of Mashu-Dake takes around 4-6 hours return. Bring plenty of water and warm clothes as the top of the mountain can be very cold.

A few minutes after getting to the top we were treated to our own private snowstorm ! You will need good shoes as the track can be slippery, and although it’s not a particularly challenging walk the last 400m are very narrow and steep so take care.

Also the car packing ticket you get at Mashu-Ko can also be used at Mt Io the next day or vice versa.

The hotel offers a great breakfast that comes complete with raw egg rice. You crack an egg into a little bowl whisk it and add some soy sauce before pouring it onto the warm rice. Delicious.

The scenery around Mount Io is to die for, but the smell is not pleasant, think Rotarua in New Zealand – lots of sulphur.

From here its a short drive to Kussharo where there are plenty of hiking options and a few hot water beaches on the shores of the lake. There is a great hike around the peninsula which gives some beautiful views.

Akan-Ko is approx 50km from Kussharo and is a little more developed for tourism than the other two lakes. The drive from Kussharo-Ko to Akan-Ko is particularly good, probably more interesting than Akan-Ko itself in our opinion.

Akan-ko has a rather cool little foot spa cafe. Perfect after a long day of exploring.

This is a long drive, be under no illusions. We left just before 10 and headed straight for the bihoro pass which is a must. Possibly one of the best views we got in Hokkaido.

From here we drove to the Kushiro wetlands, which is ok but there isn’t a huge amount to do. However it does give you a break from driving and the scenery on the way is excellent.

From here we jumped on the Doto Expressway around 2pm thinking there would be a service station fairly soon after where we could grab some lunch as we were starving. Sadly we were wrong, finally coming across one around 4:30. We ended up staying in New Chitose as there was no affordable accommodation around Shikotsu-Ko.

Where To Eat: The area is dotted with great eats. In particular some amazing izakayas and BBQ (yakinuku) restaurants.

Where We Stayed: Hotel Plus Hostel Sapporo . Has private and shared rooms so you can find something that suits your budget.

Not listed in guidebooks or J apanGuide.com, this peninsula an hour and a half outside of Sapporo is an undiscovered gem. We only found out about it after doing a google search of “what to do in Otaru” and this came up on a TripAdvisor thread.

Probably the most stunning coastland we drove in Japan, with only a few others on the road. Some lovely short walks around the peninsula are well marked by road signs.

From the Shakotan Peninsula back to Chitose you pass through the lovely little town of Otaru. At night the canal and the surrounding buildings are lit up, so its a great place to go for a wander. Also check out the little alleyways close to the canal that around stuffed full of izakayas.

Where To Eat: The alleyways around the Otaru Canal offer a huge variety of great food.

Where We Stayed : Sho Inn Otaru . A small but cosy and affordable hotel in Otaru.

Noribetsu is probably the most famous onsen town in Japan full of hot spring baths and naturally, it is very popular with tourists. In fact, this was probably the busiest place we visited during our time in Hokkaido, but we’d definitely recommend it.

There are plenty of great walks around Hell Valley and the one down to Ooyunuma and the Ooyunuma Foot Spa. A great place to dip your feet after a few steep hills. Very easy to get to from Sapporo or New Chitose.

Checking out Hell Valley itself is also super cool. This volcanic crater is filled with bubbling sulphur hot spring baths and dramatic natural colors. The name “Hell Valley” is fitting because it really looks other worldly.

Driving back from Noribetsu you can choose to check out Lake Toya or Lake Shikotsu in Shikotsu Toya National Park.

Lake Toya is one of the most famous sights to see when you visit Hokkaido. Surrounded by volcanoes and peaks, the gorgeous Lake Toya offers some of the most stunning views in the country.

If you’re visiting between April and October, you may get to witness the Lake Toya Long Run Fireworks Festival. On clear evenings, a 20 minute fireworks display lights up the skies around Lake Toya, which is a super cool event to witness.

Where To Eat: The dining options in Noribetsu is pretty pricey, but just outside the town there are plenty of cheap restaurants.

Where We Stayed: Dai-ichi Takimotokan . There are lots of accommodation options in the heart of Noribetsu but this one has a hot spring, hot tubs, and swimming pools.

Day 12 – Saying bye to our car and flying on to Hiroshima

We chose a great day to leave as southern Hokkaido was hit by a huge blizzard. We had planned to go and see Lake Shikotsu but the weather was awful. In fact the winds were so strong that trees were blown down blocking parts of the road that were already covered with snow and ice.

Sadly we only saw lake Shikotsu under a fair bit of snow, but it certainly seemed very pretty.

We rented with OTS. The car they gave us was a small modern hybrid which really saved on petrol. The service and packages they offer were comfortably the cheapest and they also have the Hokkaido Expressway Pass set up and installed for you.

Some other companies don’t offer this service and will send it to your hotel, which is pretty inconvenient.

Next stop was to head off and check out the best things to do in Hiroshima .

Renting a car for an epic Hokkaido trip is a once in a lifetime experience. This truly is a place of outstanding natural beauty, culture and hospitality and must for any traveller. Our only regret is that our photos cannot truly convey how beautiful it really is.

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

19 BEST Things to Do in Osaka, Japan [2024 Edition]

The Perfect 3 Days in Tokyo Itinerary

The Best Day Trips from Every City in Japan [2024]

Related Posts

The ultimate guide to shizuoka prefecture, 21 awesome things to do in yokohama, japan [2024], the perfect 3 days in osaka itinerary [2024 guide], 17 awesome things to do in hokkaido, 7 thoughts on “how to plan your perfect hokkaido itinerary in 2024”.

Hi, You wrote a great article and it is very informative, thank you very much. May I know when was the above trip: Day 1 ~ Day 12? I will be in Hokkaido from Oct 24 to Nov 3, not sure if it is still worth to travel to Asahikawa?

Hi, do give Richard a message over on his website. He will be able to help you. All the best. https://abearandapig.com/

Hi, I like this report about Hokkaido a lot, am just planing our trip. Been to many other places in Japan before. I only wanted to know, when you have been there, “autumn” is not exact enough to plan 🙂 so can you please be a bit more detailed(like End of Sept. …) ?? Thank you very much!

Hi, I read ur article and need ur advice. Arrive Chitose Airport 27/10/2019, company incentive trip covered Noboribetsu, Jigokudani, Otaru, Sapporo, Mitsui Outlet, Okurayama Ski Jump, Hokkaido Shrine & Tanukikoji St. From 30/10/2019 morning till return flight from Chitose 4/11/2019 09:35 is my free and easy session with another partner Any recommendation program for 30/10 to 3/11?

I will be visiting Hokkaido in November and the group will include elderly and young children. Appreciate if you can recommend itinerary that is suitable

Hope you had a great trip. 🙂

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Czech Republic
• Budapest, Hungary
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Complete Japan Travel Guide
• Kanto Region (Tokyo, Hakone)
• Kansai Region (Osaka, Kyoto)
• Kansai Wide (Wakayama)
• Chugoku Region (Hiroshima)
• Chubu Japan
• Hokkaido Japan
• Kyushu Japan
• Jeju Island, South Korea
• KLOOK Promo Code & Voucher (2024 June)
• Agoda Promo Code

Hokkaido Itinerary: A 10-Days Travel Blog

Last updated on May 29th, 2024

Planning to visit Hokkaido and would like to have suggestions and recommendations on your Hokkaido itinerary? See how we visit Hokkaido leisurely with public transport.

Hokkaido is beautiful almost every season. The best time to visit Hokkaido can be all year round, from spring, summer, autumn even until winter. Our visit to Hokkaido is during the end of spring or the beginning of summer. It is a great season that we can see the beauty of two seasons at the same time. We have summarized the places to go, what to eat, and things to do when you are getting around in Hokkaido. It depends on your budget. Many top attractions are awaiting you to discover. Most importantly, free entrance!

Hopefully, my Hokkaido travel blog with perfect 10 days itinerary can give you some idea of your coming trip. Learn from my mistakes, and you can save some time and money.

Table of Contents

Planning for Hokkaido Itinerary

It depends on the season and how many days for your Hokkaido trip. There is always no perfect and complete Hokkaido itinerary. Below is the suggested travel route for the 9 to 10 days Hokkaido itinerary. Mostly covered in the south to the central region. It is best to visit all year round, especially from Spring to Summer. Places visited include Hakodate, Lake Toya, Noboribetsu, Otaru, Shakotan, and Sapporo.

Here is the summary of My 10 Days Hokkaido Itinerary:

• Day 1 : Arrive in Hokkaido and head to Hakodate.
• Day 2 : Hakodate.
• Day 3 : Lake Toya.
• Day 4 and Day 5 : Noboribetsu and spend time in the onsen hotel.
• Day 6 : Otaru.
• Day 7 : [Seasonal Trip] Shimamui Coast and Cape Kamui.
• Day 8 and Day 9 : Sapporo City.
• Day 10 : Goodbye to Hokkaido.

For more detail on what to do and see in Hokkaido, check out our Hokkaido travel guide blog below!

Pre-Trip Essential

Generally, there are two best ways for getting around in Hokkaido; either by self-driving or relying on public transport (bus or railway). If you love to travel at your own pace or travel in a group, especially with kids and the elderly, consider self-driving in Hokkaido. The charming Hokkaido is best for having road adventures and plan for self-driving itinerary. But there are various rental car companies in Japan. Make sure to compare various rental cars to get the best deal from RentalCars.com .

We did not go for the self-driving option as we were traveling with two people only. So we opted to travel to Hokkaido by using public transport. If you are planning for a long travel journey like us, we highly recommended get the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass . Choose from consecutive 3-Days, 5-Days, 7-Days, or flexible 4-Days for traveling around Hokkaido. This pass can be purchased by foreign visitors ( Check out for detail ) and is required to exchange for an actual ticket at JR Station in Hokkaido. Remember to reserve your seat for free by using the JR Hokkaido Pass.

Save with JR Pass if you’re traveling from Tokyo to Hakodate by Shinkansen: 

• JR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass (Flexible 6 days within 14-Days).
• Whole Japan Rail Pass (7, 14, and 21 days option) for the whole Japan trip.

Day 1: Arrive Hokkaido – Hakodate

Landed at New Chitose Airport; getting to Hakodate.

International flights normally will land at Sapporo New Chitose Airport. Depending on your Hokkaido itinerary, you can choose to stay one night in Sapporo or directly proceed to the city as per plan.

For visitors who landed at Sapporo New Chitose Airport by flight, it is best to pick up your travel essentials at the airport:

• Wifi router or 4G Sim Card at the airport. It is important to stay connected to check on transportation, location, and travel information.
• Kitaca IC Card : Similar to SUICA or other Japan IC cards, Kitaca is the Hokkaido version of electronic cash cards. This card can be used at all railroads, buses, and IC electronics nationwide.

Once everything is ready, let’s kick-start your Hokkaido itinerary.

Day 2: Hakodate

Things To Do in Hakodate: Morning Market, Goryokaku Fort, Kanemori Redbrick Warehouse, Mt. Hakodate

Day trip in Hakodate is full of fun and excitement. Firstly, kick start your day with a bowl of seafood donburi at Hakodate Morning Market. It is the best place to taste the freshly caught seafood in Hokkaido. Next, purchase the one-day tram ticket at ¥600 and we are ready to explore this charming Hakodate city.

Visit the Goryokaku Fort and get to Goryokaku Tower Observatory for the entire perfect star-shaped Goryakaku Park from above. Next, proceed to Kanemori Redbrick Warehouse for a relaxing stroll along the bay. At night, make your way up to Mt Hakodate by the Hakodateyama Ropeway for the best night view in Hokkaido.

Goryokaku Fort is the most popular and best place for sakura viewing in Hokkaido. The star-shaped park will be full of pinky sakura and very beautiful. Normally the blossom peak season is early May.

What to eat in Hakodate : Lucky Pierrot Hamburger, Shio Ramen.

Where to stay in Hakodate : Four Point By Sheraton Hakodate and FAV Hotel Hakodate are strategically located close to JR Station. Many eateries nearby and Hakodate Morning Market is within walking distance.

Day 3: Lake Toya

Getting to Lake Toya from Hakodate. Things To Do in Lake Toya: Mt Usu, fireworks show, onsen bath

Hakodate to Lake Toya is about 2 hours. Get down at TOYA (JR-MURORAN station and take the connecting bus to Onsen town.

Spend your afternoon at Mt. Usu in Shikotsu-Toya National Park . Mt. Usu is a UNESCO Global Geopark and one of the most active volcanoes in the world. You get to reach the summit by Usuzan ropeway for a stunning view from above. There is two observatory deck at the summit: Toyako Viewing Platform and Usu Crater Basin Observation Deck. A little hike is required if you want to get to Usu Crater Basin Observation Deck.

At night, the fantastic fireworks show will be alluring the entire Lake Toya at 20:40 for about 20 minutes every night. This summer event will start from the end of April to the end of October.

If you need information, check out our Lake Toya itinerary .

Where to Stay in Lake Toya : We highly recommended Toya Sun Palace Resort And Spa . The onsen was one of the best in Toyoko with an infinity pool that overlooked Lake Toya. An incredible way to enjoy your onsen bath during the evening firework.

Day 4 and Day 5: Noboribetsu

Day#4: Getting from Lake Toya to Noboribetsu; Day#5: from Noboribetsu to Otaru.

Things to do in Noboribetsu: Jigokudani, Oyunumand Okunoyu Pond, Oyunuma Natural Footbath, Demon’s Fireworks (Seasonal Festival).

Next, proceed for 2-Days 1-Night Stay in Noboribetsu , the best therapeutic onsen in Japan. The express train journey took about 40 minutes from Lake Toya to Noboribetsu. The local train will be double the traveling time but at a cheaper fare. Next, take the Donan bus to get to onsen town.

Headed to Jigokudani, aka Hell valley for the geothermal adventure. Have a closer look at Tessen Ike, geyser point at Jigokudani. Next, take a little hike to Oyunuma and Okunoyu Pond, the two crater lake created by volcano activities.

If you have more time, consider proceeding to Oyunuma River Natural Footbath with natural hot spring water in the forest. Lastly, spend the rest of your day at the traditional hot spring bath in your resort.

Don’t forget to join the Demon’s fireworks in Hell Valley at night if you are coming to Noboribetsu on Thursday or Friday. This event will start from early June to the end of July. We enjoyed our hot spring bath in Noboribetsu until check-out time on the second day. Next, we took the hotel shuttle back to Sapporo and then took the local train to Otaru.

Where to Stay in Noboribetsu : Dai-ichi Takimotokan is one of the best onsen resorts in Japan. This family-run resort has a total of 27 indoor and outdoor onsen baths for guests (15 for men and 12 for women) to enjoy the natural hot spring water. Definitely will fall in love when you’re soaking in the hot spring water.

Day 6: Otaru

Things To do in Otaru: Nikka Whisky Distiller, Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street, and Mt. Tenguyama.

It’s always good to kick start your day with a marvelous seafood donburi at Sankaku market. Next, have a half-day trip to Nikka Whisky Distiller to know more about Japan’s best whiskey. Nikka Whisky Distiller is located nearby within 25 minutes by local train from Otaru.

Back to Otaru city and continue to explore this charming town. Take the scenic stroll at Otaru Canal and continue to Sakaimachi street. There are many pastry and dessert shops on Sakaimachi street, including the famous LeTao, Kitakaro. Lastly, proceed to Mt. Tenguyama to see the panoramic view of Otaru city, especially the night view.

Where to stay in Otaru : Smile Hotel Otaru is located within a 3-minute walk from Otaru JR station. It is a budget three-star accommodation in Otaru, providing western and Japanese style rooms for selection.

Hokkaido Travel Tips : Otaru is easily accessible from Sapporo within 30 to 45 minutes by train. You can also stay at Sapporo and plan for a day trip to Otaru.

Day 7: Shakotan Peninsula (Seasonal Trip)

Things to do in Shakotan Peninsula: Shimamui Coast, Cape Kamui

Seasonal Trip: Shakotan Peninsula is only open for a visit during summer. Chuo bus is the only way to get to the Shakotan Peninsula by public transport. From Otaru, board the bus to Shimamui Coast and Cape Kamui to get a closer look at Shakotan-Blue seawater

Don’t forget to taste the mouth-watering supreme uni-don when you are visiting Shakotan. Osokujidokoro Misaki and Oshokujidokoro Naramuraya served the best sea urchin in Shakotan. Dropped by the restaurant for freshness sea urchin, freshly caught from the sea.

Need more help on planning a day trip to Cape Kamui? Check out our one day itinerary to Cape Kamui from Otaru .

Day 8 – 9: Sapporo City

Things to do in Sapporo: Shiroi Koibito Park, Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, Sapporo Beer Museum. Odori Park And Sapporo TV Tower, Tanukikoji Shopping street, Hokkaido Shrine

There are many things to do and see in Sapporo . Spend your day in Shiroi Koibito Park, the famous Shiroi Koibito cookie factory with a beautifully decorated garden. Have a look at the famous bronze statue of Dr. William S. Clark at Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill. Next, have a beer tasting of the famous Sapporo beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum.

If you have more time, spend your time visiting Hokkaido Shrine in the city center. Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, and Sapporo TV Tower.

The Sapporo itinerary can be done within 1 fulfilling day. But we advise spacing some time for the delicious local delicacies. Fresh seafood (King crab, snow crab, hairy crab), soup curry, Genghis Khan, miso ramen, and more. Just visit the attraction that you would like to see in Sapporo.

Where and what to eat in Sapporo

• [Sapporo] Nemuro Hanamaru: Best Kaiten Belt Sushi Restaurant
• [Sapporo] Gotsubo Oyster Bar: Best Cheap Eat in Sapporo
• [Sapporo] Kani Honke Sapporo: Hokkaido Must Eat Crab Restaurant
• [Sapporo] The Best Soup Curry Garaku Food Review

Day 10: Goodbye Hokkaido

If you still have some time before leaving Hokkaido, head to Nijo Market for last minutes shopping for souvenirs and dried seafood back to the home country.

How To Plan For 10 Days Hokkaido Trip

Overall this Hokkaido travel blog for 10 days is more focused on the Southern and Central regions. For first-time visitors and limited time, this area is the best place to get a look at the beauty of Hokkaido. Day trip to Cape Kamui in Shakotan Peninsular is one of the seasonal travel trips in Summer. The remaining places can be traveled in Spring, Autumn, and even winter.

Below are some quick Hokkaido travel tips when you are planning on your itinerary.

Hokkaido is best to visit all year round, especially from Spring to Summer. Places visited include Hakodate, Lake Toya, Noboribetsu, Otaru, Shakotan, and Sapporo.

We recommended spending at least 7 days if you only have a short amount of time to play around in Hokkaido. You will need 5 days traveling around Hokkaido and 2 days covering Sapporo city.

Visitors can freely travel around Hokkaido by public transport and self-driving. Most of the attractions can be accessible by public transport, either by railway or bus. Self-driving is the best way to travel for those who love to travel at their own pace.

The buses go everywhere in Hokkaido (including small cities and towns) and it is also cheaper compare trains. But you need to be cautious about the bus schedule due to being less frequent.

Hopefully, our Hokkaido itinerary can give you some inspiration for your coming visit. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us and we try our best to answer for you. Our advice for your Hokkaido trip? Just slow down your pace and enjoy the natural scene. Enjoy your trip to Hokkaido.

How To Plan Your Hokkaido Trip On Budget: Travel Guide, Itinerary & Money Saving Tips!

More detail Hokkaido travel blog:

• Hakodate, the historical city in Hokkaido
• Lake Toya Itinerary: Mt Usu, Onsen, Firework And More
• Noboribetsu itinerary: The Best Therapeutic Onsen in Japan
• Day trip to Otaru and Nikka Whisky Distillery
• [Summer] Day trip to Shakotan Peninsula: Cape Kamui
• Things to do in Sapporo by 2-Days

You Might Interested:

Hokkaido Budget Guide: Save With JR Hokkaido Rail Pass

JR Hokkaido Rail Pass is great money saving pass if you are planning on traveling...

Takikawa Canola Flower Festival: Hokkaido Flower Trip

Read more on how to get to Takikawa Canola Flower Festival during blooming season. One...

Central Europe Itinerary: Top 3 Must Visit Country

Central Europe itinerary with 13 days in top 3 must visit country. Don't miss Prague,...

Hokkaido Must Eat: Sea Urchin From Shakotan

One of the Hokkaido must eat food is freshness sea urchin from Shakotan. The Osokujidokoro...

Shibazakura Takinoue Park: Day Trip With Public Transport

Plan your trip to Shibazakura Takinoue Park when you are visting Hokkaido in May. The...

Hokkaido On Budget: Travel Guide & Money Saving Tips

Planning your trip to Hokkaido on budget? Read on our useful travel guide including suggested...

Hokkaido Road Trip: The Perfect 10 Day Hokkaido Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2023

Categories Japan

One of the most beautiful and coolest places in Japan , quite literally, is Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island.

Hokkaido is a wild and untamed destination in Japan with stunning scenery. It's an island of volcanoes, natural hot springs, endless forests, stunning National Parks with plenty of wildlife, and walls of snow that line the roads.

In this Hokkaido self-drive itinerary, you can find all the nitty-gritty details about our Hokkaido road trip.

Hokkaido itinerary: a 10 day Hokkaido road trip

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Road trip Hokkaido

When I was researching Hokkaido and our Hokkaido tour itinerary, I discovered not much has been written about driving in Hokkaido.

That's why I wrote an extensive post including everything you need to know more about renting a car and driving on Hokkaido (the speed limit, the Hokkaido Expressway, how to get and use an ETC card, etc.).

You can read all about it in my Guide to driving on Hokkaido.

In this post, you'll find all the best things to do on Hokkaido, as well as practical tips and where to stay on Hokkaido. I hope this Hokkaido backpacking itinerary will help you plan your Hokkaido driving trip!

Our Hokkaido road trip itinerary: map

You can find our itinerary including all the highlights we visited and our Hokkaido accommodation on the Hokkaido travel map below.

Click here for the interactive Hokkaido road map

Hokkaido trip itinerary

• Day 1: Lake Shikotsu
• Day 2: Noboribetsu and Lake Tōya
• Day 3: driving South (to Hakodate)
• Day 4: Hakodate and around
• Day 5: Matsumae Castle and Onuma Park
• Day 6: driving North (to Furano)
• Day 7: Furano and around
• Day 8: Asahidake Onsen
• Day 9:  Daisetzusan Park
• Day 10: Lake Akan

Plan your Japan trip like a pro with these tools: ✅ Get a Japan Railpass to save lots of time and money. ✅ Rent a car for your Japan road trip via Rentalcars.com . ✅ Stay connected with Airalo Japan offer . ✅ Plan your journey with the Japan Lonely Planet . ✅ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ✅ Join the best tours in Japan via Klook . ✅ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Our Hokkaido travel plan: facts and figures

• I traveled to Hokkaido with my husband; we started and ended our road trip at New Chitose Airport in Sapporo.
• Our Hokkaido driving itinerary was 10 days in total, we drove approximately 2000 kilometers (so ~200 km per day).
• For our road trip we decided to follow the sun, or at least go where the weather forecast said it would be the least rainy and/or cold. I have to say, the Japan weather forecast is extremely good! It was very accurate during our Hokkaido trip, something we definitely used to our advantage while traveling around this amazing island.
• With temperatures below 0°C at some point, we decided to change our plans and head south instead of north to Wakkanai and the islands of Rebun and Reshiri. Our entire Hokkaido travel itinerary was based on the weather and turned out very different from the one I created before our trip. After all, travel is all about being flexible !

Things to know about a Hokkaido road trip

Is it safe to drive in hokkaido.

In general, yes, it's very safe to drive on Hokkaido. Roads are well maintained and people generally obey the traffic rules (except for the speed limit, which can be frustratingly low).

In this post, you can read more about driving in Hokkaido .

Can I use the JR Pass to get around Hokkaido?

If you don't want to rent a car in Hokkaido and use public transportation to get around instead, that's a good option as well.

Note that it will be more challenging to get to remote places, while there is an extensive rail network, trains are only available in the major cities.

That being said, there's a network of buses as well, just keep in mind that getting from place to place will take more time than by car.

You can purchase the regular Japan Rail Pass for your time on Hokkaido but it's also worth looking into the regional Hokkaido Rail Pass .

The regional pass is cheaper than the Japan rail pass, but it depends on your Japan itinerary which one is the best option.

Click here to compare the JR rail pass (valid everywhere in Japan) with the Hokkaido rail pass (only valid in Hokkaido).

What is the best time to visit Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is a year-round destination and each time of the year has its own pros and cons.

A Hokkaido road trip in spring

We traveled to Hokkaido at the end of April and the start of May, my favorite things about traveling to Hokkaido in spring were:

• We got to experience four different seasons in just 10 days. From snow and freezing nights to walking around in a t-shirt and relaxing in an onsen after a very rainy day.
• We got to admire the beautiful cherry blossoms (in full bloom!) at Goryōkaku and Matsumae Castle (read more below).
• I loved that we had the campsites entirely to ourselves as there weren't any other campers yet this early in the season.

However, be sure to pack appropriately and bring plenty of (warm) layers. It's still pretty cold in Hokkaido during this time of year!

A Hokkaido road trip in the summer

During the summer months, you can admire the famous flower and lavender fields on Hokkaido. Plus, you can hike the Shiretoko Traverse and lots of other trails.

Note that many hiking trails on Hokkaido are still closed in Spring (and sometimes even in June) because of the large amounts of snow that fall during winter.

While this isn't a specific Hokkaido summer itinerary, all of the spots included in the post can be visited in summer.

A Hokkaido road trip in autumn

Hokkaido is a very popular spot during autumn because of the brightly colored forests with leaves in vivid autumn colors.

Check the Autumn Color Report  on  Japan Guide  to plan the best time for your visit.

A Hokkaido road trip in winter

If you plan to visit Hokkaido in winter, make sure you're very well prepared. It's not easy to drive on Hokkaido in winter, it can even be dangerous unless you know what you are doing!

That being said, Hokkaido can be a wonderful winter destination! You can visit the Sapporo Snow Festival (read more below), go skiing in one of the ski resorts, and admire the frozen lakes and snowy views.

Where to stay on Hokkaido

Here is a list of all the places we stayed during our road trip around Hokkaido.

Note:  Prices for the hotels, campgrounds, and guesthouses depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Click ‘book here’ to see the latest prices on  Booking  and book ahead to get the best deal.

* Unfortunately the accommodation we stayed at during our Hokkaido trip is no longer available. While we didn't personally stay at the Shin Furano Prince hotel we did visit their spa twice during our time in Furano.

How to find accommodation during Golden Week

Golden Week is the period from the 29th of April to early May and includes a number of Japanese holidays. Check the exact Golden Week dates here

During this week many Japanese people go on holiday and accommodation can be extremely difficult to find.

In fact, when I was looking for some last-minute accommodation on Agoda and Booking , there were only 2 hotels available in the entire city, the cheapest one was €400 a night…

I was very happy to we had our tent and car as a backup option!

If you are traveling in peak season and Golden Week in particular: book your accommodation in advance!

Hokkaido itinerary day 1: Lake Shikotsu

Itinerary: New Chitose Airport – Nissan rental car outlet – Nature trail Lake Shikotsu – Shikotsukomorappu Camping Ground

Pick up your rental car

Pick up your rental car at New Chitose Airport so you can start your Hokkaido road trip immediately after landing on the island. Click here to compare car rental prices on Rentalcars.com.

Important: be sure to stock up on enough drinks, snacks, and some instant ramen at a nearby 7-11 before setting out on your road trip.

If you are traveling early in the season or during winter, many restaurants are (still) closed.

You really don't want to arrive at a beautiful camp spot with an empty stomach and nothing to eat. We did on our first day in Hokkaido and had to drive back to Chitose for supplies.

Go hiking along the shores of Lake Shikotsu

Lake Shikotsu is a caldera lake in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Around the lake, there are several mountains and (some still active) volcanoes, such as Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae.

There is a short but steep trail going up Mount Tarumae with excellent views from the top.

Unfortunately, the trail was still closed when we visited (too much snow) supposedly the views from the summit are really beautiful and worth the climb.

Where to stay at Lake Shikotsu ⇒ Campsite Morappu (1 night)

The view alone makes this campsite worth a visit! However, the fierce wind blowing over the lake was very cold and I didn't get much sleep that night…

We purchased a set of thermal underwear and extra blankets the next day which solved the problem.

Please note that while there are (clean) toilets, there are no showers. I later found out this is actually quite normal for Japanese campsites because there usually is an onsen (either onsite or nearby) instead.

Price per night: €12,80/$14.

Places to stay near Lake Shikotsu

If you don't want to go camping there are other accommodation options available. However, there are only a handful of hotels to be found around Lake Shikotsu and most are quite expensive.

There is the friendly 3-star Marukoma Onsen Ryokan and the superb 5-star Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Resort Spa Mizu no Uta .

Alternatively, you can explore Lake Shikotsu during the day and drive back to Chitose or Sapporo where there are more affordable options to stay.

Hokkaido itinerary day 2: Noboribetsu Onsen and Lake Tōya

Itinerary: Shikotsukomorappu campground – Jigokudani (Hell Valley) – Oyunuma Pond – Lake Kuttara – Lake Tōya – Nakatoya Camping Ground

Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu is Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort and a great place to visit in Hokkaido.

While the town itself it small, it offers a wide variety of activities and attractions, from its beautiful hot springs to its picturesque lakes and mountains.

Visit Jigokudani (also known as Hell Valley)

Volcanic activity is something that has fascinated me since I was a little girl. In fact, my first school project was about volcanos and even got me an A!

The smell of sulfur, the crazy colors of the rocks, and the steaming vents make Jigokudani one of the best places to visit on Hokkaido.

Take your time enjoying the scenic landscape of the area, Jigokudani is one of those places where you truly feel (and smell) the incredible force of nature.

Oyunuma Pond

This was quite possibly my favorite place in Hokkaido! I had never seen a steaming lake before, it was mesmerizing, and couldn’t take my eyes off Oyunuma Pond for a long long time…

Lake Kuttara

This perfectly circular crater lake inside the volcano Kuttara contains the best quality water in Japan. You can drive along its shores and admire the views.

There are hiking trails as well ( such as this one ), but we didn't cover any during our trip.

Lake Toya is another spectacular lake, with an even more spectacular backdrop. It's part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and a popular location for hiking and camping.

Where to stay at Lake Toya ⇒ Nakatoya Camping Ground (1 night)

During our stay, we were the only ones at the campsite. It was so quiet and the starry night was magical.

Also, with our newly purchased thermal underwear and extra blankets, we were well prepared for the cold, and sleeping in our tent was very comfortable!

Unfortunately, the onsen was closed. Maybe it was too early in the season or the campground manager didn't turn it on because we were the only ones there.

Price per night: €7,20/$8.

Hokkaido itinerary day 3: driving South (to Hakodate)

Itinerary: Nakatoya Camping Ground – Hotel WBF Hakodate

The kindness of Japanese people

While driving south to Hakodate I experienced firsthand that Japanese people are among the kindest and most helpful people in the world.

I had accidentally booked the wrong flight and needed to call customer service. There was just one problem, I didn't have a local SIM card and my own SIM didn't work for some reason.

A very friendly Japanese man generously loaned me his phone. And not only that, he bought us coffee and locally produced food as gifts as well!

I was speechless… And very grateful .

That being said I highly recommend getting a local SIM, click here to buy a SIM card with unlimited data online .

Relax in an onsen

Our first onsen experience was amazing but we also desperately needed it. It had been raining heavily the entire day.

And we had ‘slightly' underestimated how cold Hokkaido would be at the end of April. Therefore, the rain felt like wet snow and we didn’t feel like pitching our tent that night.

I was extremely happy I managed to book one of the last available hotel rooms in Hakodate (it was Golden Week, read more below), which happened to have an onsen.

Onsen = Japanese spa with a VERY hot bath… Utter bliss! Read more about how to visit an onsen in Japan.

I know I've said it before, but I can't stress this enough: Golden Week is the busiest travel period of the year in Japan (because it's a public holiday). Booking accommodation as early as possible is crucial when traveling during this period. My favorite sites to find accommodation are Agoda and  Booking . I usually also check reviews on Tripadvisor if I'm having trouble choosing between 2 hotels.

Where to stay in Hakodate ⇒ Hotel WBF Hakodate (1 night)

WBF Hakodate is a lovely hotel: comfortable and clean. Rooms have an ensuite bathroom and a kettle. The onsen was pure bliss…

The walls are pretty thin and the room is quite small (though that's pretty common in Japan).

Click here to book hotel WBF Hakodate

Hokkaido itinerary day 4: Hakodate and around

Itinerary: Hotel WBF Hakodate – Goryōkaku Castle – Hakodate Mountain walking trail – Hakodate Village – Roadside Rest Area Fukushima

Goryōkaku Castle

We didn’t time our visit to coincide with the cherry blossom season or sakura as it’s called in Japan.

But it was the icing on an already delicious cake (the cake being Japan;-). Walking below thousands of cherry trees dressed in pretty pinks and whites was like stepping into a fairy tale…

Click here to buy a ticket for the Goryokaku Tower online.

Hakodate Mountain walking trails

On Hokkaido nature is never far away. And so it didn’t take us long to find a nice hiking trail leading to the top of Mount Hakodate.

Hakodate historic village

With old brick houses and colonial villas, I almost felt like we were back in Europe. I would have loved to learn more about Hakodate and its interesting history but unfortunately, we didn't have enough time.

If you want to see the most important highlights of Hakodate (such as the Kanemori red brick warehouse) while gaining fascinating insights into Japan’s history and culture, check out this private walking tour with a licensed local guide.

Where to stay in Fukushima ⇒ Roadside Rest Area Fukushima (1 night)

I didn't know this, but sleeping in your car is actually rather common in Japan!

When we arrived at the Michi-no-Eki (road station) in Fukushima we were a bit apprehensive as we weren't sure if it was allowed to stay the night.

We decided to risk it and were very surprised to wake up in a packed parking lot the next morning! There were fully equipped campervans and next to us was a Japanese man in a suit who slept in his sports car.

This road station is a convenient place to spend the night. There was a supermarket across the parking lot where we bought a cup of coffee and some sandwiches for breakfast.

We even brushed our teeth in the shop's little bathroom! However, keep in mind that you're staying at a parking lot and there aren't many facilities.

Price per night: free!

Hokkaido itinerary day 5: Matsumae Castle and Onuma Park

Itinerary: Roadside Rest Area Fukushima – Matsumae Castle – Onuma Quasi National Park – Lake Toya Fireworks – Toyako Parking Lot

Visit Matsumae Castle

Visiting a Japanese castle during cherry blossom season with a perfect blue sky: it doesn’t get better than that!

Explore Onuma Quasi-National Park

We strolled around this nice little park with lovely bridges and stunning Mt. Komagatake in the backdrop. A perfect afternoon activity.

Admire the Lake Toya Fireworks

From the start of Golden Week until October there is a firework show every evening. You don't need a ticket and can enjoy the show from the boulevard.

During our first stop at Lake Toya (on day 2 of this itinerary), we were too early for the fireworks shows (it wasn't Golden Week yet).

We were very lucky to catch the show on our way back north.

Where to stay in Toyako Onsen ⇒ Toyako Parking Lot (1 night)

The parking lot was in the center of the village Toyako, but still very quiet (we were there very early in the season).

There was even a (clean) toilet and a tap with warm water. No showers, but what can you expect from a free parking lot?

Hokkaido itinerary day 6: driving North

Itinerary: Toyako Parking Lot – Shin Furano Prince hotel

Admire the view

With the risk of repeating myself too often: road trips are the best! I love driving around an unknown country, looking out the window of our car, and admiring all there is to see…

Eat the best Maze Soba Tempura in Furano

Until this day, the Maze Soba we had in Furano is the best food I've ever eaten. Food in Japan is pretty much always really tasty, but this dish is my #1 favorite plate of food in the world.

Relax in a spa (onsen)

Hokkaido can be very cold, even in Spring. As such, I had been wearing my thermal underwear for 3 days straight when we arrived in Furano and both my clothes as well as myself were in dire need of cleaning…

The spa at the Shin Furano Prince Hotel was the perfect place to do so. For obvious reasons, taking pictures in the spa isn't allowed, but you can find pictures of the spa on Booking.com .

Where to stay in Furano ⇒ Shin Furano Prince Hotel (2 nights)

This hotel offers clean and spacious rooms in a beautiful location. However, the best feature of the Shin Furano Prince Hotel is the aforementioned spa.

The view from the spa is beautiful and there is no better way to end your day of sightseeing in Furano than by soaking up the heat in the onsen.

Click here to book the Shin Furano Prince hotel

Hokkaido itinerary day 7: Furano and around

Itinerary: Cheese factory – Wine factory – Walk around wine factory – Rollercoaster road – Blue Pools – Glass Forest – Spa at Shin Furano Prince Hotel  

Visit the Furano cheese factory

The first stop of the day was the cheese factory where we watched an informative movie (even though it was in Japanese and so were the subtitles).

We ate wine-infused cheese and black brie, very interesting tastes. And of course, we had to look up Dutch ‘Goudse Kaas' on the World Of Cheese.

Do a tasting at Furano wine factory

Next up was the wine factory (I had no idea they produce wine in Japan). It was fun to take a look in the wine cellar and search for the wine bottles produced in the year we were born.

The weather was amazing during our time in Furano, it was even warm enough to walk around in a t-shirt! We went for an easy 5-km walk near the wine factory and spotted a fox in the fields!

Visit Farm Tomita in Furano

the most famous lavender farm in Japan. I didn’t know this before coming to Japan, but lavender is kind of a thing here. Apparently, there is a special train station that is only in use during the lavender season.

Seeing the already beautiful views from Farm Tomita, I can understand why this place is such a tourist hotspot (for Japanese people).

We bought a lavender ice cream which tasted strangely good albeit a bit weird.

Drive the Rollercoaster Road

This is a fun 4km long road that really fun to drive because of the rolling hills. Thought it would have been even more fun if one were allowed to go faster than 50km an hour…

The Blue Pond

This is a beautiful but odd place with vividly blue glacier water and a lot of dead trees. Pretty but strange.

Drive around Furano valley

The views of the mountains on both sides of the valley were beautiful and we were extremely lucky with the weather!

Visit the Glass Forest

The last stop on our self-drive customized sightseeing tour around Furano was the Glass Forest.

This glass is unique and made using a very special technique that creates tiny cracks in the glass that take 3-5 years to mature! It’s very beautiful but also very expensive!

Enjoy the good life

We ate maze soba again because it was so delicious. And then we hung out in the spa of the Shin Furano Prince Hotel , again…

Hokkaido itinerary day 8: Asahidake Onsen

Itinerary: Shin Furano Prince hotel – Asahidake Onsen – Sōunkyō 7-11 parking lot

Hiking in the snow at Asahidake Onsen

The drive to Asahidake Onsen alone is reason enough to go there. The higher up the mountain we got, the higher the walls of snow lining the road became…

We, therefore, assumed hiking would be out of the question, but when we paid a visit to the tourist information center the friendly guy manning the station told us about a cross-country trail that was accessible for hiking.

Well, that sounded pretty awesome. Turns out it was!

The temperature was around 16 degrees Celsius and was a bit surreal to hike in a t-shirt through a very snowy landscape.

An unusual experience for sure, with gorgeous views along the way.

Where to stay at Sōunkyō ⇒ parking lot next to the 7-11 (1 night)

We asked the staff of the 7-11 if we could park for the night and they so kindly made an exception for us.

Parking next to the 7-11 meant we could literally crawl out of bed to get our morning coffee. Also, as apparently, all supermarkets in Japan do, there was a toilet in the store and a little sink to brush our teeth.

Hokkaido itinerary day 9: the road trip continues through Daisetzusan Park

Itinerary: Sōunkyō 7-11 parking lot – Ryusei-no-taki and Ginga-no-taki waterfalls – Taisetsu Dam in Daisetzusan Park – Lake Akan parking lot

Ryusei-no-taki and Ginga-no-taki waterfalls

I love waterfalls, they are mesmerizing, how can there be such an endless amount of water coming down from those steep cliffs…

To get the best view we hiked to the top of the trail across the waterfalls, from this spot you can take a picture of both waterfalls in one shot.

Be sure to bring bear spray and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. We didn’t see a bear but we did spot a couple of deer strolling through the forest.

Road through Daisetzusan National Park

Even with the dreary weather, it was a delight to drive this road through Daisetsuzan National Park.

We continued driving because with rain pouring down there wasn’t much else we could do and ended up at Lake Akan.

In Akan town, we chilled out in a little café, Pan de Pan, until the rain cleared up. With an almost completely clear sky, we went for a short walk by the beautiful lake and strolled through the Ainu village.

In the shopping street of Akan village, all sorts of arts and crafts products and countless marimo items are being sold in the souvenir shops. Marimo is what Lake Akan is all about after all!

You may wonder what the #$%^ is a marimo?

Marimo are green spheres of algae and very kawaii (because fluffy). How much of a thing is Kawaii in Japan? Let me quote the Lonely Planet : Marimo became endangered after being designated a national treasure. Suddenly everyone in Japan needed to have one. Anyway, these green spheres of algae grow in lake Akan and the people living in the village sure know how to use that fact to their advantage, there are marimo-themed items everywhere you look.

Where to stay at Akanko Onsen ⇒ Lake Akan parking lot (1 night)

The lady selling the parking tickets didn't mind if we stayed the night.

The parking lot happened to be across from 7-11, so getting coffee and breakfast was easy again, as was cleaning up (slightly) in the morning.

I'm nit-picking here, but the ground wasn't entirely level. Not ideal when you sleep in your car.

Price per night: €3,20/$4 (for a parking ticket)

Hokkaido itinerary day 10: Lake Akan and around

Itinerary: Lake Akan parking lot – Lake Akan nature walk – Eco Museum – Lake Onetto – car drop-off point – Hotel Areaone Chitose

Lake Akan nature walk

On our last day in Hokkaido, we were definitely in luck (again): the sun was shining! We went for a short hike over the nature trail next to the Eco Visitor Center.

It was a brief hike but offered great views of the lake. And of course, we passed some mud pools, signs of volcanic activity are never far away on Hokkaido.

Visit the Akan Eco Museum

In the Akan Eco museum, we checked out some particularly fluffy marimo (see the picture above) and learned more about the formation of these strange phenomena.

Hike around Lake Onetto

Lake Onetto is a gorgeous lake with bright blue color and two imposing volcanoes looming over the lake.

We went for a hike around the lake, but the trail was still partially snowed under!

I imagine in summer it’s a nice and easy stroll, but in Spring it was quite a challenging hike as we tried not to sink too deep into the snow!

Where to stay in Sapporo ⇒ Hotel Areaone Chitose (1 night)

We had an early flight to Hiroshima from New Chitose Airport. Hotel Areaone Chitose was close to the airport and offered a free shuttle service.

It was a good place to stay, the room was small but after sleeping in our car for a couple of nights it actually felt big to us;-).

We spent our afternoon soaking in the steaming onsen but unfortunately, the sauna was out of service during our stay.

More things to do on Hokkaido

If you've got more time to spend in Hokkaido (lucky you!), here are some popular places I wish we could have added to our Hokkaido itinerary.

Sapporo Snow Festival

If you happen to visit Hokkaido in winter, you can visit the famous Sapporo Snow Festival! This annual winter event is held in Sapporo and takes place every February in Odori Park (you'll also find the Sapporo tv tower in this park).

One of the highlights of the festival is the Snow Sculpture Contest. Teams from countries around the world compete to create the most amazing snow sculptures and the cool thing is: you can actually see the snow sculptures being made during the festival.

There are lots of other attractions such as snow slides, skiing, live performances, and much more. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a great way to experience the beauty of winter in Sapporo.

Check the official site for more information.

Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is a stunning natural area located in the northernmost part of Hokkaido. With its unique combination of mountains, volcanoes, forests, and seashore, it is a popular destination for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Steller's sea eagle, brown bears, and the Asiatic black bear.

If you plan to visit this stunning part of Hokkaido, be sure to read up on bear safety and bring a can of bear spray and a bear bell .

Otaru is a charming port city, known for its picturesque canals lined with old-fashioned warehouses and charming, historical buildings.

The city has a rich history of fishing and trading, and you can still see many of the old fishing boats in the harbor.

Besides the famous Otaru Canal, there are a variety of attractions, such as the Otaru Aquarium, Otaru Music Box Museum, and the Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway.

All in all, Otaru is a great place to visit in Hokkaido, as it is a peaceful and relaxing city with many great restaurants, shops, and attractions to explore.

Road trip in Hokkaido: conclusion

Our road trip around Hokkaido was an amazing experience, despite the cold.

Hokkaido truly is a wonderful island: wild, mountainous, active volcanoes, lots of wildlife, pretty lakes, friendly people, and delicious food. 

I will add that 10 days in Hokkaido is not nearly enough to see everything this beautiful place has to offer. I really hope that we'll be able to come back to Hokkaido and visit more Hokkaido highlights.

Not many people include a trip to Hokkaido in their Japan itinerary , but I hope that this Hokkaido travel blog has convinced you Hokkaido is highly worth a visit!

If you want to read more about traveling in Japan , check out my other posts:

• Japan on a budget
• Japan off the beaten path
• Funny things in Japan
• Tokyo itinerary
• Kyoto itinerary
• Osaka itinerary
• Miyajima itinerary
• Japanese Alps itinerary
• 3 days in Kamikochi
• Hiking to Koyasan

Download our Hokkaido free and easy itinerary below and plan your trip in no time! Feel free to ask any questions you may have about planning a trip to Hokkaido, I'm happy to help!

This post was updated in January 2023 .

Sunday 15th of September 2019

Will you recommend Hokkaido in mid October? And if so, what changes from your itinerary do you suggest?

Friday 20th of September 2019

While I think you can visit Hokkaido in October, please keep in mind it will already be quite cold. Also, the leaves will probably have fallen (most of them at least) so you will miss the splendid fall colors. Nevertheless, the scenery will still be stunning and the crowds will have left so you'll have them all to yourself.

I wouldn't necessarily change the itinerary but my most important tip would be to follow the weather. If the weather forecast says sun in the north, go north. If rain is expected in the east, go west. And pack enough layers, gloves and a beanie:-)

Have a great trip! Lotte

Friday 12th of July 2019

Hi Lotte, Your mission has been accomplished as I was truly inspired by your 10day trip to Hokkaido. I live in Malaysia. I am hoping to take my 17 yr old daughter on road trip. I am hoping to rent a MPV (with sleeping and simple cooking set up but no toilet facilities). You are right in that there are not many articles about driving /camping routes around Japan or maybe I don't know what to look for. So thank you very much for sharing your trip. I've never done a driving holiday before and I feel even more responsible bringing my teen daughter so I don't really know where to begin. I chose Japan as I think it is a safe country to begin such a journey and also because I LOVE Japan and have only seen small parts of it. I wonder if you could give me some advise as to how I could go about researching and planning my own trip. (1) I would like to travel mid August 2020 as that is school break for my daughter - would it be meaningful to use your travel route as a guide (keeping in mind I won't see seasonal wonders like cherry blossoms blooming) (2) We plan to sleep in our van (so no hotels) (3) We are not sure how long should we plan ( we think maybe 7-10 days) - also I am concerned about how to plan so I can return the hired van in time. Also, I chose a Van instead of RV ( my teen is hoping I'd get an RV) because I wanted to have freedom of more parking options. (4) We would love to do the following: - Hot springs & light hiking ( a couple of hours) - visit quaint little shops or markets - local interesting places e.g. temples, museums or architecture (we both enjoy craft and art) (5) I am REALLY hoping to end our day with a warm Japanese meal and a bath in an Onsen before we retire for the evening in our van. But we are also prepared to park at a rest stop sometimes and hopefully able to get a shower at least. I need to own up on the fact that I have always been a book and plan in advance person. So this is a huge leap for me. I want to do this before my teen outgrows bunking and holidaying with mom. (6) I looked at the car rental which you mentioned but I don't see that they offer the van which I'm after. I have done some research but if you do have any recommendations, I'd be happy to compare with my own findings.

Thank you for your time. May you have many more lovely trips and wonderful memories. Vivien

Saturday 20th of July 2019

It’s so wonderful to read about your upcoming adventure to Hokkaido with your daughter! Japan is a very safe country indeed and a great place for a first driving trip.

Regarding your questions, I think a van is a good choice as it gives you lots of flexibility. Keep in mind you’ll need/want something (like towels) to cover your windows so you don’t wake up at first light.

In 7-10 days you can see lots of things, but it really depends on the distance you want to cover in one day. You could easily spend a couple of days in the area around Furano, especially since you mention you like quaint little shops and arts&crafts.

Some campsites have an onsen but not all, I’d just ask the camp manager about the facilities when you arrive at a site. We also parked at random parking lots and there are no facilities (like a shower) available at such locations?. Regarding the rental company, if you are after a particular car I’d just go with the company that offers the best deal. As I went with ToCoo I have no experience with other rental companies in Japan.

I wish you a wonderful trip with your daughter! Let me know if you have any further questions:-) Lotte

Oodledoodles

Monday 18th of February 2019

Great post! Thank you for sharing your trip and information with fellow travellers!

I have a question... You mentioned "With temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius at some point, we decided to change our plans and head south instead of north to Wakkanai and the islands of Rebun and Reshiri..." Was weather and freezing temperatures the only reason why you changed your course of travels or was it because of the sights as well (with North having less sights over longer distance and South having more sights over shorter distance travelled?

I am planning to include some south Hokkaido (giving NOBORIBETSU and HAKODATE a miss... the former i've seen plenty in Rotorua and the latter, is just a city) and some of north Hokkaido (including Cape Kamui, Wakkanai and Cape Soya). Will include Biei and Furano as well.

Do you think is workable? I want to follow the tourist route but at the same time i'd like to able to see a little of the north side of Hokkaido as well. Just iffy about the travel distance and time between the cities thats all. We want to be able to take a relaxing journey and take our time, instead of being on the road all the time and rushing from one place to another, not taking time to enjoy the experience.

Sunday 3rd of March 2019

Hi! Thanks, I'm happy to hear that:-) For us the weather was the only reason we traveled South a couple of days sooner than planned. I'd love to revisit Hokkaido as there is so much more to see...

Regarding your itinerary, it really depends how much time you have available. As I mentioned in the post, covering the distances on Hokkaido takes time. However, the views are beautiful though and the roads are in great condition! I always like the journey as well, but I agree you don't want to feel rushed. I'd calculate the distances with google and multiply the time mentioned there by factor 1,3. If that seems alright to you I'd go for it! Have a wonderful trip:-)

Wednesday 30th of January 2019

Hello Lotte!

Thank you so much for this!

Did you go to Hokkaido around late April? I'm planning to go there on this late April and would love to go to Farm Tomita Furano, I saw your picture there, and seems that the lavender is not bloomed yet, But how about other flowers? I'm afraid that late April (30 april) wont be a good time to go to the farm if others flowers are also not bloomed yet.

Thank you Yessi

Friday 1st of February 2019

You are most welcome:-) Regarding your question, yes we traveled to Hokkaido at the end of April. No flowers were in bloom at all, in fact, there was still a lot of snow! Visiting Farm Tomita (and the other places on Hokkaido) was still great but if you are specifically looking for flowers blooming the end of April of probably not a good time. Enjoy your trip!

Friday 7th of September 2018

Hi Lotte - what a great read!

As a non-driver (yeah, shocking I know!) I'm always interested in how folks explore Japan by hire car.

I have a lot of affection for Hokkaido and reading this reminds me not to leave it too long before I'm next there.

The Log Yukari Guesthouse really looks like my kinda place - so that's a good find - thanks for the tip!

If anyone is visiting Hokkaido in Winter (especially between Jan-Mar) then I can thoroughly recommend taking a cruise out into the winter ice floes in an icebreaker ship - it really is an unforgettable experience:

https://www.therealjapan.com/how-to-cruise-an-icebreaker-ship-in-hokkaido/

Wednesday 19th of September 2018

Thanks for reading! I loved exploring Hokkaido by car but of course the trains in Japan are excellent as well;-) I would love to visit in winter, the icebreaker cruise sounds amazing...

• Dec 7, 2023
• 13 min read

10-Day Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring Northern Japan

Prepping for your year end holidays to Japan's Northern Island? Can't wait to feast on all that sashimi and Japanese food and soak in beautiful onsens? Want to experience the freedom of driving yourself from place to place? We've got you!

Buckle up, fellow explorers! We're about to embark on a 10-day journey through enchanting landscapes!

Hokkaido is a traveller's dream. Think of soaking in the onsen in winter, experiencing skiing or snowboarding in powder snow... (take me there right now!)

How many days do I need to travel around Hokkaido?

It really depends which areas you'd want to cover and the season you'll be visiting. Typically if you're heading to Hokkaido in winter for the ski slopes, then you'd usually spend at least 3 days trying to learn how to ski or snowboard!

And then you'll need more days to explore the rest of the icy, wintery northern island.

But if you're just intending to visit Sapporo and the nearby cities like Otaru, check out our 5D4N Sapporo itinerary !

How do I get to Hokkaido, Japan?

Although there aren't as many direct flights into Sapporo New Chitose Airport as compared to popular Tokyo and Osaka , there are more flights during the winter ski/snowboard season. If you're in Singapore, Scoot flies directly from Singapore to Sapporo, and you can search for them on Skyscanner .

But if Hokkaido is on your list from Tokyo, you can always Shinkansen up north to the lovely city of Hakodate. Once you are in the island of Hokkaido, you can then rent a car for the road trip :)

What do I need for driving in Hokkaido, Japan?

We've covered quite extensively in this blog post about driving in Hokkaido, Japan . In summary, you'll need an International Driving Permit, purchase the ETC card, and consider getting the Hokkaido expressway pass (only for foreigners). Don't forget to ask for a GPS in English (or your preferred language) and to ensure you have 4G / 5G mobile data !

And I would also want to throw caution that driving in Winter in Hokkaido is not for the faint-hearted and beginner drivers. The roads can be really slippery in the smaller cities, and you'll need to ensure that you have a shovel and winter tires!

Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Chitose > Lake Shikotsu > Noboribetsu > Lake Toya

Day 2: Lake Toya > Lake Onuma > Hakodate

Day 3: hakodate city, day 4: hakodate > niseko, day 5: niseko > otaru, day 6: otaru > furano, day 7: furano > asahikawa, day 8: asahikawa, day 9: asahikawa > sapporo, day 10: sapporo > chitose, day 1: arrival in chitose airport > lake shikotsu > noboribetsu > lake toya.

Our Hokkaido adventure began in Chitose, where the crisp and chilly northern air greets us as we step out of the airport. We started our car rental directly from the airport, kicking start our journey towards Lake Toya where we'll spend a night. Picking up the car was easy. All we had to do is to head over to the car rental companies on the bottom floor of the airport. You'll see many car rental car counters which are unmanned. But not to worry, once you've reserved your car online, all you have to do is to head over and call them. They will then promptly send a driver to bring you to the actual car rental company located just slightly outside of the airport.

We got a Toyota Roomy (a very quintessential Hokkaido cute car) from Toyota Rent-a-car, which costs about 8000 yen per day. It fits 2 pax comfortably with lots of room for luggage.

Chitose Outlet Mall RERA

Our first stop? It was for lunch and we decided to head to Chitose Outlet Mall RERA . It was a short 10 minutes drive from Toyota Rent-a-car. We arrived there slightly before noon and there weren't anyone at the outlet store. This is also a much smaller shopping outlet so you can actually shop in peace!

Lake Shikotsu

We had a simple lunch at the food court and then started towards our journey to our second stop of the trip - Lake Shikotsu.

The approximately 50mins drive to Lake Shikotsu unveils a picturesque landscape of rolling hills and forests. Once we've arrived, we were mesmerised by the clarity of the Lake Shikotsu waters. We took a leisurely stroll along the lake's shores, breathing in the fresh air, and absorbing the tranquility that surrounds this natural wonder.

Unlike busy cities, there weren't as many tourists here, so it was a really tranquil and great second stop after arriving in Hokkaido! Before you leave, swing by the Shikotsuko Shrine and take a walk across the Yamasen Bridge Ruins. It's bright red so you won't miss it! For those who would like an aerial view, there's also a path up the hill after you've crossed the Yamasen Bridge.

There are several hotels at Lake Shikotsu like Shikotsu Daiichi Hotel Suizantei , featuring outdoor onsens. Some rooms even have private open-air baths so that you can unwind privately with your loved ones in the comfort of your rooms! What's really special here is that most travellers who travel via trains will stop and stay at Noboribetsu, so you can be assured of a relatively peaceful stay here!

Noboribetsu

For us, we're heading over to Noboribetsu! Nestled in the southwestern part of Hokkaido, Noboribetsu awaits with its captivating blend of natural hot springs and stunning landscapes. As soon as you arrive in this little town, you'll know for sure as the pungent Sulphur fills the air!

Begin your exploration by visiting Jigokudani , aptly named "Hell Valley" due to its volcanic terrain featuring steaming sulfur vents and dramatic landscapes reminiscent of an otherworldly realm. Take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails, marvel at the boiling hot springs, and witness the raw power of nature in this geothermal wonderland.

Unlike Lake Shikotsu, Noboribetsu is a popular day trip destination for travellers who are based in Sapporo. But what's great is that most of them leave before evening arrives so you'll get to explore the rest of the city without crowds if you arrive after 3pm.

For a serene contrast to the volcanic landscapes, you could go on a little trek to visit Oyunuma Pond . Oyunuma Pond offers a tranquil setting surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle bubbling of hot spring waters. The picturesque scenery invites you to relax and soak in the soothing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a rejuvenating break after driving for several hours. Near the pond, you'll find the River Oyunuma Natural Footbath for a free onsen foot bath!

Don't forget to get onto the ropeway all the way to the Noboribetsu Bear Park - zoo with 70 unique Ezo brown bears! It is a must-visit because where else can you see a congregation of bears? As this is a popular attraction, grab your tickets in advance to skip the queues! The ticket includes the gondola or ropeway!

You can choose to spend the night at Noboribetsu ryokans and hotels if you would like to soak in onsens directly from the source!

For us, because we booked a night at Lake View Toya Nonokaze , we carried on our drive to Lake Toya. We arrived in the evening, just before dinner. I cannot recommend this modern ryokan enough.

Somehow we managed to snag an awesome full board (dinner + breakfast) deal for just 36,000 yen! We think it was because we were there during the off-peak season (in November, just before the winter season). After the long drive and sight-seeing, we decided to "wash up" at the onsen for about 30 mins before we went for dinner, thus concluding our day. Read more about our stay at Lake View Toya Nonokaze .

Today's the day for the long drive to Hakodate! Before that, there are plenty more things to do in the Lake Toya region like riding at Lake Toya Ranch, hiking up Nishiyama Crater Walking trail, or going on the Uzusan Ropeway. Some people may choose to stay another night here!

For us, we only visited the nearby parks along Lake Toya and went to an ice cream shop!

Shikotsu Toya National Park Silo Observation Deck

After seeing Hokkaido's Mount Fuji, Mount Yotei, from ground-level, it is now time to see it from atop! Standing tall atop the Shikotsu Toya National Park Silo Observation Deck feels like a moment suspended in awe.

As I reached the observation deck, the expanse of nature's grandeur unfolded before my eyes—a breathtaking tapestry of Lake Toya's cerulean waters and the majestic silhouette of Mount Yotei painting the horizon. The gentle breeze whispered tales of the surrounding landscape, while the sprawling views below ignited a sense of wonder and reverence. From this vantage point, the beauty of Hokkaido's untouched wilderness is laid bare, a spectacle that captivates the soul and leaves an indelible mark on one's appreciation for nature's sublime artistry!

Lake Hill Farm

Lake Hill Farm is a must-stop on your way in or out of the Lake Toya region. It is situated close to Hotel Cocoa Resort . This cosy cafe has two sides. A take-out ice cream shop on the left and a little cafe selling pastries, desserts and coffee on the right. As we needed coffee before our long drive, we decided to stop by the cafe. When the weather's warmer, you'll even get to see animals roaming around the farm!

Ukimido Park

Ukimido park is a must-see when you are in the Lake Toya region. This lakeside haven offers a peaceful retreat where travellers can immerse themselves in nature's splendor while admiring the iconic Ukimido Pavilion gracefully perched above the water. This place offers a great photospot without much tourists as you can only get here if you are on a self-drive trip!

Surrounded by lush greenery and the calming presence of Lake Toya's waters, the pavilion serves as a symbol of tranquility, inviting contemplation and moments of serene reflection. Visitors often find solace in the park's serene ambiance, strolling along the pathways, taking in panoramic views of the lake and mountains, and embracing the harmony between nature and architectural beauty that defines Ukimido Park.

Then it was the long drive till our next stop at Lake Onuma. Ah, as if we haven't had enough lakes, Lake Onuma is where nature paints its finest masterpiece. Picture this: the evening mist dancing atop the calm waters, the silhouette of Mount Komagatake gracing the horizon, and the gentle rustle of leaves as you stroll along the winding trails.

I remember my visit vividly—the air crisp with a hint of pine, the vibrant colors of autumn reflecting off the lake's surface. The serenity of the marshlands envelops you, inviting you to pause and absorb the beauty of this hidden gem. This was a refreshing stop after over 3 hours of driving.

If you have the time, and if the weather permits, you could rent a bike or rent a boat to explore the lake, allowing you to discover every nook and cranny of this serene landscape.

And that concludes our last stop of the day. We then went to our hotel in Hakodate and had Lucky Pierot!

Where to stay in Hakodate?

When considering where to stay in Hakodate , a wide array of accommodations caters to diverse budgets and preferences. Among the favored options lies the Hakodate Bay area, a highly recommended district. An excellent choice within this locale is La Vista Hakodate Bay , a mid-range hotel that boasts breathtaking vistas encompassing the harbor and the city skyline. Notably advantageous, its central location places guests amidst an exceptional culinary landscape, ensuring convenient access to an array of delectable dining options.

We actually stayed in an Airbnb which I won't be writing about because I don't recommend it. The thing about Airbnbs in Japan is... I don't really recommend it. They tend to be a bit older than the photographs so I would advise you to stick to hotels!

I won't go too much into this section because I wrote about all the things you could do in Hakodate, Hokkaido here . What I'd suggest is to wake up early for the morning market, and then have a little walk around this very walkable city. Your car isn't much of a help here as parking prices can chalk up fast!

Walk from the bay area where you'll find the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse to the historic Motomachi District , then head to the Hachi-man Zaki Slope .

The only place you'll need your car to get to will be the Goryokaku Fort and Goryokaku Tower .

Hakodate probably requires more days but if skiing is on your Hokkaido to-do list, then make your way to Niseko, the city of powdered snow.

Embarking on the road journey from Hakodate to Niseko unveils a captivating transition from coastal charm to mountainous allure. Exiting Hakodate, the drive unveils scenic coastal routes with panoramic vistas of the sea that gradually evolve into rolling hills and verdant landscapes.

As the road winds inland, you'll be greeted by the majestic peaks of the Niseko region, signalling the approach to this renowned mountain paradise. The approximately three-hour drive leads through picturesque countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and charming villages along the way, creating a scenic tapestry that transforms as you venture closer to Niseko.

Niseko, nestled in the heart of Hokkaido's mountainous terrain, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports aficionados. Renowned globally for its pristine powder snow, Niseko is a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled winter sports experience. Beyond winter, the area boasts a tranquil and picturesque setting, attracting visitors year-round with its stunning natural beauty. The quaint town exudes a relaxed vibe, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its inviting atmosphere and explore its diverse offerings, from soothing onsens (hot springs) to hiking trails that showcase the region's scenic splendor.

I must add that even though we only had 1 day here - because we couldn't ski, most families and travellers would choose to base here for 2 - 3 days just to enjoy the winter sports. We highly recommend this as well!

In Niseko, accommodations cater to various preferences, from luxurious resorts to cozy ryokans, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay amidst the region's natural splendor. One prominent option is the Hilton Niseko Village , a deluxe resort offering ski-in/ski-out access and magnificent views of Mount Yotei. If not for the fact that when we were there, the snow wasn't thick enough for snowing, I would have written a glorious review of this resort.

For a more traditional experience, the Zaborin Ryokan stands as a serene oasis amidst the snow-covered landscape. This luxury ryokan offers a harmonious blend of Japanese aesthetics and contemporary comforts, featuring elegant rooms with private open-air hot spring baths (onsen) and exquisite kaiseki cuisine crafted from local seasonal ingredients. The tranquil setting and personalized hospitality at Zaborin Ryokan create an intimate and authentic retreat for guests seeking a cultural immersion in Niseko.

There's just something magical about Otaru that keeps us going back again and again even though honestly there's not that many attractions. I've already been there three times, and that probably says alot!

Otaru , a charming port city on Hokkaido's western coast, beckons visitors with its nostalgic atmosphere and picturesque canal-lined streets. Stepping into Otaru feels like stepping back in time; its beautifully preserved merchant buildings and stone warehouses evoke a bygone era when the city was a thriving trade hub.

Otaru can be completed as a day trip from Sapporo , but we really enjoy the peaceful and laid-back vibe of this city that we decided to stay here along the canal no less!

We stayed at Hotel Nord Otaru which overlooks the canal. Especially at night, it is a beautiful scene. Staying at Otaru will allow you to visit the attractions outside the city, like Cape Kamui and the Blue Caves .

Then we skipped Sapporo and headed to the little city of Furano. Beyond Lavender fields, there's still much more to do in Furano . We decided to base here for a night as it gets us closer to Asahikawa, where there's a lot more to do!

Shiroi Koibito Theme Park

Along the way, you may wish to stop by the Shiroi Koibito Theme Park. In winter, the park is really beautiful! Entrance to the outdoors park is free, but you'll need a ticket to enter the factory.

Enjoy Kodamaya Soba

We'd recommend making a pit stop at Kodamaya Soba for lunch. Kodamaya crafts their soba noodles with great care, resulting in a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Prices are also affordable, and even though we heard that this place gets crowded (evident from the many parking lots right outside the restaurant), we were fortunate to visit it at 3pm which gave us a peaceful late lunch.

Where to stay in Furano?

We stayed right opposite the Furano train station at Furano Natulux Hotel . With tastefully designed rooms, a hotel guests-only onsen, and exceptional service, you can look forward to enjoying a relaxing stay.

Other options we've considered included Shin Furano Prince Hotel . This would have been our top choice should the ski slopes opened. And if you want an authentic Japanese experience, then Ryokan Sansui is your go to.

This is the day you can visit Biei Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls near the city of Biei. Most people typically do it as a day trip from Asahikawa and we're doing it the opposite here. This was one of the highlights of the trip (okay, maybe I'm saying it too many times since so much of Hokkaido was so amazing!)

After these two attractions which require quite a bit of drive, you can then enjoy the rest of your day in Asahikawa. We've written quite a bit about exploring Asahikawa , so we won't go too much here.

There are numerous accommodations options in Asahikawa because it is the second-largest city in Hokkaido. We personally stayed in TKD House in Asahikawa and really enjoyed the space it offers. The entire apartment fits a family of four, includes a dining room, 2 toilets, 1 bathroom, and even has a sauna!

Of all the attractions within this city, we highly recommend heading to the zoo. Yes the zoo!

Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo stands as a premier attraction in Asahikawa, drawing animal enthusiasts with its exceptional exhibits. The zoo offers an extraordinary chance to get close to various animals, notably penguins, with the added treat of witnessing the captivating penguin parade during winter visits. Although open throughout the year, the zoo particularly dazzles in winter, boasting heightened animal activity against the snowy backdrop.

Our visit to Asahiyama Zoo was truly delightful; we relished the opportunity to observe the animals intimately. The zoo's spacious layout caters well to families, providing an enjoyable experience for both adults and children. With its manageable size, exploring all the exhibits can easily be accomplished within half a day—a convenient option, especially for families planning around their little ones' nap times.

And so we saved the best and largest city in Hokkaido for the last! There's plenty to do in Sapporo and this deserves 2 days.

We've also been to Sapporo multiple times such that we came up with a list of 22 and counting actually, things to do in Sapporo .

We've also experienced different hotels in Sapporo including APA Hotel Sapporo Susukino Ekimae which had an amazing location with an affordable price tag. If you would like to treat yourself, a notable choice is the Sapporo Grand Hotel . It is a luxurious landmark in the city center known for its elegant rooms, impeccable service, and proximity to attractions like Odori Park and Sapporo Clock Tower.

For those seeking modern comfort and convenience, ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo stands out with its contemporary amenities, stylish rooms, and easy access to the lively Susukino district and the Sapporo Beer Museum.

Additionally, for travelers seeking a more budget-friendly stay without compromising on quality, Hotel Mystays Sapporo Nakajima Park offers comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, and a tranquil setting near Nakajima Park, providing a relaxing retreat amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

These accommodations represent a snippet of the diverse lodging options available in Sapporo, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this vibrant city.

The journey from Sapporo to Chitose, while a travel route, also offers an array of attractions and experiences along the way, making it more than just a transit between destinations. En route, a stop at Jozankei Onsen presents a serene interlude, boasting natural hot springs set amidst stunning mountain landscapes. Visitors can indulge in a relaxing soak while soaking in the tranquility before continuing their journey. Another must-visit spot is the Chitose Salmon Aquarium , located near New Chitose Airport. Here, travelers can learn about the lifecycle of Hokkaido's iconic salmon, explore interactive exhibits, and witness the mesmerizing sight of salmon swimming upstream through an underwater viewing area.

Shopaholics should not miss Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima for some factory outlet shopping!

Concluding the 10-day Hokkaido Road Trip

All good things come to an end, sadly. And 10 days is definitely not enough to cover the entire Hokkaido island as most of you will likely pick and choose some of these cities to stay longer in.

I hope that this blogpost at least give you a glimpse into what Hokkaido has to offer! And next up, I'll be sharing my Kyushu Island Road Trip! Subscribe and stay tuned!

Recent Posts

Beyond Lavender Fields: What to Do in Furano, Hokkaido's Enchanting Retreat

Planning the Perfect Hokkaido Self-Drive Road Trip: Exploring Scenic Wonders on Wheels

Hakodate, Hokkaido: Discover the Hidden Gems of Japan's Northern Island

Comentarios

• South Africa
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• United States

5-Day Hokkaido Itinerary: Memorable Journey in Japan's North

When we were mid-way through our largely unplanned one month Japan trip, all the signs were pointing for us to go to Hokkaido, Japan's Northernmost main island. We had received several recommendations from friends and when I hopped onto Skyscanner and found flights from Tokyo for a mere 34 euro each, I knew it was bound to happen. I booked them, and we were on our way for a 5-day adventure in Hokkaido.

Check out our similar 1-Week Itinerary in Kyushu post or 2-Week Itinerary in Central Honshu , as well to discover our other favorite parts of Japan.

I was a bit apprehensive about being able to cover the ground that we wanted in Hokkaido in 5 days, but we made it happen and more.

So here is our itinerary on how to spend 5 days in Hokkaido along, through our lens, along with some alternatives suggestions as well, so you can make Hokkaido as memorable as we did. Before we begin, let's talk about some logistics:

Best Time To Visit Hokkaido

For us, it was the end of April, or Hokkaido Spring, which I would say is probably the least likely time other tourists visit Hokkaido. During Hokkaido Winter, the main attractions are skiing and other winter sports, while during Hokkaido Summer there is trekking and endless lavender fields.

But April had its perks. With the rest of the country already losing its cherry blossoms, we found the Hokkaido cherry blossoms to be in full bloom. The temperature was a bit chilly yet comfortable. Best of all, we got to experience Hokkaido without any swaths of tourists, so for us, Spring was the best time to visit Hokkaido.

How many days to spend in Hokkaido?

This itinerary is a 5 day route through west and central Hokkaido, but it definitely wasn't enough. I reckon pretty much unlimited time can be spent here without experiencing the urge to leave 🤣, but it can be done with a minimum of just five days.

Where We Stayed 🏡

Sapporo: plat hostel keikyu sapporo sky

Furano: La Vista Furano

Biei: Hotel Lavenir

Mt. Asahidake: K' House Hokkaido

Chitose (specifically Abira): Vacilando

Getting there: How-To and Airports in Hokkaido

Our choice: flying to new chitose airport 🛫.

We booked our flights from Tokyo Haneda to New Chitose Airport , just 45–50 minutes from Sapporo, the 5th largest city in Japan, and Hokkaido's main hub.

Even with just booking a few days in advanced, the prices on Spring Airlines Japan were a mere 34 euros, one way. Other budget airlines offer comparable prices, notably JetStar, giving you several options per day.

New Chitose Airport is relatively well-connected to other major Japanese airports and also have flights to some foreign cities, like Seoul-Incheon, South Korea 🇰🇷 (where we flew to after Hokkaido)

Alternative Airport in Hokkaido: Asahikawa Airport

If you happen to follow this itinerary and want to skip Sapporo for the nature or maybe have a shorter time in Hokkaido to spare, there are also flights to some of the other regional airports from Tokyo including Asahikawa Airport , which had flights for as low as 78 euros, one way, when I last checked.

Alternative Way to Get to Hokkaido: JR Pass 🚄

For those on the JR Pass, you can definitely get up to Hokkaido using that. We didn't choose this mode as our JR Pass had expired. However, if you aren't on the JR Pass, the train trip up here is definitely not as cost savvy as flying.

Getting around Hokkaido

Driving a car in hokkaido.

"Driving is the only way to get around Hokkaido" several people warned us. But when I went to go check the requirements of car rental agencies, I almost considered cancelling the trip. We needed an international driving license (which neither of us have) and a credit card (both of us use debit cards like good debt-free Europeans). If you are better at planning and prepping for trips than us, this is certainly the best option, and I recommend booking with a company like Discover before heading to Hokkaido, but after surviving and thriving without a car in Hokkaido, we are living proof that it can be done and just as many adventures can be had as if you had a car.

Public transportation in Hokkaido

"Public transportation isn't reliable in Hokkaido" the naysayers went on to say, but we are talking about Japan here. Perhaps it isn't as reliable as the rest of the country, where we never once experienced a late departure on any mode of transportation, but I would put the public transportation in Hokkaido well above the reliability of Germany and puts public transportation in the largest American cities like New York and Chicago to absolute shame.

After we knew a car wasn't a possibility, we decided that maybe a regional JR Pass would be best. If you do not have the country-wide JR Pass, Hokkaido offers three different regional passes , allowing you to check out various parts of the island. However, when we got to the ticket counter past 7 at New Chitose Airport, the counter had already closed.

After a bit more deliberation on our train ride into Sapporo, we decided we would just buy tickets as we go, as we likely were just going to go to a few places in the 5 days we would be going around Hokkaido, and we wanted to do some bike-riding between places.

The moral is, Hokkaido public transportation never failed us. For those who claim you need a car, don't listen. There are alternatives.

You will find many cute, tiny trains in Hokkaido

So now with the basic logistics out of the way, how to spend 5 days in Hokkaido? Well, follow along, my adventurous friend.

Night 1/Day 1: Sapporo by 🚞

We arrived to Sapporo Station around 8:30pm and were immediately struck by the chill vibes and pace of the city compared to Tokyo. Our hotel plat hostel keikyu sapporo sky was located just two stops away on the subway in Susukino . The area, which I am now just discovering is the red-light district of Sapporo, is also a foodie-haven and over the course of the next hours, we hopped around to four different places, trying local Ramen ( RAMEN ICHI ), devouring steamy pork buns ( 茶寮すすきの店 ), and ending the night with fried chicken and sake. We avoided any red-light situations and finally went back to rest.

Sapporo beer is all over Japan, but apparently this is Hokkaido-only Sapporo beer

The following morning, we got up and went out into the Spring sunshine for a walk down by the Toyohira River, a place where you can see the locals doing their thing, including plenty of old people playing a type of golf with a large ball, called Ground Golf . In desperate need of coffee and something sugary to jolt us awake, we stopped by Smooch Café and were transported to Santa Cruz, complete with delicious, strong drip coffees and cookies. The café sits right next to Nakajima Park, and with the cherry blossoms in full-force, we were basically forced to take a walk through. Once again, the park was mainly locals doing their thing and while we strolled through and eventually back to Sapporo Station to catch a bus, we knew that Sapporo and Hokkaido was the vibe we were looking for.

Day 1/Night 2: Furano by 🚌

We hopped on the direct bus to Furano, in central Hokkaido, with a bag of 7/11 treats in hand and were soon (and, mind the naysayers, on time) flying down the express-way. In 2.5 hours and with many scenic views had along the way, we made it to Furano. The first thing that made our jaw drop was the view of the Daisetsu Mountain Range in the distance and the second was the hotel we just checked into, La Vista Furano , which had a well-equipped onsen at the top floor, free ramen after 10pm, and the world's coziest beds.

For the rest of the afternoon, we decided to stay on foot to get some exercise in and walked a few kilometers out of the town and into the hills to Furano Winery , definitely a place to check out considering I didn't expect to ever find a winery in Japan. A few glasses of free and paid wine tasting down (all done from an automated machine, of course, as it is Japan), we wandered around the hills and had to keep pinching ourselves to remind us that the surrounding nature was real.

As the sun began to set, we headed back into town and through the ghostly alleyways to find some dinner. We kept saying that the town of Furano could have been a town in Alaska or the Midwest, United States, minus the guns and meth addictions 🤣. We risked stumbling into a place that could have been a restaurant, but equally someone's house, but fortunately found it to be a cozy little Izkaya, with a wooden stove burning in the middle and a kind owner who explained the menu to us, notably about the Furano specialties ( Robata ). In minutes, he brought out cold beer, an asparagus dish that was in season, a delicious leek and egg stir fry, along with a giant roasted, oil-dripping mackerel split down the middle. Filled to the seam with Japanese food and light small talk with the owner, we made our way back to the hotel to enjoy the amenities it had to offer.

We got our fill of the largely empty onsen, including 30 minutes in a private onsen, massage chairs, free ice cream, and ultimately free ramen. This hotel knew how to pamper us, almost as though it anticipated the strenuous journey we were about to embark on the following day.

Day 2/Night 3: Furano 👉 Shirogane Pond 👉 Biei by 🚴‍♀️

We had the grand idea to ditch public transportation and make a bike ride out of the day, but when we got to the little bike-rental shop (just right of Furano Station when looking at it) the most hardcore bikes were merely beach cruisers with 3 gears, clearly suited for a little stroll around the town. Regardless, we were committed to the idea and rented them for a total of three days for 1500 yen + a 500 yen overnight fee each, not telling the woman where we were going in case she changed her mind.

And on our beach cruisers we went, stopping by sights along the way such as Farm Tomita , which although was sporting lavender fields not yet in season, had delicious Hokkaido lavender ice cream to make up for it. When we stopped by the town of Kamifurano for a late lunch, we randomly happened upon Dai Ichi Shokudo . As soon as we walked in, the owner's kindness and humor was infectious. As we were biking, she encouraged us to get the big portion (for an extra 100 yen) and in return two massive trays of food came out. It was the first time on my trip where I struggled to finish my food thanks to the size, but alas, we had a strenuous journey ahead of us. As we were about to leave, she even gave us parting gifts, including lavender and a small hand-sewn coaster her mom had made 🥹. We mentioned to her that we were headed to Biei on bike, and she was shocked, as though we were cycling to the other side of the planet. Little did she know, we also had an additional detour that would add quite a few hours to the already long trip.

Filled to the brim with pork and rice, we battled the hills (mainly by walking up them with our bikes), fears of bears, and light rainfall and in the late afternoon, we made it to Shrogane Blue Pond, which is exactly what it sounds like. The brilliant blue water was the result of an accident to prevent mudslides, in which aluminum seeped into the water and thus scatters the sunlight. Was it worth it to visit Shirogane Blue Pond, absolutely. I can imagine there can be a lot of tourists there, but when we were there we encountered very few.

Much to our good fortune, the ride to Biei was the easiest of the legs so far, as there was a paved, flat, clearly-marked bike path that went for 17 kilometers from Shirogane Blue Pond to Biei. We encountered not a single person on the ride and bathed in the freedom of the open roads.

45 minutes later, we strolled into Biei, another Hokkaido town with seemingly few people and checked into our much more basic than the night before, albeit nice hotel, Hotel Lavenir , and hit the town with sore legs and 🍑. We tried a total of five different restaurants and were oddly turned away from each of them, a first we had experienced in Japan. It began to feel a little like getting turned away at Berghain in Berlin , complete with soul-killing rejection, but I suppose it was understandable on a Friday night. The lesson is: if you happen to come to Biei on a Friday night, make sure to book something in advance. Defeated, we ended up walking into a gem of a place called Snack Ringu (nearby the 7/11), what seemed like the town's only bar. Coated in red velvet from floor to ceiling, the woman of the bar invited us in with open arms, giving us a beer and a few snacks. Three beers later, we were still there, singing karaoke allegedly with the mayor of Biei and speaking with the bar-ladies, Naomi, Yumi, and Mama as best as we could. Even though we spoke very little of one another's language, we could feel the warmth of the hosts and took pictures together at the end. A little drunk, we stumbled out and finally settled on 7/11 for dinner, resulting in us over-microwaving a bag of fried chicken.

Naomi, come back to me!

Day 3/Night 4: Biei to Mt. Asahidake (Hokkaido's tallest mountain) by 🚴‍♀️🚌⛷

We made it down to the hotel's breakfast buffet just in time. While I am not particularly a fan of a buffet, this was actually fabulous, with tons of healthy western and Japanese options to fuel us for whatever was to come that day.

We had a loose plan for the day, but knew we wanted to make it up to Mt. Asahidake, so we headed to the train station in hopes to catch a train that was headed to Asahikawa airport, where we would then take a bus to Mt. Asahidake. The ticket agent looked at my Google Maps of the train suggestion and told me it wasn't leaving at the time on my phone but much later than anticipated, which would cause us to miss our connecting bus (okay, so public transportation in Hokkaido may not be 100% reliable).

Thinking cap on, I looked up the bike directions to Asahikawa Airport, which was only 45 minutes away. So rather than abandon our bikes in Biei for the night, we hopped back on them, against our bodies' will, and journeyed to the airport. Despite some additional hill-age, we made it to the bus with 15 minutes to spare and were soon climbing altitudes to the snowy base of Mt. Asahidake. The bus conveniently dropped us off right in front of our home for the night, K' House Hokkaido (just 45 euros for a private room), and after dropping our things off we made our way straight for Asahidake Ropeway just a kilometer up the road. We had gone from Spring to late Winter in the course of an hour, with snow coverage everywhere.

As not so well-versed with winter sports, we headed to the visitor's center next to the rope way for some advice. Soon after, for a mere 800 yen and the price of a one-way ticket up the rope way (a little over 1,000 yen), we were trying snow-shoeing for the first time. We first made our way to smoky caldera and then walked down ski course B and C. Just 2–3 hours later, and covered with blisters on our feet, yet totally satisfied, we were back at the rope way base just in time before the only restaurant in the area closed. We scarfed down edamame, Asahidake beer, and ramen and the exhaustion of all the biking and snow-shoeing set in.

Back at K's House down the road, we lounged in the massive lounge, which even had a tent and hammocks set up and hacked together a meal with a few ingredients from the in-house grocery store (there are no grocery stores in this area, so bring your own). It also turns out onsens are popular in this region, and our hotel had another one. The best part was sitting outside and watching a peaceful scene of white-bark trees in the deep snow as the stars came up in the sky.

We were exhausted, but all that we felt was pure bliss.

Day 4/Night 5: Mt. Asahidake 👉 Biei 👉 Furano by 🚌🚴

We had some brewed coffee and two slices of thick bread with jam before getting on the 9:34 bus back to Asahikawa Airport, where our worn-out bikes stood all alone, probably not ready to be ridden all the way back to Furano in a single day. Fabio searched on Google Maps for some must-see places along the way, and then we were off. It started with a Zerubu Hill , where we rode some ATVs around the complex, back through Biei, for lunch at the super chill and seriously delicious BeACafe , and over the river to the bizarre Ikoigamori Park . By afternoon, we were still only about halfway to Furano as we couldn't stop taking pit stops, partially because of the unexpected hills and partially because everything was just so gorgeous. Even if it wasn't the full bloom of summer complete with lavender, there were rolling green fields for ages.

Our last stops before the long rocky road back were Shikisai-no-oka which had an Alpaca farm filled with shaved alpacas (it is hysterical) and back through Kamifurano which was looking particularly like a ghost town that day, at the start of the Golden Week holidays.

Just before the 6pm close of the bike-shop, we rolled on in, totally destroyed, having biked on beach cruisers for nearly 8 hours that day.

We stopped by Furano Bar for the closest thing to a Campari Spritz we could find in all of East Asia and somehow mustered up the energy to head to a nearby karaoke, to get rid of any remaining energy we may have had over the course of 2 hours.

Back in La Vista for the night, we repeated our regimen from a few days prior (onsen, ice cream, free ramen), completely elated by the last few days of pure adventure.

Day 5: Furano to "Chitose" by 🚌🚞

We had one day left on holiday, so we decided to make the most of it and wake up early despite the inviting beds and walked a few kilometers to Asahigaoka Park, where we could see the cherry blossoms from our hotel window calling to us. It was a peaceful place, like most places in Hokkaido and as we walked by the cherry blossoms, we felt only gratitude for having come to Hokkaido. It may have not been the easiest place to get around, but the people and nature made the experience incredibly heart-warming and satisfying.

Soon after we were back on the same bus to Chitose/Sapporo ready to start remote working again.

So if you are coming to Japan, you must factor Hokkaido into your adventure. After seeing much of Japan, Hokkaido has been the absolute highlight and its beauty cannot be left unseen.

Sayonara, for now.

To read more about Japan, check out:

• Ultimate Guide to Japan on a Budget: Saving Money on Accommodations, Transportation, Food and More
• Nagasaki, What a Blast!: From Hashima Island (Gunkanjima Island) to the Atomic Bomb Area
• Kyushu Itinerary

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Best Hotels

Top Things to Do in Hokkaido

Top Things to Do in Sapporo

Best Hikes in Hokkaido

Amazing National Parks

Best Ski Resorts

Day Trips From Sapporo

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Your Trip to Hokkaido: The Complete Guide

There is nowhere in the world like Hokkaido, let alone just in Japan. The nation’s north most island is an expansive landscape of snow-capped mountains, crystal blue lakes, and endless fields of lavender come summertime. Its capital city of Sapporo is often dubbed the “Tokyo of the north,” and is the birthplace of many of Japan’s best dishes. Home to its native Ainu people, Hokkaido is brimming with its own unique cultural history. All of this without mentioning the seasonal festivals, the skiing, and the three feet of snow in the depths of winter. Hokkaido is like nowhere else, and this is your complete guide to a trip around the island.

Planning Your Trip

Best time to visit : Hokkaido tends to be associated with its winter events and skiing but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do the rest of the year as the island is dry with low humidity  . Arriving in the winter does mean you get to enjoy the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival in February and the carpet of snow that stays for the seasons whether you’re taking to the slopes or wandering the cities.

The summer is also a great time to visit Hokkaido as it doesn’t see the sweltering temperatures and typhoons that the rest of Japan does. You’ll also be able to enjoy the blooming flower fields and national parks, the many summer festivals, and take part in any number of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and climbing. The colorful spring and fall seasons bring the cherry blossom and maple leaves so there really is no bad time to visit Hokkaido.

Language : The Japanese language is spoken on Hokkaido. Hokkaido Ainu is still spoken by the indigenous Ainu people  , mostly on the north side of the island, though very few speak it in their day to day life.

Getting Around : Much like the rest of Japan, the train rules supreme for getting around whether that’s the Sapporo subway or the trains that take you between the cities and towns. Your JR rail pass will work on the bullet trains and JR local trains here, and an IC card like Pasmo or Suica card is helpful for using the subway or city buses. You can also pay for goods in some stores with your IC card which can be easily purchased and topped up at subway stations. 

Intercity buses are also helpful if you want to save money or access areas that you can’t reach by train. Buses can be accessed from the main bus stations in major cities. 

Renting a car is also a very popular option in Hokkaido, the roads are open and the views are incredible and as much of Hokkaido’s beauty is nature-based, it makes seeing these natural sites much easier. It’s also worth remembering they drive on the left in Japan. 

Taxis are available in cities and can be flagged down by putting your arm out or can typically be found outside subway stations and tourist attractions. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around in Japan but can be useful.

Things to Do

Hokkaido is brimming with things to do with its wide stretches of untouched nature and its bustling cities, here are a few to start with.

• Wander Daisetsuzan National Park: A colossal national park in the heart of Hokkaido. Daisetsuzan is a pristine paradise of fields, forests, ponds, and mountains that can be comfortably explored for days.
• Jozankei Onsen: One of the most famous and celebrated onsen in Hokkaido, this hot spring offers picturesque valley views that radically change from season to season.
• Hokkaido Shrine: Found in Sapporo, thousands of visitors each year flock to this Shinto shrine. It’s also one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots on the island.
• Go Skiing at Niseko: South of Sapporo is the small village of Niseko, nestled at the foot of the jaw-dropping Mount Yotei, one of Hokkaido’s prime skiing locations.
• Visit the Ainu Museum : The only museum of its kind in Japan, this was created as a symbol of the Japanese government's commitment to treating the Ainu with respect  . Here you can get to know the culture of the indigenous people of Hokkaido which includes an open-air Ainu village to explore and music and craft classes.

What to Eat and Drink

Hokkaido has a lot to offer for food lovers and taking time to try the local delicacies is very worth your time. Since the climate is generally cooler, most of the dishes will leave you feeling warm and satisfied but this is also an island well known for its soft-serve ice cream, sweet treats, and above all, its seafood.

Try Lavender Ice-Cream and Wine in Furano: Furano is known for its amazing flower and lavender fields and this means it’s a great place to try Lavender ice cream and other desserts. If you’re a fan of vineyards then make sure to enjoy a wine tour of Furano.

Eat Seafood at a Seafood Market: Hokkaido is famous for its seafood and some of the best places to try the freshest seafood prepared in front of you is a seafood market. Some of the biggest on Hokkaido are Nijo Market, Otaru Seaport Market, and Kushiro Washo Market.

Try a Bowl of Ramen on Sapporo Ramen Street: Hokkaido is most famous for its miso ramen, but almost every type of Japanese ramen has a spot on Ramen Yokocho just waiting to be visited.

Try a Genghis Kahn Lamb Barbecue: Perfect if you’re traveling as a group, get together and enjoy a lamb barbecue (Jingisukan), a Hokkaido specialty named after the Mongolian soldiers' concave helmets and their preference for lamb.

Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum: Sapporo beer is one of the most beloved beers across Japan and the world, only rivaled by Asahi in terms of global fame. Head to the museum to tour the brewery and do tastings; plus you can visit the large restaurant attached where you can try a number of local dishes.

Where to Stay

Deciding where to base yourself in Hokkaido can be a challenge and many people opt to spend a few days in different areas so they can see the varied beauty of the island. Here are some of the main areas you can stay and what to do nearby. 

Sapporo: The major city of Hokkaido, basing yourself in Sapporo is a great idea if you want to see the city and enjoy some day trips like the nearby retro town of Otaru and Asahikawa. You can also reach some fantastic hot springs nearby such as Jozankei Onsen and Noboribetsu Onsen .

Lake Toya: A perfect place if you’re looking to relax and enjoy scenic views. The area is just over two hours from New Chitose Airport and surrounds the unique caldera Lake Toya and the active volcanoes of Usuzan and Showa Shinzan. Relax in the hot springs, visit Silo Observatory, take a cruise on the lake or hike around it!

Furano: Furano is a lovely base at any time of year but it’s blooming in color throughout the summer months. With local vineyards, independent artists to shop from at Ningle Terrace, and spectacular views of the Daisetsuzan mountains, Furano is a truly special part of Japan.

Ski Resorts: If you’re skiing, then there are plenty of resorts to choose from such as Niseko, Rusustu, or Kiroro which are all under two hours from Sapporo and accessible from the airport.

Getting There

Most international flights arrive at New Chitose Airport but if you’re flying domestically, there are 12 airports across the island which may prove more convenient. You can get the train into Sapporo from the airport which takes around half an hour.

If you're arriving into Sapporo on the bullet train, you'll be arriving into Sapporo Station and will be able to catch the subway from there. You can also change to other trains which will take you to other parts of the island.

Culture and Customs

• There's no need to tip in Hokkaido—same goes for Japan as a whole. In some cases, it can even be considered offensive.
• If you're shopping and paying in cash, make sure to place your money in the dish on the counter. Your change will also be placed thereafter. 
• Remember to carry some cash as some places don't take cards. You'll find plenty of ATMs around the city or in convenience stores like 7/11 or FamilyMart.
• The bow is the standard form of greeting in Japan, but a nod will usually suffice.
• When on the subway, make sure not to use the seats reserved for the elderly.

Money Saving Tips

Luckily, Hokkaido’s nature and outdoor pursuits provide a lot of opportunities for free and budget activities. If you enjoy nature trails or hiking, then you’ll find endless free activities in Hokkaido.

• Many of the festivals that are held in Odori Park are free so make sure to keep up with what’s going on in the city. 
• Make sure to try some convenience store food and coffee to save money. Stores like 7/11, Lawson, and Family Mart have excellent quality bento boxes and hot snacks.
• Take advantage of tax refunds while you’re shopping. Purchases of more than 5,000 yen (around $46) are exempt from the 10 percent consumption tax. Wherever you see the tax refund sign just show your passport and they’ll sort it out.

Hokkaido Tourism Organization. " About Hokkaido ."

United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. "The Saga of the Ainu Language." October 2009

Japan National Tourism Organization. "The National Ainu Museum and Park Promotes the Life and Culture of Ainu people, an Ethnic Group Indigenous to Northern Japan."

The Top 15 Things to Do in Hokkaido

The 10 Best Hotels in Hokkaido

How to Spend a Week in Hokkaido

18 Best Things to Do in Japan in Summer

Skiing in Japan: A Complete Guide

7 Amazing National Parks in Hokkaido, Japan

The Top 9 Day Trips From Sapporo

Guide to Sapporo in Hokkaido, Japan

Weather in Hokkaido: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Top 6 Ski Resorts in Hokkaido

The Top 10 National Parks in Japan

The Best Time to Visit Japan

The Best Time to Visit Hokkaido

15 Must-Try Dishes in Tokyo

15 Best Things to Do in Sapporo

The 10 Best Hikes in Hokkaido

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Pages of Travel

Travel Blog

• WORK WITH US
• DESTINATIONS
• THE BEST TRAVEL GEAR
• PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP
• PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS
• search Search

A Massive 10-Day Hokkaido Summer Itinerary

Created On: August 23, 2022   |   Updated: September 18, 2023   |   Leave a comment

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links from which we may make commission from. As always, we only recommend places and products we love! In addition, we try our best to keep our articles up-to-date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation however we always recommend double-checking when planning a trip as these items can change frequently.

10-Day Hokkaido Summer Itinerary

Welcome to our massive Hokkaido summer itinerary! When most people travel to Japan and think of Hokkaido they immediately turn to thoughts of skiing, snowdrifts, and steamy hot springs. While these are some of the best things to do in Hokkaido, there is also a different side of Japan’s most northern region that is often overlooked.

Hokkaido in the summer is drastically different from winter. There are rocky coastal beaches, waterfalls, national parks perfect for hiking, flower fields galore, and some of the best seafood and dairy products you will EVER HAVE. You can quote me on that. 

While Hokkaido is only one area of Japan, it’s a massive one, so in this 10-day Hokkaido summer itinerary, we only were able to visit a small fraction of the beautiful places in this region. But they hold such a special place for us – especially Logan, whose grandmother is from Hokkaido. 

In this 10-day Hokkaido summer itinerary, we visited Asahikawa, Nakafurano, Biei, Hokuryu, Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Toya, Noboribetsu, Jigokudani, Otaru, the Shakotan Peninsula, Sapporo, and Hakodate.

It might seem like a lot, and well, you’d be right! But many of the places mentioned above are small towns that offer few attractions. But you’ll still want to keep a tight schedule so you can enjoy everything there is to offer in the time frame you have! Ever since we first visited Hokkaido we’ve been aching to return so we’re jealous if you’re currently planning your trip!

Where is Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is a large island in the most northern part of Japan close to Russia. Because it is an island, it has a number of different beautiful coastlines including the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk. Besides the main island, there are also a number of smaller islands that are considered to be a part of the Hokkaido Region including Rishiri Island, one of the better known.

The Best Time To Visit Hokkaido

Despite it being located so much further north than most other areas of Japan, Hokkaido still has four seasons. Depending on what activities you would like to do will determine when to visit Hokkaido. In this post, we will be sharing our experience traveling to Hokkaido in the summer. But, here is what you can expect from each season in Hokkaido.

Spring in Hokkaido (March-May)

Spring is the most popular time to visit Japan due to… yep you might have guessed it! THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS. Sakura trees are lit up with delicate pink blossoms that are like a fairytale dream come true. So it only makes sense that this is a popular time to visit Hokkaido as well. The only thing to keep in mind is that because of the location of Hokkaido, sakura season typically comes in mid-May which is much later than the rest of Japan.

Summer in Hokkaido (June-August)

I highly believe that Hokkaido is the place to be during the summer in Japan. The weather is exceptionally cooler and less humid than on the main island and if you missed out on cherry blossom season, there are a TON of flower fields you can enjoy. Another thing you can enjoy during a summer road trip in Hokkaido is the beaches! The water is a stunning shade of blue and you’ll find many people going surfing or swimming on the beaches in Hokkaido.

Fall in Hokkaido (September-November)

During the autumn months, you can start to feel the chill of winter’s arrival around mid-September. You might also begin to see snow in some areas in November. With these cooler temperatures, you can enjoy the fall foliage, soak in hot springs, try a Japanese hot pot dish, or take a brisk hike through a glorious National Park. Just make sure you bring a lot of layers for autumn in Hokkaido. 

Winter in Hokkaido (December-February)

Thinking about visiting Hokkaido in the winter? Great! Just be prepared for A LOT of snow and more crowds too. Many domestic and international travelers visit Hokkaido for the amazing ski slopes and snowboarding. There are a number of ski resort towns to visit too! Like fall, this is also the perfect time to enjoy soaking in an onsen, especially to soothe those aching muscles from skiing.

How to Get to Hokkaido

Traveling to Hokkaido by Plane

If you are traveling to Hokkaido by plane there are a number of different airports that have direct flights into Hokkaido but the fastest, easiest, and most cost-effective route is to fly from Tokyo Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND) to Sapporo (CTS) which only takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. 

Traveling to Hokkaido by Train

Another option for traveling to Hokkaido is by taking the shinkansen (bullet train) and other trains. Because we were in the Tohoku Region of Japan (also further north) before visiting Hokkaido this is what we did. We used our Japan Rail (JR) Pass to travel from Aomori City to Sapporo which took around 6 hours. As you can tell by the time, flying to Hokkaido is much more time-efficient – it would take you almost 12 hours to get to Sapporo from Tokyo! But if you have an active JR Pass and are already in northern Japan, this is an option too. As far as routes go, we used Google Maps to find the best route to get to Sapporo and booked our shinkansen tickets at the train station in Aomori City.

Transportation in Hokkaido

The best way to get around Hokkaido is by car, really there isn’t a way around it unless you are only planning to visit Hakodate, Sapporo, or other larger cities. Even then, some activities don’t have train service. However, if you don’t feel comfortable driving in Japan that’s okay. You can take trains as needed, hire a taxi, or take a tour bus for popular attractions.

Renting A Car in Hokkaido

Like I said, renting a car is truly the best way to travel in Hokkaido, hence why this Hokkaido summer itinerary is mainly focused on a Hokkaido road trip! After we took the trains from Aomori to Sapporo we walked from Sapporo Station to a nearby Budget store on the north exit of Sapporo Station, where we had rented our car from. We only rented a car for seven days of the trip because the last three days we were in areas with ample public transportation and didn’t find it necessary to keep the car. For our 7-day rental, it cost us $258.26 USD (around 35,000 JPY) not including gas. We won’t cover all the details about driving in this post, but we do have this guide for driving in Japan which will give you more insight! 

What to Eat in Hokkaido

While we’ll give you some restaurant recommendations for each place we visited, I wanted to point out a few things that Hokkaido is well-known for when it comes to dining. Hokkaido is known as the “breadbasket of Japan” meaning they provide the most dairy, meat, vegetables, and seafood for Japan and other countries. Basically, they’re out there feeding everyone! Thus, there are a number of signature dishes to try in Hokkaido.

Ramen in Hokkaido

Japanese ramen varies greatly based on the region and city you’re visiting, Hokkaido is no exception. There are three main types of ramen that the Hokkaido region has to offer – Asahikawa Ramen, Sapporo Ramen, and Hakodate Ramen, each named after the city they respectively originated from.

Asahikawa Ramen

As the name suggests, Asahikawa Ramen is the local ramen in Asahikawa City. This style of ramen has a shoyu (soy sauce) flavored broth that uses pork and chicken bones in addition to fish broth making it a hearty bowl of ramen, complex in flavor. The noodles used are typically thicker and wavier.

Sapporo Ramen

Sapporo-style ramen is typically made with chicken, fish, or pork broth (sometimes combined) and flavored with aka miso (red miso paste). Miso ramen is very popular in Hokkaido because it adds an extra element of richness to the broth perfect for cold, winter days. Sapporo Ramen is typically topped with ground pork or chashu pork and a variety of vegetables including bean sprouts, cabbage, and sweet corn.

Hakodate Ramen

Though Hakodate Ramen broth starts similarly to the others with the broth being made from chicken and pork bones, the shio (salt) base added to the broth makes it much lighter than Sapporo or Asahikawa-style ramen. Toppings for Hakodate Ramen usually include chashu pork, spinach, naruto (fish cake), green onion, nori (seaweed), and bamboo shoots.

Although these are the most common types of ramen in each of these cities, this list is obviously not exclusive. There are many other types of ramen that you can find all over Hokkaido. In fact, I had one of the best ramen bowls I’ve ever had was at a restaurant in Asahikawa and it was vegetarian. To be honest, I still think about it ALL the time.

Donburi is a rice bowl dish that is topped with a variety of ingredients that is popular for breakfast or lunch. Like ramen, you can find many different styles around Japan. In Hokkaido, the most popular toppings are uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) because they are widely found in Hokkaido. But, you can also get shrimp, crab, or other types of seafood as well.

Another popular style of donburi you can find in Hokkaido is butadon (pork rice bowl). This dish is quite well-known in Obihiro and has layers of thinly sliced pork coated in a sweet and spicy sauce and occasionally has some eel as well.

Hokkaido is known for having some of the best seafood, dare I say it, in the world. You can challenge me if you want to but I won’t back down. So if you’re a seafood lover, Hokkaido will be a foodie paradise for you. While you can find almost any kind of seafood in Hokkaido, crab is one of the most popular.

Hokkaido has a large variety of crabs to try and all-you-can-eat restaurants are found all over, especially in Sapporo. Hokkaido loves crab so much that they even have a crab festival every year in Nemuro City in early September! 

A few varieties they serve commonly in Hokkaido are tarabagani (red king crab), kegani (horsehair crab), zuwaigani (snow crab), hanasaki crab , and aoi tarabagani (blue king crab).

Since Hokkaido has some of the freshest and best seafood, it only makes sense that sushi is also incredible in Hokkaido. Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are typically high-quality and offer a variety of different options. The most popular are fatty tuna, salmon roe, salmon, squid, crab, and sea urchin.

Japanese curry is one of our favorite comfort foods, but in Hokkaido, it’s done a little differently. This curry is definitely more “brothy” but still served alongside a bowl of rice. It typically contains chicken legs and a large portion of flash-fried vegetables including okra, eggplant, potato, carrots, bell peppers, and squash. To make it extra flavorful, a heaping amount of spices are added.

Ishikari Nabe

Ishikari Nabe is a light, yet hearty hot pot dish composed of a white miso-based broth, salmon or trout (depending on the season), and loads of vegetables including cabbage, onions, green onion, and ginger. 

Jingisukan (Genghis Khan)

Jingisukan is one of the most popular dishes to try in Hokkaido. It is seasoned mutton that is grilled and then dipped in a sauce (other parts of Japan marinate in sauce first then grill). Bean sprouts and other vegetables are placed around the edges of the grilling pan and the mutton is placed directly in the center which allows the fat to flow to the vegetables providing them with more flavor. After grilling, the meat is dipped in a spicy sauce.

Zangi is commonly referred to as Hokkaido’s soul food but to be honest, I hadn’t heard of it until we visited Hokkaido. Zangi is a chicken dish that is made with chicken thighs and wings that are fried extra crispy and served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.

Soft-Serve Ice Cream

Hokkaido is well-known for its dairy and milk products which are often not easy to find in Japan other than in Hokkaido. I mean, they’re so regarded that when I got ice cream in Beppu (southern Japan) they made sure to tell me it was made with Hokkaido milk. Let me just say, they really do have a reason to brag because Hokkaido dairy products are sublime .

I LOVE ice cream. I love ice cream so much that I wrote an entire post about Japanese ice cream flavors . Yep, I really did. But here’s the thing, too much dairy tends to hurt my stomach so I hold back if I’ve eaten a lot of milk-based products. However, for whatever reason, Hokkaido’s dairy products didn’t do anything to me except make me cry tears of joy because they were that good.

I’m not saying that Hokkaido dairy is magic per se, you might not have the same experience, but I think their cows must be happier than the ones we have in the U.S. Anyways, I regress. When in Hokkaido you must try soft-serve ice cream. It’s creamy, it’s flavorful, and it’s delicious. I recommend getting a plain ‘ol vanilla ice cream to start just to compare to others. Then go for the gold and get flavors like lavender while in Furano and Hokkaido melon.

Yubari King Melon

Speaking of melons, did you know Hokkaido is also known for its Yubari King Melon ? You know those cantaloupes you get at the grocery store or as a fruit side at restaurants that are hard, tasteless, and utterly disappointing? Yeah, this melon is NOT THAT. Hokkaido melon is soft, sweet, and bursting with flavor. I also purchased a melon soft serve ice cream which was one of my favorite flavors out of the hundreds I’ve tried.

Hokkaido Summer Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered some of the basics of Hokkaido let’s move on to the Hokkaido summer itinerary. But before I start, I do want to point out that this itinerary is best suited for summer. You can visit many of these places during other seasons as well. It might just look a bit different. In addition, all of the mentioned activities, restaurants, and hotels in this itinerary are our suggestions. You are welcome to only choose places that are of interest to you when creating your own itinerary. Last, although we do our best to update information as we see the need arise, always remember to check opening hours and costs as they are subject to change quickly. Now let’s get started! 

Here’s how this Hokkaido itinerary is broken down.

• Total travel time: 2 hours
• Stay in Asahikawa
• Total travel time: 3 hours
• Stay in Otaru
• Total travel time: 3.5 hours
• Stay in Kutchan
• Total travel time: 2-2.5 hours (if staying near Jigokudani) 3.5 hours (if heading to Sapporo)
• Stay in Sapporo
• Total travel time: 3 hours 45 minutes (train)
• Stay in Hakodate

WITH FEWER DAYS: You could take out Hokuryu Sunflower Field or some of the flower fields near Biei and spend more time in Asahikawa.

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY: DAY 1-3 Asahikawa + Day Trips

Where to stay in asahikawa.

When we got off the train in Sapporo we picked up our rental car and immediately drove to Asahikawa. We stayed here three nights so we could explore Asahikawa and neighboring small towns too. 

During our time in Asahikawa, we stayed at the Premier Hotel Cabin Asahikawa . It was definitely small yet budget-friendly and comfortable for our stay. The only downfall is that parking isn’t free, although the fee is minimal.

Things to Do in Asahikawa

Tambo rice art.

Rice art is a unique form of art that you can see in various parts of Japan so we were excited to find out that there was a location nearby. Tambo Rice Art is a small location, with just one tapestry of rice art, but it’s still a sight to behold! It all starts with a well-thought-out design that usually depicts a story from Japanese folklore. Then a number of different rice species are meticulously planted to form a giant canvas on a vast field as they grow throughout the summer.

When you arrive you’ll first notice a platform that allows you to view the rice art from a bird’s eye view. However, before you make your way up the stairs, I highly recommend taking a long glance at it from the bottom first. Why? Well from the bottom you’ll be able to make out the tapestry, but as you climb the stairs the picture becomes all the more clear.

LOCATION : Higashitakasu 7 Sen, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 071-8157, Japan // MAP COST: Free to visit

Asahiyama Zoo

The Asahiyama Zoo is one of the most popular places to visit in Asahikawa year-round. In fact, it’s so popular that it is also one of the most visited zoos in Japan. The unique construction of this zoo allows you to get close to the animals in a safe way making it exciting and different from other zoos. One highlight of the Asahiyama Zoo is the glass tunnel through the penguin pool where you can watch the penguins glide through the water. They also host a penguin parade daily! 

TIP: Since this zoo is a half-day activity you might not have time to visit some of the other attractions in Asahikawa so consider picking which of the things you’d like to do most this day. There is a chance you’ll have some evenings free for other activities on other days in this Hokkaido summer itinerary.

LOCATION: Kuranuma Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8205, Japan // MAP HOURS: 10:30am-3:30pm daily COST: 1,000 yen

Asahikawa Ramen Village

Remember that ramen I told you about? Well, Asahikawa Ramen Village has it all! Asahikawa Ramen Village is located on the outskirts of the city, but it’s definitely worth the trip. Inside you’ll find eight famous ramen restaurants to choose from, gift shops where you can purchase a unique souvenir or gift for someone, and there is also a ramen shrine nearby that is interesting to visit.

Ramen Shops + Specialities Located in Asahikawa Ramen Village

• Aoba Aoba is a long-established ramen shop that started in 1947. It has a mix of pork and seafood in its specialty ramen.
• Ittetsu-an’s main dish is pork broth ramen with large portions of slow-roasted chashu pork.
• Ishida has a hearty pork broth ramen that has many pork dumplings in the soup.
• Tenkin Tenkin offers a savory and spicy ramen that has thicker ramen noodles.
• Santouka has a rich bowl of ramen with a hearty broth, thick slices of pork, and thin ramen noodles.
• Saijo Saijo serves up a light, health-conscious Chicken ramen with medium curly ramen noodles. 
• Heiwa Heiwa has ramen that uses a blend of three kinds of miso to make the broth adding extra umami flavors. Flat ramen noodles are used as well as bite-sized pieces of pork. They also have curry ramen flavors too.
• Umekoken Baikoken offers traditional ramen with a blend of pork, chicken, and fish stock with thin slices of pork.

In addition to the specialty ramen dishes named above, each shop offers other menu items including some vegetarian and vegan choices too!

LOCATION: 4 Chome-119-48 Nagayama 11 Jo, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 079-8421, Japan // MAP HOURS: 11am-8pm daily COST: Free admission, ramen typically costs around 800 yen/bowl

Otokayama Sake Brewing Museum 

If you are interested in learning more about Japanese sake, don’t miss a visit to the Otokayama Sake Brewing Museum . This former brewery is now a museum where you can learn more about Japan’s Edo period, the history of sake, sake brewing methods, and at the end of your tour, enjoy a tasting of Otokayama sake. If you enjoy it be sure to buy your bottle at their store because this is the only place they sell it!

LOCATION: 7 Chome-1 Nagayama 2 Jo, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 079-8412, Japan // MAP HOURS : 9am-5pm daily COST : Free admission

Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum

In many cities in Hokkaido, you will find memorial museums dedicated to Hokkaido’s indigenous people, the Ainu. The mission of the Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum is to maintain Ainu culture and language in urban areas and is the oldest Ainu museum in Hokkaido. It is a great living museum to visit to learn more about the Ainu people and their history.

LOCATION : 11 Chome Hokumoncho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0825, Japan // MAP HOURS : 9am-4pm daily COST: 500 yen/adults, 300 yen/children

Asahikawa Museum of Art

The Asahikawa Museum of Art is a small, prefectural art museum located in Tokiwa Park with regional works as well as art from other parts of Japan and the world. One of the unique exhibits at the Asahikawa Museum of Art is its collection of wooden art such as carvings, furniture, and other woodcraft.

LOCATION : Tokiwakoen, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0044, Japan // MAP HOURS : 9:30am-5pm daily, closed Mondays COST: Gallery 1: Fees vary by exhibition, Gallery 2: 260 yen/adults, 150 yen/students

Arashiyama Observation Deck 

The Arashiyama Observation Deck   might not seem like much at first glance, but don’t let that stop you from climbing the steps to see the view from the top. This wooden deck is located within a protected watershed forest and a public park for all who desire to visit. From the top, you can see a stunning view of Asahikawa and the ocean or for visiting at night to see the city lights from above. At certain times of the year, it is also a prime location for viewing fireworks!

LOCATION : 9 Sen, Takasu, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-1249, Japan // MAP HOURS : Open 24 hours

Where to Eat in Asahikawa

Other than the Asahikawa Ramen Village (listed above), there are a number of great places to eat in Asahikawa. Sadly a cute bakery we went to and another restaurant has since closed (I’m guessing due to 2020 events) but we still have you covered!

Robata no Yūkara (炉端のユーカラ)

Robata no Yūkara is an izakaya restaurant had a large variety of items to eat plus Japanese beer! We got a flight to share and a few small plates. If you aren’t familiar with izakayas, it’s basically a Japanese bar that serves small plates and comfort food dishes. The food is usually always terrific and the beer is on point too. This izakaya was no different. We enjoyed a number of small plates.

LOCATION: 7 Chome 4 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0034, Japan // MAP HOURS: 3pm-12am daily

Kushidori (串鳥 旭川本店)

On our first night in Asahikawa, we wanted to grab something to eat in a casual place where we could chat and relax. Kushidori was a great option for yakitori! The wait times can be a little long but it tends to move quickly once your name is on the list. We were seated at the bar area and given an iPad to order from which made it easy to order a few dishes at a time until we were full. 

Although chicken yakitori is most common in Japan, Kushidori also has pork, beef, vegetables, and mochi as well. Each piece is ordered al la carte with 1-2 skewers. In addition to yakitori, they also have a few side dishes to munch on such as onigiri (Japanese rice balls), donburi (rice bowls), salads, tofu, and edamame.

We personally enjoyed the potato with butter, maitake mushrooms with ponzu, mochi bacon, pork shiso, chicken and onion, and chicken wings.

LOCATION: Japan, 〒070-0032 Hokkaido, Asahikawa, 2 Jodori, 7 Chome−左 1 号 プラネット 2・7 1F // MAP HOURS: 4:30pm-12:30am daily

Ganso Asahikawa Ramen Ichikura

Of course, I highly recommend visiting the Asahikawa Ramen Village (listed above) for the experience and the food, but one other place I recommend visiting, especially if you’re searching for halal or vegetarian ramen is Ganso Asahikawa Ramen Ichikura . It had the best vegetarian ramen I had while in Japan. The broth was creamy miso with toppings of sweet corn and other seasonal vegetables. If you aren’t looking for vegetarian or halal-friendly ramen then they also have traditional ramen dishes too. Logan ordered the shoyu ramen which he said was a great, classic bowl of ramen.

LOCATION: Japan, 〒070-0033 Hokkaido, Asahikawa, 3 Jodori, 7 Chome−329-1 山田ビル // MAP HOURS: 11am-4am daily

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 2 Nakafurano and Biei (Stay in Asahikawa)

Tomita farm.

Tomita Farm (ファーム富田)  has been operating as the largest lavender field in Hokkaido since 1903. Which, as you might have guessed, has made it the most popular lavender farm to visit in Hokkaido! In addition to lavender fields, Tomita Farm also has a few other fields with colorful varieties of flowers and even a birch forest you can explore. There are also a number of places to shop or eat on-site.

One thing we recommend is getting lavender ice cream from one of the shops. Hokkaido is known for having terrific dairy products so the ice cream is incredibly creamy and the lavender flavor is perfectly balanced instead of being overpowering like some lavender-flavored desserts.

LOCATION : １５号 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9AM-6PM daily COST: Free

Choei Lavender Farm

The Choei Lavender Farm is one of the most popular Hokkaido lavender fields to visit but not as popular as Tomita Farm making Choei Lavender Farm less crowded on a typical day. There are two sections to this park one being the lavender fields and the other being a field of a mixed variety of flowers. 

One experience that is not to be missed at Choei Lavender Farm is the ski lift that allows you to have a bird’s eye view of the stunning flower fields from above for 400 yen. At the top of the ski lift is an observation deck where you can rest on one of the benches while enjoying the view.

LOCATION 1-41 Miyamachi, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0714, Japan // MAP HOURS : 9AM-6PM daily COST: Free, 400 yen for the ski lift (round-trip)

Saika no Sato

Saika no Sato is a flower field in Hokkaido that is set 6 hectares high on a hilltop with a beautiful panoramic view. Like many of the other lavender farms in Nakafurano, you will also see fields of lavender as well as a variety of other seasonal flowers such as marigolds, sunflowers, and salvia. 

Saika no Sato has an onsite cafe restaurant that focuses on dishes with seasonal vegetables and seafood but in the summer they have juicy, ripe melons to enjoy too! During the prime lavender season, you can even pick your own lavender to take with you for 1,000 yen a bag. Since many others are also there to pick lavender, the aromatic scent fills the air all around you so even if you don’t get to take some with you, you can still enjoy the beautiful fragrance! 

LOCATION : Japan, 〒071-0762 Hokkaido, Sorachi District, Nakafurano, 西一線北１２号 // MAP HOURS: 8AM-5PM daily COST: Free

Shirogane Blue Pond

Shirogane Blue Pond is a man-made pond located in Biei, but before you write it off because it isn’t a naturally made pond, the pastel blue water is anything but artificial. Its creamy blue color is all thanks to the natural minerals combined from the Biei River and the volcanic eruption of Mount Tokachi in 1988. Along the viewing path of the pond are a number of white birch trees which makes the scenery even more beautiful to view.

LOCATION: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8am-9:30pm COST: Free to visit

Rollercoaster Road

When I was researching things to do in Hokkaido near Asahikawa, Rollercoaster Road was one place that kept popping up on Instagram and Google. But, if I’m being completely honest, I found it to be a touch underwhelming. However, we did drive by here so we decided to stop.

LOCATION: Nishi 11 Sen Kita, Kamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0511, Japan // MAP

Trick Art Museum

The Trick Art Museum is a great place to visit if you want to step away from the outside humidity and enjoy an indoor attraction. Although the museum is small, there are about 30 exhibits to discover that have optical illusions, appearing different from every angle, kind of like those wacky fun house mirrors at theme parks! Though most of the museum is set indoors, there are also a few exhibits outside and also a Ferris wheel you can add to your admission. 

LOCATION: 33 Go Nishi 8 Senkita, Kamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0508, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-5pm (April & May, September-November), 9am-6pm (June-August) COST: 1,300 yen/adult, 1,000 yen/junior high and high school students, 700 yen/5th grade and above, 4th grade and under is free

Shikisai no Oka

Shikisai no Oka (四季彩の丘) also known as Shikisai Hill is one of the larger flower fields in Hokkaido. It’s so big it even has a tractor ride to take visitors from one area of the farm to the other or you can rent a golf cart to drive! Because of its size, it’s also pretty busy, so I would try to visit when they first open or towards the end of the day when they close.

Another unique thing that Shikisai no Oka has on-site is the small alpaca farm located towards the entrance where you can view, pet, and feed the alpacas – this is something we didn’t do while we were there, but it could be a fun activity for kids.

On-site you’ll find a few small restaurants as well as an area with fresh produce that you can purchase. Like the other flower fields, they carry lavender and melon soft serve but another snack you can purchase here is a potato croquette which is made from the potatoes in their fields.

LOCATION Japan, 〒071-0473 Hokkaido, Kamikawa District, Biei, Shinsei, 第３// MAP HOURS: 9AM-5PM daily COST: Free but they ask for a 200 yen donation for the maintenance of the flower fields.

You might also like: The Best Hokkaido Flower Fields

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 3 Daisetsuzan National Park (Stay in Asahikawa) 

Daisetsuzan is Hokkaido’s biggest national park that features a number of gorgeous outdoor hikes, waterfalls, and scenic views, especially during the autumn months. One spot you can’t miss is Mt. Asahidake, which is the largest peak in Hokkaido. Because of our limited time taking a day trip to Daisetsuzan National Park, we mainly spent time on the north side of the park so that is what we will be covering here. But there are a number of attractions that are on the central and south sides of the park as well! 

A few suggestions I have for a day trip to Daisetsuzan National Park is to wake up extra early to account for travel time and because your schedule will be busy. Second, pack some snacks and drinks since there aren’t many places to get refreshments along the way. But at most attractions, you’ll find a public restroom. 

Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway & Mt. Kurodake

On the opposite side of Mt. Asahi, you’ll find Mt. Kurodake , another mountain that also offers astonishing views and hiking. The hiking path to Mt. Kurodake is easily accessed by Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway which is a mile-long cable car lift that has scenic views of the mountain and trails from the sky. The scenery is especially beautiful during the autumn months when the foliage is in full swing. 

During the winter months, the Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake ski area starts at the northeast slope of the mountain. It is one of the most popular ski attractions in Hokkaido because of its high altitude and quality powdery snow. At the base of the mountain, you’ll also find Sounkyo Onsen, a hot spring town that is the largest in the area. Here you can soak your muscles and warm up after a day of skiing.

In the summer, the area drastically changes and you can observe a number of alpine plants and animals and enjoy hiking on the mountain. Just be sure you dress in layers because the altitude does add a chill to the thin air!

LOCATION: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8am-4pm (January-March), 8am-4:30pm (April-May), 6am-6pm (June-September) COST: 2,400 yen (adult/round-trip), 1,400 yen (adult/one-way), 1,200 yen (child/round-trip), 700 yen (child/one-way)

Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls

Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls was one of the most impressive twin waterfalls we saw in Japan. Actually, it might be one of the most impressive we’ve seen in the world alongside Powerscourt Falls in Ireland . Although the actual names for these waterfalls are Ginga no Taki (Milky Way Waterfall) and Ryusei no Taki (Shooting Star Waterfall), they are often referred to as the “married waterfalls” since they are made up of two different streams combined into one. 

Both waterfalls are massive in height at 295 feet (90 meters). But they also stand out because they flow down the face of a large beautiful rock bluff. After gazing from a distance, you can then take the approximately 0.65-mile RT walk (1 km) to view the streams and waterfalls from another area.

LOCATION: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan // MAP 1 & MAP 2

Ōbako is a beautiful scenic spot where the merging of two rivers takes place. It has many stunning water features and bluffs that form a sweeping ravine. We actually swung by here by accident when driving around Daisetsuzan National Park. Nearby is another scenic spot, Kobako but we, unfortunately, didn’t get to enter because it is currently closed off to the public for fear of collapsing. I’d say that if you happen to be nearby, which you will if you visit the other places on this Hokkaido summer itinerary, then stop by, but it wouldn’t be something I’d make a special trip for otherwise.

LOCATION: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan // MAP HOURS: 24/7 COST: Free to visit and free public parking nearby

Mikuni Pass Observation Deck

Mikuni Pass Observation Deck is one of the most popular viewing decks in Hokkaido and for a good reason. It has the most incredible view of the stunning Hokkaido landscape including trees, mountains, diverse foliage, and the impressive Matsumio Bridge . Attached to the observation deck is the Mikuni Pass Cafe which is a great spot to stop and get something to eat or enjoy a latte. They mainly offer comfort foods like curry and soba, but they also have ice cream and coffee. 

LOCATION: Mitsumata, Kamishihoro, Kato District, Hokkaido 080-1401, Japan // MAP HOURS: Open 24 hours, Cafe Hours: 9am-5pm COST: Free to visit

At this point, you’ll be heading back around towards Asahikawa so you can decide whether to continue the journey to Mt. Asahi and Hagoromo Falls or head back to your hotel! 

Mt. Asahi & Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway

The Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway is a popular attraction year-round in Daisetsuzan National Park that takes you towards the top of Mt. Asahi . In the winter, you can experience powdery white snow. In autumn, the leaves are vibrant colors in contrast to the birch bark on trees. In the spring, fresh blooms grow as the snow melts. But in the summer, you’ll be able to get off the ropeway to a trail for wildflowers that takes you to the mountaintop. The trail only takes about an hour but the views are SO worth it and I’d allow for at least two hours so you can really enjoy the panoramic views of Daisetsuzan National Park.

LOCATION: Higashikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-1472, Japan // MAP COST: 10/21-5/31 : 2,200 yen/adult (round-trip), 1,300 yen/adult (one-way), 6/1-10/20: 3,200 yen/adult (round-trip), 2,000 yen/adult (one-way) – view more prices

Hagoromo Falls

Near the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway is Hagoromo Falls which is accessed by an easy walk. Hagoromo Falls has such beautiful scenery and bright blue water, you’ll immediately feel as though you’ve stepped into a painting. Although you can see a terrific view of Hagoromo Falls along the trail, there is a viewing platform that allows a different perspective of the falls too! Considering it’s such an easy walk to view the waterfall, this is a must-visit for anyone visiting Daisetsuzan National Park.

LOCATION: Higashikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-1473, Japan // MAP COST: Free to visit

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 4 Hokuryu or Otaru (Stay in Otaru)

For this day, you’ll be staying in Otaru but making a drive over to Hokuryu to visit the Hokuryu Sunflower Park first. If the sunflowers aren’t in season then you can skip this park and head directly to Otaru where there are plenty of things to do for at least two days in Otaru.

Hokuryu Sunflower Farm (Himawari No Sato)

Located about an hour away from Asahikawa, Hokuryu Sunflower Farm , as the name suggests is a field where you can see over 1.5 million sunflowers! The golden hue of the sunflower petals glimmers in the sunlight. The park is perfectly laid out so you can walk down rows of sunflowers on tarps so you can take photos with ease! During the sunflower festival (early August) you can also have a complimentary photo taken and printed off as a memento.

While you’re there, be sure to stop in the nearby gift shop where you can find souvenirs and food stalls. A must-try is the sunflower ice cream which is made with crushed sunflower seeds – It has a rich nutty flavor similar to kinako mochi or peanut butter ice cream.

LOCATION : Japan, 〒078-2511 Hokkaido, Uryu District, Hokuryu, 板谷 // Map HOURS: 24 hours COST: Free

Once you’ve had your fill of the sunflower village, you’ll head on to Otaru which is a 2-hour drive from Hokuryu Sunflower Farm or a 2-hour 15-minute drive from Asahikawa. We arrived in Otaru in the late afternoon so we didn’t get to do too much the first day other than check in to our Airbnb , go on a walk around the city, and grab some dinner. 

After we ate dinner we attended some Bon festival events because we happened to be in Otaru during that time. However, since you may not be there for that festival, I’ve added a few extra things to do in Otaru to day five of this itinerary. 

Some good options if you are arriving in Otaru in the late afternoon or early evening are: taking a riverboat cruise on the Otaru Canal or walking by the canal or taking a tour of the Tanaka Sake Brewery and grabbing dinner afterward.

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 5 Otaru (Stay in Otaru)

Before I begin this part of the Hokkaido summer itinerary, I want to tell you a little about why Otaru is so special to us, especially Logan. Logan’s grandmother was born in Otaru and although we’ve visited Japan on other occasions, this was the first time we’ve ever made it to her hometown. 

Prior to visiting Otaru, we were able to sit down with his grandmother and hear some stories from her childhood there. Being able to walk the same paths as his grandmother was truly a touching moment for Logan. Because of this Otaru will always be a special place for Logan and me. 

I feel like two days in Otaru didn’t give us enough time to see and do everything we wanted to do. Especially because we arrived in the afternoon on the first day and attended the local Bon festival. So we definitely plan to visit again in the future! 

Where to Stay in Otaru

During our time in Otaru, we actually stayed in an Airbnb outside of the city. We both really enjoyed the space this Airbnb offered and would highly recommend it, especially for the price point. But sadly, it is no longer available! When we visited, Japan was changing a lot of laws for short-term rental properties such as Airbnb. If you want to know more about Airbnb in Japan you can read more in our Japan trip planner.

If you don’t want to book an Airbnb that’s okay! We have some hotel recommendations too. These are widely based on reviews and suggestions from others who have visited Otaru.

Dormy Inn Premium Otaru : We have stayed in a number of Dormy Inn Premium Hotels and have always been satisfied with our stay. The rooms are affordable but have a small touch of modern luxury with rooms that are decently spacious, comfortable, and clean. Each night the hotel offers free ramen to all of their guests and there is a large public onsen that is perfect for soaking in to wind down in the evenings.

Grand Park Otaru : If you’re wanting to stay in a slightly more upscale hotel then Grand Park Otaru is a resort option perfect for family travel or couples travel. Many of the rooms offer a fabulous view of either the mountains, city, or ocean and are incredibly spacious. 

Ginrinso : For a romantic, luxury accommodation consider staying at Ginrinso, a traditional Japanese ryokan. Guests of Ginrinso have access to a wide variety of accommodations including on-site restaurants, a gift shop, free parking, a shuttle bus service, and hot springs. In addition, Ginrinso is located close to many Otaru attractions making it convenient for your stay. 

Things to Do in Otaru

Walk by the otaru canal.

The Otaru Canal is one of the most popular attractions in Otaru because it is lined with many popular restaurants and shops. However, it is also incredibly romantic and historic too. Prior to the canal being built, large ships docked offshores and unloaded cargo to transport goods from land. But it became tiresome and thus, in 1918 the Otaru Canal was completed in order to help manage the cargo by smaller barges. 

Today it is no longer used for cargo, but you can take a leisurely boat ride along the canal . You’ll probably walk by here a few times while you’re in Otaru, but make sure that one of your stops is at sunset or early evening when the 63 gas lanterns are glowing along the sidewalk and stone warehouses. In the winter, the canal is also the site of the Otaru Snow Light Path where the lights and snow reflect next to the water. 

LOCATION: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan // MAP HOURS: Open 24 hours

Shop for Otaru Confections

I’ve already talked up desserts in Hokkaido so much you’re probably sick of hearing about them and wanting to try them for yourself! Lucky for you, Otaru has a number of pastry and confectionery shops that are good for getting a sweet treat or buying something to take home.

• LeTAO has a few locations around Japan but most are located in Hokkaido, specifically Otaru. This is a great place to stop and relax while enjoying a slice of cake. Afterward, be sure to head up to the tower for a nice view of Otaru! // MAP
• Kitakaro is pretty well known for its cream puffs but if you want something a little less sweet try the sweet potato bake! They also have delicious soft-serve ice cream flavors perfect for a hot summer day in Japan. // MAP

Otaru Museum 

The Otaru Museum is a local museum that highlights the history of the city and the train system. The exhibits go into detail about the history of Japan’s railways starting in 1880, train types, and engines, with many full-sized trains. Overall it’s a very interesting and informational museum where you can learn a lot about how Otaru became such an important city in Hokkaido.

LOCATION: 1 Chome-3-6 Temiya, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0041, Japan / / MAP HOURS: 9:30am-5pm daily, closed Tuesdays

Otaru Art Base: Stained Glass Museum

The Stained Glass Museum is located inside the Otaru Art Base and features, as you probably guessed, beautiful stained glass works! All of the stained glass pieces were crafted in England between the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries as windows in churches. Some of the stained glass pieces tell the story of Queen Victoria through World War I. There are many different galleries in this art base, one even featuring the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany (yes, the Tiffany and Co, Tiffany).

LOCATION: 1 Chome-2-16 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan // MAP HOURS: 11am-3pm daily COST: 700 yen

Otaru Kihinkan

Built in 1917, Otaru Kihinkan , formerly known as Aoyama Bettei is one of the best art mansions in Hokkaido. The history of Aoyama Bettei dates back to the Meiji and Taisho eras when the Aoyama family made a fortune herring fishing. 

At the time of its construction, it cost 310,000 yen to build this luxury mansion which used the skills of over 50 craftsmen, carpenters, artists, and architects. In addition, a variety of luxury woods, art pieces, and other additional touches were added such as nightingale floors.

Otaru Kihinkan is a fascinating and beautiful piece of history that is definitely a must-visit while in Otaru.

LOCATION: 3 Chome-63 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-4pm daily COST: 1,100 yen/adult, 550 yen/children

Tanaka Sake Brewery

Again, if you enjoy sake then you must visit Tanaka Sake Brewery while in Otaru. Tanaka Sake Brewery is located inside an old stone masonry warehouse that was built in 1905 adding to the historic element of their tours and tastings. But the real history of this sake brewery started back in 1899. All of their sake is brewed with 100% Hokkaido-produced rice and milled in their warehouse to begin the brewing process. 

The factory tour is only in Japanese but you’ll be able to learn more about the history of Tanaka Sake Brewery, see the tedious brewing process, and taste a few varieties of sake after the tour. Since they only brew their sake in Otaru, buying a bottle as a gift to take home is an excellent idea and if we hadn’t been traveling all over Japan, we definitely would have done that! 

LOCATION: 2-2 Nobukacho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0016, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-6pm  COST: Tours are free, reservations required

The next two activities would require more time but if you arrived in Otaru early on day four of this Hokkaido itinerary you could do one or both of these activities in the morning of this day and do the above itinerary on day four.

Mt. Tengu & Tengu Ropeway

Mt. Tengu is most popular to visit in the winter because of snowshoe hiking, but the summer offers beautiful scenery as well. If you’re wanting to visit Mt. Tengu you’ll definitely want to plan ahead. The hike to the top can be a bit slippery if it has rained or had recent snowmelt, although it is worth mentioning that the trail is well-maintained and takes about an hour to 1.5 hours. 

But despite the minor setbacks in getting there, the view from the top is phenomenal and if you aren’t interested in hiking you can take the ropeway towards the top. It is believed that those that reach the summit and rub the nose of the Tengu Goblin statue will have good health, a prosperous business, and travel safety.

LOCATION: 2 Chome Asarigawaonsen, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0154, Japan // MAP HOURS : 9:30am-9pm daily

Blue Cave 

Visiting the Blue Cave is one activity that we didn’t get the chance to enjoy because we ran out of time! To be honest, I think I’ll honestly regret not making the time for it until I’m able to go back again. The Blue Cave is the perfect summer activity in Hokkaido because there are boat tours that take you out on the water and into the nearby caves. While on the journey you might even spot dolphins or whales out on the sapphire blue water. Once you arrive you can kayak, snorkel, or enjoy the views from your boat. There are very few places to see blue caves in Japan so this rarity is something to be enjoyed during your Hokkaido summer itinerary. 

LOCATION: 4-5 Minatomachi, Otaru-shi, Hokkaido 047-0007 // MAP HOURS: Tours start at 9am and end around 4:20pm or 6:20pm in July and August. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. COST: 5,500 yen/adult, 3,000 yen/child

Book A Blue Cave Boat Tour

Where to Eat in Otaru

Sankaku market.

The most popular morning market in Otaru is Sankaku Market . It was established in 1957 with over 40 different food stalls to choose from ranging from fresh seafood, hot pot entrees, and rice bowls. Because it is right next to the train station, this market has gotten a bit touristy and the prices reflect that as well. Although I must say, the quality of the seafood is still there.  I recommend ordering some crab as well as sashimi from any of the stalls that catch your eyes!

LOCATION: 3 Chome-10-16 Inaho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0032, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8am-5pm daily

Rinyu Morning Market

Similar to Sankaku Market, Rinyu Morning Market is a smaller market with only around 20 stalls and typically less tourists. Here you can get a delicious bowl of fresh seafood to eat for breakfast prepared by friendly locals.

LOCATION: 3 Chome-10-15 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan // MAP HOURS: 4am-2pm daily, Closed Sundays

Tempura Wakisaka (てんぷら脇坂本店)

When we were researching restaurants in Otaru we came across a small tempura restaurant called Tempura Wakisaka (てんぷら脇坂本店) that had limited reviews but those that were there were highly regarded. So we made a plan to eat there for dinner in Otaru. However, upon searching for it, we discovered an empty building with a sign saying that the restaurant had moved, thus we kept walking a few more blocks. I mention this so you can click on the map below. Otherwise, if you just search for the restaurant, you might visit the incorrect location too! 

When we arrived the host asked if we had a reservation (we did not) but because it was a somewhat slow evening, we were able to get our name on the list and wait about 15 minutes before being seated. If you want to dine here I’d recommend asking your hotel to make a reservation for you. The ambiance of Tempura Wakisaka was upscale, so I wouldn’t go in hiking clothes but there is no need to dress to the nines either.

The menu is small with only four main dishes, but what they do have, they do it VERY well. I have to say, I was incredibly floored by this meal and although I’ve eaten a decent amount of tempura in and outside of Japan, this is, without a doubt, the best tempura meal I’ve had thus far. Logan and I both ordered the Hokkaido Tempura Rice Bowl which had prawns, fish, a large crab claw, and a variety of seasonal vegetables.

LOCATION: 1-22 Yamadamachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0025, Japan // MAP HOURS: 12pm-2:30pm, 4:30pm-8pm, Closed Thursdays

Otaru Beer Zenibako Brewery

Once you step inside Otaru Zenibako Brewery you’ll immediately think you’ve been transported to a Bavarian Biergarten in Germany. But this decor is no mistake. Otaru Beer Warehouse has been designed in this way because they mimic their brewing process after Germany. 

They even have a number of German foods on their menu to have alongside a pint or two. Although we didn’t end up eating at the restaurant we did buy a few beers to-go and enjoyed them at our Airbnb along with some snacks we picked up before going home. We enjoyed the pilsner and Weiss the most but they also have some seasonal beers that are good too. 

LOCATION: Japan, 〒047-0007 Hokkaido, Otaru, 港町5−4 小樽運河倉庫群 // MAP HOURS: 11am-11pm daily

Yamanaka Dairy Farm Otaru Shop

If you read my list of foods to try in Hokkaido then you saw the part about dairy products in Hokkaido and Yamanaka Dairy Farm is well-known all over Hokkaido. Since the farm is located near Otaru, they have a small storefront in the city featuring soft-serve ice cream with a variety of toppings. 

I got a chocolate and vanilla swirl which I know sounds pretty basic, but I decided to get that because I had yet to try that in Hokkaido. But I also recommend getting vanilla with caramel because that is a Hokkaido specialty. 

Logan and I shared a cone because we had a short wait before dinner and I instantly regretted sharing because their ice cream is way more elevated than any other regular cone I’ve had. It’s super-rich, creamy, and delicious.

LOCATION: 1 Chome-6-18 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan // MAP HOURS: 11am-6pm daily, Closed Mondays

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 6 Shakotan Peninsula (Stay in Niseko)

After spending some time in Otaru, you’ll then pack up and head to the Shakotan Peninsula for the day. This area was one of our favorite spots we visited in Japan, and we’ve been to many! I personally think the best time to visit the Shakotan Peninsula is during the summer months when the weather is warm, the water is a shimmering deep blue, and the beaches can be enjoyed. 

Since there isn’t much out here besides hiking and swimming areas you’ll definitely want to pack a lunch, some snacks, and water. You’ll occasionally find some small food stands or vending machines on the peninsula, but it’s never guaranteed they’ll be open or well-stocked with your preferences.

Before we left Otaru we stopped at a konbini (convenience store) and picked up some chips, water, onigiri (rice balls), and other items that would hold us over until dinner.

Things to Do on the Shakotan Peninsula

Enjoy the scenic drive on the shakotan peninsula.

Although it might be tempting to look at your phone if you’re a passenger in the car, I HIGHLY recommend taking in the sights as you drive along the coast from Otaru. You’ll see many beaches with campgrounds and crystal clear water. The drive is absolutely gorgeous so roll the windows down and enjoy.

Shimamu Coast

Most people probably don’t think of Hokkaido when they consider beautiful beaches in Japan but you most definitely should! On the Shakotan Peninsula , there are a number of scenic beaches with bright blue, yet clear water where you can see rocks and fish as you’re swimming. 

The first stop is the Shakotan Observation Deck which will take you down a pathway to the Shimamu Coast , a rocky beach that is great for swimming or just dipping your toes into the cool water after the long walk down. Keep in mind that this path is very steep, narrow, and rocky so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. I wore some of my Merrell sandals but tennis shoes or hiking shoes would be good too. 

While you can stay here as long as you like we stayed for a few hours exploring some of the nearby rocky cave areas (be careful and check tide times beforehand) and enjoying the cool water because we needed a break after the hot hike down. This is also a great time to enjoy your lunch if you’re hungry because you’re going on another short hike next!

LOCATION: 209 Irikacho, Shakotan, Shakotan District, Hokkaido 046-0327, Japan // MAP HOURS: 24 hours

After visiting the Shimamu Coast, you’ll then head to Cape Kamui which you’ll immediately notice is a bit more touristy than the Shimamu Coast and far windier too! Cape Kamui is located in Kamuimisaki Natural Park and is one of Hokkaido’s best viewpoints and hiking trails. The hike only takes around 20 minutes to get to the end but is steep in some spots and rocky. There are also some guardrails and stairs that have been added to ensure safety for guests on this hike too.

While I enjoyed the hike out to the end of Cape Kamui, I personally thought the view of the point was better from the back so be sure to snap some pictures on your way in or out, and don’t forget to take a look at the gorgeous bright blue water again. 

LOCATION: Japan, 〒046-0321 Hokkaido, Shakotan District, Shakotan, 積丹町Kozakicho, 草内 // MAP HOURS: 8am-4:30pm daily

After spending the day in the Shakotan Peninsula you’ll then drive to Niseko. Niseko is a popular place to visit in Hokkaido during the winter so there isn’t too much to do here during the off-season. But it’s a great spot to stop for the night because the drive isn’t too far from the Shakotan Peninsula and it’s also not too far from the next activities in this Hokkaido itinerary.

Where to Stay in Kutchan/Niseko

My ecolodge.

We decided to stay at My Ecolodge in Kutchan because it was a good stopping point on our Hokkaido road trip. While this area is normally bustling with tourists in the winter months, in the summer the town is practically empty making it far more affordable too! My Ecolodge is what I would describe as a hostel combined with a hotel. Since it primarily acts as a budget-friendly ski resort it has accommodations for winter sports equipment, ample free parking, and a large lobby area for guests to mingle. 

LOCATION: 70-15 Yamada, 虻田郡倶知安町 Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan // MAP

Where to Eat in Niseko

Rin japanese restaurant.

After checking in, we went to a small izakaya restaurant called Rin Japanese Restaurant (飲み喰い処 りん) for dinner and drinks. We sat at the bar and were able to converse with the two women that run the restaurant. They are so kind and entertaining! I highly recommend this restaurant because it has a great variety of food options that are all delicious. We ordered squid tempura, grilled squid, a few different types of chicken yakitori, and sashimi.

LOCATION: 163-88 Yamada, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 044-0081, Japan // MAP HOURS: 6pm-10pm

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 7 Lake Toya & Noboribetsu (Stay in Sapporo)

After a night of rest in Niseko, we set out to visit Lake Toya and the Noboribetsu area before heading to Sapporo. Since this day includes a lot of driving I’d suggest stocking up on some items from a konbini (convenience store) before you go because you won’t have a lot of time and there aren’t many places to eat along the way.

Things to Do in Lake Toya

Lake Toya is a volcanic caldera lake in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. It is the northernmost lake in Japan that never ices.  This is an area that could be explored for a day but since we only had a few hours here we decided to check out a few hotspots. All around the lake you’ll find many parks, walking trails, onsen, and footbaths. Since we were heading to Noboribetsu after Lake Toya we visited a few locations on the southeast side of the lake.

Sobetsu Park & Sobetsu Waterfall

One of our favorite parks is Sobetsu Park which offers one of the best views around Lake Toya where you can see around the Niseko mountain ranges. But there are also beautiful views in the park, especially starting in mid-May with plum blossoms blooming everywhere. 

Nearby Sobetsu Park is a short 10-minute hike to Sobetsu Waterfall . The best times to visit the waterfall are in the spring when cherry blossoms are in bloom or the summer when the greenery is gorgeous so this is the perfect activity to add to your Hokkaido summer itinerary. 

LOCATION: Higashikohan, Sobetsu, Usu District, Hokkaido 052-0104, Japan // MAP

Usu Volcano Observatory & Usuzan Ropeway

Another viewing spot is Usuzan Ropeway which will take you to the observation deck for Mt. Usu’s volcanic area and surroundings. The views are honestly incredible and well worth the stop after visiting Sobetsu Waterfall. 

LOCATION: Sobetsu, Usu District, Hokkaido 052-0102, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8am-6pm daily COST: 1,800 yen/adult (round-trip), 900 yen/child (round-trip)

Things to Do in Noboribetsu

After some time at Lake Toya, we jumped back in the car and made our way to northern Noboribetsu to visit some of the most popular attractions in Hokkaido which includes a lot of beautiful trails. During the winter months, some of the trails in the park aren’t passable making this a great spot to add to your Hokkaido summer itinerary. P.S. It’s also a great place to visit in the fall when the leaves are changing. 

Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

I’m excited to finally tell you about Jigokudani , one of my favorite places we visited in Hokkaido and in Japan. Jigokundani, also known as Hell Valley because of its steaming geysers, is a 24-acre geothermal crater that was created due to a volcanic eruption from Mt. Kuttara around 20,000 years ago. 

There are a number of different trails at Jigokudani, each one taking you to an exciting attraction different from the last. The main trail is on a wooden walkway that will take you around the white, sulphuric smoking rocks and it’s truly a sight to behold. Words can’t even describe how truly fascinating this experience was so you’ll just have to see for yourself! After walking on the main trail next to the rocks, be sure to take one of the trails to the observation decks to get a bird’s eye view of the crater. 

LOCATION: 無番地 Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8am-6pm daily

Oyunuma Brook Natural Footbath

Next in the park is Oyunumagawa , a river that combines Oyunama Pond, a naturally flowing hot spring, making it the perfect temperature to enjoy ashiyu , a natural foot bath. There is a trail down to a boardwalk where you can sit and rest your feet in the water or you can walk along the river a short way while soaking your tired feet. 

LOCATION: Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan // MAP

After a full day at Lake Toya and Noboribetsu, you can decide to stay in Noboribetsu at one of the many nice resorts or make your way to Sapporo. Because we had a lot planned for Sapporo we decided to continue our Hokkaido road trip and make our way there. 

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAYS 8 & 9 Sapporo (Stay in Sapporo)

If you didn’t return your rental car upon arriving in Sapporo, return your car today! You will be fine without it for the rest of the itinerary.

Where to Stay in Sapporo

HOTEL MYSTAYS Sapporo Nakajima Park is where we stayed in Sapporo. It is a budget-friendly business hotel that is close to the train station making it easy to access all of these things to do in Sapporo. We have stayed at many MyStays properties in Japan and they’ve always been reliable, clean, and comfortable. This one was no different! They also have rooms with multiple beds which is nice for those traveling in a group or as a family! // MAP

Things to Do in Sapporo

Historical village of hokkaido.

The Historical Village of Hokkaido is a fascinating open-air museum of history that contains buildings from 1868 to the 1920s. All of the buildings are original to different places in Hokkaido and teach guests about past history and cultural experiences from the Meiji and Taisho periods. In all, there are 52 buildings you can visit, making it a lengthier experience which is why I recommend getting there as soon as it opens. 

Although some of the buildings are for viewing only, others are open and operating for educational purposes. One of our favorites was the newspaper/printing press building. In fact, one really neat (and free) souvenir that you can get there is your own postcard with a wood block printed image of the shop.

LOCATION: 50-1 Atsubetsucho, Atsubetsu Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 004-0006, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-5pm daily (closed Mondays) COST: 210¥ adults, 110¥ children

Sapporo Beer Museum

Although there are a number of brewery and sake tours throughout Japan, the Sapporo Beer Museum is the only museum in Japan that is dedicated to beer. Specifically, Sapporo Beer, which was established in 1876. 

The museum starts by introducing the history of beer in Japan and then takes you through the process of how they brew Sapporo beer. Although tours are available in Japanese, many of the exhibits have English descriptions so it’s easy to take yourself on a self-guided tour of the museum.

After visiting the museum you’ll then go to the tasting area where you can purchase a flight of Sapporo beers for 500 yen and some small snacks. 

LOCATION: 9 Chome-1-1 Kita 7 Johigashi, Higashi Ward, Hokkaido 065-8633, Japan // MAP HOURS: 11am-6pm daily, closed Mondays COST: Free to visit, 500¥ for beer flight

Shiroi Koibito Park

When I was looking for things to do in Sapporo and playing my usual game of “clicking on locations on Google Maps until I found something interesting” I came across Shiroi Koibito Park . Now let me first say, this spot isn’t a Sapporo secret or anything, I just had never heard of it before finding it on Google Maps. After doing a few minutes of research I thought it looked like a neat place to check out so I added it to our Sapporo itinerary.

Then the day we visited Logan was asking me about Shiroi Koibito Park and what to expect and we both realized, we really didn’t know! From what I saw online it looked like a theme park, museum, a factory, and a restaurant all in one, and to be honest, it kind of is!

Shiroi Koibito Park is described on their website as a “chocolate entertainment park where you can see, know, taste and experience.” It is operated by the Japanese confectionery manufacturer that produces the Shiroi Koibito chocolate cookies, one of the most famous treats in Japan. 

When we arrived I immediately noticed that the architecture and design of the buildings and interior were heavily influenced by the beauty of England which we would come to know was cherished by the founder of the park, Isao Ishimizu. From a Tudor House, art, and a plethora of tea cups and saucers, you can find British influence throughout the entire complex. 

There are many things to do once inside the complex but the first thing I recommend doing is taking a self-guided tour through the complex and the ISHIYA Museum to learn about the history of Shiroi Koibito confections and how one of Japan’s most famous cookies are made.

After, there are multiple experiences that you can enjoy including:

• Check with reception about times that this is offered on the day you visit.
• Reservations are required, web reservations are available from 2 months before to 2 days before.

Before leaving, make your way to Chocolate Lounge OXFORD where you can FINALLY try Shiroi Koibito sweets such as ice cream, Baumkuchen, and of course, cookies. We each got a parfait here and it was delicious and the cookies definitely lived up to the hype. Think a Milano cookie but 5x more buttery and with smoother chocolate.

TIP: Shiroi Koibito Park is located a little outside of the city so I recommend starting here first and working your way back in on one of the days you are in Sapporo.

LOCATION: 2 Chome-11-36 Miyanosawa 2 Jo, Nishi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0052, Japan // MAP HOURS: 10am-5pm daily COST: 800 yen/adults, 400 yen/children

Sapporo Clock Tower

While the Sapporo Clock Tower is a bit unimpressive compared to some of the other places in this Hokkaido itinerary it is an important cultural and historical symbol to Sapporo so I had to add it to the list. Inside you can learn more about what makes this clock tower so important to the city as well as the early history of Sapporo.

LOCATION: 2 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0001, Japan // MAP HOURS: 8:45am-5:10pm daily COST: 200 yen/adults, free for children

Takino Suzuran Hillside Park

Takino Suzuran Hillside Park is the only national government park in Hokkaido and an expansive one at that! There are around 400 hectares to explore with stunning flower gardens, multiple impressive waterfalls, densely wooded forests with trails, and a number of playgrounds for kids to enjoy. 

Because the park is so large there are a number of bus stops around the park taking you to different attractions. I recommend getting off at the Masumi Guchi bus stop where you can rent a bike from the park station and ride around the park. My favorite attraction in Takino Suzuran Hillside Park is Ashiribetsu Falls , which has been named one of the top 100 waterfalls in Japan on a few occasions.

Bus Stops at Takino Suzuran Hillside Park

• Suzuran Kouen Chuo Guchi: Close to the gardens which are great for visiting in the spring, summer, and autumn. It is also where the larger, interactive playground equipment is located.
• Suzuran Kouen Higashi Guchi: This is where the forest playground for smaller children is located.
• Masumi Guchi: This is where the Keiryu Zone is located which contains a number of walking and hiking trails leading to stunning waterfalls and the Atsubetsu River.

TIP: If you have extra time with your car before dropping it off, this is a great place to visit with a car because the drive is only 30 minutes from Sapporo instead of an hour train/bus ride.

LOCATION: 247 Takino, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-4pm, more information

Mt. Moiwa is a small mountain located just outside the city center of Sapporo. It is an extremely popular spot for tourists because it offers stunning panoramic views of Sapporo from above and it’s easy to get to! 

There are two ways to get to the top of Mt. Moiwa the first is taking the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway . The second is driving up Mt. Moiwa Scenic Sightseeing Road. Regardless of which way you view Mt. Moiwa both have spectacular sights. At the top, you’ll find a Planetarium and Moimoi’s Souvenir Shop which has a selection of specialty products available for purchase from around Hokkaido.

The main attraction though is Mt. Moiwa Observation Deck which is where you can see the city of Sapporo in all its glory from above! Depending on the time of day you visit the view will change, but my personal pick would be on a clear evening right before sunset! You can watch as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle in the distance.

If you want to splurge a bit more there is also a restaurant at the top called The Jewels which we did not dine at during our time in Sapporo but it is a French restaurant that overlooks the observation area making it a stunning and romantic spot for dinner.

LOCATION: 5 Chome-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0942, Japan // MAP HOURS: Summer (April-November): 10:30am-10pm, Winter (December-March): 11am-10pm COST: 1,800¥ adults, 900¥ children (ropeway round-trip), 1,200 yen for car toll on the scenic road

Hokkaido University Botanical Garden

Another beautiful outdoor attraction in Sapporo is the Botanical Gardens at Hokkaido University which has over 4,000 different plants and trees. Other things to see are the rock gardens, water features, and in the spring there are a ton of flowers. Close to the entrance you’ll find the Northern People’s Museum which is a small museum dedicated to sharing the history of Hokkaido’s Native Ainu people. This botanical garden is a great place to visit for some rest and relaxation before venturing on to your next activity. 

LOCATION: Japan, 〒060-0003 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, 北３条西８丁目 // MAP HOURS:   April-September 9am-4:30pm, October-November 9am-4pm, closed Mondays COST: 420 yen/adults, 300 yen/children

Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art

If you are someone who is interested in different types of art or specifically modern art like me then you won’t want to miss the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art . There are currently five different galleries in the museum each with its own emphasis including Japanese modern art, contemporary art, glass works, and art in Hokkaido which is my favorite gallery. 

Art in Hokkaido features a variety of works from artists that were born in the Meiji period today. While the majority of the collections you’ll find at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art are from Japanese artists, there are also a number of pieces from famous European artists as well. 

LOCATION: 17 Chome Kita 1 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0001, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9:30am-5pm daily, closed Mondays COST: 510 yen/adults, 250 yen/students

Ainu Cultural Center of Hokkaido

Similar to the museum in Asahikawa, the Ainu Cultural Center of Hokkaido is a museum dedicated to sharing the history, art, and culture of the Ainu people who were native to Hokkaido before it became part of Japan. One unique thing about this museum is that it is currently run by Ainu people who take the time to share this history as well as handicrafts. This is one place that Logan and I were unable to visit during our last trip to Hokkaido because we could never make it work with our schedule. But we have it on our list to visit next time!

LOCATION: 27 Koganeyu, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2274, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-5pm daily, closed Mondays COST: 200 yen/adults, 100 yen/students

Asahiyama Memorial Park

I said previously that there are two ways to get to Mt. Moiwa but actually, there are three! Close to Mt. Moiwa is the Asahiyama Memorial Park which has a number of walking trails, one even leading up to the observation deck of Mt. Moiwa. Since this is a local park, admission is free and although the view isn’t as panoramic as the top of Mt. Moiwa, it still offers a great view of downtown Sapporo. While the park itself is beautiful, the best time to visit here is in the spring for cherry blossom season in Hokkaido or in the fall when autumn leaves are in full swing. 

TIP: If you are taking the ropeway or driving up Mt. Moiwa, you can easily skip a visit to Asahiyama Memorial Park.

LOCATION: 4 Chome-1-3 Sakaigawa, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0943, Japan // MAP HOURS: 6am-10pm daily COST: Free

Sapporo TV Tower

Located at the end of Odori Park is the Sapporo TV Tower , a landmark in Sapporo. While not as massive as Tokyo Tower or the Tokyo Skytree, it is still a neat sight to see from below. However, the best way to experience Sapporo TV Tower is by purchasing a ticket for the observation deck. 

Yes, I know there have been many observation areas in this Sapporo itinerary, however, this one offers a different view from the rest! The view from the top encompasses Odori Park and downtown Sapporo while stretching out to the mountains in Ishikari. 

TIP: If you want to experience Sapporo TV Tower in both daylight and at night you can go there earlier in the day and purchase a combined ticket which will allow you to revisit on the same day in the evening. 

LOCATION: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9am-10pm daily COST: 1,000￥/ adults, 500￥/children

Tanukikoji Shopping Street

Shopping streets are incredibly popular in Japan and you’ll usually find many of them in most cities in Japan. Tanukikoji Shopping Street , which dates back to 1868, is one of the oldest shopping streets in Hokkaido and probably the most visited in Sapporo. 

At 7 blocks long it’s also one of the largest shopping streets! Of the 200+ stores on Tanukikoji, you’ll find something for everyone from kitchenware, jewelry, souvenirs, clothing, shoes, restaurants, arcades, and karaoke! I personally think this is the perfect place to have a relaxing evening, grab something to eat, and shop!

LOCATION: Japan, 〒060-0062 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, 南2・3条西1～7丁目 // MAP HOURS: Store hours vary but most are open until at least 8pm COST: Free to visit

Norbesa Ferris Wheel

Close to Tanukikoji Shopping Street is another fun nighttime activity, the Norbesa Ferris Wheel . If you’ve visited a few cities in Japan you’ll also know that many shopping areas often have a Ferris wheel and they often offer an inexpensive way to view part of a city, Norbesa is no different! If you are looking for another way to enjoy spectacular sights stop here after doing some shopping.

LOCATION: 5 Chome-1-1 Minami 3 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0063, Japan // MAP HOURS: Sunday-Thursday 11am-11pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-3am COST: 600¥

BONUS: Sapporo Summer Festival

If you are visiting Hokkaido in the summer you might luck out and be in town for the Sapporo Summer Festival ! The month-long festival takes place every year from mid-July to mid-August and attracts more than a million visitors annually. The festival spans Sapporo from Odori Park to Tanukikoji Shopping Street and beyond. Some of the popular attractions of the festival include the large beer garden, Bon Odori events, and a few special festivals such as the Tanuki Festival and Susukino Festival. 

The biggest draw for the Sapporo Summer Festival is the beer garden which is divided into six different sections in the Odori Park area. It has over 13,000 seats making it the largest beer garden in Japan! But what is even more impressive is that much of the proceeds from the beer garden and festival go to support local charities. 

Of course, you’ll find big breweries in Japan like Sapporo, Kirin, Suntory, and Asahi within the beer garden which offer their regular beers but also some choices that are limited-edition for the festival. However, this is also an excellent way to introduce yourself to the microbreweries and craft beer scene in Japan because many attend this event to expose visitors to their products!

Like any Japanese summer festival, there are food stalls and while some offer traditional summer festival foods, there are others that you’ll probably find more familiar to pair with your beer including pizza, sausages, and soft pretzels.

• MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

Where to Eat in Sapporo

Nijo market.

Nijo Market is equally a tourist attraction and a unique place to eat! By now you’ve probably heard of Toyosu Market (formerly known as Tsukiji Market) in Tokyo. If not, Toyosu Market is a famous fish market where you can witness live tuna auctions and enjoy the fresh seafood from a number of different small food stalls and restaurants. 

Nijo Market is a fish market similar to Toyosu but is located in Sapporo and is far less packed. My recommendation is to head to Nijo Market in the morning and enjoy a delicious breakfast of sushi or donburi , a rice bowl with fresh seafood on top. 

LOCATION: 1 Chome Minami 3 Johigashi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0052, Japan // MAP HOURS: 7am-6pm daily

After living in Japan for a while you’d think we would have visited Ichiran before but this was our first time! Ichiran is a ramen chain in Japan that specializes in tonkatsu ramen. We stopped here late one night while we were in Sapporo because we lost track of time and were hungry! I wouldn’t say it was my favorite place for ramen, but if you want to try some basic ramen, this is a great spot to do so.

LOCATION: Japan, 〒060-0063 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 3 Jonishi, 5 Chome−1-1 ノルベサ 1F // MAP HOURS: Sunday 10am-8pm, Monday-Friday 10am-10pm, Saturday 10am-7pm

Milk Mura might be the only ice cream stop in Japan that literally brought tears to my eyes. To be honest, I’m not sure what really overcame me with so much emotion. Maybe it was the ice cream, the alcohol, the light, and airy music, or the colorful Christmas decorations that covered the place, regardless as I continued to eat my ice cream at Milk Mura tears came to my eyes. That being said, Milk Mura is more of an ice cream experience than your usual cone. 

Once you find this loudly decorated cafe in an unassuming building, you’ll be transported to what feels like a Hallmark Christmas movie village. There is a variety of ice cream sets that you can order that uniquely come with 2-3 tiny glasses of alcohol of your choice on the side. Logan and I each ordered a set that came with three glasses of alcohol so we could try six different ones total. 

Despite there only being one flavor of soft serve, the alcohol choices are plentiful. From whiskey to cognac to vodka and regular and flavored alcohols there are a lot of different ones to try. P.S. If you don’t drink you can order a cup of the soft serve by itself! 

When you receive your set you’ll also receive instructions on how to best enjoy your ice cream at Milk Mura. They first tell you to enjoy a bite of the ice cream as is, which is what we did. At first, I noticed the soft serve being pretty basic like a creamy vanilla ice cream, however, as it sat I was hit with a hint of orange that immediately made me want to take 20 more bites immediately. Which isn’t a bad thing because did I mention you can get one refill of your ice cream for free?

Next, they told us to try a bite of the ice cream with a small spoonful of each of the liquor options that we chose which added complexity and richness to the flavor! 

Overall if you are an ice cream lover like me, you should definitely check out this experience. The cafe itself feels like home and offers a unique perspective on one of the world’s favorite treats. 

LOCATION: Japan, 〒064-0804 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 4 Jonishi, 3 Chome−７−1 // MAP HOURS: Tuesday, Thursday-Sunday: 1pm-11pm, Wednesday 5pm-11pm, closed Mondays

HOKKAIDO ITINERARY DAY 10 Hakodate (Stay in Hakodate)

In the morning take the train from Sapporo Station to Hakodate Station. I recommend taking the earliest train out that you can so you can drop off your luggage at a train station locker or your hotel if you have previously coordinated with them. From there you’ll head straight to the first stop in Hakodate, the morning market.

Where to Stay in Hakodate

A great place to stay in Hakodate on a budget is Toyoko Inn Hakodate-ekimae Asaichi which is close to Hakodate Station (3-minute walk) and a number of things to do in Hakodate. Being a business hotel, the rooms are small and basic but we’ve stayed in a few Toyoko Inn properties and always found them to be clean and comfortable for short stays.

If you are looking for something a bit more comfortable in Hakodate I suggest the Hakodate Danshaku Club Hotel which has spacious room options and is only around a five-minute walk from Hakodate Station making it convenient for sightseeing in Hakodate.

Things to Do in Hakodate

Goryokaku park.

Goryokaku Park is one of the most famous spots in Hakodate. Although it is now a public park, it was once a military fort from the Edo Period that was built in a unique star shape. It was created in this way so there were no blind spots should an enemy invasion take place. 

Today where artillery units once stood you’ll find a plethora of sakura trees making this a beautiful place to visit in the spring and fall. However, it’s still a great park to visit in the summer and winter too! The best way to get a view of the star-shaped pattern is to go to the top of Goryokaku Tower which stands at 107 meters right next to the park.

LOCATION: 44-2 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan // MAP HOURS: PARK HOURS: 5am-6pm daily

Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden

The Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden is a popular place to visit in Hakodate year-round because of the temperature-controlled greenhouse with over 300 plant species to view and over 3,000 tropical plants. Outside of the greenhouse is an area where you can observe Japanese macaques bathing in the hot springs outside the garden. They are usually there from December-May so keep this in mind if visiting in the summer. 

LOCATION: 3 Chome-1-15 Yunokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 042-0932, Japan // MAP HOURS: April-October: 9:30am-6pm, November-March: 9:30am-4:30pm COST: 300 yen/adults, 100 yen/children

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse was built in 1869 for the purpose of being a storehouse but it has since been transformed into a large shopping and dining complex where you can find Hokkaido souvenirs, clothes, housewares, and more. If you’ve been to Yokohama , it is similar to the Red Brick Warehouse there!

LOCATION: 14-12 Suehirocho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0053, Japan // MAP HOURS: 9:30am-6pm daily COST: Free to visit

Hakodate Meijikan

Another great place to shop for Hokkaido souvenirs is Hakodate Meijikan located right next to Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. The stores here are different from Kanemori and you can purchase different handicrafts, glassware, and other unique art pieces or merchandise. This is also a great place to sample different snacks and sweets and purchase some to take home. 

LOCATION: 11-17 Toyokawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0065, Japan // MAP HOURS: 10am-5pm daily, closed Wednesdays COST: Free to visit

Hachimanzaka Slope

Remember the Roller Coaster Road I mentioned way back when in this Hokkaido itinerary? Well, Hachimanzaka Slope is similar to that. It’s just a regular road but has an interesting viewpoint because of its steep slope. If you are visiting Hokkaido in the summer I wouldn’t make a special trip to see this. However, if you are visiting in the winter, the trees are illuminated which makes for a pretty view, especially in the snow!

LOCATION: Japan, 〒040-0054 Hokkaido, Hakodate, Motomachi, 14, 15八幡通り14 // MAP HOURS: Open 24 hours COST: Free to visit

Hakodate Park

Hakodate Park has been a staple in Hakodate since the late-1800s and is considered to be one of Japan’s 100 Historical Parks. It is most popular to visit Hakodate Park in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom because the park features over 400 sakura trees! Another thing that makes this park unique is the Western architecture which you’ll see represented in the buildings and other park landmarks.

LOCATION: 17-番地 Aoyagicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0044, Japan // MAP HOURS: Open 24 hours COST: Free to visit

Hakodate Hachimangu

Although Hokkaido doesn’t have as many shrines and temples as other parts of Japan, Hakodate Hachimangu , established in 1445, is a striking shrine just outside of the city center. It is a quiet area surrounded by beautiful trees and the perfect place to visit after Hakodate Park. In the summer, there is a festival at the shrine usually held around August 15th so be sure to plan for that if you want to attend!

LOCATION: Japan, 〒040-0046 Hokkaido, Hakodate, Yachigashiracho, 2−5 函館八幡宮 // MAP HOURS: April-September: 9am-5pm, October-March: 9am-4:30pm COST: Free to visit

Mt. Hakodate

At the end of the evening make your way to yet another fabulous mountain, Mt. Hakodate , and take the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway to get to the top! Once you reach the top you’ll find a restaurant and tea lounge with incredible views of the city, a gift store, and a convenience store. But the best part of all is of course, the view. In fact, this viewpoint is so spectacular it has been awarded three Michelin stars. I recommend visiting at night because there’s something even more spectacular about seeing the city from this high up when it’s dark out. 

For those interested, there is also a hiking trail that you can utilize instead of the ropeway which will allow you to visit the top for free. You can also buy a one-way ticket to take the ropeway down after hiking up. 

LOCATION: 19-7 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054, Japan // MAP HOURS: April 25th-October 15th: 10am-10pm, October 16th-April 24th: 10am-9pm COST: 1,500 yen/adult round-trip, 700 yen/children round-trip

BONUS: Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring

Mizunashi Kaihin Onsen is a hot spring located about an hour and a half outside of Hakodate by car. This onsen is quite unique because it is a hot spring that is within the ocean! Therefore you can only swim in it during low tide. Nearby there are locker storage rooms where you can change and put your belongings. 

Although not impossible, Mizunashi Kaihin Onsen is more difficult to get to without a car. In order to get there by public transportation, you’ll need to take the Hakodate-Todohokke bus via Kakkumi from Hakodate Station. It is a two-hour bus ride. Then walk an additional 30-40 minutes to get to the hot spring. 

LOCATION: Esanmisakicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 041-0605, Japan // MAP HOURS: Check website for tide information COST: Free to use.

Where to Eat in Hakodate

Hakodate morning market.

Similar to Nijo Market in Sapporo, Hakodate Morning Market is an experience and a place to eat in Hakodate. Hakodate Morning Market is a popular seafood market where you can purchase and enjoy fresh seafood. As usual, I have to recommend getting some sashimi in a bowl of rice. The seafood you’ll typically find in this dish here is a combination of salmon, shrimp, fatty tuna, ikura (salmon roe, abalone, uni (sea urchin), and if you are lucky, some delicious crab! This is also a great place to try local, seasonal fruits and shop for souvenirs from some of the small shops.

LOCATION: 9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0063, Japan // MAP HOURS: 5am-2pm daily

Daimon Yokocho

Located just outside of Hakodate Station is Daimon Yokocho , Hakodate’s only yatai , also known as a food stall village. We first visited yatai in Fukuoka, Japan , and immediately loved the casual environment where you can get to know other patrons and stall owners. Currently, there are 26 different food stalls to eat at with a variety of options. You’ll find Japanese izakaya fare, sushi restaurants, jingisukan (grilled mutton, a specialty in Hokkaido), yakitori, ramen stalls, and oden stalls to name a few. This is a great place to try a variety of dishes at reasonable prices. 

LOCATION: 7-5 Matsukazecho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0035, Japan // MAP HOURS: Hours for each stall varies, check here for more information

And just like that, that’s a wrap on this Hokkaido summer itinerary! I hope you’ve found many wonderful things to do in Hokkaido and I can’t wait to revisit Hokkaido so I can add even more to this Hokkaido itinerary.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply, plan your next trip.

Traveling the world can be overwhelming, we get it! That’s why we’re here to help you get started on your own journey.

• Shop Our Favorites
• Work With Us
• How to Plan For A Trip
• The Best Travel Apps
• DIY Travel First Aid
• Travel Credit Cards
• TSA Precheck & Global Entry Info

Destinations

• Japan Travel Guides
• United States
• South America

Travel Tips

• Airplane Travel
• Budget Travel
• Packing Tips
• Photography
• Travel Gear

Get More Travel Inspiration + Tips

When you subscribe to the newsletter!

Japan Travel & Culture Guide

9 Days in Hokkaido Winter Itinerary | Dec-Jan

A lot of Japan enthusiasts from all over the world would like to visit Hokkaido this winter . This is arguably the best winter holiday destination in the land of the rising sun, and one of the top in the world .

Are there any other competitors throughout Japan who could beat it?

With its stunning winter activities, such as skiing , snowmobiling, snow rafting, snowboarding, ice fishing, dog sledding, drift ice sightseeing cruising, horse riding, and including participation in the snow festivals, the area is stunningly mind-boggling. Please note winter scenery here takes your breath away.

Hokkaido is a land best known for its picture-perfect mountains, winter festivals , drift ice, lavender flowers, sea foods, and wild animals. In winter, you will miss the majestic views of lavender farms , but the rest of things are awaiting you.

Whether you embark on a trip to Hokkaido in early winter (Late November to Early January) , or during its peak winter season (Mid January to early March), you will be familiar with the winter traditions that belong to locals.

This suggested Hokkaido itinerary is for the ones who dream of visiting the area in February . But this one that you are reading right now, is especially crafted for travelers who are supposed to spend their Christmas and New Year’s Holidays in Hokkaido .

Travelers coming to Hokkaido in mid January , or after the end of the snow festivals may also follow this suggested itinerary. This is also a perfect itinerary for travelers coming from Honshu, who intends to leave Hokkaido by trains.

Read about the best things to do in Hokkaido , which shares the best activities!

A 9-Day Suggested Itinerary for Hokkaido (Early Winter)

Before we get to the main point, which I mean the suggested itinerary, there is something to share with you. Bear in mind as I always say, the island is big and offers a list of incredible places to go.

It will be unrealistic to think of visiting all the places within 8 days. That’s the truth. However, you have the right to modify this itinerary to make the best of your winter vacation.

There are many ways you can start your trip. You may begin your trip from Sapporo, or Hakodate. According to my experience, the best way to start off your trip is from the capital city – Sapporo .

But this time I would suggest you to begin your expedition from Niseko , a perfect place to see snow in December. So, let’s get started now!

Please note if you wish to explore Hokkaido’s winter attractions from Tokyo, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) via Aomori to Hakodate. And if that is so, start your dream trip from Hakodate !

Day 1 – Chitose->Niseko

If you arrive in New Chitose Airport in the morning, there is a chance of taking a half day trip around the area of Grand Hirafu resort , Niseko. You can take Chuo Bus to reach Niseko. Click here to see the departure time of the buses.

Check in at The Vale Niseko , a top recommended hotel, which is located at the base of Niseko Annupuri Mountain , and takes a 10-minute drive from JR Kutchan Station . There you can find a nice ski rental shop.

It’s always lovely to walk around Grand Hirafu resort and the restaurants you find there are very good. Night skiing/snowboarding can be enjoyed on the slopes of Grand Hirafu .

Go for it, if you love skiing and snowboarding! If you are not in the mood for skiing, and searching for alternatives, I would suggest you to enjoy a gondola ride there, and spend time on exploring nature.

In addition, a visit Niseko Milk Kobe is also recommended because there you can find a list of delicious fresh dairy products such as cake, soft-served ice cream, yogurt, cheese, pastries and so on.

Day 2 – Niseko->Sapporo

Today you will take a half day trip to Niseko Village , one of the notable ski resorts in Niseko. Get on the shuttle bus to reach Niseko Village . Visit this page to see the timetable of the shuttle service.

Apart from skiing in this resort town, visitors are offered to experience various outdoor activities including horse riding, snowmobiling, snow rafting, reindeer sledding and so on.

Before you get on the bus to Sapporo, you may want to try some fresh seafood at Ezo Seafoods . The restaurant is well known for eating fresh seafood in Niseko. Get back to your room, pack your things, and then check out!

Leave for Sapporo! Say goodbye to Niseko.

In the evening, you may consider taking a walk in Odori Park , where the Sapporo White Illumination takes place. Without doubt, this could be your best place to enjoy Christmas Eve.

Stay overnight at JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo .

Day 3 – Sapporo and Otaru

For day three, interesting places to visit are some of Sapporo’s iconic attractions , and Otaru city .

Learn some ideas on how to spend a day in Sapporo . As you are supposed to head over to Otaru today, you’d better cancel visiting Mt. Moiwa tonight. Accessing Otaru from downtown Sapporo is not a daunting task; it’s super easy.

Otaru is a 30 minute train ride from JR Sapporo Station. Multiple trains run hourly between Otaru Station and Sapporo Station. Taking this into account, you should catch the train to Otaru before 16:00.

If you expect to see some other sightseeing attractions of Otaru such as Otaru Museum, and Otaru Aquarium , then you better get there early.

You can spend a lifetime of holidays in Hokkaido, and it will not be a great adventure if you don’t pay a visit to a port city, Otaru, especially in the winter.

It has a picture-perfect canal (Otaru Canal), lit up with lights breathtakingly every evening during the winter months. One little secrete to share that roaming around city in the evening is fabulous than doing it before the sunset.

Have your lunch there and get back to Sapporo by train. Goodnight!

Day 4 – Sapporo->Asahikawa->Sapporo

Hokkaido is home to different species of wild animals including birds (migratory and non-migratory). Brown bears, Hokkaido ezo deer, red foxes, red-crowned cranes, white tailed eagle, and Steller’s sea eagle , are said to be found throughout the region, especially in eastern part of the island though.

Not many visitors to Hokkaido have time to go to the east to see its unspoiled nature and wildlife.

Considering all this fact, you ought to visit Hokkaido’s number one zoo, called Asahiyama Zoo , in Asahikawa. You are offered to see a list of endangered animals such as polar bears, red pandas, Japanese cranes, and other species .

There, an exciting penguin parade can be observed from Late December to mid March every year, usually happens twice a day. I hope you don’t miss this hilarious experience.

With reserved seating option, there are limited express trains that connects Sapporo with Asahikawa every 30 mintues. If you have a Japan Rail Pass or Hokkaido Rail Pass , you don’t need to buy any tickets.

Just hop on the train, enjoy the ride until it stops at JR Asahikawa Station. From there, you will take the bus to reach Asahiyama Zoo .

If you are traveling with kids, then DAY 4 will be definitely a top-notch holiday experience for the whole family.

Return to downtown Sapporo with a lot happy memories.

Day 5 – Sapporo->Jozankei

Your today’s expedition is a full day trip to Jozankei , a hot spring resort town with many public foot-baths and onsen , is located on the outskirts of Sapporo city.

If snowy winter weather is a rare thing in your home town, a day trip to Jozankei would be the experience of a lifetime. Here, winter scenic magnificence greets you in every direction.

Excellent onsen bath and beautiful surroundings would inspire you to travel here year round. So, don’t you think it’s worth a visit during winter? The best way to get to this hot spring resort from Sapporo is by bus.

Day 6 – Sapporo->Noboribetsu

Every hot spring resort town in Hokkaido has its own unique features to offer. More than just an attraction, Noboribetsu is a hot spring resort town that boats of its Jigokudani (Hell valley – a place to see real volcanic activity).

You can reach Noboribetsu by limited express trains that stop at Noboribetsu Station. Is there any other alternative? Yes there is! You have to make a ryokan reservation at Dai-ichi Takimotokan .

It does not only provide traditional Japanese style guest rooms with perfect hot spring bath facility but also provides a shuttle bus service for its visitors from JR Sapporo Station .

Departure time is at 14:00. This hassle free bus ride is about two hours. Enjoy the ride, explore the hell valley, and relax your body and mind taking an onsen bath.

Learn about the most popular onsen resorts in Hokkaido .

Day 7 – Noboribetsu->Hakodate

After you check out, you should get to the station and wait for the train to Hakodate. It’s always a good decision when you decide yourself staying in a hotel located adjacent to Hakodate Station. So would you mind checking in at Comfort Hotel Hakodate ?

Before you make your way to the Hakodate ropeway , I would tell you to visit the Red Brick Warehouse and I think you will not regret walking down the street of Motocmachi neighborhood .

The neighborhood looks stunning during the time of Hakodate Illumination . The area is packed with historical buildings and a stroll along the streets will take you back to the past.

Take the ropeway to climb Mount Hakodate , and enjoy Hakodate City night view from the observation deck. Spend all the evening there and then get back to your hotel. Call it a day!

Day 8 – Hakodate

On your last day, spend your morning exploring the Hakodate Morning Market . And then move to Fort Goryokaku (A Star Shaped Western Style Citadel), one of must see attractions in Hakdoate, which was build in 1855 during the Edo period .

Please note the area is said to be one of the best places to see cherry blossom in Hokkaido.

You must visit Goryokaku Tower’s observation deck for experiencing a picturesque bird’s eye view of the giant fortress. For a little bit of history, pay a visit to Hokkaido Hakodate Museum of Art .

In the evening, head over to Motomachi again and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll. That will be an experience of a lifetime.

Day 9 – Hakodate to Chitose

If you are leaving Hokkaido for Honshu, hop on a train as per schedule. And if your flight time is in the afternoon, take the early morning train to reach Chitose Airport from Hakodate. Have a great journey!

Have you liked this suggested itinerary? Are you still confused about your Hokkaido trip, contact us to get some useful travel guides.

If you are looking for a best pocket wifi to stay connected to the internet when traveling around Hokkaido, use this one . You can read my review on this pocket wifi before you look for an alternative.

Thank you for reading this post.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Hello there, looking to plan your next Japan adventure? You’re in the right place! We’re your go-to source for all things travel-related, especially when it comes to exploring Hokkaido. We share Hokkaido travel tips and free itineraries to make your trip truly memorable. Read our guides and for further inquiries, feel free to contact us!

Follow us on Facebook

Hot spring bath with great views of Mt. Fuji!!!!

• Destinations
• Travel Tips
• Travel With Us
• Paid Travel Internship
• TTIFridays (Community Events)
• SG Travel Insider (Telegram Grp)

6D Hokkaido Itinerary for Under S$1k — Must-Eat, See and Dos in Sapporo, Otaru, Asahikawa and Biei

Explore familiar favourites and uncover hidden gems — all in this Hokkaido itinerary. Read till the end for year-end travel deals on flights, hotels and activities! Warning: lots of drool-worthy food recommendations coming up!

We visited Hokkaido previously on an eight-day road trip covering 10 different areas. This time, we wanted to slow down and enjoy each place a little better.

We got to revisit familiar favourites like the Otaru Canal, but also discover new hidden gems and (many) food spots we didn’t see the last time.

With slightly under a week, here’s our 2022 Hokkaido itinerary covering non-seasonal experiences you can enjoy any time of the year in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido Itinerary and Budget Breakdown

Click on each city to jump to the relevant section :

Day 1-2: Sapporo Day 3: Day trip to Otaru Day 4: Asahikawa Day 5: Day trip to Biei Day 6: Sapporo

Budget Breakdown

Accommodation:  S$263.67 Transport:  S$285.21 (does not incl. flights) Activities:  S$23.68 Food:  S$330 Misc: S$71.49 Total:  S$974.04

Detailed breakdown for one pax here (prices are accurate at the time of writing). Flights aren’t included as prices fluctuate.

* Pro-tip: Save more on trip expenses with Citi Credit Card travel deals .

Day 1-2: Sapporo 

Sapporo is Hokkaido’s vibrant capital city known for good food and beautiful cityscapes.

Soup Curry Garaku

Originating from Sapporo, soup curry is a must-try when in Hokkaido. There’s no flour in it, so it’s a lot lighter than tonkatsu  (pork cutlet) curry. We visited the popular Soup Curry Garaku which was walking distance from our hotel.

Their best seller is pork soup curry, but it was sold out by 2PM so we got chicken (¥1,250) and pork shabu (¥1,390) instead. The soup is light, with lots of veggies like broccoli, mushrooms and lotus root — the perfect dish to enjoy after a long day.

There’s three rice portion sizes; we opted for the small but would recommend medium if you want a full meal. For spice, there’s level one to 40! Regular is a level three, which is what I got.

*Pro-tip: Get a queue number from the machine when you arrive. If you have LINE, you can check the queue status on your phone and walk around while you wait!

Cost: From ¥1,250/main (~S$12.20) Opening hours: 11:30AM – 3PM, 5PM – 8:30PM Address: Japan, 〒060-0063 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 2 Jonishi, 2 Chome−６−1

Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

For retail therapy, head to Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade , a 1km-long stretch of shops and restaurants in the heart of Sapporo. There’s all the Japanese favourites (like ABC Mart and Matsumoto Kiyoshi), plus a few cool thrift shops.

There’s also a massive underground shopping complex that connects most of the malls and train stations along the main street. If you’re visiting Sapporo during winter months, take the underpass to avoid the cold.

Opening hours: 24 hours — shops generally close at 8PM Address: Japan, 〒060-0062 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, 南2・3条西1～7丁目

*Pro-tip: Spend on your Citi PremierMiles Card to earn 2 miles with every S$1 overseas spend — if you don’t have one yet, apply now and get up to 30,000 bonus Citi Miles .

Sapporo TV Tower and Odori Park

We weren’t intending to head up to the Sapporo TV Tower but the weather that day was so good that we got tickets on the spot via Klook to catch the sunset from the observation deck.

From 90m high, you’ve got great views of the cityscape and Odori Park! Each night, the tower lights up.

Entrance fee: ~S$7.89 via Klook Opening hours: 9AM – 9:50PM Address: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan

Gotsubo Oyster Bar

We found several reviews online raving about the oysters at Gotsubo Oyster Bar . As seafood lovers, we had to try it for ourselves.

Located in a quiet side alley in the nightlife district of Susukino, it wasn’t crowded when we visited at around 6PM on a weekend.

It costs just ~¥150/oyster (minimum of five). We ordered six and the chef threw in two more for free~!

We also had baked scallops (¥490 for one) and soy sauce baked giant surf clams (¥690), which were palm-sized and juicy. The highlight of the meal was definitely the oysters — they were huge and fresh, and had us returning once more before leaving Hokkaido.

This place is small and only seats about 15 at a time, so come early.

Cost: ~S$18/pax (Cash only) Opening hours: 5PM – 2AM Address: Japan, 〒064-0806 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 6 Jonishi, 3 Chome−6-8 ＢＡＳＥ－０１

BONUS If you have extra cash to spare and will like to experience authentic izakayas that you’re unlikely to find without a native Japanese speaker, consider going on a Sapporo bar hopping food tour by MagicalTrip around Susukino!

Ramen Yokocho

Ramen is a huge part of Hokkaido’s culinary scene, and each city has its own specialty. Sapporo’s ramen is miso-based, and a great place to try it is Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho . This ramen alley in the Susukino district features 17 ramen shops!

We had miso noodles (¥800) and fried gyoza (¥500), which made for a very hearty meal.

Cost: From ¥800/bowl (~S$7.90) Opening hours: Varies Address: N Grande Building 1F, Minami 5-jo Nishi 3-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo

Read also: Hokkaido Food Guide — 9 Must-Eats on Your Next Japan Itinerary

Shiroi Koibito Park

The name Shiroi Koibito might not immediately ring a bell. But you’ve probably seen their white chocolate biscuits — it’s one of Japan’s most famous snacks! Shiroi Koibito Park is a chocolate theme park built in 1976 dedicated to these treats.

The outdoor garden is my favourite part of the park, which takes inspiration from British architecture. There are mini houses scattered all over and gives the feel of a fairytale village. Each hour, the Mechanical Clock Tower opens up to reveal automated animals!

Enjoy a soft serve ice cream (¥550) while you’re there — there’s a small snack stand outdoors.

Inside, visitors can sign up for cookie decorating classes at Sweets Workshop Dream Kitchen or learn about the history of the Shiroi Koibito biscuits — and even watch them being made!

Before leaving, have lunch at one of the on-site restaurants , or stock up on snacks at the Piccadilly shop.

Entrance fee: ¥800 (~S$7.90) — the outdoor garden, restaurants and Piccadilly shop is free entry Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM Address: Miyanosawa 2-2-11-36, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0052

Crab is something Hokkaido is known for. So we couldn’t exclude Sapporo’s most famous crab restaurant, Kani Honke, in our Hokkaido itinerary! The restaurant isn’t hard to find — it occupies an entire seven-storey building that’s noticeable the moment you step out of Sapporo station.

There’s an extensive menu , from course meals and hot pot sets to a la carte dishes.

We ordered a kanisuki (hotpot style) course for ¥9,637 (~S$94) which includes eight dishes to share. The main course was the snow crab hot pot and sashimi ! It was my first time trying raw crab, and the meat was really creamy and smooth.

One set wasn’t filling enough for two people, so we added one portion of fried crab meat (¥1,650) and snow crab sushi (¥2,000). Both were really good!

*Pro-tip: Make a reservation online at least 10 days in advance — they close online bookings after that. Alternatively, go at off-peak hours. We went around 5:30PM and got a seat without reservation.

Cost: ~S$60/pax Opening hours: 11:30AM – 10PM (Last order 9:30PM) Address: 2-1-18 Kitasanjo-Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

K.L.I.M Dessert Cafe

It isn’t a trip to Hokkaido if we didn’t include Hokkaido soft serve! For dessert, we headed to K.L.I.M which newly opened in 2021. We had milk soft serve with  dango  (¥1,100) and their signature black sesame and coconut soft serve with pearls (¥900). Both were really good!

Cost: From ¥400 (~S$3.90) Opening hours: 7PM – 3:30AM Address: 5 Chome Minami 6 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0806, Japan (They have another outlet that opens from 11AM – 5PM)

Where to stay in Sapporo (3 nights): The Knot Sapporo ( from ~S$93/night for a twin room). It’s 1.4km from Sapporo station, and right beside Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade and several other restaurants.

Day 3: Day Trip to Otaru

Getting from Sapporo to Otaru : 35min via train

Otaru is a charming coastal town that can easily be covered as a day trip. This is one train journey you don’t want to nap on — the route is extremely scenic. It snakes along the coast and we even spotted several surfers catching waves!

Hiyoriyama Lighthouse

First stop of the day — Hiyoriyama Lighthouse . It’s a 30-minute bus ride from Otaru Station (¥240); get off at Otaru Aquarium. From there, it’s a short eight-minute walk to the lighthouse.

The area surrounding the lighthouse is really scenic. It’s the perfect vantage point to take in Otaru’s coast and the Sea of Japan — a highlight of this Hokkaido itinerary!

Beside the lighthouse is Nishin Goten, or Herring Mansion — a tribute to Otaru’s past where herring fishing played a major role in the city’s development. Drop by (¥300 entry) to catch a glimpse of life as a fisherman in the olden days!

Nearby, there’s also the Otaru Shukutsu Panorama Observation Deck and a few nature trails for those who’d like to spend more time exploring the coast.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 3 Chome-240 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan

Sankaku Market

Next stop, breakfast at Sankaku Market . From the outside, it doesn’t look like much.

Step inside and you’ll find several eateries all selling one thing: kaisendon . Kaisendons are Japanese rice bowls with fresh seafood — my absolute favourite. 🤤 What better place to try it than a fish market that supplies seafood?

There are several combinations to choose from, and you can even DIY your own bowl! We went with the four-seafood bowl (¥2,200 for a small portion and ¥2,700 for a large) — I chose scallop, salmon, shrimp and ikura . The seafood was seriously fresh and I was desperately savouring each bite to prolong the whole experience.

Our advice? Don’t bother ordering the small.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM Address: 3 Chome-10-16 Inaho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0032, Japan

Former Temiya Railway

Walking distance from Sapporo station, the Former Temiya Railway was once used to transport coal to Otaru. It’s a nice place to take photos, especially in autumn when the leaves are multi-coloured!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 1 Chome-15-14 Ironai, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0031, Japan

Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal is the city’s most recognisable attraction. Built in 1923 for small boats to transport goods to warehouses, the canal was restored in the 1980s and became a popular tourist spot. The warehouses now house restaurants and souvenir shops!

Visitors can enjoy a 40-minute sightseeing cruise (¥1,500) along the canal or just walk along the pedestrian street beside it. Boats depart hourly between 11AM and 6PM.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan

Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street

Hokkaido has shopping streets in every city, but few offer the same charm as Otaru’s Sakaimachi Dori Shopping Street . It’s a short walk from Otaru Canal and is home to many restaurants, souvenir shops and dessert stands.

Otaru is known for glassware, so you’ll find everything from glass jewellery to ornaments. I couldn’t resist buying a couple of tiny glass sculptures (¥550 each) to bring home!

Mochi with fruits for ¥350 each.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours — shops generally close by 7PM Address: 4-4 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027, Japan

Soba Restaurant

Before heading back to Sapporo, enjoy authentic soba at this quaint little restaurant . There’s no English name or menu and there’s only six tables, but this turned out to be one of our most enjoyable meals.

They serve both cold and warm soba ; we went with the classic cold soba with giant tempura shrimp.

The noodles were springy; the dipping sauce refreshing and a nice balance of sweet and salty. The tempura shrimp was the biggest surprise — literally. It was huge and had a nice crunch to it.

After finishing, we were given hot water to add to the soba sauce. The water reduced the sweetness and made it into a nice soup, which was a nice end to the meal.

*Pro-tip: This soba restaurant is located opposite Minami-Otaru station. Take the train back to Sapporo from here instead of walking back to Otaru station.

Cost: ~¥1,000/pax (~S$9.90) Opening hours: 11:30AM – 3PM Address: 9-10 Sumiyoshicho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0015, Japan

Day 4: Asahikawa

Getting from Sapporo to Asahikawa: 1hr 25min via train

Located north of Sapporo, Asahikawa is Hokkaido’s second largest city. It’s surrounded by mountains and is a great base to explore surrounding nature spots like Daisetsuzan National Park and Biei!

Asahikawa Ramen Village 

For lunch, we headed to Asahikawa Ramen Village . There are eight ramen shops here — a great place to try Asahikawa’s soy-based ramen. I had soy ramen with minced pork (¥900) while Brendan tried it with intestines (¥900).

The ramen here is oilier than Sapporo ramen and the noodles are chewier.

*Pro-tip: A few of the same ramen shops can be found in downtown Asahikawa, so feel free to skip the trip here if you’d like to save time as the trains here can be infrequent.

Cost: From ¥900/bowl (~S$8.90) Opening hours: 11AM – 8PM Address: 4 Chome-119-48 Nagayama 11 Jo, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 079-8421, Japan

Hokkaido Gokoku Shrine

The Hokkaido Gokoku Shrine is a little out of the city centre, but that’s what makes it a hidden gem. Built in 1902, there are three giant torii gates — the photographers in us were really excited about this.

We visited on a weekday and there was only one other family around, which meant we had the place to ourselves to enjoy the architecture.

Do drop by the garden before leaving. It’s another great photo spot!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: 1 Chome-2282-2 Hanasakicho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0901, Japan

Mutton BBQ Daikokuya Main Store

For dinner, we went to Mutton BBQ Daikokuya Main Store for another Hokkaido favourite —  jingisukan (mutton bbq). One set of meat (¥2,400) includes a portion of rump, shoulder loin and tenderloin. We also ordered sides like horseradish cucumber and kimchi (¥350 each), egg rice (¥300) and sausages (¥550 for two).

The meat surprisingly wasn’t gamey! My favourite part was the tenderloin, which we ended up ordering more of.

For dessert, we had sheep pudding (¥450) which was creamy and paired well with caramel sauce.

Cost: ~S$30/pax Opening hours: 5PM – 10PM (Mon – Fri), 4PM – 10PM (Sat – Sun) Address: Japan, 〒070-0034 Hokkaido, Asahikawa, 4 Jodori, 5 Chome−1425番地 3・4 仲通

Heiwa Shopping Street

Heiwa Shopping Street is Asahikawa’s main shopping hub, with plenty of restaurants too. It’s located right opposite Asahikawa station and was walking distance from our hotel.

We enjoyed exploring the little thrift shops which sell secondhand clothes, shoes and bags!

Opening hours: 24 hours — Shops generally close at 8PM Address: 8 Chome-41-28 8 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0038, Japan

Where to stay in Asahikawa: Hotel Route Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae ( from ~S$88/night for a Twin Room). It’s located beside Asahikawa station.

Day 5: Day Trip to Biei

The next day, we rented a car to explore the nearby town of Biei .

Car rental: From ~S$59.99/day via Klook . The car rental place was right beside our hotel in Asahikawa (Route Inn Grand Asahikawa Ekimae). Bring your international driving permit (IDP) and a credit card during pickup.

Shirogane Blue Pond

Asahikawa to Shirogane Blue Pond: 49min drive

The Shirogane Blue Pond is arguably what put Biei on the map. The bright turquoise colour reflected in the water is actually due to aluminium particles from the nearby Shirogane Onsen.

There’s also a small dessert stand at the entrance — we got a soft serve and macaron before leaving!

Entrance fee: Free (¥500 parking fee) Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan

Shirahige Waterfall

Shirogane Blue Pond to Shirahige Waterfall: 4min drive

Shirahige Waterfall means “white beard waterfall” — a fitting name for the streams of water cascading down a cliff slide.

Walk along the bridge beside it to get a good view of the falls. It was snowing while we were there in the first week of November which only added to the charm of the place.

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan

Tokachidake Observatory

Shirahige Waterfall to Tokachidake Observatory : 7min drive

Located 950m above sea level, Tokachidake Observatory is a fantastic spot to take in the surrounding volcanoes and mountains. It’s the starting point for a few hiking trails , but we were just there to check out the views and have lunch.

There are no restaurants here — we packed convenience store food before driving out of Asahikawa. The indoor seating area was a great spot to enjoy our food!

Shikisai no Oka

Tokachidake Observatory to Shikisai no Oka : 27min drive

Shikisai no Oka is known for its beautiful flower gardens that can be enjoyed from spring to fall. But there’s still a reason to visit during off-season — the alpaca farm that’s open all year round.

There were around 16 adorable alpacas in the feeding pen, with a bunch more resting inside. Purchase veggies to feed them (¥100/basket). Just make sure to watch out for their spit!

Entrance fee: ¥500 (~S$4.90) Opening hours: Varies depending on season Address: Shinsei, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0473, Japan

After stopping by the town of Biei for a coffee break, we headed back to Asahikawa to return the car.

We’d planned to also check out Asahidake Ropeway but the poor weather changed our plans. If the weather is in your favour, check out the scenic 1.7km round trip hike at the top of the ropeway!

Tenkin Izakaya

Tenkin Izakaya is one of Asahikawa’s oldest izakayas and was probably the best (or second best) meal of this Hokkaido itinerary! The interior is that of a traditional Japanese restaurant, where diners are seated on tatami mats on the floor.

I had a sashimi set (¥3,850) while Brendan ordered a tempura and sashimi bento (¥33,000). Mine had a good selection of fresh seafood ( ikura, scallop, prawn, tuna and more) as well as tempura and chawanmushi .

We also ordered Japanese black wagyu steak (¥3,245). The meat was delicious — really tender and juicy!

Cost: ~¥4,500/pax (~S$44.20) Opening hours: 3PM – 11PM Address: 7 Chome 3 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0033, Japan

Day 6: Sapporo and Heading Home

Getting from Asahikawa to Sapporo : 1hr 25min via train

Streets of Sapporo

Our last day was spent wandering the city centre and doing last-minute souvenir shopping. Sapporo Kita 3-jo Plaza , the Hokkaidō Government Office and Botanic Garden Hokkaidō University are some scenic areas worth checking out if you have the time.

Katsuissen Conveyor Belt Restaurant

We couldn’t leave Hokkaido without eating at a sushi belt restaurant. The previous team ate at the popular Nemuro Hanamaru , so we wanted to try a different place. Katsuissen is located near Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade and is another highly-rated spot!

There’s all the classics — giant red shrimp, ikura, tuna, salmon. It was the perfect end to our Hokkaido trip.

*Pro-tip: Conveyor belt restaurants are really popular among locals. We shortlisted a few restaurants, but were turned away from two. Despite them closing at 10PM, they cut off their queues around 8PM to ensure all customers get seated. Make a reservation or arrive early to avoid disappointment!

Cost: ~S$30/pax Opening hours: 11AM – 3PM, 4:30PM – 11PM (Mon – Fri), 12PM – 11PM (Sat – Sun) Address: Japan, 〒060-0063 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 3 Jonishi, 5 Chome−1

Tips for Planning Your Next Hokkaido Itinerary

We absolutely loved Hokkaido — the food, weather, views, shopping… one week was hardly enough.

If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido, here are some tips:

1) Trains in Japan are very timely, so you have to be as well.

Since there were only two of us on this trip, we chose to travel via train most of the way so we could rest more on longer journeys.

We got the 7-day Hokkaido JR Pass ( ~S$239.95 ) and used the Japan Travel app (available on iPhone / Android ) to plan our routes. It shows bus and train timings too while on the go too!

*Pro-tip: The Hokkaido Rail Pass entitles you to free seat reservations on the reserved carriage! Just head down to the JR information desk at the train station and let the staff know which train timing you’ll like to reserve seats for.

2) Bring your passport for tax refunds!

Many shops offer tax refunds for tourists on the spot when you spend at least ¥5,000 (~S$48). You just have to show your passport to claim it!

3) Get discounts on flights, accommodation, and activities

Be sure to look out for travel deals so you can save on your travel essentials! For example, we made use of these Citi Credit Card Travel Deals for our trip:

– Traveloka: Up to S$100 off hotels, flights or experiences – Agoda: 25% off hotel bookings with a Citi Mastercard Credit Card – Klook: Up to S$50 off bookings (incl. transport passes, car rental and WiFi); 20% off experiences

Citi Credit Cardmembers also earn 2 miles with every S$1 overseas spend with the Citi PremierMiles Card . Good news — Citi Miles never expire, so you can rake them in to redeem for your next adventure!

If you don’t own a Citi PremierMiles Card yet, apply now and get up to 30,000 bonus Citi Miles when you spend S$800 in the first 2 months *T&Cs apply. Welcome offer is valid till 31 July 2024.

4) Fill up this online registration form a few days before your flight to Hokkaido.

After completion, you’ll receive a QR code to show upon arrival at New Chitose Airport. Complete this at least a few days before your flight!

5) Pre-order your SIM Card before arrival  

We got the 14-day eSIM with unlimited data for ~S$37.89 . A QR code and set-up instructions were delivered via email so there was no need to source for SIM cards at the airport when we arrived (or even change the SIM cards).

Have questions about our Hokkaido itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by  Citi Credit Cards .

Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Tiktok , and  YouTube  for more travel updates!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

9 Travel Hacks to Save Money on Your Next Trip to Japan

5 Underrated Day Trips Under 2hrs from Tokyo — Win First Class Round-Trip Tickets to Japan!

Top 11 Stunning Yet Budget-Friendly Tokyo Capsule Hotels (from ~S$40/night)

Tokyo Vs Osaka: Why Are These Two Popular Japanese Cities so Different — Cultures Explained

Hiroshima and San’in Guide — Going Beyond Tokyo/Osaka to Find Japan’s Best Hidden Gems

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Guide (2024) — Maximise your Tokyo Disney Day with these 12 Tips and Tricks

hi may i know which month did you go?

Hi, the team went in November last year 🙂

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Shopping Hack for the Mid-Year Holidays — Additional 25% Off Duty-free...

7 Chill Hangout Spots Along the New Thomson-East Coast Line to...

The Reef — A New Santorini-inspired Cafe in Phuket, Thailand

9 Travel Hacks to Save Money on Your Next Trip to...

Central Thailand Guide for Explorers — 11 Things to Do in...

• Terms Of Use
• Privacy Policy

Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary, Day 1 & 2: Hakodate

After an incredible experience spending 10 days on the road in Tasmania , we couldn’t wait to do it again. This time, the magnificent island of Hokkaido – Japan’s largest and northernmost province – was our destination of choice.

This post marks the beginning of our 10-day Self-Drive Hokkaido Road Trip Experience . Let’s dive into it!

Our journey started with a flight from Singapore to Tokyo, and then another domestic flight to Hokkaido. There were several options to fly direct from Singapore to Hokkaido, however they were substantially more expensive than doing a transfer. Hence, we went with a comfy flight with Singapore Airlines to Tokyo, and switched to Vanilla Air to reach Hokkaido.

Note: Singapore Airlines has frequent Advance Purchase promotions , which offers heavily discounted rates if you book 30 or 60 days in advance. We were able to secure a good price this way!

Around 15 hours later, we found ourselves in Hakodate, which is Hokkaido’s third largest city. There wasn’t much to see in Hakodate Airport , so we hopped onto a shuttle bus (the schedule can be found here ) bound for Hakodate Station, located in the heart of the city. Do note that the bus isn’t free – you’ll have to fork out 410 yen for adults, and 210 yen for children.

From there, our accommodation for the next two nights, Toyoko Inn Hakodate , was a mere 5-minute walk away.

Fort Goryokaku

For now, the sun was starting to set – we were racing against time! After taking a breather, we headed out to Fort Goryokaku , where we hoped to be able to catch our first eyeful of the cherry blossoms.

Typically, late April is the time when sakura is in full bloom in Hokkaido. Thankfully, we were able to catch glimpses of it in the park surrounding Fort Goryokaku, a star-shaped citadel built in the last years of the Edo Period against the Western powers.

In the center of the park stands the Former Magistrate Office, where we found towering cherry blossom trees just waiting to be photographed as the sun began to set.

Tuckered out from all the travelling, we decided to call it a night. After digging in to two bowls of ramen at a random shop, we headed back to rest up.

Hakodate Morning Market

Even on holiday, there are really only two things that I’d happily wake up early for – great photo opportunities, and delicious breakfast. This particular morning, we were getting up nice and early for the latter at the Hakodate Morning Market .

Also known as the Hakodate Asaichi, it is usually open from 5am till 12pm (from 6am during winter), so we only had limited time to peruse rows of bustling stalls.

Here, there was every type of seafood that Hokkaido is known for – crab ( kani ), sea urchin ( uni ), salmon roe ( ikura ) – and the famous Yubari King melon , which costs around 300 yen (~S$4) per slice. Costly, yes, but its incredible sweetness makes it well worth the cash.

After sampling some of the wares, we decided to settle for a random store which sells the popular Hokkaido seafood  donburi  (rice bowl). This was the moment I had been waiting for in the months leading up to this trip – my first indulgent mouthful of fresh, delicious seafood – crab, sea urchin, and scallops ( hotate ). And it was everything that I expected it would be.

Plus, we had a great view of Mount Hakodate from our table too. Perfection.

Bellies filled, we decided to walk it off with a stroll down to Hakodate’s Bay Area. Along the way, we enjoyed the cool sea breeze, calm waters, and funky buildings.

The main attraction here is the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse – really a series of warehouses – which has been around since 1887 .

Each warehouse had something beautiful to offer. There was one which had lovely handmade glassware and music boxes for sale. Another had a quaint cafe – look out for Petit Merveille – with fluffy, decadent cakes and desserts. Yet further down was one warehouse that had a ton of dried snacks and seafood.

What set this place apart from typical shopping malls, though, was the relaxed and chill vibe around here, likely due to the fact that its right by the sea. After all, what says  relaxed  better than the sound of crashing waves and cool sea breeze?

We still had some time before sunset, which we wanted to catch atop Mount Hakodate. So we decided to take another walk to a district called Motomachi , which is famous for its foreign looking buildings.

The reason why there are so many half-Western, half-Japanese buildings in this area is because the harbor of Hakodate was one of the first to be opened to foreign trade way back in 1854, resulting in an influx of foreigners into the region.

Do keep a lookout for the Russian Orthodox Church, Catholic Motomachi Church, and Saint John Church as you head up the hill.

As we were walking, we came across Mount Hakodate Ropeway , and decided to just go for it. We bought the round trip tickets, which costs 1280 yen per adult (and 640 yen per child). A one-way ticket would cost 780 yen for adults (390 yen for children), and we didn’t want to get stranded up there.

Fun fact: did you know that there’s a radio station at the ropeway? We would also find broadcasting towers atop Mount Hakodate later on as well.

Because we were there early, we were fortunate to have the entire motorcar to ourselves!

When we reached the top, it was just as we expected – the skies were clear as day, and we had an incredible view of the Hakodate region.

That is, until the clouds started rolling in without any warning whatsoever. And just like that, the show was over.

We hung around the observation decks, souvenir shops, and cafe for a while, hoping to catch another glimpse of the ground. But it was not meant to be – the clouds were there to stay, and night was falling fast. Thankfully, we’d grabbed some great shots already, and that was enough.

Dinner time! We headed back to the Kanemori warehouses to try out the soup curry at a restaurant we had passed by earlier – Genghis Khan Meimeitei . It was the first time we’ve tried something like this, and it was delicious – perfect for the chilly weather.

It was a satisfying end to a long day. Tomorrow, we’d be getting our car and starting the road trip for real.

Loved the pictures? Then you’ll probably this full-on, photos-only version of our Hakodate experience. Check it out!

Next up: Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary, Day 3: Noboribetsu

Daniel has a serious and dangerous case of wanderlust, which turns out to be pretty handy for travel writing. As cliche as it might sound, he aspires to take his content production studio onto the road and become a digital nomad one day.

1500km, 10 Cities, 10 Days: Our Self-Drive Hokkaido Road Trip Experience (Itinerary Included)

• Pingback: Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary, Day 3: Noboribetsu | Travel Blog | Jayndee
• Pingback: Our 10 Day Self-Drive Hokkaido Road Trip Itinerary | Jayndee

© 2024 Jayndee.

• MINISTRY & BUSINESS

SAPPORO ON A BUDGET: Travel Guide & Itinerary

The Japanese have a word for it – kogarashi . It means ‘leaf-wilting wind’, referring to the gust that blows the last leaves off the trees, announcing the arrival of winter. While locals who have to deal with the extreme cold dread the frost as much as the Starks do, tourists chase it. Of all the key Japanese cities, Sapporo has the longest winter, starting as early as October. And as someone who spent most of my life in the tropics, I find joy in saying, “Winter is coming.”

Many of us whose roots are planted near the equator once imagined ourselves in that snowglobe we shook dreamily when we were kids. Snow is a reward, something that we could only see if we work hard enough to afford it, after we had been burdened by life’s many responsibilities. While I’m aware that too much of it has a dark side, for the young, naive me, snow is not ice powder but fairy dust, the stuff that magical places are made of. So yes, Sapporo, and Hokkaido in general, is one of my most-loved destinations in Japan.

Our team has been here four times now, in an effort to keep this travel guide updated. It’s my second time. Just last year, I was in town to experience Sapporo Snow Festival. And boy, what difference a year makes! In between my visits, Kita Kita , a Filipino film set in Sapporo, became a blockbuster hit and introduced the city to more travelers. And then, Philippine Airlines launched direct flights, allowing them to reach Sapporo more easily. Last year, I did not meet a single Filipino traveler outside the airport. This year, I kept hearing Tagalog words everywhere: at the TV tower, at restaurants, inside cable cars. Even the guys from the Tourism Board told us they were happy that their tourism has grown tremendously over the past year.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SAPPORO CITY

The northernmost prefectural capital in Japan, Sapporo requires a bit more effort to reach. Yet, it is the country’s fifth biggest city by population, which has significantly grown only in the past decades. Sapporo is one of the youngest urban areas Japan.

According to tourism officials we talked to during our stay, before development began to take over in 1857, there were only 7 people living here. And because it was built not too long ago, the design of the city didn’t come about organically. It was measured and developed according to plan. The city’s blueprint is an almost perfect grid, with the Ekimae Avenue (north to south) and Odori Park (east to west) as the main axes. Much of the public infrastructures, like the subway system, were built in preparation for 1972 Winter Olympics.

Here are a few more facts you need to know:

• Language : Japanese (Nihongo). English isn’t widely spoken, but it’s not difficult to get around. Menus, signs, and machines have English translations.
• Currency : Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥). JPY 1000 is roughly USD 9, EUR 7.85, SGD 12.5, PHP 476 (as of December 2018).
• Modes of payment : Cash is preferred. Some bigger establishments accept credit cards, but cash is still king in Sapporo (and Japan in general).
• Electricity Info : 100V. Type A sockets. Plugs have two flat pins. Type B is sometimes used but not that common.

BEST TIME TO VISIT SAPPORO

Winter , of course. Although the weather isn’t always comfortable, much of what Sapporo has to offer is best enjoyed in the cold months. It gets 6m of snow a year, and the first of the season usually falls in October. By December, the entire city is already a winter wonderland, and temperatures continue to drop as the season progresses. Here are more reasons to consider visiting when it’s covered in white blanket. (Warning, though: It can get really cold, with average nighttime temperatures reaching as low as -8C.)

• Sapporo Snow Festival , an annual week-long event held in early February, showcases giant ice and snow sculptures in many parts of the city, with the one in Odori Park getting the most attention. Last year alone, it attracted almost 2 million visitors.
• Sapporo International Ski Marathon , a cross-country skiing marathon, starts here.
• Sapporo White Illumination runs from mid-November to December.
• Sapporo is a popular choice for skiing and other winter sports.

April is when it gets warmer and snow begins to melt. Have you been dreaming of cherry blossoms but you’re always unable to travel in March or April? Sapporo to the rescue. The first bloom of sakura happens much later in Sapporo than in other major cities, usually in early May.

Autumn is good, too, if you wish to see its landscapes get painted bright red and orange. The Sapporo Autumn Festival happens in September, but make sure to bring a cardigan. If you plan to visit in October, you will need a jacket.

HOW TO GET TO SAPPORO

Sapporo is served by two airports, the new Chitose Airport and the Okadama Airport . If you’re flying to Sapporo from overseas, there’s a big chance you’ll be using Chitose. However, international flights are limited to China, Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Honolulu, Guam, Australia, and most recently the Philippines. Most journeys make a connection in Tokyo or another major city.

MANILA TO SAPPORO

Starting December 7, 2018, Philippine Airlines has started flying nonstop from Manila to Sapporo! Their introductory price for a round-trip ticket is USD 399, inclusive of baggage allowance, meals, and other surcharges. This is great for those who also value their time. Flying directly will cut short the total travel time and skip the layover at another airport, which will give you more time to actually enjoy the destination.

Philippine Airlines also uses a brand new Airbus A321neo for their Sapporo flights. I’ve tried this aircraft many times now. Expect wider legroom, quieter journey, and a big screen with a great selection of movies!

The fare is also not far from the fares of flights with stops. Given that every PAL booking also comes with meals, seat selection, and 50-lb baggage allowance (something you might need in winter), PAL offers the best value for money.

TOKYO TO SAPPORO by Plane

The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo usually takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. JetStar offers round-trip flights for less than USD 100 (PHP 5000).

TOKYO TO SAPPORO by Train

Taking the train to Sapporo from other major cities outside Hokkaido is both time-consuming and expensive, which is why I don’t recommend it unless you’re on a multi-city tour around Japan.

• Take the Shinkansen Hayabusa to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station . Travel time: 4.5 hours. Reserved seat fee: ¥11,130 ($100, P5000).
• Switch to Limited Express Hokuto Line and alight at Sapporo Station. Travel time: 3 hours, 40 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥1550 ($14, P700); Unreserved seat ¥1290 ($11.5, P580).

The whole journey takes over 8 hours, not counting the layover time. The total fare for 2 legs is ¥14,140. That’s on top of the seat fees. So the whole journey would cost you around ¥26,820 ($240, P12,000). That’s just one way!

OSAKA TO SAPPORO by Plane

Flights from Osaka takes around 2 hours but usually costs just a tad higher.

OSAKA TO SAPPORO by Train

To get to Sapporo from Osaka, you will need to make a transfer in Tokyo.

• From Shin-Osaka Station (not to be confused with Osaka Station), take the Shinkansen Nozomi to Tokyo Station . Travel time: 2 hours, 33 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥5700 ($51, P2550); Unreserved seat fee: ¥4870 ($44, P2180).
• Switch to Limited Express Hokuto Line and alight at Sapporo Station . Travel time: 3 hours, 40 minutes. Reserved seat fee: ¥1550 ($14, P700); Unreserved seat ¥1290 ($11.5, P580).

Total travel time is 10.5 hours , excluding the layovers. The total fare from Osaka to Sapporo is ¥18,140. Add the seat fees and you’ll have to shell out around ¥36,520 ($326, P16,400).

See now why we advise against it? Flying is faster and much, much cheaper.

But if you’re visiting multiple cities, then you will get great savings if you just book a JR Pass. This makes sense if you want to explore not just one or two cities. For example, if your itinerary includes Osaka, Tokyo, and Sapporo in 7 days.

Also, riding the bullet train across the Japanese countryside is quite an experience too.

NEW CHITOSE AIRPORT TO SAPPORO CITY CENTER

• From the New Chitose Airport, travel on foot to the New Chitose Airport Station.
• Take the JR Rapid Airport Line headed for Otaru or Sapporo.
• Get off at Sapporo Station.

Fare is ¥1070 ($9.6, P480). You may reserve a seat for ¥520 if you want, but you can simply hop on to the cars with unreserved seats (FREE).

Travel time: 37 minutes.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAPPORO

Thanks to grid design, it is easy to explore the city center of Sapporo even on foot. You can simply divide the map into four quadrants with the Ekimae Avenue (north to south) and Odori Park (east to west) as the main axes. Each block in the city measures 100 meters so it’s not difficult to keep track how far you are from where you came from. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around even in the cold, cold evenings. And if you’re walking along Odori, it’s literally a walk in the park!

For not-so-short distances, there’s always the subway. To make it even easier, go to Hyperdia.com on your web browser. Enter your origin and the station where you’re going. It will then display possible route options including how much the ride costs and transfers needed to get there. At the train station, you can double check the price. Just look at the route map, usually above the ticket machines. The map displays the price based on distance. Sometimes, the map is in Japanese characters only, which is why Hyperdia is useful. If you’re not familiar with Hyperdia, here’s our guide: How to Use Hyperdia .

JR Hokkaido Kitaca Card

The Kitaca Card is Hokkaido’s IC card. You can use this to skip purchasing tickets every time you use the the train or bus. It’s much like Tokyo’s PASMO or SUICA and Osaka’s ICOCA. You can also use it anywhere that accepts IC cards even outside Hokkaido.

You can buy a Kitaca card via Klook. It’s preloaded with ¥1500. You can pick it up at the airport or at Sapporo TV Tower, whichever is more convenient.

If you’re visiting multiple cities in Japan and you’re staying for at least 7 days, you can save A LOT OF MONEY by getting a Train Pass. Klook offers the cheapest JR Passes available. If you live in the Philippines, the pass will be delivered to you in 7 days.

Again, JR Pass is only ideal for those traveling from one city to another. If your itinerary involved only Sapporo or Otaru, you don’t need this. But if you’re also visiting other cities within or outside Hokkaido, this can mean great savings.

Pocket Wifi Rental in Sapporo

Local 4G SIM in Hokkaido

PLACES TO VISIT IN SAPPORO

Sapporo beer museum and beer garden.

Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn barrels about the Japanese beer culture! There is no entrance fee, but a guided tour costs ¥500. Afterwards, you may sample the beers or have what locals call the Genghis Khan , a dish composed of grilled lamb meat and vegetables. Housed in the Kaitakushi-kan building, a Hokkaido heritage site, it fosters a fantastic atmosphere too!

Tip: Make this your last stop of the day. Otherwise, prepare a change of clothes because the smell of smoke will stick with you for the rest of the day.

Here are the rates for Genghis Khan (lamb and fresh vegetables):

All-You-Can-Eat Adults (13+ yo): ¥2900 (¥3132 with tax) Students（7-12 yo): ¥1450 (¥1566 with tax)

All-You-Can-Eat + All-You-Can-Drink Adults (13+ yo): ¥3900 (¥4212 with tax) Students (7-12 yo): ¥1950 (¥2106 with tax)

If you’ve worked up an appetite after a day of sightseeing, you might want to avail of their Premium À-La-Carte Buffet. Not only will you get to try the Genghis Khan, you also get to dig into snow crabs, red king crabs, and other dishes that Hokkaido is famous for. For beer lovers, you get access to 6 types of beer too!

Mt. Moiwa Ropeway

Mt. Moiwa (Moiwayama) provides one of the most spectacular city lights views in Japan. It’s accessible via cable car.

If you’ve seen the movie Kita Kita, it’s that site on top of a mountain and the two characters are ringing a bell while they’re drunk.

Entrance Fee: ¥1700

Sapporo TV Tower

An icon of the city, the Sapporo TV Tower was built in 1957. It stands adjacent Odori Park, enabling a fantastic 360-degree vista not just of the park but of the whole city. From its observation deck perched 90 meters above the ground, you also get to see Ishikari Heigen and the Sea of Japan.

Hokkaido Tea Ceremony

Nothing feels better in a cold day than a good cup of hot tea. In Sapporo, you can get a better understanding of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony by experiencing it yourself. There will be an English-speaking guide who will teach you authentic Japanese ways while you’re dressed in a kimono. The session lasts 1.5 hours.

Other Sapporo Tourist Spots

Here are more attractions in Sapporo. We’ll be creating a more detailed article about these places in a separate post, so stay tuned. To see what they look like, check out this video:

• Historical Village of Hokkaido (aka Kaitaku no Mura), an open-air museum that showcases 60 Meiji- and Taisho-era buildings that were moved from different parts of the prefecture. Admission: ¥830.
• Hokkaido Shrine , built in 1869 in honor of the three pioneering gods of Hokkaido. Admission: FREE.
• Odori Park , at the heart of the city, offers a natural respite from the sprawling metropolis. It also hosts the Snow Festival in February. At the end of it stands the Sapporo Clock Tower.
• Moerenuma Park , a great destination for snow activities like sledding and snowboarding in winter. It’s a beautifully manicured park for the rest of the year. Admission: FREE.
• Shiroi Koibito Park , a recreational area that will remind you of your childhood dreams. The park is inspired by delicious sweets and confectionery. In winter, it’s best visited in the early evening when the illuminations are up. Just around the corner is Ishiya Chocolate Factory, where a guided tour will let you see how they make the famous Hokkaido white chocolate.
• Jozankei , which is an hour drive from the city center. Famous for its hot springs (onsen) and shrine.
• Sapporo Dome , where the biggest baseball and soccer (football) games are held. There’s also a small exhibit inside.
• Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium , which was the site of the 90m jump competition at the 1972 Olympics. A double lift system takes passengers to a viewing deck atop, for a wonderful vista. Fee: ¥500
• Mt. Teine (Teineyawa). Another 1972 Winter Olympics venue with slopes perfect for skiing for beginners and professionals alike. 7-hr lift access + Bus fares: ¥6700. Ski set rental: ¥4900

SAPPORO DAY TOURS

Aside from the city tours, we also listed down below some tours around Hokkaido. The links below will take you to Klook, where you will find information about the tour.

Sapporo City Tour

We often advocate traveling DIY-style, but if for whatever reason you can’t do it on your own, you can also join a group or private tour of Sapporo. Joining a bus tour is convenient especially for those traveling with kids or more senior members of the family.

Klook offers two city tours: one in the morning and another in the afternoon. They have different stops and itineraries, although most make a stop at the Clock Tower and Government Building. The itinerary also varies depending on the date so always double check before making a booking.

Each booking already covers the bus fee and multilingual audio guides.

Otaru City Tour

Otaru is one of the cities in Hokkaido that are easily accessible from Sapporo. It’s easy to reach Otaru on your own. At JR Sapporo Station, just hop into a train bound for Otaru and you’ll be there in less than 40 minutes. Fare: ¥640.

Otaru is most famous for its postcard-worthy canal. Most tourists go on a scenic boat cruise, riding down Otaru Canal and see the Western-style buildings that flank it. The city looks like it’s straight out of a steampunk anime. I was getting a lot of Fullmetal Alchemist feels while I walked around.

The city is also famous for its glass craftsmanship and music box industry! Hence, a visit to a glassware or musicbox store or museum is almost always part of the itinerary.

If you can’t do it DIY-style, Klook offers a day tour of Otaru from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. The tour guide speaks Japanese, but there are multilingual audio guides available for English-speakers.

INTERESTING EVENTS IN SAPPORO

Here are some of the biggest happenings in Sapporo that can help you decide when to visit.

• Sapporo Snow Festival, February
• Sapporo International Ski Marathon
• Jozankei Yukitouro (Snow Lanterns), a few days in winter (dates change)
• Sapporo White Illumination, mid-November to December
• Cherry Blossoms, late April to early May
• Sapporo Autumn Festival, September.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAPPORO

Top budget hotels under $60.

Below are the highest-rated budget hotels in Agoda as of writing.

• GRIDS SAPPORO HOTEL & HOSTEL Minami 3 Jonishi, 5 Chome-32, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Iyasu Hostel Sapporo 3 Chome-1-１７ Minami 9 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Spa Hotel SOLE Susukino Chuo-ku Minami 4-jo Nishi 6-chome 4, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• Hotel Relief Sapporo Susukino Chuo-ku Minami 8-jo Nishi 3-1-4, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability

Top Sapporo Hostels

• Guest House Yuyu Chuo Ward, Minami 3 Johigashi, 4 Chome−3-1 3, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability
• OCHO Guest House 1-2, South 13, West 8, Chuo-ku, Sapporo Check Rates & Availability

Search for more Sapporo Hotels

What to eat in sapporo.

• Crabs ! Hokkaido is famous for its crabs including King Crabs, Hairy Crabs, and Snow Crabs.
• Kaisen Don (assorted sashimi on rice). Although widely popular all over Japan, Hokkaido’s specialty is seafood!
• Miso Ramen . Every city in Japan has its own signature ramen. For Sapporo, that’s the miso variety.
• Genghis Khan (grilled lamb with vegetables)
• Soup curry is also wildly popular in Hokkaido!
• Seafood hot pot

We’ll be creating a separate post about the best cheap food places in Sapporo soon!

SAMPLE SAPPORO ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 5-day 4-night Sapporo and Otaru itinerary. This assumes you’re flying in and out via Philippine Airlines and that you’re staying close to JR Sapporo Station.

As always, make the necessary adjustments to match your preferences.

Day 1: ODORI PARK & MT. MOIWA

• Arrival in Sapporo
• Board train to Sapporo City Center, ¥1070
• Walk to hotel, check in
• Lunch, ¥1000
• Take train + streetcar to Ropeway Iriguchi Station, ¥320
• Take shuttle bus to ropeway station
• Travel back to Sapporo Station, ¥320
• Dinner at Ramen Shingen, ¥950

Day 2: SAPPORO CITY TOUR

• Take train to Soen or Nijuyonken Station, ¥250
• Check out Sapporo Central Wholesale Market
• Kaisendon Early Lunch, ¥2000
• Train back to Sapporo Station, ¥250
• Walk to Sapporo Station Bus Terminal
• Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium lift fare and museum fee, ¥1000
• Drop off at Sapporo Station
• Dinner, ¥1000

Day 3: SNOW FUN DAY

• Take Toho Subway Line to Kanjodorihigashi Station, ¥250
• Bus 69 or 79 to Moerenuma Park, ¥210
• Explore the Glass Pyramid
• Sledding at Moerenuma Park
• Bus back to Sapporo, ¥210
• Soup Curry lunch, ¥900
• Shopping near Sapporo Station
• Miso Ramen Dinner at Shirakaba Sansou (inside Ramen Kyowakoku), ¥980
• Walk to hotel

If visiting outside winter, you can still enjoy the park. You can bike around. Rates start at ¥200.

Day 4: OTARU DAY TOUR

• Train to Otaru Station, ¥640
• Walk to Otaru Canal
• Otaru Canal Cruise, ¥1500
• Lunch at Otaru Tatsumi Sushi, ¥1500
• Walk around Otaru, see music box and glass stores
• Train to Higashi-kuyakusho-mae Station, ¥840
• Sapporo Beer Museum, FREE
• Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden, ¥4212
• Walk back to hotel

Day 5: DEPARTURE

• Early check out
• Train to New Chitose Airport Station, ¥1070

If you follow the above itinerary, prepare to shell out ¥28,000 (USD 252, SGD 345, EUR 220, PHP 13,400) , excluding airfare, accommodations and shopping budget. But we added a ¥2000+ allowance to cover miscellaneous expenses and anything that we might have missed.

If you’re able to book a dorm bed for only ¥2400 per night, the total cost of this itinerary falls at around ¥37,600 (USD 338, SGD 464, EUR 295, PHP 17,950) , excluding airfare.

Here are more ways to further reduce the cost:

• Instead of joining a guided tour of the city, do it DIY-style. This will save you at most ¥2700.
• Skip the Sapporo Beer Garden dinner. The biggest chunk of the food budget is spent on an all-you-can-eat dinner here (which costs ¥4200+). You can just visit the museum and eat elsewhere.
• Food budget is around ¥1000 per meal. I have indicated some of my recommended food places in the itinerary. If you want to cut food expenses, you can opt to eat at cheaper restaurants or buy food from the supermarket. Onigiri (rice balls) sold at convenience stores can be quite filling too. But I still highly encourage you to eat out and try to experience local cuisine.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Snow can be dangerously slippery . A good sign that the snow is good to be stepped on is if it’s white and powdery. If it’s gray or blackish and looks compact because a lot of people have stepped on it, there’s a big chance they’re slippery. So be careful. You can also buy those anti-slip… uhm… things (I don’t know what they’re called, haha) that you can attach to your shoes, just not the metal ones. (The metal ones have to be removed when you go inside an establishment.)
• Make time allowance for the traffic . Sapporo’s best attractions are so far apart, and while the subway is there, some can only be reached by bus or by car. If that’s the case, consider the time you’re gonna spend in traffic.
• Japanese chocolates and biscuits are a bit cheaper at the New Chitose Airport than in Haneda or Narita . For example, Royce’s Nama Chocolate costs ¥720 per box in Chitose and ¥780 in Haneda. I know that’s not much, but savings are savings.
• If you have low cold tolerance, purchase a heat pack from a convenience store and keep it near your body (inside your jacket). This will make your trip more comfortable.
• Tipping is not common in Sapporo . To settle your bill, you are expected to approach the cashier on your way out. The cashier is usually stationed by the entrance/exit.
• Many vending machines serve both cold and hot drinks . Most people are surprised to learn about the hot options. Really helpful when you’re out in the cold.
• Japanese bills look alike (same color). What varies is the size of the bill. The ¥1000 and ¥10,000 can be confusing so be careful. However, the Japanese are highly UNLIKELY to take advantage. They will even be the first to tell you.
• When using the escalator , keep left if you’re not moving.
• Learn a few Japanese phrases. The most useful would be Sumimasen (Excuse me, sorry) and Arigatoo gozaimasu (Thank you).

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ • 1️⃣2️⃣ • 2️⃣1️⃣ – last update 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 2️⃣ • 2️⃣6️⃣ – first up

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

Related Posts:

• OSAKA AND KYOTO: Budget Travel Guide
• JAPAN MULTI-CITY TOUR: How to Plan a Budget Trip
• TOKYO TRAVEL GUIDE with Sample Itinerary & Budget
• NAGOYA TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary
• TOTTORI TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary, Things to Do
• YONAGO & DAISEN Travel Guide & Budget Itinerary
• WHERE TO EAT CHEAP IN SAPPORO
• HIROSHIMA TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

• Recent Posts

• Where to Eat Cheap in BANGKOK • 12 Best Affordable Restaurants (including Michelin-Awarded Food Places) - 19 June 2024
• 2024 Cebu Pacific Promos & PISO SALE with Number of Seats Available - 10 June 2024
• 2024 Philippine Airlines PROMO: Get 50% OFF on PAL Domestic Flights! - 16 May 2024

Nice topic I liked it. Thanks author for this great post. Knew many things about japan

Awesome job! You covered the information quite well–practical and useful for travelers. Keep up the great work!

Thank you, Rochelle! I hope our blog inspire more people to travel.

Very nice and comprehensive guide. Gracias.

Hi! is the train included in JR unli pass or it’s a different train?

The trains from Tokyo to Sapporo? Yep, covered.

Hi. Very useful guide, thanks for compiling info from your travels. Would you recommend the same itinerary for May or June travel? Our group plans to go around that time. Also, are there travel guides whom we can hire to help us around? Thank you!

Hi Grace, yes, except maybe the ski jump and Mt. Teine. Also try to visit a flower farm since you’ll be there in spring/summer. We didn’t get to see any coz they were covered in snow haha

hi! this is a very nice and detailed blog about hokkaido.. im trying to check for flights on china airlines, but cant seem to make it work, when i type manila as my origin city, sapporo won’t come out as a destination city. thanks!

Hi! Nice post very helpful since we’re also planning to visit Japan next year! We’re planning on doing Winter/Spring itinerary by going to Sapporo first then Tokyo. What would be the best dates to that? We initially plan on Feb 26 up until March 4. Hoping to get the best of both the winter wonderland in Sapporo and the cherry blossoms in Tokyo.

Hi Benes, okay sana if maexperience nyo ung snow festival in Sapporo, but it’s usually Feb Week 1, which is too far from Tokyo cherry blossoms na usually late March/early April.

So depende ano mas gusto nyo maexperience. For me though, mas maganda yung cherry blossoms than snow festival, so I would suggest na late March kayo mag-start,

Hi! I’m planning a trip to Sapporo via plane only. I just wanted to know if I need to indicate both flights (Manila-Tokyo and Tokyo-Sapporo) in my Japan Visa application form? Or do I only put the international flight (Manila-Tokyo)? Thanks!

Hi Jaime, ako I just put the Manila-Tokyo flight number when I applied. Not sure if that’s the right thing to do, but that’s what I did. haha. Naapprove naman.

Thanks! Should I already be prepared for snow around late November? What are the chances of snowfall during my trip?

I dunno how long your stay is gonna be, but there is a good chance. Sapporo is said to have at least 10 snow days in November.

Hi! Thank you so much for this article. I think it’s the most helpful & complete i found so far. I’m planning to visit last week of November for just about 4-5 days so you. Think it’s best to go via plane?

Yep! Best by plane :)

Hi! Thanks for another informative post. I have not seen you recommend going to Sapporo in July. How’s the weather there pag ganung time? We plan to hike Mt. Fuji kasi kaya July-Sep ang target dates namin.

Hi Arnel, I haven’t been to Sapporo in July because I dislike traveling in summer in general. haha. But according to climate websites, summer in Sapporo is mild and it doesn’t get too hot, so it should be fine.

Hi:) i enjoyed reading your blog. Very informative. I just wanna ask if is it okay to travel DIY in sapporo? No travel agencies or anyone. Just wanna explore the city and some tourist spots you had in your blog. Just by train or bus. Thank you and God bless. Going there on february next year.

Hi Mharj! Yep, it’s possible to explore Sapporo DIY-style. :)

Thank you so much for the reply.

No problem!

what month did you go to sapporo?

late January – early February

Hi, Can i still use my PASMO IC card in Sapporo?

Within Sapporo or Hokkaido, yes.

Hello ..can you help me ? my wife and i are planning to go to japan for 11 days in february 2021 .. we are planning to visit sapporo for 4 days and spend overnight in shirakwa-go and the rest in tokyo …..we already have a RT to narita . is it cheaper to buy a 7 days JR pass and local plane ticket ( narita-sapporo-narita ) or should we buy a 14 day JR pass ? Thank you in advance.

Your itinerary would be like this, right?

Day 1 – Arrival in Narita/Tokyo > Sapporo Day 2 – Sapporo Day 3 – Sapporo Day 4 – Sapporo Day 5 – Sapporo > Shirakawago Day 6 – Shirakawago > Tokyo Day 7 – Tokyo Day 8 – Tokyo Day 9 – Tokyo Day 10 – Tokyo Day 11 – Departure

If so, you DON’T need the 14-DAY JR PASS at all.

Note that the closest major airports to Shirakawago are Nagoya and Komatsu, NOT Tokyo/Narita/Haneda.

If you’re OK with the travel time, you can use a 7-DAY JR PASS to cover Narita > Sapporo > Toyama/Takayama/Nagoya (jumpoff points to Shirakawa). No need for plane tickets.

If the long travel time is an issue, then no need for a JR Pass. Just book flights to cover Narita > Sapporo > Nagoya/Komatsu. Then, instead of a JR Pass, book city or regional passes instead.

Either way, the 14-Day JR Pass is out of the picture.

Thank you Yoshke. your advice certainly sounds very logical ..ill also follow your sample itinerary in sapporo ..Thanks again

Hi, thank you for your comprehensive travel guide, it help us a lot & enjoyed an exciting tour, live like a local in a foreign country and not a conventional tour packages.

We are planning to visit Osaka & Sapporo this coming January 02 – January 08, 2023 because its my kids(12y/o is the youngest) vacation, we are 8 in our group, what itinerary do you suggest coming from Manila.

Since its winter, can you please recommend a hostel wherein we can stay near the train station which is less expensive and comfortable with heater.

Featured On

We heard you!

Your comment is now queued for moderation! We’ll try to get back to you soonest. While waiting, follow us on these channels.

Subscribe on Youtube! Follow us on Instagram!

Recommended bus routes

Flight search

Let’s go on a bus trip to enjoy magnificent views that you have never seen!

Your body and mind will be refreshed when you feel the refreshing breeze on your skin surrounded by the magnificent nature.

The magnificent views, great food, and a lot of animals and plants that only this place can offer warmly welcome you.

Why not take a bus trip that lets you relax and forget about the time and worries?

Let’s visit eastern Hokkaido with Peach!

Flight information

Flight schedule until September 30, 2024

From Osaka (Kansai)

Osaka(Kansai)

Approx. 2h 10m

JPY (one-way)

[July to September] Operated on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays

Approx. 2h 5m

​JPY (one-way)

[July to September] Operated on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays ＊It will depart from Osaka (Kansai) at 1:40 p.m. on August 11 and 13.

Osaka (Kansai)

Approx. 2h10m

yen (one-way)

Approx. 2h5m

• Fares quoted are one-way "Simple Peach " Fare.
• Payment fee and airport taxes are applicable per person, per one-way trip.​

Please check the notes here .

EASTERN HOKKAIDO

Travel around eastern Hokkaido comfortably on a sightseeing bus!

Choose any combination with your flight! Recommended tourist spots and bus routes

Pirika Liner

Reservation needed

The bus departs from Kushiro, passes through the Kushiro Wetlands, Japan’s largest wetlands, and takes you to Lake Mashu where you can enjoy the magnificent view. The bus visits Mt. Io, Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, and Lake Akan where marimo, a nationally protected species, can be found; the bus then takes you back to Kushiro. This one-day bus tour takes you to many tourist attractions.

Lake Mashu is a mysterious lake called the “Lake of the Gods” in the Ainu language. It is the second clearest lake in the world and famous for its unique deep blue color called Mashu blue. Lake Mashu Kamuy Terrace, a new popular tourist attraction that opened in 2022, is also a hot place to visit.

Located near the famous hot spring town Kawayu Onsen, Mt. Io is a volcano that has been active since ancient times with white smoke rising from the ground. This scenic spot has a distinct smell of sulfur where you can feel the earth breathing.

Lake Akan, one of the largest lakes in east Hokkaido, is approx. 280 times the size of the Tokyo Dome. The lakefront is lined with hot spring hotels and inns, and you can experience the Ainu culture at Akanko Ainu Kotan.

Sunset in Kushiro

Sunset in Kushiro is praised as one of the three most beautiful sunsets in the world. It is especially beautiful from autumn to winter, and the beautiful orange sunset can be seen in that season. Nusamai Bridge is especially popular as a spot to enjoy the sunset.

If you would like to enjoy traveling other areas of eastern Hokkaido and get a great deal

The linked websites are available only in Japanese.

Detailed Kushiro tourism information is provided!

A great deal of information on Abashiri, Kitami, and Shiretoko is provided

Useful website for those who want to get a great deal on a bus trip!

Kushiro Shiretoko Liner

The bus departs from Kushiro/Lake Akan, visits two of the most famous scenic spots in eastern Hokkaido, Lake Mashu and Bihoro Pass, passes through Abashiri, a port town in Okhotsk, and takes you to Shiretoko and Utoro Onsen. It is a tour bus on which you can travel from Kushiro to Shiretoko while enjoying sightseeing.

Sunayu (Lake Kussharo)

Lake Kussharo is the largest caldera lake in Japan. Sunayu, a scenic spot on the lakeshore, is a magical place where natural hot spring water gushes if you dig a hole on the lake beach. Since there is also a public foot bath, you can relax while enjoying the view.

Bihoro Pass

Bihoro Pass is a representative mountain pass in east Hokkaido. It has an observation deck at an altitude of 525 meters and commands a beautiful view of Lake Kussharo with Nakajima Island located in the middle. You can enjoy a view of Mt. Shari and Mt. Tokachi on a clear day.

Road to the Sky

It is located on the hill in Shari at the base of the Shiretoko Peninsula. The straight road that extends 28 kilometers to the west looks like it leads to the sky. In addition, at sunset around late September, visitors might be able to see a beautiful view of sun setting at the end of the road.

Utoro Onsen

Utoro is the major town on the Sea of Okhotsk side of Shiretoko, a World Natural Heritage site. You can enjoy hot springs at each hotel/inn. In particular, the sauna of Kitakobushi Shiretoko has recently been attracting attention from fans.

*The operation information for 2024 will be provided at a later date (planned)

Shiretoko Kushiro Liner

The bus departs from Shiretoko/Utoro Onsen and visits Shiretoko Pass, which commands a panoramic view of the Shiretoko Peninsula. Then it takes you to Notsuke Peninsula, which is called the farthest paradise of flowers, Lake Mashu, and Lake Akan and arrives in Kushiro. It is recommended that you get off the bus at Lake Akan and stay at a lakeside hot spring inn.

Shiretoko Pass

Shiretoko Pass is located at the highest point of the Shiretoko Crossing Road that connects Utoro and Rausu Town on the Shiretoko Peninsula. You can see a beautiful view of Mt. Rausu right in front and, on a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Nemuro Strait and Kunashiri Island behind it.

Notsuke Peninsula

Known as Japan’s largest sandspit (peninsula shaped like a bird’s beak), the Notsuke Peninsula is not only known for Todowara, the area filled with withered Sakhalin fir (todomatsu) trees, but also becomes a paradise of alpine plants in summer that fill the area with beautiful flowers.

Lake Akan (Kamuy Lumina)

Kamuy Lumina has been established in the lakeside forest to enable visitors to enjoy an immersive night walk experience and attracts attention as a night attraction at Lake Akan Onsen. It is an experience you can enjoy only at Lake Akan from spring to autumn.

Robatayaki is a specialty of Kushiro, a port town with the second largest volume of landings in Japan. At Ganpeki Robata, a restaurant located at the wharf that is open for a limited time (until the end of October), you can enjoy freshly caught seafood to your heart’s content!

Shiretoko Airport Liner

The shuttle bus operates for a limited time and connects Memanbetsu Airport, a gateway airport in Okhotsk, Abashiri, and Shiretoko Utoro Onsen with no transfers. You can enjoy beautiful views at popular scenic spots, including Marchen Hill and Koshimizu Wild Flower Park, along the way.

Marchen Hill

You can find an impressive view on your left approx. 10 minutes after departing from Memanbetsu Airport. The view of the seven trees across the field on the hill is beautiful like a fairy tale and unique to Hokkaido.

Abashiri Prison Museum

The Abashiri Prison Museum is the only prison museum in Japan built by relocating and restoring the old buildings of Abashiri Prison that was the most feared prison in Japan. It has recently been attracting attention as one of the places that appear in the manga Golden Kamuy and is one of the famous facilities in Abashiri.

Shiretoko Utoro cruise

Various operators operate cruise ships from Utoro Port to Kamuy-Wakka Falls that is relatively near the port, Rusha Beach where brown bears can often be seen, and Cape Shiretoko. Please enjoy watching Shiretoko from the ocean.

Furepe Falls

After walking for approx. 1 km in the forest from the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center toward the sea, you will find the waterfall that cascades partway down the 100-meter-high cliff into the sea. It is also known as the Maiden’s Tears. You may encounter Yezo deer and Hokkaido squirrels.

Weather in Hokkaido and recommended clothing items

[July to August] Though you can wear a short-sleeved shirt during the day on a sunny day, be sure to bring outerwear if you walk in the forest or mountains. Long-sleeves are required since it is quite cool at night. You can wear sandals during the day until around mid-August. However, it is recommended that you bring sneakers or lightweight trekking shoes. Do not forget to bring a hat!

[September] Basically you should wear long sleeves during this season. Though it is okay to wear light clothing on a sunny day, it is recommended that you bring outdoor clothing that protects you from the wind and a light fleece jacket since it becomes colder than you think if you have bad weather, such as rain and strong winds.

• The airfares shown above are one-way Simple Peach airfares per seat.
• 燃油サーチャージ（燃油特別付加運賃）はいただいておりません。
• Separate Payment and Airport-usage fees apply.
• Fares, fees, and charges for Japanese domestic flights include consumption tax.
• Payment fee and airport taxes are applicable per person, per one-way trip.
• Booking fee applies when making a reservation via contact center or at airport counter.
• Fares change depending on seat availability, and the fare that is valid at time of purchase applies.
• Checked baggage and seat selection charges apply.
• Fares and conditions may be subject to change without notice.
• Subject to the application and approval of relevant authorities.

A lot of useful tips for traveling eastern Hokkaido!

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Sydney blog. The latest Sydney guide for all-kind of travelers

What to do & how to spend 4 days in Kuala…

Okinawa itinerary 3 days. What to do in Okinawa for 3…

16+ best places to visit & top things to do in…

The complete Seoul subway guide: How to use, lines, fares for…

How much does it cost to travel to Korea? Tips on…

The ultimate guide to NETS FlashPay Card: What is it, how…

How much will it cost to go to Singapore? Tips on…

Must-eat in Bali. 25+ best street food in Bali

What to eat in Xinjiang? Enjoy 9 best Xinjiang street food

What and where to eat in Taipei? 20+ top restaurants &…

What, where to eat in Nha Trang? — 11+ best places…

11+ best homestays in Kuala Lumpur near famous tourist attractions

Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives reviews. The detailed review of my vacation…

Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa reviews. The resort is highly…

+7 luxury resorts you must stay in Danang, Vietnam

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Hokkaido autumn travel blog — 15+ top things to do & best places to visit in hokkaido during autumn.

Autumn in Japan begins from the end of September and lasts until the end of November. Hokkaido is one of the first places in the land of the rising sun witnesses the landscape gradually changing from green to yellow and red. Hokkaido is a popular winter destination, but few people know that Hokkaido is not only beautiful in the winter, try to visit this place in other seasons, you will find it interesting all-year-round, especially in the fall. For the people of Japan, Hokkaido is an ideal destination to see the autumn leaves (Momiji)!

• Hokkaido autumn itinerary blog — What to do & suggested Hokkaido 9 days itinerary autumn
• Japan fall foliage forecast 2023 — Where to see autumn leaves in Japan & 41+ places to visit in Japan during autumn
• Tokyo autumn leaves forecast 2023 — 13 best autumn spots in Tokyo & best place to see autumn leaves in Tokyo
• Kyoto fall foliage forecast 2023 — 15 best autumn spots in Kyoto & best place to see autumn leaves in Kyoto
• Meiji-jingu Gaien — One of the best places to see autumn leaves in Tokyo

So, are you planning a trip to visit Hokkaido in september (Hokkaido september travel, Hokkaido autumn guide) when the autumn begins and Hokkaido autumn month to see Hokkaido autumn foliage (Hokkaido autumn leaves, Hokkaido fall foliage)? Let’s check it out our suggested best of Hokkaido in autumn through Hokkaido september blog (Hokkaido autumn blog, Hokkaido autumn travel blog) and Hokkaido autumn trip blog to explore what to do and 15 top things to do in Hokkaido in september, places to visit in Hokkaido during autumn, and things to do in Hokkaido in autumn as well as Hokkaido autumn leaves forecast 2022 to find out the answer!

Hokkaido fall foliage forecast 2023: Some things you need to know before going to Hokkaido to enjoy autumn

Hokkaido autumn leaves forecast 2023.

The leaves begin to change color in Kyoto sometime in October. The peak of autumn leaves is usually in mid November and you can see the red leaves colors on the trees until mid-December. Thus, in an average year, the red leaves season in Kyoto lasts from October 15 to December 15, with a peak around November 15. Here is the autumn forecast in Hokkaido 2023.

This red leaves season will come later than every year. Perhaps the scorching heat of summer is the main reason why this year’s red leaf season comes much later than every year. Experts explain that temperature plays an important role in determining the timing of color change and the intensity of leaf color.

It is expected that Sapporo will be the first place where you can enjoy the beauty of the Japanese red leaf season, the peak time on November 6 (gingko leaf), November 7 (maple leaf). In Hokkaido, maple leaves turn red color around October 25, 13 days later than the years.

Tokyo is also considered to be the place where the red leaf season will appear late, the color of the leaves starting from mid-November to early-December. In Kyoto, the red foliage will look most impressive on December 9.

Hokkaido autumn leaves forecast 2023: When is autumn in Hokkaido the most beautiful?

Kokkaido autumn month: Hokkaido is the region that welcomes the earliest autumn of the country. From early September to the end of November is the best time for you to enjoy autumn here. Hokkaido is extremely large, so the best time to see red leaves in areas is different, but the majority of places to see red leaves falls in the range of mid-September to late-Octorber as shown below in the table.

However, I like to go to Hokkaido in October because this is the “peak time” of autumn, the scenery is extremely poetic, romantic and the weather is very pleasant, beautiful beyond words.

Hokkaido weather in autumn: What to wear?

Weather is one of the extremely important factors that effects the quality of a trip. Japan is a country with 4 distinct seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. In October, the weather was pleasant, but the temperature was also very low, although it was not a cold peak period, but the average temperature this season was only about 11 degrees Celsius – 16 degrees Celsius. So, choose the appropriate clothes such as sweaters, coats and gloves, can bring a few extra stickers to keep the body warm.

Hokkaido autumn travel blog: Top things to do in hokkaido in autumn and best places to visit in hokkaido during autumn

Admire the red autumn leaves (momiji).

Momiji (red leaves) is the reason why people want to coming to Hokkaido every autumn comes. The red leaves season is considered to be the most romantic season of the year in Japan, because of the blending of sunshine, wind, and incense, colors make for a great scenery. Imagine you are walking in the golden sunshine of autumn, sometimes with gentle breeze, in front of you is a forest covered with red leaves of maple leaves, nothing is more wonderful. The moment you watching the red leaves slowly fall, sometimes it tended to follow a gentle breeze passing by, making your heart sobbing.

The land of the rising sun with four seasons all brings its own beauty, but the fall season is more captivating. Especially in Hokkaido – a land with a cold climate, fortunate to welcome the earliest autumn in Japan, it is even more charming and poetic with Momiji red maple leaf season comes.

In the early days of September, the maple leaf forests seemed to have strange miracles when they come together turned yellow and red as if they were dyed. But if only a few scattered trees on the street turn their colors, of course I will not be happy like this!!! But, in Hokkaido, the forests of maple leaves is dense and large, spreading along the roads and attractions that anyone see them will be admired. The cameras will have the opportunity to blink continuously, indeed a dream background.

One of the best places to see red maple leaves in Hokkaido is Daisetsuzan National Park. It is Hokkaido’s largest national park with an area of over 2000 km2. This is almost a wild area, a paradise for those who love nature, want to conquer nature and love adventure. And is one of the best places to see autumn leaves in Hokkaido., the next is Shiretoko and Onuma National Park . If you want to see the maple leaves with the valley view, let go to Noboribetsu area, the ground is filled with yellow leaves, the red leaves spread into a thick mattress that you can lie on it.

In Hokkaido there is an extremely interesting activity that I have never tried anywhere before, that is renting a camping car with a group of friends. It sounds strange, you will rent a fully equipped camper van, buy some food and travel to Hokkaido’s most beautiful maple leaf attractions. If you like, stop and spread the canvas on the maple leaves and resting like a picnic “When we were young”. The best is that you can drive yourself, it’s so good!

Immerse yourself in Coral Grass Colonies at Lake Notoro

Notoro Lake is a saltwater lake connected to the Sea of Okhotsk, located not far from Memanbetsu airport, with a total area of 580,000 square meters. In the fall, from September, a leafless plant called “coral grass (glasswort)” will dye the whole corner of the lake by red, making people fascinated with beauty, especially in sunset moments. In Hokkaido, coral grass grows only in some areas of the lagoon, lakes with certain moisture and salinity such as Notoro, Komuke, Furen … so travelers who love to discover unique and rare beauty of nature should definitely not miss this place.

Another red color that few people know in Hokkaido is coral grass. Not as famous as Momiji and therefore less popular. The lake shores with full of coral grass in full bloom in the fall are extremely beautiful and strange sights for those who “anti social” and want their own space.

Continued reading…

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

What to do & how to spend 4 days in kuala lumpur, okinawa itinerary 3 days. what to do in okinawa for 3 days 2 nights, 16+ best places to visit & top things to do in kobe.

Where to shop in Tokyo? 15+ top shopping malls & best shopping places in Tokyo

Where to visit in Melbourne? 15+ best places to visit in Melbourne

Australia itinerary 5 days. Where to go, what to do in Australia for 5 days

Australia travel itinerary 10 days. How to spend 10 days in Australia?

Sydney itinerary 6 days. How to spend 6 days in Sydney?

Editor picks.

What to do & how to spend 4 days in Kuala...

Okinawa itinerary 3 days. What to do in Okinawa for 3...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

What to buy in Korea? — Top +23 cheap, famous &...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1497
• Trip Inspiration 468
• Food + Drink 220
• Thailand 212
• Coasts + Islands 195
• South Korea 174
• Vietnam 172
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Find Posts By Topic

• Accessibility
• Community Involvement
• Move Seattle
• News Releases
• Pedestrians
• Vision Zero
• Traffic and Construction
• Trees and Vegetation
• Winter Weather

Travel tips for June 18-July 2: construction, sports, community events, Juneteenth, and Pride Weekend

Blog stats: 1,200 words | 6-minute read

At-a-glance:

• Summer is kicking off and we want you to stay in the know about upcoming construction activities, professional sports games, and community celebrations taking place in the Seattle area, so you can travel with confidence in the weeks ahead.

SDOT construction, closures, and travel impacts

Regional transportation agency work, major league sports home games.

• Community celebrations
• We also encourage you to follow us on X at @seattledot and @SDOTTraffic , and visit the websites of our regional partner agencies, including WSDOT , King County Metro , and Sound Transit .
• You can also visit our Project and Construction Coordination Map for a map of various construction projects taking place throughout the city.
• We’ll continue to publish these blogs throughout the summer to help you plan ahead and know what to expect when you travel.

Please note: our construction projects take place throughout Seattle. To stay informed about projects near you, subscribe to our email updates . You can select from a list of projects and subscribe to the ones you’re most interested in. Thank you.

• Construction is underway for the Route 40 Transit Plus Multimodal Corridor Project at N 105th St and N Northgate Way and Aurora Ave N in North Seattle. Construction includes upgrading sidewalks, ADA-accessible curb ramps, and bus stop improvements. Eastbound lane restrictions are expected to begin July 1 during daytime hours on N 105th St/N Northgate Way, with expected delays through the area for the next few weeks.

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT)

Note: the work activities listed below are weather-dependent and subject to change.

• The eastbound Mercer Street on-ramps to northbound and southbound I-5 will be closed from 10 p.m. Monday, June 24 to 5 a.m. Tuesday, June 25; and again from 10 p.m. Tuesday, June 25 to 5 a.m. Wednesday, June 26. This is for construction on the SR 520/I-5 Express Lanes Connection Project. Click here to learn more .
• Starting Monday morning June 24, East Roanoke Street between 22nd Avenue East and East Montlake Place East (just south of the Montlake Boulevard/SR 520 interchange) will be closed until Wednesday, July 3. This work is part of the SR 520 Montlake Project. Click here to learn more .
• From 10 p.m. Friday, June 21 through 5 a.m. Monday, June 24, all SR 520 on- and off-ramps to/from Montlake Boulevard will be closed. This includes closing Montlake Boulevard between East Hamlin Street and East Louisa Street, and Lake Washington Boulevard between East Roanoke Street and East Montlake Boulevard. Lake Washington Boulevard will be limited to local traffic only between East Roanoke Street and Foster Island Road. There will be a signed detour for pedestrians and bicyclists through the work area. This work is also part of the SR 520 Montlake Project. Click here to learn more .
• The westbound I-90 off-ramp to northbound Rainier Avenue South will close from 9 p.m. Friday, June 21 until 10 p.m. Sunday, June 23 for work in Seattle. Private contractor crews will be working on Rainier Avenue South north of I-90. A signed detour will be in place.
• Weeknights over the next few weeks, there will be lane reductions on both directions of I-5, between just north of the Corson Avenue interchange and the SR 599/Interurban Avenue interchange. Travelers in both directions of I-5 should expect multiple lanes and ramps to be closed during overnight hours from Sunday nights through Friday mornings. Additionally, from 10 p.m. Friday, June 21 through 5 a.m. Monday, June 24, up to three lanes of southbound I-5 near mid-Boeing Field will be closed for expansion joint repairs. This is part of the I-5 Duwamish River to South Lucile Street concrete pavement rehabilitation project. Click here to learn more .

Seattle Mariners

Upcoming games at T-Mobile Park

• Friday, June 28 at 6:40 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Saturday, June 29 at 7:10 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Sunday, June 30 at 1:10 PM: Minnesota Twins
• Tuesday, July 2 at 6:40 PM: Baltimore Orioles

To learn more:

• https://www.mlb.com/mariners/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the Stadium Station and walk a short two blocks over to the ballpark. If taking rideshare, there is a designated rideshare lot southeast of the stadium. If driving, the Mariners Garage opens 3 hours before game time. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to T-Mobile Park here.

Seattle Storm

Upcoming games at Climate Pledge Arena

• Sunday, June 23 at 12 PM: Connecticut Sun
• Thursday, June 27 at 7 PM: Indiana Fever
• Saturday, June 29 at 6 PM: Dallas Wings
• Monday, July 1 at 7 PM: Dallas Wings
• https://storm.wnba.com/schedule/

For all major ticketed events at Climate Pledge Arena, guests receive a free public transit pass alongside their ticket. If driving to the arena, there are three parking garages available nearby. Find more information on navigating to the arena here.

Seattle Sounders FC

Upcoming games at Lumen Field

• Saturday, June 22 at 7:30 PM: FC Dallas
• Saturday, June 29 at 7:30 PM: Chicago Fire
• https://www.soundersfc.com/schedule/

Seattle Reign FC

• Sunday, June 23 at 3:00 PM: Racing Louisville FC
• https://www.reignfc.com/schedule

If you’re riding the Link light rail, get off at the International District/Chinatown station and walk a short three blocks over to the field. If taking rideshare, get off on the Northside by King St. & Occidental or on the South side by Royal Brougham & Occidental. If driving, the Lumen Field Parking Garage south of the stadium and a North Lot. Both open at 6am on event days and close 2 hours post event. Biking, scooting, walking, or rolling to the game may also be great options, depending on your trip specifics. Find more information on navigating to Lumen Field here .

Community events

Please note: We’ve highlighted several upcoming community celebrations below – but this is not intended as a comprehensive list of every event in the city. We hope you enjoy taking part!

June 19: Juneteenth Summer of Soul – Jimi Hendrix Park

To celebrate the resilience and strength of Black communities in Seattle and beyond, Africatown Community Land Trust and King County Equity Now are hosting live performances and family activities. Find more information about the event here.

Jimi Hendrix Park is located between 23rd Ave S and MLK Jr Way S near I-90, and can be reached by King County Metro bus or transferring from Sound Transit light rail ( Mount Baker Station is closest to the park).

June 22: Seattle Marathon’s Summer 5K/10K/Half Marathon and Kids Fun Run – Seward Park

This annual run captures stunning views of Lake Washington and Mt Rainier. There are categories for kids, and furry friends are allowed on the run as well. Some streets surrounding the Seward Park region may be temporarily closed during the run. You can find more information about the event here .

Seward Park can be reached by King County Metro bus.

June 22-23: Fremont Fair

This annual summer fair brings the community together to shop from 200+ craft vendors, hosts two stages for visitors to enjoy live music from, and share a bite with friends and family. You can find more information about the fair here .

For more detailed guidance on getting to the fair, check out our previous blog post .

June 29: PrideFest Capitol Hill

This celebration dedicates six blocks of Broadway and Cal Anderson Park for visitors to shop local businesses, lounge at the beer garden, and enjoy the atmosphere while uplifting Seattle’s LGBTQIA+ community. The event runs from noon-8 PM. Find more information about the festival here .

Pridefest can be reached by King County Metro bus or Sound Transit light rail (the Capitol Hill Station is closest). Or, depending on your trip, walking, biking, or rolling might be great ways for you to get to the festival.

June 30: Seattle Pride Parade 2024

This year is Seattle’s 50th annual Pride Month celebration. The parade starts at Westlake Park and will travel throughout Downtown Seattle. Enjoy Washington’s largest parade and celebrate hundreds of community groups, nonprofits, and companies to close out the celebration of Pride Month. Find more information about the event here .

We hope this post provided you with useful tips and tools to help you travel throughout Seattle as these construction and community events all take place. Stay tuned for more blog posts like this throughout the summer. Thank you!

Editor’s note – June 20, 2024: We updated this post to add a work activity in the WSDOT information section.

Latest News

Sign up to receive updates from the SDOT Blog via email.

Browse the Archive