Best Time to Visit Hokkaido 2024

Itinerary to Visit Hokkaido and Nearby Places:

The Best Time to visit Hokkaido, – Here’s a suggested itinerary for visiting Hokkaido and nearby places:

Day 1-3: Sapporo

• Day 1:
  • Arrive in Sapporo.
  • Discover Odori Park alongside the iconic Sapporo TV Tower.
  • Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum and enjoy some local brews.
• Day 2:
  • Take a day trip to Otaru, known for its canal and glassworks.
  • Visit the Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street, and try some fresh seafood.
• Day 3:
  • Explore the Sapporo Clock Tower and Hokkaido Shrine.
  • Spend the afternoon shopping and dining at Tanukikoji Shopping Street.

Day 4-5: Furano and Biei

• Day 4:
  • Travel to Furano, famous for its lavender fields (best visited in summer).
  • Visit Farm Tomita and see the beautiful flower fields.
  • Explore Furano Cheese Factory and try some fresh dairy products.
• Day 5:
  • Take a day trip to Biei.
  • Visit Shikisai no Oka, a flower park with stunning panoramic views.
  • Explore the Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall for picturesque scenery.

Day 6-7: Asahikawa and Daisetsuzan National Park

• Day 6:
  • Travel to Asahikawa.
  • Visit Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its innovative exhibits.
  • Explore Asahikawa Ramen Village and try different styles of ramen.
• Day 7:
  • Spend the day in Daisetsuzan National Park.
  • Hike one of the many trails in the park, such as the Asahidake Ropeway.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of mountains and natural landscapes.

Day 8-10: Hakodate

• Day 8:
  • Travel to Hakodate.
  • Explore Goryokaku Park and Fort Goryokaku.
  • Visit Hakodate Morning Market for fresh seafood.
• Day 9:
  • Embark on a day excursion to Onuma Quasi-National Park.
  • Enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, or taking a boat tour around the park’s lakes.
• Day 10:
  • Explore Mount Hakodate.
  • Take the Hakodate Ropeway to the summit for panoramic views, especially during sunset.

Day 11: Return to Sapporo

• Day 11:
  • Return to Sapporo for departure or extend your stay for further exploration.

This itinerary offers a mix of urban exploration, natural beauty, and cultural experiences across Hokkaido and nearby areas. Make sure to check the seasonal attractions and plan accordingly, as Hokkaido offers different experiences throughout the year.

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How to Reach Hokkaido:

Reaching The Best Time to visit Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, can be done via various transportation options, depending on your starting point. Here’s how you can reach Hokkaido:

1. By Air:

• New Chitose Airport (CTS): Located near Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido, New Chitose Airport is the main gateway to the island. It serves domestic and international flights.
• Other Airports: Some other airports in Hokkaido include Asahikawa Airport, Hakodate Airport, and Kushiro Airport. These airports also offer domestic flights connecting various cities in Japan.

2. By Train:

• Shinkansen (Bullet Train): As of my last update, there was no direct Shinkansen connection to Hokkaido. However, there is the Hokkaido Shinkansen line that connects Shin-Aomori on the main island of Honshu to Hakodate in Hokkaido via the undersea Seikan Tunnel. From Hakodate, you can transfer to local trains or buses to reach other destinations in Hokkaido.
• Conventional Trains: Hokkaido is connected to the rest of Japan by rail via the Seikan Tunnel. You can take the train from cities like Tokyo or Aomori to Hakodate, where you can transfer to local trains or buses to travel within Hokkaido.

3. By Ferry:

• Ferry Services: There are ferry services connecting Hokkaido with cities like Aomori and Hakodate on the main island of Honshu. These ferries can accommodate both passengers and vehicles.

4. By Car:

• Driving: If you’re already in Japan and prefer a road trip, you can drive to Hokkaido via expressways or regular roads. The Seikan Tunnel connects Honshu and Hokkaido for car travel.

5. By Bus:

• Highway Buses: Several bus companies operate highway bus services connecting major cities in Hokkaido with other regions of Japan. These buses are often more economical than trains or flights.

6. By Cruise:

• Cruise Ships: Some cruise lines offer routes that include stops in Hokkaido, particularly in ports like Hakodate.

Best Hotels in Hokkaido:

Here are some of the best hotels in Hokkaido:

1. Niseko Hilton Village: Located in the popular Niseko ski resort area, this luxury hotel offers breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei and easy access to world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities.
2. The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa: Situated on the shores of Lake Toya, this elegant hotel offers luxurious accommodations with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Guests can relax in the hotel’s hot springs and enjoy fine dining at its restaurants.
3. RISONARE Tomamu: This unique resort hotel is located in the Tomamu ski area and offers modern accommodations with a range of recreational facilities including an indoor wave pool, outdoor baths, and an ice village in winter.
4. Asahikawa Grand Hotel: Situated in the heart of Asahikawa city, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to popular attractions such as the Asahiyama Zoo and Asahikawa Ramen Village.
5. Lake Akan Tsuruga Wings: Overlooking Lake Akan in eastern Hokkaido, this resort hotel offers traditional Japanese-style accommodations with hot spring baths and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Sapporo Grand Hotel: Located in the center of Sapporo, Hokkaido’s largest city, this historic hotel offers elegant accommodations, fine dining options, and easy access to shopping and entertainment venues.
7. Hotel Shiretoko: Situated in the picturesque Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with views of the surrounding wilderness and opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
8. La Vista Daisetsuzan: Nestled in the Daisetsuzan National Park, this resort hotel offers cozy accommodations with views of the majestic mountains and easy access to hiking trails and hot springs.

These are just a few examples of the many excellent hotels Hokkaido has to offer. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations, traditional ryokans, or budget-friendly options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay in this beautiful island prefecture.

The Taj Mahal 

Best Time to Visit in Hokkaido:

The best time to visit Hokkaido depends on your interests and what you want to experience:

1. Skiing and Winter Sports (December to February): Hokkaido is renowned for its world-class skiing resorts such as Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu. The winter months bring heavy snowfall, creating excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February, is a major attraction featuring intricate ice sculptures and snow statues.
2. Lavender and Flower Fields (June to August): If you’re interested in Hokkaido’s natural beauty, visit during the summer months when the island is adorned with vibrant flower fields. Furano and Biei are famous for their lavender fields, which are in full bloom from late June to early August. The weather is generally mild during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
3. Autumn Foliage (September to November): Hokkaido’s autumn foliage, known as “koyo” in Japanese, typically peaks from late September to early November. The mountains and forests transform into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, especially in places like Daisetsuzan National Park, Shiretoko National Park, and the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Autumn is also a great time for hiking and enjoying hot springs while taking in the colorful scenery.
4. Sightseeing and Wildlife (Year-round): Hokkaido offers unique wildlife experiences, including observing brown bears, red-crowned cranes, and other species. The Shiretoko Peninsula, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a prime spot for wildlife viewing. For sightseeing, consider visiting Hokkaido’s cities like Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate, which boast historical landmarks, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife year-round.
5. Ice Drift and Winter Festivals (January to March): Ice drift tours on the Sea of Okhotsk near Abashiri are popular during the winter months, offering a unique opportunity to witness the dynamic ice formations. Additionally, other winter festivals like the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival and Asahikawa Winter Festival offer enchanting illuminations and ice sculptures.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Hokkaido depends on your interests and what you hope to experience, whether it’s skiing in winter, enjoying flower fields in summer, witnessing autumn foliage, or exploring the island’s diverse wildlife and culture year-round.

Local Culture & Cuisine of Hokkaido:

Here’s an overview of the local culture and cuisine of Hokkaido:

Culture:

1. Ainu Culture: The indigenous Ainu people have a significant cultural presence in Hokkaido. Their traditional practices, such as dance, music, and crafts, are preserved and celebrated in various parts of the island.
2. Festivals: Hokkaido hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, showcasing its cultural diversity. The Sapporo Snow Festival, held in February, is one of the most famous, featuring intricate snow and ice sculptures.
3. Nature and Outdoor Activities: Hokkaido’s vast wilderness offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and hot spring bathing. The island’s natural beauty, including national parks like Shikotsu-Toya and Daisetsuzan, attracts visitors year-round.
4. Historical Sites: Hokkaido has historical sites such as the Hokkaido Shrine in Sapporo and the Goryokaku Fort in Hakodate, which provide insights into the region’s past.
5. Seafood Culture: Given its coastal location, fishing has been integral to Hokkaido’s culture for centuries. Seafood plays a prominent role in both traditional and modern cuisine.

Cuisine:

1. Seafood: Hokkaido is renowned for its fresh seafood, including crab, scallops, sea urchin (uni), and salmon. Sushi and sashimi featuring these ingredients are popular choices.
2. Soup Curry: A regional specialty, Hokkaido’s soup curry features a flavorful broth filled with vegetables, meat (often chicken), and spices. It’s a heartier, more brothy version of traditional Japanese curry.
3. Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): Named after the Mongolian ruler, Genghis Khan is a popular Hokkaido dish consisting of grilled lamb or mutton served with vegetables. It’s often enjoyed at barbecue restaurants called “Genghis Khan” joints.
4. Miso Ramen: While ramen is a beloved dish across Japan, Hokkaido is famous for its miso ramen. The rich and hearty broth is made with miso paste, often accompanied by noodles, pork, vegetables, and sometimes butter or corn.
5. Dairy Products: Hokkaido’s dairy industry is thriving, producing high-quality milk, cheese, and ice cream. Visitors can enjoy Hokkaido’s famous soft-serve ice cream and various dairy-based desserts.
6. Sweets: Hokkaido offers a wide range of delectable sweets, including Shiroi Koibito cookies (white chocolate sandwiched between two thin cookies), melon pan (sweet bread with a crispy outer layer), and zangi (deep-fried chicken).

Overall, Hokkaido’s culture and cuisine blend traditional Japanese elements with unique regional flavors, making it a fascinating destination for travelers and food enthusiasts alike.

Activities to Do in Hokkaido:

Here are some recommendations:

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hokkaido is famous for its world-class ski resorts such as Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu. The powdery snow and varied terrain attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.
2. Onsen (Hot Springs) Experience: Relax in the natural hot springs, or onsens, scattered throughout Hokkaido. Places like Noboribetsu and Jozankei offer serene settings to soak in mineral-rich waters.
3. Sapporo Snow Festival: If you visit in February, don’t miss the Sapporo Snow Festival, where you can see intricate ice and snow sculptures lining the streets of Sapporo.
4. Visit Furano and Biei: These picturesque towns are known for their stunning flower fields in summer and colorful foliage in autumn. Shikisai-no-Oka and Farm Tomita are popular spots to enjoy the blooms.
5. Hiking and Nature Exploration: Hokkaido boasts beautiful national parks such as Shiretoko, Daisetsuzan, and Akan-Mashu, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
6. Sample Hokkaido Cuisine: Indulge in the local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, dairy products like Hokkaido milk and cheese, and famous dishes like soup curry and Genghis Khan (grilled mutton).
7. Asahiyama Zoo: Located in Asahikawa, this zoo is known for its innovative and spacious enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals like polar bears, penguins, and red pandas up close.
8. Hakodate City: Explore the historic city of Hakodate, known for its Western-influenced architecture, delicious seafood markets, and stunning night views from Mount Hakodate.
9. Canoeing and Rafting: Enjoy water sports such as canoeing and rafting in the many rivers and lakes of Hokkaido, particularly in regions like Shikotsu-Toya National Park.
10. Festival Participation: Depending on the time of year, you might encounter various local festivals such as the Yuki Matsuri (Snow Festival) in Asahikawa or the Kushiro Crane Festival, celebrating the majestic red-crowned cranes.

Remember to check seasonal variations and weather conditions before planning your activities, as Hokkaido experiences distinct seasons with each offering its own unique charm.

Travel Budget of Hokkaido:

For a couple, the average daily budget in Hokkaido is approximately $200 to $300 USD, including accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities. In local currency (Japanese Yen), this translates to around ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 per day.

Hokkaido Reviews of Travelers:

Positive:

• Hokkaido surpassed our expectations with its breathtaking landscapes and delectable cuisine.. We especially loved exploring the flower fields in Furano and indulging in fresh seafood in Sapporo.”

Negative:

• “While Hokkaido is beautiful, getting around can be challenging without a car, and language barriers can sometimes be an issue, particularly in rural areas.”

Traveling with Family or Solo to Hokkaido:

Hokkaido is suitable for both family vacations and solo travel. Families can enjoy outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and kid-friendly attractions, while solo travelers can immerse themselves in the unique charm of Hokkaido and explore at their own pace.

Travel Essentials:

• Valid passport and visa (if required).
• Travel insurance.
• Comfortable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
• Cash and credit cards (some places may not accept cards).
• English-Japanese phrasebook or translation app.
• Portable Wi-Fi device for internet access on the go.

Important Instructions:

• Respect local customs and traditions, including removing shoes before entering a home or traditional inn.
• Follow etiquette when dining, such as saying “Itadakimasu” before eating and “Gochisousama” after finishing a meal.
• Ensure that waste is appropriately disposed of and recycle in accordance with local regulations.
• Observe safety precautions when enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing.

Safety Travel Tips:

• Hokkaido is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and excellent infrastructure.
• Be mindful of weather conditions, especially during winter when snowstorms can occur.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities in summer.
• Follow guidelines for using hot springs to avoid accidents or injuries.

Conclusion:

Hokkaido offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from breathtaking natural landscapes to delicious cuisine and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or relaxation in natural hot springs, Hokkaido promises an unforgettable journey filled with warmth, beauty, and hospitality. Plan your trip to Hokkaido and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.