Popular Travel Destinations in Hokkaido
Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor activities, and unique culture. Here are some of the top travel destinations in Hokkaido that are especially popular with foreign visitors.
Sapporo
Overview
The capital city of Hokkaido, Sapporo is famous for its annual Snow Festival, beer, and delicious food.
Highlights
Sapporo Snow Festival
Held every February, featuring impressive ice and snow sculptures.
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about the history of Sapporo Beer and enjoy tastings.
Odori Park
A large park in the city center, hosting events and festivals year-round.
Clock Tower
An iconic symbol of Sapporo and a historical building.
Furano and Biei
Overview
Known for their picturesque flower fields and stunning landscapes.
Highlights:
Lavender Fields
Especially beautiful in July, with Tomita Farm being the most
famous.
Blue Pond: A strikingly blue pond near Biei, popular for photography.
Patchwork Road: Scenic drives through rolling hills and fields.
Hakodate
Overview
A port city with a rich history and stunning night views.
Highlights:
• Mount Hakodate
Famous for its night view, considered one of the best in Japan.
• Hakodate Morning Market
Fresh seafood and local delicacies.
• Goryokaku Fort
A star-shaped fort with a beautiful park, especially during cherry blossom season.
Noboribetsu
Overview
Known for its hot springs (onsen) and volcanic activity.
Highlights
• Jigokudani (Hell Valley): A dramatic volcanic valley with hot steam vents and sulfurous streams.
• Noboribetsu Onsen: One of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts.
Otaru
Overview
A charming town known for its canals and historical buildings.
Highlights
• Otaru Canal:
Picturesque canal lined with old warehouses, especially beautiful at dusk.
• Sakaimachi Street
A preserved merchant street with shops and cafes
• Otaru Music Box Museum
Featuring a large collection of music box
Asahikawa
Overview
The second largest city in Hokkaido, known for its zoo and ramen.
Highlights
• Asahiyama Zoo: One of Japan’s most popular zoos, known for its unique animal enclosures.
• Asahikawa Ramen Village: A collection of ramen shops featuring the city’s famous soy sauce-based ramen.
Shiretoko Peninsula
Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unspoiled nature and wildlife.
Highlights:
• Shiretoko National Park
Offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
• Shiretoko Five Lakes
Scenic lakes surrounded by mountains and forests.
Niseko
Overview
A world-renowned ski resort area, popular for its powder snow.
Highlights:
• Skiing and Snowboarding: Excellent conditions and facilities for winter sports.
• Outdoor Hot Springs: Enjoy hot springs with views of Mount Yotei.
Lake Toya
Overview
A volcanic caldera lake with beautiful scenery and hot springs.
Highlights
• Lake Toya Onsen: Hot spring resorts with views of the lake.
• Mount Usu
An active volcano with a ropeway offering panoramic views.
Daisetsuzan National Park
Overview
Hokkaido’s largest national park, known for its rugged mountains and diverse wildlife.
Highlights:
• Mount Asahidake: The highest peak in Hokkaido, popular for hiking and hot springs.
• Sounkyo Gorge: A scenic gorge with waterfalls and onsen.
These destinations showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences that Hokkaido has to offer, making it a top choice for foreign visitors seeking adventure and relaxation.
