Discover Hokkaido
A Land of Natural Beauty, Culinary Delights, and Rich Culture

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a top destination for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, world-class cuisine, exciting outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re visiting for its famous powder snow, fresh seafood, or stunning seasonal views, Hokkaido offers unforgettable experiences year-round.

※This page contains promotions.

Best Food in Hokkaido: Must-Try Local Dishes

Hokkaido is known for its fresh seafood, dairy products, and hearty regional specialties, making it a paradise for food lovers.

  • Hokkaido Seafood: Savor premium kani (crab), uni (sea urchin), ikura (salmon roe), best enjoyed at Sapporo Nijo Market or Hakodate Morning Market.
  • Sapporo Miso Ramen: A rich, flavorful broth topped with butter and corn, a must-try in ramen shops around Susukino, Sapporo.
  • Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): A Hokkaido-style grilled lamb dish, best enjoyed at dedicated restaurants in Sapporo or Asahikawa.
  • Yubari Melon: One of Japan’s sweetest melons, often served fresh or as a dessert.
  • Soft-Serve Ice Cream & Dairy: Made from the freshest Hokkaido milk, available in Furano, Biei, and Tokachi.

Hokkaido Festivals & Events: Seasonal Celebrations

Hokkaido’s vibrant festivals showcase its culture, seasons, and local traditions.

  • Sapporo Snow Festival (February): One of Japan’s largest winter events featuring massive ice and snow sculptures at Odori Park.
  • Yosakoi Soran Festival (June): An energetic dance festival held in Sapporo, blending traditional and modern performances.
  • Hakodate Port Festival (August): A lively summer event featuring fireworks and the famous Ika Odori (Squid Dance).
  • Autumn Foliage Festivals: Best seen in Daisetsuzan National Park and Shiretoko Five Lakes.
  • Sapporo Autumn Fest: A must-visit for food lovers, showcasing regional specialties and gourmet dishes.

Best Outdoor Activities in Hokkaido: Things to Do Year-Round

From winter sports to summer adventures, Hokkaido offers thrilling experiences.

  • Skiing & Snowboarding: World-renowned powder snow in Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu.
  • Hiking & Summer Trekking: Stunning trails in Daisetsuzan National Park, Mount Asahi, and Shiretoko Peninsula.
  • Wildlife Watching: Spot red-crowned cranes in Kushiro Wetlands and brown bears in Shiretoko.
  • Hot Spring Retreats: Enjoy Hokkaido’s famous onsen (hot springs) in Noboribetsu, Jozankei, and Lake Toya.
  • Lavender Fields: Visit Furano in July for breathtaking fields of purple blooms.

Must-Visit Places in Hokkaido: Top Destinations

Explore the best sightseeing spots across Hokkaido.

  • Sapporo: The vibrant capital city, home to Odori Park, Sapporo Clock Tower, and Sapporo Beer Museum.
  • Hakodate: Famous for Mount Hakodate’s night view, the Red Brick Warehouses, and Goryokaku Fort.
  • Otaru: A picturesque canal town known for glassworks, music boxes, and fresh sushi.
  • Shiretoko National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with untouched wilderness and wildlife encounters.
  • Lake Toya: A scenic caldera lake surrounded by mountains and hot spring resorts.

Getting Around Hokkaido: Public Transportation Guide

Hokkaido is vast, but its efficient transportation system makes traveling easy.

  • JR Hokkaido Trains: Connect major cities like Sapporo, Hakodate, and Asahikawa.
  • Intercity Buses: Budget-friendly options for reaching rural areas and sightseeing spots.
  • Rental Cars: Recommended for exploring scenic routes in Furano, Biei, and the Shiretoko Peninsula.
  • Sapporo Subway: The easiest way to navigate Hokkaido’s largest city.

Best Hotels in Hokkaido: Where to Stay

Hokkaido offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy inns.

  • Sapporo Hotels: Stay at JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo or budget-friendly options near Sapporo Station.

JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo

  • Onsen Resorts: Relax in hot springs at Noboribetsu, Jozankei, and Lake Toya.
Hotel Yumoto Noboribetsu（Noboribetsu）

Chalet Ivy Jozankei（Jozankei）

The Lake View TOYA Nonokaze Resort（Lake Toya）

  • Ski Resorts: Book luxury lodges in Niseko or Furano, ideal for winter travelers.
Niseko Konbu-Onsen Tsuruga Besso Mokuno Sho（Niseko）
Phoenix Furano（Furano）

  • Traditional Ryokan: Experience Japanese hospitality in Hakodate’s Yunokawa Onsen.
Heiseikan Shiosai-Tei Kagetsu

Hokkaido Culture: Discover Unique Traditions

Experience Hokkaido’s distinct blend of Japanese and Ainu culture.

  • Ainu Heritage: Learn about the indigenous Ainu people at Upopoy National Ainu Museum in Shiraoi.
  • Historical Villages: Visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido in Sapporo to see preserved architecture.
  • Shinto Shrines: Explore Hokkaido Shrine, especially during the New Year and cherry blossom season.
  • Local Crafts: Find authentic Otaru glasswork and Ainu wood carvings as souvenirs.

Best Souvenirs from Hokkaido: What to Buy

Take home some of Hokkaido’s finest local products.

  • Shiroi Koibito: A famous white chocolate-filled cookie, perfect as a gift.
  • Royce’ Chocolate: Premium Nama Chocolate with a smooth, rich taste.
  • Marusei Butter Sandwich: A delicious treat from Rokkatei.
  • Local Seafood: Packaged crab, dried scallops, and sea urchin for seafood lovers.
  • Lavender Products: Essential oils and scented goods from Furano’s lavender farms.

Plan Your Hokkaido Adventure Today!

From stunning winter landscapes to summer flower fields, delicious seafood, and traditional culture, Hokkaido is a dream destination for all travelers. Whether you’re planning an action-packed ski trip, a relaxing onsen retreat, or a foodie tour, this Hokkaido travel guide ensures you won’t miss a thing!

For more travel inspiration, check out our Japan travel guides for each region and start planning your perfect trip!