People go to Hokkaido for various reasons: to ski on Niseko slopes, stroll along Furano’s majestic flower farms, or sample its seafood dishes. This northernmost island of Japan is abundant with breathtaking attractions every season, making it a destination worth coming back to every time. Want to have an unforgettable trip in Hokkaido? Here’s a quick guide to the best places to see in Sapporo, Hakodate, Niseko, and other neighboring towns of Hokkaido!
Fast Facts
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- Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)
- Language: Nihongo (Japanese)
- Airport: New Chitose Airport
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Hokkaido is an all-year-round destination. But if you plan to visit at a particular time, here is the best time to visit Hokkaido:
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- For spring and cherry blossom season: Late April to mid-May
- For winter and ski adventures: December to February
- For autumn foliage: September to October
- For summer escapades: June to August
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Getting Around Hokkaido
By Plane
It’s no secret that Japan has one, if not the, most efficient transportation system in the world. In Hokkaido, particularly, there are several options for you to travel whether by air, land, or sea. You could fly by plane if you’re going to other parts of Hokkaido.
New Chitose Airport is Hokkaido’s main international airport, situated in Sapporo. From Tokyo to Sapporo, it takes a 90-minute flight. You could also take a four-hour train ride via Hokkaido shinkansen from Tokyo.
By Train
If you’re coming from Tokyo, you may take the bullet train to Hakodate via the Hokkaido shinkansen. There’s also an express train that traverses major cities such as Sapporo and Noboribetsu. For a more cost-effective fare, purchase a Hokkaido Rail Pass which you could use on local trains and some JR Hokkaido buses.
By Bus
Hokkaido has its own sightseeing buses. Take the North Line to explore Sapporo, Utoro, and Asahikawa, or take the South Line to go to the New Chitose Airport, Tokachigawa, or Mashu. Intercity buses are available too.
By Car
The most convenient way is to drive around using your own car. But if you’re unable to drive, get a chartered car transfer instead which can seat up to eight persons conveniently. Taxis are available in Hokkaido, but they can be very expensive if going long distances. Car rentals or airport transfers are more recommended.
Connectivity Options
Japan offers reliable internet connection–WiFi is available in most public spaces, hotels, and restaurants in Hokkaido. But if you want 24/7 connectivity, it would be best to rent a pocket WiFi. 4G SIM cards and eSIM are also ready for airport pick-ups in case you prefer SIMs.
Where to Stay in Hokkaido
From traditional Japanese inns to five-star hotels, you could find a comfortable place to stay in Hokkaido.
Mori No Uta
The largest hot spring town in Hokkaido is Jozankei. And what better way to enjoy your stay here than to try the famous hot spring bath? At Mori No Uta Hotel, you can have a unique onsen experience in their outdoor hot spring bath surrounded by an enchanting forest. Their Japanese and Western-style rooms are built with a spa-like ambiance with resplendent views of the Jozankei forest.
Location: 3-chōme-192, Jōzankeionsenhigashi, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: https://www.morino-uta.com/en/
Hilton Niseko Village
Hilton Niseko Village is one of the most luxurious accommodations in Hokkaido. It’s an award-winning ski resort situated at the foot of Mount Annupuri. Though more popular with tourists in winter, Hilton Niseko offers well-appointed guest rooms and suites with grand mountain views. The hotel also has its own sushi bar, teppanyaki, lounge, cafe, bar and grill, for dining, and a vast golf course for tee time.
Location: Higashiyama-onsen, Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ctsnvhi-hilton-niseko-village/
Tune Hakodate
For budget-friendly stays in Hakodate, check out Tune Hakodate. It’s more of a shared house instead of your usual hotel, and it gives a homely and youthful vibe from its rooms to the amenities. Tune offers dormitory rooms and private rooms for individuals and groups. They have communal restrooms and a kitchen, and even a cafe and bar with events and live performances held every day.
Location: 1-chōme-30-1 Yunokawachō, Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: https://tune-hakodate.com/
Where to Eat in Hokkaido
Taste traditional Japanese cuisine by going to these must-visit places to eat in Hokkaido!
Hakodate Asaichi (Hakodate Morning Market)
Early risers get a sumptuous seafood treat at Hakodate Asaichi. It’s not just your ordinary market as it houses several stalls that offer fresh seafood for breakfast. Aside from shopping for ingredients or even souvenirs, this is the best place to get a tasty and fresh seafood rice bowl topped with a generous serving of your seafood of choice. Sample fresh squid, uni, crab, and more as you roam around this huge market.
Location: 9-19 Wakamatsuchō, Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan
Sapporo Kanihonke
The most popular crab chain in Japan, Sapporo Kanihonke, is your go-to for huge, succulent crab cravings. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of crab specialties, from crab tofu, crab sushi roll, crab hotpot, and sashimi, to croquettes. They only use fresh crabs and carefully cook them to maintain their freshness but with enhanced flavors. Besides the food, you’ll also love the traditional setting of the restaurant which features Japanese architecture.
Location: 2-1-18 Kitasanjo-Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: https://www.kani-honke.co.jp/en/location_sapporo.html
Magic Spice
Hokkaido is known to be where soup curry originated. This rich and spicy soup is loaded with unique spices that you’d rarely find in traditional Japanese food. Magic Spice serves food with a blend of Indian, Nepalese, Indonesian, and Japanese flavors. The way to eat at Magic Spice is based on your preference: choose your soup base, toppings, and spiciness level. Eating at Magic Spice is an otherworldly experience–try it for yourself!
Location: 8 Minami-6-2 Hongo Dori, Shiroishi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 003-0024, Japan
Website: http://www.magicspice.net/framepage11.html
What to Do in Hokkaido
Winter, spring, summer, or fall– whatever the season is–you’ll find hundreds of activities to do in Hokkaido!
Goryokaku Tower
When in Hakodate, make sure to visit the iconic Goryokaku Tower with the best sightseeing views of the city. On its 107-meter observation deck, get to see the star-shaped fortress decorated with lush tree foliage that changes color depending on the season– from snow-covered trees in the winter to the dramatic autumn foliage and the pretty pink hues during spring, you’ll love the sweeping views of Goryokaku. There are restaurants and shops available in the area, and you can stroll around Goryokaku Park for an afternoon picnic date!
Location: 43-9 Goryōkakuchō, Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan
Furano Tomita Lavender Farm and Biei Flower Day Tour
Come to Hokkaido in spring and see the postcard-perfect paradise of Tomita Lavender Farm in Furano, where you get the prettiest views of the vast lavender fields and flower gardens. Spend the day admiring this scenery as you stroll along the fields, visit the famous Blue Pond, and take in the sights of Furano’s mountain ranges in this visually striking tour.
Location: 1 5 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido, Japan
Shiroi Koibito Park
Sweet-toothed travelers, here’s a spot you’ll immensely enjoy– a chocolate entertainment park called Shiroi Koibito. This theme park is home to Shiroi Koibito, a popular sweet biscuit in Japan. Visiting this park delights you with fun activities such as factory tours, chocolate tasting at the cafe, and sweets shopping that kids will enjoy.
Location: 2-chōme-11-36 Miyanosawa 2 Jō, Nishi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Hakodate Rickshaw Tour
If you like historic attractions, take the rickshaw tour and explore the city aboard a traditional Japanese ride. Get to see the Western-style buildings of Hakodate and see the famous Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse. Also, see Japan’s oldest telegraph pole, the first Western-style sailing ship, the City Museum, and more interesting sights in this learning-filled adventure.
Asahiyama Zoo
Your trip to Hokkaido wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the most visited zoo in Japan, the Asahiyama Zoo. This zoo is home to many polar creatures such as penguins and bears freely living their best life in this sanctuary. During winter, expect a Penguin Parade where you witness these waddling creatures up close!
Location: Kuranuma Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan
Visit Hokkaido and have a fantastic travel experience when you book your activities on KKDay!
