Lavender Fields, Hiking, and More! 12 Summer Activities in Hokkaido

The stunning crown of the main Japanese islands, Hokkaido, is a popular destination for winter sports. But Hokkaido is a lush verdant paradise in summer that lets you escape much of the muggy weather of the mainland!

Read on to learn 12 activities that can be enjoyed in Hokkaido in the summer, which can be booked through GetYourGuide, Veltra, and Viator.

Summer Things to Do in Hokkaido

1. Biei and Furano 1-Day Bus Tour: Panoramic Flower Gardens
2. Lavender Fields, Ningle Terrace, and Biei Tour from Sapporo
3. All-you-can-eat Fresh Yubari Melon! Hokkaido Lavender Tour
4. Sapporo: Private and Personalized Eat Like a Local Tour
5. Full Day Green Season Hiking in Hokkaido
6. Otaru: Private Guided Walking Tour
7. Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Aoike, Elf Terrace Day Tour
8. Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
9. 3-Hour Nature Guided Tour in Shiretoko Five Lakes
10. Wildlife Night Drive in Shiretoko National Park
11. Noboribetsu: Hot Springs and Lake Toya Day Trip
12. Amazing Views! Sapporo, Otaru, and Shakotan Peninsula Day Tour

1. Biei and Furano 1-Day Bus Tour: Panoramic Flower Gardens

Picture courtesy of Veltra

Departing from JR Sapporo Station at 08:30, the journey includes a stop at Shirogane Blue Pond, known for its natural blue hue from dissolved minerals. Next, Shirahige no Taki Water Falls captivates with water flowing through rock layers.

Lunch awaits at a local cottage restaurant, followed by a visit to Shikisai no Oka Flower Garden in Biei, showcasing stunning landscapes and changing scenery yearly.

Picture courtesy of Veltra

Explore Furano's flower fields, like Tomita Farm, famous for its lavender fields and diverse blooms. The trip concludes back at JR Sapporo Station by 18:15.

2. Lavender Fields, Ningle Terrace, and Biei Tour from Sapporo

Picture courtesy of Veltra

Embark on your Furano and Biei adventure starting at 7:30 from ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo. While lunch is not provided, you can purchase snacks at stops like Iwamizawa Service Area, Farm Tomita, Blue Pond shop, and Ningle Terrace or bring your own.

Ningle Terrace. Picture courtesy of Veltra

Explore Farm Tomita's 12 flower fields, Ningle Terrace's quaint shops, and the mesmerizing Shirahige Falls. Witness the beauty of Blue Pond, stroll along birch trees, and drive through the colorful Patchwork Road. Pause at Sunagawa Highway Oasis for local souvenirs and delicacies.

An enchanting journey awaits culminating back in Sapporo after a day of natural wonders and discoveries.

3. All-you-can-eat Fresh Yubari Melon! Hokkaido Lavender Tour

Photo courtesy of GetYourGuide
Experience the ultimate sweetness of Yubari melons on this delightful Hokkaido tour. Start with a 30-minute all-you-can-eat Yubari melon session at Natsuzora 2, savoring the juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of this premium fruit.

Visitors then head to Farm Tomita and Shikisai no Oka, marveling at the vibrant flower fields and picturesque landscapes. The colorful blooms create a stunning backdrop for memorable photos and a relaxing stroll.

Note that this tour does not include lunch. You are free to purchase food at stops like Furano Marche and Farm Tomita, where a variety of delicious options await. Enjoy a day of sweet indulgence and natural beauty in Hokkaido!

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4. Sapporo: Private and Personalized Eat Like a Local Tour

Photo courtesy of GetYourGuide
Experience Sapporo through its vibrant culinary scene on a private food tour. With a local host, taste a variety of local specialties, enjoying the flexibility to adjust your itinerary based on your preferences.

Sample Hokkaido’s famous miso ramen with gyoza, savor soft serve ice-cream, and try Hokkaido cheese, discovering where and how locals dine.

Try the unique flavors of soup curry, a dish born in Sapporo, and indulge in kaisen don, a bowl of fresh raw seafood over rice. Grill your own meat at a classic Jingisukan BBQ restaurant, enjoying this traditional soul food.

Each dish offers a new taste adventure, possibly introducing you to your next favorite meal. The combination of delicious food and local insights makes this tour an unforgettable experience.

Note: This private tour is personalized, so the places you visit may vary based on your interests and preferences, ensuring a unique and tailored experience.

5. Full Day Green Season Hiking in Hokkaido

Photo courtesy of Viator
Discover the natural beauty of Hokkaido on tailored hiking tours designed for all experience levels!

One option is the Soranuma-dake hike, a day trip near Sapporo. This 1,251-meter peak offers panoramic views and a refreshing escape into nature. The four-hour ascent rewards you with stunning vistas of Sapporo city, Lake Shikotsu, and the surrounding mountains.

For those seeking a challenge, the Jozankei Tengu-dake hike is perfect. This ancient 1,145-meter volcano features rugged summits and dramatic cliffs.

Both hikes offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Hokkaido's natural landscapes, providing unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

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6. Otaru: Private Guided Walking Tour with Local Guide

Photo by Pixta
Discover the charm of Otaru on a private walking tour led by a nationally licensed guide. Opt for a 6 or 4-hour tour with a customizable itinerary to match your interests and explore the sites of this historical city.

Start with a stroll along the iconic Otaru Canal, a picturesque waterway running through the city’s central area. Then, visit Otaru Sankaku Ichiba, a historic triangular market from 1957, to savor fresh seafood.

Photo by Pixta

Next, stop by the Otaru Music Box Museum. This nostalgic, brick-clad building is perfect for picking up a unique souvenir. Lastly, experience the craftsmanship at Kitaichi Glass, where you can see beautiful glasswork and learn about its significance in Otaru’s fishing history.

This tour offers a blend of history, culture, and local flavors, making it an enriching experience for anyone visiting Otaru.

7. Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Aoike, Elf Terrace Day Tour

Photo by Pixta

Set off on a picturesque day trip through Hokkaido, beginning with a visit to either Asahiyama Zoo or the stunning landscapes of Biei, depending on the zoo's schedule.

Begin your adventure by visiting Asahiyama Zoo and Biei Blue Pond. The zoo showcases diverse habitats housing an array of cold-climate wildlife. Next, be captivated by the stunning beauty of Biei Pond.

Following these experiences, bask in the splendor of Shirahige Waterfall, with its tranquil cascading waters providing a majestic backdrop.

Indulge in complimentary treats at the charming Herb Garden, a perfect oasis during your travels.

Discover exquisitely crafted treasures at Ningle Terrace, where visitors can find unique souvenirs amidst picturesque story-book cottages, ready to enchant all who explore.

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8. Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch

Photo courtesy of Viator
Enjoy the sights of the verdant forests near Sapporo as part of this 5-hour cycling tour to the onsen town of Jozankei. This tour combines physical activity with a relaxing soak to cap it off!

The day-trip starts with a a scenic cycle across the Toyohira River, soaking in the dramatic view of the canyon and the lush greenery of the forest.

Jozankei. Photo by Pixta

Upon arrival in Jozankei, take a break with snacks before heading to Hoheikyo Onsen. Relax in the outdoor mineral baths, known for their soothing properties.

After your soak, you'll certainly have worked up an appetite. Thankfully the onsen provides a satisfying curry lunch!

This seasonal tour runs yearly from April to October, offering a personalized and memorable experience in Hokkaido's beautiful landscapes.

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9. 3-Hour Nature Guided Tour in Shiretoko Five Lakes

Photo courtesy of Viator
Embark on a captivating 3-hour hiking journey through the breathtaking Shiretoko Five Lakes area.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you'll explore one of the most picturesque trails within Shiretoko National Park.

This tour leads you along an extended route, allowing you to experience the beauty of all five lakes.

As you hike, immerse yourself in the serene natural surroundings, enjoying the diverse flora and fauna. The trail offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal escape into nature.

Conclude your hike by reaching the 800-meter elevated wooden path. Here, you'll be treated to magnificent vistas of mountains, ocean, and lakes, creating a truly stunning spectacle not to be missed.

10. Wildlife Night Drive in Shiretoko National Park

Photo courtesy of Viator
A twilight excursion to see Hokkaido's natural wildlife after dark! Equipped with personal searchlights, you’ll embark on an exciting adventure to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. This tour is designed for all ages, making it perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

As the sun sets, the chances of encountering wildlife increase significantly. With your searchlight, explore the park's mysterious landscape and watch for the glowing eyes of animals in the night.

Your guide will help you identify various animals, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the park's rich biodiversity.

Whether you're a seasoned nature lover or a curious newcomer, this night wildlife tour offers a unique and memorable adventure, showcasing the hidden beauty of Shiretoko National Park.

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11. Noboribetsu: Hot Springs and Lake Toya Day Trip

Photo courtesy of GetYourGuide
Experience the marvels of Noboribetsu Onsen, celebrated for its Jigokudani area brimming with natural hot springs, akin to a diverse "department store" of rejuvenating waters. Discover Showa-shinzan, a UNESCO Global Geopark-certified volcano hailed as the "Miracle Mountain" for its exceptional origins.

Opt for a visit to the Showa-shinzan Bear Farm for an interactive encounter with brown bears, including playful cubs, offering apples and cookies. Consider a ride on the Usuzan Ropeway for a six-minute aerial voyage offering breathtaking vistas from Lake Toya to Mt. Yotei.

Unwind at Mt. USU Terrace, relishing panoramic views in comfort. Don't overlook the Silo Observation Deck, providing a sweeping view of dazzling Lake Toya. Indulge in Toyako Caramel Pudding at the souvenir shop, renowned for its luscious caramel taste and velvety consistency.

12. Amazing Views! Sapporo, Otaru, and Shakotan Peninsula Day Tour

Picture courtesy of Veltra

Starting from Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel at 07:50, you'll first journey to Cape Kamui for a 300-degree panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. Enjoy the vibrant "Shakotan Blue" at Shimamui Coast before a free soft serve ice cream at Otaru Sushi Sushi!

In Otaru, you'll encounter the unique steam clock at Otaru Music Box Museum and browse Kitaichi Glass Sangokan for handcrafted glass goods in Otaru City.

Shiroi Koibito Park. Picture courtesy of Veltra

After a stroll along the picturesque Otaru Canal, known for its romantic scenery, you'll visit Shiroi Koibito Park for sweets delights.

The day ends back at Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel at 17:40, filled with coastal splendor, cultural exploration, and sweet treats, encapsulating the essence of this Hokkaido adventure.

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Enjoy Summer in Hokkaido!

Food, fresh air, and unique experience enthusiasts, rejoice! These 12 trips truly cover all that Hokkaido offers ain summer.

Whether seeking refuge from Japan's summer humidity or yearning for green landscapes to calm your spirit, Hokkaido has something for everyone. Why not relish all the incredible experiences this northern gem provides on your next trip to Japan?

Main image courtesy of Pixta