Summer Road Trip Guide to Hokkaido: Best Scenic Views & Recommended Driving Routes

Summer in Hokkaido is known for its low humidity and refreshingly cool climate — a welcome contrast to the heat of Honshu. With hardly any impact from the rainy season, sunny days are plentiful, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. July temperatures usually range between 20–25°C, but mornings and evenings can get a little chilly, so don’t forget to pack a light jacket.

In this article, we’ll introduce must-visit summer spots, scenic routes, and seasonal gourmet experiences that will make your trip to Hokkaido unforgettable.

• Table of Contents
• Popular Summer Spots in Hokkaido
• A Scenic Driving Route to Enjoy Summer in Hokkaido
• Enjoy watching a professional baseball game at ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO

Popular Summer Spots in Hokkaido

During summer, Hokkaido's vast landscapes come alive with breathtaking scenery. From expansive flower fields to shimmering lakes and scenic viewpoints, the island offers a refreshing sense of freedom that you just can't find in the city. Especially in summer, the natural beauty shines brightest, drawing travelers from all over to witness views that are unique to this season.

Here are some must-visit spots where you can truly feel the vastness and beauty of Hokkaido..

Hokkaido’s Lavender Fields

One of the most iconic summer sights in Hokkaido is the endless sea of lavender in full bloom. A standout spot is Farm Tomita in Nakafurano Town, where the vibrant purple flowers reach their peak from mid to late July. Conveniently, you can even walk there from Lavender Farm Station, a seasonal train stop open just for this time of year.

For sweeping panoramic views, head to Hinode Park in Kamifurano Town. From its observation deck, you’ll be treated to the stunning contrast of lavender fields against the backdrop of the Tokachi mountain range. In Sapporo, the Horomitoge Lavender Garden offers another spectacular sight — with about 8,000 lavender plants in bloom, the hillside park overlooks the city and provides a peaceful escape. Whether you're soaking in the scenery or breathing in the gentle floral scent, these lavender spots offer the perfect way to savor the essence of a Hokkaido summer.

Discover More Must-Visit Summer Destinations in Hokkaido

A Scenic Driving Route to Enjoy Summer in Hokkaido

Hokkaido's vast natural landscapes are best experienced by car, offering breathtaking views that are often inaccessible by public transportation. In summer, when the skies are brilliantly blue and the greenery is at its peak, the scenery rushing past your window becomes part of the adventure.

In this section, we’ll introduce a scenic summer driving route that captures the expansive beauty unique to Hokkaido.

Mikuni Pass (Kamishihoro Town)

Mikuni Pass, standing at 1,139 meters above sea level, is the highest national highway pass in Hokkaido, located along National Route 273. As you drive through, you’ll be surrounded by untouched virgin forests, creating a powerful and immersive natural experience. The panoramic view from Matsumi Bridge is particularly stunning — a spot that leaves many travelers speechless. It’s one of the most scenic drives in Hokkaido, perfect for those who want to soak in the wild beauty of the north.

Explore Scenic Summer Driving Routes Across Hokkaido

Enjoy watching a professional baseball game at ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO

For those looking to spend an active summer in Hokkaido, we recommend watching a professional baseball game. One that is particularly noteworthy is ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO, which opened in 2023. The distance between the field and the spectator seats is extremely close, creating a sense of realism that allows you to feel the expressions on the players' faces and the intensity of the game up close. In addition, the seating structure is designed to surround the ground in 360 degrees, and there are also plenty of things to do, such as a craft beer bar and gourmet shops within the stadium, so even those who are not familiar with baseball can enjoy themselves. The entire stadium is like a theme park, making it a highly satisfying experience as part of your sightseeing.

The covered dome-shaped stadium means you can enjoy watching professional baseball games in comfort without worrying about the heat or rain, even in the summer. Even if you're not a baseball fan, this facility within the park has plenty to offer the whole family, including a food hall, hot springs, and observation spots.

If you want to fully enjoy the Hokkaido summer, be sure to try a day at Escon Field!

Get Tickets for Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters at Es Con Field

Escon Field HOKKAIDO

061-1116 F Village, Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido

Home of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, Pacific League of professional baseball