Hokkaido: 40 Places to Visit by Region and Travel Tips

Hokkaido: Enjoy the Great Outdoors, Skiing, and Cuisine

Photo by Pixta

Hokkaido is known for its magnificent landscapes of pure nature, ski resorts with powder snow, and the freshest local seafood and vegetables.

Located at the northernmost point of Japan, this region enjoys gentle breezes in the summer and beautiful snowscapes in the winter. Hokkaido attracts visitors from both within and outside of Japan throughout the year.

To enjoy Hokkaido to the fullest, this article features everything you need to know about this region: 40 great places to visit, exciting things to do in Hokkaido, and information on local food specialties.

Hokkaido Travel Guide

1. Hokkaido Area Guide: 4 Major Areas
2. Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen, and Otaru: 15 Places to Visit
3. Noboribetsu: 3 Great Places to Visit
4. Hakodate: 10 Places to Visit
5. Niseko: Famous Powder Snow Ski Resorts
6. Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei: 6 Places to Visit
7. Akan and Lake Mashu: 2 Amazing Places to Visit
8. Shiretoko, Tokachi, and Obihiro: 4 Places to Visit
9. Hokkaido's Food Scene
10. Hokkaido Events and Festivals
11. Cherry Blossoms and Fall Foliage: Seasonal Features and Weather
12. Transportation, Hotels, and WiFi in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Area Guide: 4 Major Areas

Hokkaido can be divided into four main areas.

1. Central Hokkaido (Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen, Noboribetsu, etc.)

This area includes the capital city of Hokkaido, Sapporo, famous for its annual snow festival, the hot spring resorts of Jozankei and Noboribetsu, as well as the beautiful city of Otaru with its beautiful canals and rivers.

2. Southern Hokkaido (Hakodate, Niseko, etc.)

Hakodate, which is famous for its splendid night view of the city, the nature-rich Onuma Park, and Niseko, an area famous for ski resorts with fine powder snow, are all found in southern Hokkaido.

3. Northern Hokkaido (Asahikawa, Furano, Biei, etc.)

Asahikawa with its famous zoo, Furano, famed for its lavender gardens, and Biei, where the Blue Pond is located, are in this region. Visitors can enjoy magnificent views of nature here.

4.Eastern Hokkaido (Akan, Obihiro, Tokachi, Shiretoko, etc.)

This area includes Kushiro and the Akan-Mashu National Park, Shiretoko, a nature-rich area designated as a UNESCO world heritage, as well as Obihiro and Tokachi where the country's largest ranch areas are located. It is known for its colorful gardens and high-quality hot springs.

40 Must-Visit Destinations in Hokkaido by Region

We will introduce the best places to visit in central, southern, northern, and eastern Hokkaido.

Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen, and Otaru: 15 Places to Visit

1. Sapporo Clock Tower

Designated a National Important Cultural Property, the historic Sapporo Clock Tower is famous for its charming Western-style architecture, featuring distinctive white wooden walls and a bright red roof.

Inside, visitors can explore exhibits and historical documents that chronicle the early development of Sapporo.

Sapporo Clock Tower

〒060-0001 2-chome, Kita 1-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido

2. Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill

Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill offers panoramic views over the city of Sapporo. Its rolling green pastures are home to grazing sheep and the iconic statue of Dr. William S. Clark, who helped shape Hokkaido’s agricultural education and coined the famous phrase, "Boys, be ambitious!"

No visit is complete without taking a photo alongside Dr. Clark while striking his famous pointing pose.

Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observatory

1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 062-0045

3. Hokkaido University

Famous for its stunning golden ginkgo avenue, Hokkaido University also features an historic model farm established under the guidance of Dr. William S. Clark. Large areas of the scenic campus are free and open to the public.

Visitors can join complimentary walking tours led by student volunteers to discover the university's rich history, or pop into the free on-campus Hokkaido University Museum to explore fascinating natural science exhibits.

Hokkaido University

060-0808 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Kita-ku, Kita 8-jo Nishi 5-chome

Hokkaido University is the largest comprehensive university in Hokkaido, located in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The beautiful campus is equipped with research facilities and libraries, and is surrounded by a rich natural environment. It boasts a high level of education, attracting students from all over the world. There are many restaurants and tourist attractions around the university, so you can enjoy not only the university campus but also the surrounding area when you visit.

4. Former Hokkaido Government Office

The Former Hokkaido Government Office is also known as the Red Brick Government Building. True to its name, its outer walls consist of classic red bricks. It has an elegant American-style Neo-Baroque design and is open to the public free of charge.

Hokkaido Government Red Brick Government Building (Former Main Go...

〒060-0003 Kita 3, West 6-1, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

5. Nijo Market

With over a century of history, Nijo Market is an iconic hub for fresh regional seafood and local produce from across Hokkaido.

Visitors can shop for famous local delicacies like fresh crab and sea-salty salmon roe (ikura), or wander into the market's surrounding historic alleys, which retain the charm of old-world Sapporo and house bustling traditional drinking spots.

Nijo Market

〒060-0052 1-chome Minami 3-jo Higashi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Nijo Market is a market in Sapporo's Chuo Ward with a history of about 128 years. Approximately 60 stores are lined up, selling fresh seafood, agricultural products, processed foods, and more. Hokkaido's seafood is particularly abundant here, and seafood bowls with crab, sea urchin, salmon roe, and other ingredients are particularly popular. While it is loved as the kitchen of locals, it is also a popular tourist destination in Sapporo. There are also stores where you can enjoy meals within the market, making it a place where you can experience the lively atmosphere and flavors of Hokkaido.

6. Sapporo Beer Museum

For beer enthusiasts visiting Hokkaido, there is one place that should top your itinerary: the Sapporo Beer Museum (Sapporo Biiru Hakubutsukan).

Here, you can discover the fascinating history behind one of Japan’s most iconic brews, either on a paid premium guided tour or at your own pace with a self-guided walk.

Afterward, head to the tasting hall on the ground floor to sample and compare different varieties freshly brewed by Sapporo.

Sapporo Beer Museum

〒065-8633 9-1-1, Kita 7 Johigashi, Higashi-ku, Hokkaido

7. Mt. Moiwa Ropeway

Standing 531 meters high, Mt. Moiwa offers a spectacular view of Sapporo that you won't want to miss.

A scenic ride on the ropeway takes you straight to the summit's "restaurant in the sky." Surrounded by 270-degree glass walls, you can enjoy a quiet, memorable meal while taking in breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the glowing city below.

Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway

064-0942 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

From the observation deck at the summit, 531m above sea level, you can see a 360-degree panoramic view of the Ishikari Plain, Ishikari Bay, and the distant mountains. In addition, the Morris Car, a cable car that runs from the mid-mountain station to the summit station, offers the feeling of racing through the forest for about 1 minute and 40 seconds to the summit station.

8. Shiroi Koibito Park

Shiroi Koibito is one of Sapporo’s most iconic sweet treats and a favorite local souvenir. At Shiroi Koibito Park, you can go behind the scenes to watch these popular chocolate cookies being made—or even roll up your sleeves and craft your own!

Shiroi Koibito Park

2-11-36 Miyanosawa, Nishi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 063-0052

Shiroi Koibito Park in Sapporo is a theme park for Shiroi Koibito, a famous confectionery that represents Hokkaido. On the factory tour, you can see the manufacturing process up close, and there are also plenty of exhibits to learn about the history of chocolate. You can also experience making your own sweets, enjoying the fun of creation. There is also a spacious garden and a cafe, where you can spend some relaxing time. It's the perfect spot to make memories with friends.

9. Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park, designed by famous architect Isamu Noguchi, is a huge park where nature meets art. We recommend stopping by the beautiful park to see the different views it offers through the seasons.

Moerenuma Park

1-1 Moerenumakoen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0011

10. Sapporo Art Park: An Outdoor Art Museum!

Sapporo Art Park (Sapporo Geijutsu no Mori) features an outdoor sculpture garden showcasing 74 works by 64 artists.

Surrounded by a lush forest, these installations transform with the changing weather and seasons, offering a unique artistic perspective every time you visit.

Sapporo Art Park

2-75 Geijutsu no Mori, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0864

11. Historical Village of Hokkaido (Hokkaido Kaitaku No Mura)

Built to commemorate Hokkaido’s centennial, the Historical Village of Hokkaido (Hokkaido Kaitaku no Mura) offers an engaging look into the region’s past and development through preserved historical buildings and exhibits.

Beyond the history, visitors can stop by the village cafeteria to enjoy local specialties like traditional potato and glutinous rice cakes (imo mochi) and savory Hokkaido miso ramen.

Historical Village of Hokkaido

50-1 Atsubetsu-cho, Atsubetsu-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 004-0006

12. Horomitoge Lavender Garden

Horomitoge Lavender Garden boasts 5,000 beautiful lavender flowers. The best season to visit this garden is from mid-July to mid-August. Visitors can also enjoy picking lavender at the facility. You'll be able to enjoy some quality time with your family and loved ones here, surrounded by the pleasant scent of lavender.

Horomitoge Lavender Garden (Yume Kobou Sato)

471-110 Bankei, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 064-0945

13. Hokkaido Ballpark F Village

Photo courtesy of ©H.N.F.

Hokkaido Ballpark F Village is located in Kitahiroshima City, about a 30- to 40-minute drive southeast of Sapporo Station. Centered around ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO—home to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters baseball team—this modern complex offers much more than just game-day excitement.

Even on non-game days, visitors can explore the stadium or sample dishes from top restaurants across Japan in its vibrant dining area. Conveniently close to Sapporo, it is an accessible, welcoming destination for baseball fans and casual tourists alike.

Location: F Village, Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido
Official Website: https://www.hkdballpark.com/

14. Jozankei Onsen: Magnificent Fall Foliage and Hot Springs

Jozankei Onsen is known for its hot springs surrounded by a beautiful autumn landscape. You can stroll along the stream from the hot spring town, ride a gondola to enjoy the autumn leaves, or hop on the Koyo Kappa Bus, which will take you around to the major autumn foliage viewing spots.

Jozankei Onsen

〒ro, 3-chome, Minami-ku, Sento, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2302 Japan

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15. Otaru Canal

Running through the heart of Otaru, the historic Otaru Canal served as a vital trade hub in the early 20th century. Though modern port facilities eventually replaced its industrial use, the canal was beautifully restored and is now famous for its nostalgic, old-world charm.

By day, historic red-brick warehouses line the water; by night, gas lamps cast a warm glow across the canal, creating a truly romantic atmosphere.

Otaru Canal

5 Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido 047-0007

Otaru Canal in Otaru, Hokkaido, is a historic site lined with stone warehouses along the 1.1-kilometer-long canal. During the day, you can enjoy sightseeing boat cruises and visiting the surrounding cafes, and at night, the gas lamps are lit, creating a romantic atmosphere. The scenery changes with the seasons, and the snowy scenery in winter is particularly magical. If you visit on your graduation trip, you can enjoy taking photos and strolling with friends, creating special memories. (Photo by AC)

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Noboribetsu: 3 Great Places to Visit

16. Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen is Hokkaido’s best and most famous onsen hot spring resort. The Jigokudani crater provides the hot spring waters, creating multiple varieties of thermal water with minerals to relax and revitalize your body!

Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen Town, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido 059-0551

17. Noboribetsu Bear Park (Kuma Bokujo)

Just a seven-minute ropeway ride from the Noboribetsu Onsen town center, you'll find Noboribetsu Bear Park atop Mt. Shihorei (popularly known as "Bear Mountain").

Home to dozens of native Hokkaido brown bears, the park lets you observe these magnificent animals up close—and safely—from behind glass. Step into the "Human Cage" observation room for a thrilling close encounter that might leave you wondering who is actually on display!

Noboribetsu Bear Park

224 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido 059-0551

18. Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village: A History-Themed Amusement Park

Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura is a vibrant Edo-period theme park featuring authentic ninja houses, traditional samurai residences, and historical attractions that transport you back in time.

After taking in Hokkaido’s spectacular natural scenery, why not step into this captivating world of ninjas, samurai, and geisha for a fun change of pace?

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Hakodate: 10 Places to Visit

19. Mount Hakodate

Mount Hakodate is an iconic landmark famous for offering one of Japan’s Top Three Night Views. Floating high above the city, the summit provides a breathtaking panorama of Hakodate's glittering skyline in the evening.

Visitors can easily reach the top by taking the Hakodateyama Ropeway from the historic Motomachi district. Direct buses are also available from Hakodate Station, though they operate primarily in the evening and run less frequently during autumn. The summit is also accessible by car between April and November.

Mount Hakodate

Mt. Hakodate, Hakodate City, Hokkaido 040-0000

20. Goryokaku Tower

Standing 107 meters tall, Goryokaku Tower offers sweeping panoramic views of Hakodate and a unique bird's-eye view of Fort Goryokaku—a massive star-shaped citadel built in 1864 by the Edo shogunate.

From the observation decks, visitors can admire the fort's impressive Western-style military architecture and explore detailed historical dioramas illustrating the fierce battles fought here at the end of the Edo period.

Goryokaku Tower

43-9 Goryokaku-cho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0001

Goryokaku Tower is a 107-meter-tall observation tower in Hakodate, Hokkaido. Completed in 1988, it stands next to the special historic site of Goryokaku, the former site of a star-shaped fortress. From the tower, you can enjoy a beautiful 360-degree panoramic view of Hakodate city and Goryokaku Park. It also houses a historical museum, souvenir shop, and restaurant, making it a popular tourist spot in Hakodate. The scenery changes with the seasons, especially the cherry blossom season and snowy scenery, making it a spectacular sight.

21. Onuma Quasi-National Park

Established in 1958, Onuma Quasi-National Park is celebrated for its scenic views of Mt. Komagatake, a striking 1,131-meter active volcano whose silhouette shifts dramatically depending on your vantage point. During the summer and autumn months (June–October), adventurous visitors can even hike its slopes.

At the foot of the volcano are Lakes Onuma and Konuma, picturesque bodies of water teeming with diverse local wildlife and plant life. The park is a popular hub for outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing.

The park is easily accessible via the JR Onuma-Koen Station or by riding local Hakodate buses to the Onuma-Koen bus stop.

Onuma Quasi-National Park

1023-1 Onuma-cho, Nanae-cho, Kameda-gun, Hokkaido 041-1354

22. Yunokawa Onsen

Yunokawa Onsen is a famous hot spring resort exceptionally convenient for travelers—just a five-minute drive from Hakodate Airport. Visitors can unwind in hot spring baths at historic Japanese inns (ryokan) or modern oceanfront hotels, followed by fresh local seafood.

During the summer, guests can even watch vibrant fireworks displays while soaking in outdoor baths. Nearby, the Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden features the popular Saruyama Onsen, where Japanese macaques ("snow monkeys") can be seen happily bathing in hot springs during the colder months (December to May).

Yunokawa Onsen

〒042-0932 Yukawacho, Hakodate, Hokkaido

23. Hachimanzaka Hill

Hachimanzaka is a slope that extends from the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse straight to Mt. Hakodate. After dark, the stone pavement is illuminated by streetlights. In the distance, you can see the many ships coming and going from the harbor.

What makes this place so special is the stunning, picture-perfect view over the harbor and the fact that both sides of the street are lined with classical Western-style buildings. This area with an international atmosphere is proof of Hakodate's history as a port city.

Hachimanzaka

14 15 Motomachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0054 14 Yawata-dori

24. Hakodate Port

Opened in 1859, Hakodate Port was among Japan's first international trading hubs. This early global access shaped Hakodate into a vibrant, multicultural city, reflected today in its unique Western-influenced architecture.

Today, the historic Hakodate Bay area—just a 15-minute walk from Hakodate Station—is a bustling waterfront district popular with domestic and international travelers alike, offering excellent dining, boutique shopping, and scenic views.

If you visit in early August, don't miss the annual Hakodate Port Festival, which lights up the entire harbor with spectacular summer fireworks!

Hakodate Port

3-19-2 Minatomachi, Hakodate City, Hokkaido 041-0821

25. Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses

The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, located right by Hakodate Port, have a long history of about 150 years. These buildings were initially used as storage houses for goods traded at the port.

Today, these iconic Western-style structures draw up to two million visitors each year as a lively shopping, dining, and entertainment complex. A picturesque canal runs right through the district, and at night, illumination reflects off the water to create a romantic, glittering atmosphere across the waterfront.

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

14-12 Suehiro-cho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0053

26. Hakodate Morning Market (Asaichi)

If you're craving fresh regional seafood—such as sweet crab, sea urchin (uni), or rich salmon roe (ikura)—be sure to visit the Hakodate Morning Market (Asaichi), located right next to Hakodate Station.

Bursting with energy every morning, this lively market is famous for serving delicious, reasonably priced kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls topped with fresh sashimi).

Hakodate Morning Market

9-19 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido 040-0063

27. Former British Consulate of Hakodate

Originally built in 1859, the historic Former British Consulate of Hakodate was restored in 1992 after surviving several fires over its long history.

Today, the consulate is open to the public as a museum where visitors can learn about the opening of Hakodate Port following Commodore Perry's arrival. After exploring the exhibits, stop by the on-site tearoom to enjoy authentic British-style afternoon tea.

Former British Consulate

33-14 Motomachi, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0054

28. Seikan Ferry Memorial Ship Mashumaru

The Seikan Ferry Memorial Ship Mashumaru is a floating museum housed aboard a retired railway ferry that once connected Hokkaido and Honshu.

Visitors can explore the vessel from the wheelhouse to the radio room, getting hands-on experience with actual nautical equipment used during its sailing days. It’s a fun, interactive stop for maritime history buffs and families alike.

Hakodate City Seikan Liaison Ship Memorial Hall Mashumaru

12-12 Wakamatsucho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido 040-0063

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29. Niseko: Ski Resorts with Powder Snow

You can't miss out on the winter sports when in Hokkaido! Niseko is famous for its high-quality powder snow which attracts many ski/snowboard lovers annually.

There are four major ski resorts in Niseko, each offering excellent slopes for all skill levels: Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu, Niseko Annupuri International Ski Resort, Niseko Village Ski Resort, and Niseko Hanazono Resort.

Niseko is world-famous among international winter sports enthusiasts for its exceptional alpine conditions. Thanks to its thriving global community, most dining options and accommodations readily offer English-language service, making it effortless for overseas visitors to navigate.

To experience Niseko's legendary deep powder at its absolute best for skiing and snowboarding, plan your trip during peak winter in January or February.

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Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei: 6 Places to Visit

30. Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo is famous nationwide for its pioneering "behavioral exhibits" that showcase animals engaging in their natural habits and movements. From swimming hippos to gliding penguins, these interactive enclosure designs make it one of Hokkaido’s most popular, family-friendly attractions.

Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo

Kuranuma, Higashiasahikawa-cho, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido 078-8205

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31. Farm Tomita: Breathtaking Lavender Fields

Open from spring through autumn, Farm Tomita is world-famous for its stunning lavender fields and vibrant, rainbow-striped flower gardens.

With no entrance fee, visitors are free to wander through the fragrant fields at their leisure. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the shop to pick up lavender-infused perfumes, essential oils, dried floral arrangements, and iconic lavender soft-serve ice cream!

Farm Tomita

〒071-0704 Hokkaido, Sorachi-gun, Nakafurano-cho, Kisen-kita 15

Farm Tomita is one of the most representative attractions in Furano, especially famous for its lavender and various colorful flower fields.

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32. Sounkyo Onsen

Sounkyo Onsen is a picturesque hot spring village located roughly 70 kilometers east of Asahikawa, located in a dramatic gorge within the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range.

Styled after an alpine European and Canadian resort town, the village boasts a charming Western atmosphere. Its mineral-rich thermal waters are prized for their therapeutic qualities, traditionally believed to ease joint pain, high blood pressure, and fatigue.

Address: Hokkaido, Kamikawa, Kamikawa, Sounkyo Onsen

33. Ken and Mary Tree in Biei

The Ken and Mary Tree in Biei is a majestic poplar tree made famous by a popular 1970s Nissan Skyline television commercial. Surrounded by sweeping farmland vistas, it remains one of the town's most celebrated and photographed landscape icons.

Ken and Mary Tree

Kyosei Okubo, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-0216

34. Shirogane Blue Pond

The Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike) in Biei achieved global fame after Apple featured a photo of its ethereal waters as an OS X wallpaper. Its brilliant turquoise color is created by naturally occurring aluminum particles suspended in the water, which scatter sunlight to produce a striking blue hue.

From November through February, the frozen pond is illuminated at night, transforming the landscape into a magical winter wonderland.

From JR Biei Station, take the Dohoku Bus (Routes 2, 4, 5, 7, or 8) directly to the Shirogane Blue Pond stop (approx. 25 minutes).

Shirogane Blue Pond

Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido 071-0235

35. The Biei Hills

Rolling across the landscape like a vibrant quilt, the Biei Hills earned the nickname "Patchwork Road" from the colorful tapestry of varied crops cultivated here.

With its tranquil, laid-back atmosphere, the countryside seems to operate at a slower, gentler pace—making it a dream destination for photographers seeking sweeping, idyllic landscapes.

Address: Hokkaido, Kamikawa, Biei

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The Akan - Mashu Lakes: 2 Amazing Places to Visit

36. Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Akan Onsen

Lake Akan is a lake created by volcanic eruptions, with a perimeter of 27 kilometers. Lake Mashu, called "God's Lake" in the Ainu language, has the world's second most transparent water. Both are great spots you want to visit when in the central or eastern regions of Hokkaido.

There are approximately 30 ryokans (traditional inns) and hotels in the hot spring town around Lake Mashu. You can reach the hot spring town from Kushiro Airport by the Akan Bus in about an hour.

Lake Akan

〒085-0467 Hokkaido Hokkaido Kushiro City Akancho Akanko Onsen

37. Kawayu Onsen

Located about 20 minutes by car from Lake Mashu, Kawayu Onsen is famous for its natural hot springs. Geothermal waters over 70°C rise directly from the riverbed and mix with the cool waters of the Oto River to create perfect bathing temperatures.

Every winter, the town constructs the giant Sennin Buro ("bath for a thousand people") open-air pool right in the riverbed, offering visitors a magical night-soak under a star-filled sky.

Kawayu Onsen

Kawayu Onsen, Teshikaga-cho, Kawakami-gun, Hokkaido 088-3465

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Shiretoko, Tokachi, and Obihiro: 4 Great Places to Visit

Shiretoko is a region registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Tokachi and Obihiro areas boast vast farms and farming villages.

If you're headed to Shiretoko, we recommend you take a bus from Memanbetsu Airport or a JR train from Kushiro Airport. For visiting Tokachi and Obihiro, traveling through the Tokachi Obihiro Airport is convenient.

38. Utoro Onsen

Developed as a resort destination in 1965, Utoro Onsen serves as the primary gateway to the wild Shiretoko Peninsula.

Visitors can soak in soothing, mineral-rich thermal waters against the rugged backdrop of the Shiretoko Mountain Range, all while taking in breathtaking sunsets over the Sea of Okhotsk.

39. Shiretoko National Park and the Shiretoko Five Lakes (Shiretoko Goko)

Spanning approximately 60,000 hectares on Hokkaido's eastern tip, Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated as one of Japan’s most pristine and carefully protected natural ecosystems.

Home to wild brown bears and Yezo shika deer, this untouched wilderness seamlessly connects pristine alpine mountains, volcanic lakes, and coastal sea waters in raw, breathtaking beauty.

Shiretoko National Park

〒099-4100 Shari-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido

The Shiretoko Five Lakes (Shiretoko Goko) are five mystical body of water set against the Shiretoko Mountain Range. Visitors can explore the area via an 800-meter elevated wooden boardwalk, which offers safe, free, and wheelchair-accessible views over Lake Ichiko without disturbing the delicate flora.

For a deeper trek through the forest to see all five lakes, a ground pathway is also available. Because the region is a prime habitat for native brown bears, hiking the ground trail during peak bear activity (May through July) requires joining a certified guided tour. Outside of peak season, visitors must attend a brief safety lecture before setting off independently.

Shiretoko Five Lakes

Onnebetsu Village, Shari Town, Shari County, Hokkaido 099-4356

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40. Tokachigawa Onsen

Tokachigawa Onsen, near Obihiro, is famous for its rare moor (plant-derived) hot springs, renowned for their skin-beautifying qualities.

Unlike typical mineral hot springs, Tokachigawa’s waters originate from ancient, decayed reeds and peat layers mixed with groundwater. Rich in organic matter and natural humic substances, these silky amber waters leave skin feeling deeply moisturized while soothing lower back pain and skin conditions.

Tokachigawa Onsen

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Hokkaido's Food Scene

Encircled by rich coastal waters, vast wilderness, and fertile farmland, Hokkaido is famous as Japan’s ultimate culinary haven. Thanks to these ideal natural conditions, the island produces some of the freshest seafood, sweetest agricultural produce, and richest dairy in the nation.

Beyond pristine ingredients, Hokkaido boasts a vibrant local food culture:

- Jingisukan (Genghis Khan): A beloved local specialty featuring tender mutton and crisp vegetables grilled together at your table on a convex iron skillet.

- Ishikari Nabe: A hearty winter hot pot cooked with fresh salmon, seasonal vegetables, and a rich miso broth, often enhanced with butter, sake lees, and local potatoes.

- Miso Ramen: Hokkaido's iconic style of ramen, celebrated for its savory, aromatic miso-based soup paired with signature springy, medium-thick wavy noodles.

Hokkaido's Sushi

The entirety of Hokkaido is surrounded by waters, allowing it to offer the freshest seafood straight from the harbor.

For everyone looking to eat quality sushi, we especially recommend Nagoyakatei (Japanese), a popular conveyor belt sushi restaurant, where you can enjoy uni (sea urchin), salmon roe, crab, and other fresh Hokkaido seafood for a reasonable price! You’ll find that the slices of fish are largely portioned as well.

Address: Sapporo, Kiyota, Kitano 5-5-20

Seafood in Hokkaido

Besides sushi, you can also enjoy kaisendon (sashimi bowl) piled with generous amounts of fish. For ikura salmon roe lovers, we recommend eating at Kuidokoro Shakebanya in Kushiro. Satisfy your ikura cravings by trying their ikuradon (ikura bowl) at their cozy shop and eat-in restaurant.

Address: Hokkaido, Kushiro, Hamacho 4-11

Hokkaido's Famous Ramen

The most famous ramen in Hokkaido is miso ramen. One of the best-known ramen joints is Sumire, which offers ramen with a rich, miso based soup and tender char siu barbecued pork as toppings. You'll immediately crave more once you've tasted it!

Address: Hokkaido, Sapporo, Toyohira, Nakanoshima 2 Jo 4 7-28

Hokkaido Events and Festivals

Many events are held in Hokkaido throughout the seasons, especially in the winter, when there are many snow-related attractions. Held annually in early February is the famous Sapporo Snow Festival, where a variety of amazing and creative snow and ice sculptures are displayed.

After exploring the festival, you can enjoy all the warm Hokkaido delicacies that are offered. It's said that the Sapporo area becomes so crowded during this time that you'll forget entirely that it’s cold!

Odori Park

7-chome, Odori Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido 060-0042

Odori Park is a long, narrow park stretching about 1.5 kilometers from east to west in Sapporo's Chuo Ward. Created in 1871, it is an iconic green space located in the center of Sapporo. Flowers and trees of all seasons can be enjoyed here, making it a place of relaxation for Sapporo residents. It is the cultural and tourist center of Sapporo, hosting many events throughout the year, such as the Yosakoi Soran Festival in summer and the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter. Other highlights include the TV tower, fountains, and sculptures.

Cherry Blossoms and Fall Foliage in Hokkaido: Seasonal Features

While summer in Hokkaido is generally cooler and less humid than main-island Honshu, packing advice varies by region. Southern coastal areas like Hakodate can be comfortably explored in short sleeves and shorts.

However, inland regions like Furano and Asahikawa experience significant temperature drops between day and night, especially at higher elevations—so carrying a light jacket or extra layers is essential.

In winter, freezing conditions prevail across the entire island. Visitors should pack heavy winter outerwear, thermal base layers, insulated boots, and winter accessories to stay warm and enjoy outdoor activities safely.

Transportation in Hokkaido

To travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido, we recommend booking a flight. It is possible to travel to Hokkaido by bullet train or car, but expect it to be a much longer trip. For details, please refer to the article below:

Check the flights from Tokyo to the New Chitose Airport in Hokkaido on skyticket

If you travel by train, use the JR PASS and Hokkaido Rail Pass to save on travel expenses.

Using a rental car is very convenient for traveling around Hokkaido to destinations not easily accessible by train.

MATCHA's readers can use a 10% discount voucher for a car rental from Nippon Rent-a-Car, one of the largest rental car services in Japan.

Please be careful, however, when driving in Hokkaido during the winter. This region sees severe snowfall yearly, and there might be frost on the roads. Because of the snow, there are times when the roads might not be visible.

Book Hotel Rooms in Hokkaido and Wi-Fi

You can find convenient accommodation in Hokkaido by using Booking.com or Agoda.

You might also need a Wi-Fi connection since the places that offer free internet connections in Japan are still quite limited. Renting pocket Wi-Fi is very convenient for travelers. Use the discount voucher below to rent from Ninja-WiFi, one of Japan's most popular portable internet services.

Enjoy your trip to Hokkaido!

All pictures from Pixta