If you’re looking for the perfect mix of nature, adventure, delicious food, and cultural experiences, this 7-day Hokkaido itinerary is for you! As Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido offers a unique charm that feels worlds away from the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka. Whether you visit in winter for snowy landscapes or in summer for colorful flower fields, Hokkaido is a year-round destination with endless breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
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What Makes Hokkaido Special?
Unlike other parts of Japan, Hokkaido is known for its wide-open spaces, fresh seafood, relaxing onsens, and thrilling outdoor activities. Here’s why this incredible region should be on your travel list:
✅ Stunning Nature & Outdoor Adventures – From Furano’s rolling flower fields to Daisetsuzan National Park’s snowy peaks, Hokkaido is a paradise for nature lovers. It’s also Japan’s top skiing and snowboarding destination in winter, featuring world-famous resorts like Niseko.
✅ Relaxing Onsen & Hot Spring Towns – One of the best ways to unwind after exploring is by soaking in a natural Hokkaido onsen. Visit Noboribetsu, Jozankei, or Lake Toya for some of the most rejuvenating hot spring experiences.
✅ Rich History & Cultural Heritage – Hokkaido has a fascinating history, from its indigenous Ainu culture to the historic port city of Hakodate. Explore old samurai districts, European-influenced architecture, and preserved fishing villages.
✅ Incredible Food Scene – Hokkaido is Japan’s ultimate food destination, famous for its fresh seafood, Sapporo miso ramen, Genghis Khan (grilled lamb BBQ), soup curry, and dairy products like Hokkaido cheese and soft-serve ice cream. Every meal is a treat!
✅ Four Seasons of Beauty – No matter when you visit, Hokkaido is stunning in every season:
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb): Skiing, snowboarding, and the Sapporo Snow Festival
🌸 Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms and mild temperatures
🌻 Summer (Jun–Aug): Lavender fields, mild weather, and hiking trails
🍁 Autumn (Sep–Nov): Fiery autumn leaves and scenic drives
👉 Related Post: If you also plan to visit Japan’s bustling capital, check out our 7-Day Tokyo Itinerary for ideas on exploring the capital before heading north!
How to Get to Hokkaido & Getting Around
How to Get to Hokkaido
Hokkaido is separate from Japan’s main island, Honshu, so the most common way to reach it is by plane or train.
✈️ By Plane (Fastest & Most Convenient)
• The main gateway to Hokkaido is New Chitose Airport (CTS), located near Sapporo.
• Direct flights to Sapporo are available from Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.
• If you’re traveling internationally, there are direct flights from major cities like Seoul, Taipei, and Bangkok.
🚄 By Train (Scenic but Longer Travel Time)
• The Hokkaido Shinkansen (bullet train) connects Tokyo to Hakodate via the Seikan Tunnel under the sea! 🚄
• Travel time from Tokyo to Hakodate: 4 hours
• From Hakodate to Sapporo: 3.5 hours (via express train)
• This is a great option if you want to enjoy a scenic train journey through northern Japan.
⛴️ By Ferry (For Adventure Travelers)
• Ferries from Honshu (Aomori, Niigata, and Sendai) to Hokkaido take 4–8 hours.
• A unique but less practical option unless you’re traveling with a car.
Getting Around Hokkaido
Because Hokkaido is vast and spread out, choosing the right transportation is key to making the most of your trip.
🚗 By Rental Car (Best for Flexibility & Scenic Drives)
• Renting a car is the best way to explore Hokkaido’s countryside, national parks, and smaller towns.
• Highly recommended for Furano, Biei, Noboribetsu, and Eastern Hokkaido.
• Tip: Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you’re a foreign traveler!
🚆 By Train (Best for City-to-City Travel)
• The JR Hokkaido Rail Network connects major cities like Sapporo, Hakodate, Asahikawa, and Kushiro.
• The Hokkaido Rail Pass is a great option for unlimited train travel (ideal for a 7-day itinerary).
• Not all rural areas are well-connected by train, so some spots require buses or rental cars.
🚌 By Bus (Best for Budget Travelers)
• Long-distance buses are cheaper than trains and connect most major cities.
• Local buses are useful in areas without train stations, like Furano, Biei, and some national parks.
• Buses can be slow and infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
🚕 By Taxi (Expensive but Convenient for Short Trips)
• Taxis are reliable but pricey in Hokkaido, especially for long distances.
• Best for short city rides or when public transport isn’t available.
Which Transport Should You Choose?
| Transport Mode | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| 🚗 Rental Car | Exploring nature & small towns | Flexibility, scenic drives | Needs IDP, winter roads can be challenging |
| 🚄 JR Trains | City-to-city travel | Fast, convenient, scenic | Limited rural coverage |
| 🚌 Buses | Budget-friendly travel | Affordable, covers non-train areas | Slower, fixed schedules |
| 🚕 Taxis | Short city trips | Convenient, reliable | Expensive |
👉 Related Post: If you love exploring Japan’s countryside, check out our Perfect 3-Day Kyoto Itinerary for another amazing nature-meets-culture experience!
7-Day Hokkaido Itinerary: Best Places to Visit & Things to Do
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and unique cultural experiences. Unlike the bustling metropolises of Tokyo or Osaka, Hokkaido offers wide-open spaces, natural wonders, and a slower, more relaxed pace of travel. This 7-day itinerary is designed to help first-time visitors experience the best of Hokkaido, from vibrant cities like Sapporo to charming coastal towns like Otaru, scenic landscapes in Furano and Biei, and soothing hot springs in Noboribetsu.
Whether you’re visiting in winter for snowy adventures and onsen retreats or in summer to see colorful flower fields and explore national parks, this itinerary covers the must-visit places in Hokkaido while allowing enough time to enjoy each destination comfortably.
Day 1: Arrive in Sapporo – The Heart of Hokkaido
🏙️ Welcome to Sapporo! The vibrant capital of Hokkaido is the perfect introduction to Japan’s northernmost island. Unlike the traditional cities of Kyoto and Nara, Sapporo has a modern urban charm but still offers plenty of Japanese culture, delicious food, and fascinating sights.
After arriving at New Chitose Airport (CTS), the best way to reach the city is by train (JR Rapid Airport Line, 37 minutes to Sapporo Station) or by airport bus (60 minutes, cheaper option). Since this is your first day, take it easy and explore Sapporo’s main landmarks, shopping streets, and food culture.
🚶 Morning: Explore Sapporo’s Iconic Landmarks
📍 Start at Odori Park, a 1.5-km green space running through the city center. It is famous for seasonal events like the Sapporo Snow Festival in February.
📍 Visit the Sapporo TV Tower, offering panoramic city views and distant mountains.
📍 Walk to the Former Hokkaido Government Office, a striking red-brick building from the Meiji era, perfect for photos.
🍜 Afternoon: Try Sapporo’s Famous Food Scene
📍 Have lunch at a ramen shop in Ramen Yokocho, where you can taste Sapporo’s signature miso ramen.
📍 Explore Tanukikoji Shopping Street, a covered shopping arcade packed with souvenir shops, boutiques, and local snacks.
🍻 Evening: Susukino Nightlife & Sapporo Beer
📍 Head to Susukino, Japan’s northernmost entertainment district, filled with izakayas, bars, and neon lights.
📍 Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about Japan’s oldest beer brand and enjoy a tasting session.
📍 For dinner, try Genghis Khan (Jingisukan), a grilled lamb BBQ dish that’s a Hokkaido specialty.
📌 Where to Stay in Sapporo: Stay near Sapporo Station or Odori Park for easy access to attractions and transport.
👉 Related Post: Visiting other major Japanese cities? Check out our 3 Days in Osaka Itinerary: The Perfect Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors for an action-packed city experience.
Day 2: Day Trip to Otaru – Historic Canal & Sweet Treats
🚆 Just a 30-minute train ride from Sapporo, Otaru is a charming port city known for its historic canal, European-style architecture, and famous sweet shops. Once a major hub for Hokkaido’s fishing and shipping industries, Otaru now attracts visitors with its nostalgic atmosphere, scenic waterfront, and delicious seafood.
🚶 Morning: Stroll Along the Otaru Canal
📍 Begin your day at the Otaru Canal, a picturesque waterway lined with old warehouses converted into cafes, museums, and glass workshops.
📍 Take a short boat cruise along the canal to enjoy a relaxing perspective of the city.
📍 Walk along Sakaimachi Street, a charming shopping street featuring handmade glassware, music boxes, and local delicacies.
🍣 Afternoon: Try Otaru’s Famous Sushi & Desserts
📍 Otaru is one of the best places in Hokkaido for fresh seafood! Stop at a sushi restaurant in the Otaru Triangle Market or along Sushi Street to taste some of Japan’s best sushi.
📍 Don’t miss LeTAO Cheesecake, a world-famous Hokkaido dessert shop offering creamy, soft cheesecakes made from local dairy products.
📍 Try Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream, known for its rich, milky flavor.
🎶 Evening: Visit the Otaru Music Box Museum & Nikka Whisky Distillery
📍 Step into the Otaru Music Box Museum, where thousands of handcrafted music boxes play soothing melodies.
📍 If time permits, visit the Nikka Whisky Distillery in Yoichi (30 minutes from Otaru) to tour one of Japan’s most famous whisky brands.
📍 Return to Sapporo in the evening and unwind at a cozy izakaya.
📌 Best Time to Visit Otaru:
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb): The city transforms into a romantic snow-covered town, especially during the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival in February.
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug): Enjoy warm weather, lively streets, and beautiful harbor views.
Day 3: Furano & Biei – Stunning Landscapes & Flower Fields
🌻 Furano and Biei are two of Hokkaido’s most scenic countryside areas, famous for their rolling flower fields, breathtaking landscapes, and picturesque rural roads. These areas transform into a colorful paradise in summer, with lavender fields in July and multi-colored flower carpets from June to September. The region is covered in pristine white snow in winter, offering peaceful rural scenery, ski resorts, and snowy landscapes.
The best way to explore Furano and Biei is by renting a car, as public transport is limited. However, if you prefer, there are also guided day tours from Sapporo that cover both areas.
🚗 Morning: Drive Through the Stunning Patchwork Roads of Biei
📍 Start your day early from Sapporo and drive to Biei (about 2.5 hours by car or train).
📍 Explore Patchwork Road, a famous scenic drive with rolling hills and picturesque farm landscapes.
📍 Stop at Shikisai no Oka, a stunning flower farm where colorful flower fields stretch across the hills (best in summer and early autumn).
📍 Visit the Blue Pond (Aoi Ike), a mesmerizing bright blue lake surrounded by trees—a must-see in any season!
🌸 Afternoon: Visit Furano’s Iconic Flower Fields & Cheese Factory
📍 Continue to Farm Tomita, Hokkaido’s most famous lavender farm, known for its purple fields and photogenic scenery (best bloom: mid-July).
📍 Try lavender soft-serve ice cream, a unique Hokkaido specialty only found in Furano!
📍 Stop by the Furano Cheese Factory, where you can sample Hokkaido’s famous cheese and dairy products and even join a cheese-making workshop.
📍 In winter, visit Furano Ski Resort, one of the best ski destinations in Hokkaido.
🌄 Evening: Sunset Views & Return to Sapporo
📍 Before returning, visit Furano’s Ningle Terrace, a fairytale-like village of wooden cottages selling local crafts and handmade souvenirs.
📍 Drive back to Sapporo in the evening or stay overnight in Furano for a more relaxed experience.
📌 Best Time to Visit Furano & Biei:
☀️ Summer (June–August): Best for lavender fields and colorful landscapes.
🍁 Autumn (September–October): Great for golden foliage and cooler temperatures.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Best for skiing, snow-covered landscapes, and magical winter views.
👉 Related Post: Looking for more stunning landscapes in Japan? Check out our Best Places to Visit in Japan guide!
Day 4: Noboribetsu – Japan’s Best Hot Springs & Hell Valley
♨️ Noboribetsu Onsen is Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring town, known for its volcanic landscapes, steaming thermal waters, and natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak in a traditional Japanese onsen after days of traveling. Noboribetsu is about 1.5 hours from Sapporo, making it a great day trip or overnight stay.
If you love hot springs, hiking, or unique volcanic scenery, you’ll love Noboribetsu!
🌋 Morning: Explore Jigokudani (Hell Valley) & Volcanic Landscapes
📍 Start your day by visiting Jigokudani (Hell Valley), a surreal volcanic area filled with steaming hot springs, sulfuric streams, and bubbling mud pools. The landscape looks like something from another planet!
📍 Walk the Oyunuma River Trail, where you can dip your feet in a natural hot spring river—a unique experience!
📍 Visit Oyunuma Pond, a boiling sulfuric pond with milky blue waters.
♨️ Afternoon: Relax in Noboribetsu’s Famous Hot Springs
Noboribetsu is home to some of the best onsens in Japan! Choose one of the top onsen resorts for a relaxing hot spring bath:
• Daiichi Takimotokan – One of the most famous onsen resorts, featuring multiple baths with different mineral waters.
• Noboribetsu Grand Hotel – A luxurious option with indoor and outdoor baths.
• Sagiriyu Public Bath – A budget-friendly traditional onsen experience.
📌 Onsen Etiquette:
• Before entering the bath, wash and rinse your body thoroughly.
• Don’t bring towels or soap into the onsen water.
• Tattoos may not be allowed in some onsens (check ahead).
🍜 Evening: Try Hokkaido’s Unique Local Dishes
After your relaxing onsen experience, enjoy some local Noboribetsu specialties:
• Noboribetsu Enma Ramen – A spicy miso-based ramen inspired by the demon king Enma, the guardian of Hell Valley.
• Fresh seafood donburi – Hokkaido is famous for crab, scallops, and salmon roe.
After dinner, return to Sapporo for the night or stay overnight in Noboribetsu for an extended onsen retreat.
📌 Best Time to Visit Noboribetsu:
❄️ Winter (December–February): Best for snowy onsen experiences.
🍁 Autumn (September–November): Vibrant fall foliage makes Hell Valley even more scenic.
☀️ Summer (June–August): Great for hiking and outdoor activities.
Day 5: Hakodate – A Historic Port City with Stunning Night Views
🚆 Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s most historic and picturesque cities, known for its European-influenced architecture, fresh seafood, and breathtaking night views from Mount Hakodate. As one of the first Japanese ports to open for international trade in the 19th century, Hakodate boasts a unique blend of Japanese and Western influences.
Located on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is easily accessible from Sapporo by train or bus, making it a fantastic destination for a day trip or an overnight stay. If you love history, scenic landscapes, and delicious seafood, Hakodate is a must-visit.
🚆 Morning: Travel to Hakodate & Explore the Morning Market
📍 Take an early morning train from Sapporo to Hakodate (approx. 3.5 hours on the Limited Express Hokuto).
📍 Arrive at Hakodate Morning Market, where you’ll find fresh seafood, crabs, scallops, and the famous “dancing squid” donburi.
📍 Try a seafood breakfast bowl (kaisendon) featuring Hokkaido’s famous sea urchin, salmon roe, and crab.
📍 Walk around the market and sample grilled seafood skewers and freshly made melon bread.
🏯 Afternoon: Explore Hakodate’s Historic Districts
📍 Visit Goryokaku Park & Goryokaku Tower, a star-shaped Western-style fort built in the 19th century.
📍 Climb the Goryokaku Tower for panoramic views of the fort and city.
📍 If visiting in spring (late April to early May), enjoy the cherry blossoms around the fort.
📍 Walk through Motomachi District, Hakodate’s historic quarter, filled with Western-style churches, old consulates, and charming streets.
📍 Visit the Russian Orthodox Church and Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward for a glimpse into Hakodate’s international history.
🌆 Evening: Mount Hakodate’s Stunning Night View
📍 As sunset approaches, take the Hakodate Ropeway to the top of Mount Hakodate for one of Japan’s most famous night views.
📍 The twinkling lights of Hakodate’s cityscape against the ocean make this one of the best panoramic views in Japan.
📍 If you prefer a less crowded option, consider visiting Cape Tachimachi, a scenic coastal viewpoint.
🍜 Dinner: Hakodate’s Famous Salt Ramen & Local Delicacies
Hakodate is known for its shio (salt) ramen, a light and flavorful broth-based noodle dish. Try it at:
• Ajisai Ramen – One of the best places to try Hakodate-style ramen.
• Seiryuken – A small but highly rated ramen shop.
If you’re staying overnight, enjoy Hakodate’s relaxing onsen hotels before continuing your journey.
📌 Best Time to Visit Hakodate:
🌸 Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms at Goryokaku Park.
☀️ Summer (June–August): Pleasant weather and fresh seafood.
❄️ Winter (December–February): Snow-covered cityscapes and Mt. Hakodate’s winter lights.
Day 6: Asahikawa – Wildlife & Local Flavors
🏔️ Asahikawa, located in central Hokkaido, is best known for its famous Asahiyama Zoo, traditional sake breweries, and delicious shoyu (soy sauce) ramen. The city also serves as a gateway to the stunning Daisetsuzan National Park, which offers amazing hiking trails, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
For nature lovers and food enthusiasts, Asahikawa is an essential stop on your Hokkaido adventure!
🚆 Morning: Travel to Asahikawa & Visit Asahiyama Zoo
📍 Take an early morning train or bus from Sapporo to Asahikawa (approx. 1.5 hours by Limited Express train).
📍 Visit Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s most famous zoos, known for its interactive enclosures, which let visitors observe animals up close.
• Penguin Walk (Winter Only): Watch adorable penguins waddle through the snow!
• Polar Bear, Red Panda, and Wolf Enclosures: Designed for immersive viewing.
• Underwater Glass Tunnel: Observe seals and sea lions swimming overhead.
📌 Best Time to Visit Asahiyama Zoo:
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb): Penguin Walk and snow-covered enclosures.
☀️ Summer (June–Aug): Animals are more active in warmer weather.
🍶 Afternoon: Sake Tasting & Local Food in Asahikawa
📍 After the zoo, visit Otokoyama Sake Brewery, one of Japan’s most famous sake producers.
📍 Learn about the sake-making process and sample different varieties.
📍 Try Hokkaido’s signature crisp and dry sake, which pairs well with seafood.
📍 Have lunch at a local Asahikawa ramen shop. Asahikawa-style ramen is famous for its shoyu (soy sauce) broth and rich, oily soup that helps retain heat during Hokkaido’s cold winters.
📍 Recommended ramen shops:
• Baikoken – One of the best places to try Asahikawa ramen.
• Aoba – A historic ramen shop dating back to 1947.
🌄 Evening: Explore Daisetsuzan National Park (Optional)
If you have extra time and love nature & hiking, take a short trip to Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido’s largest and most breathtaking national park.
Best activities:
• 🚠 Kurodake Ropeway – Offers stunning panoramic views of Hokkaido’s rugged mountains.
• 🚶♂️ Hiking in Summer & Autumn – Great for seeing alpine flowers and fall foliage.
• ❄️ Snow Activities in Winter – Snowshoeing and skiing opportunities.
If visiting in autumn (September–October), the park is one of the first places in Japan to see fall foliage!
🍢 Dinner & Return to Sapporo
📍 Before heading back, enjoy some Hokkaido local delicacies in Asahikawa:
• Zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken).
• Grilled lamb (Jingisukan).
• Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream made with fresh local dairy.
📍 Take the train or bus back to Sapporo for your final day in Hokkaido!
📌 Best Time to Visit Asahikawa:
❄️ Winter (December–February): Best for Penguin Walk and winter landscapes.
☀️ Summer (June–August): Ideal for outdoor activities and clear skies.
🍁 Autumn (September–October): Beautiful fall foliage in Daisetsuzan National Park.
Day 7: Return to Sapporo – Final Explorations & Departure
🏙️ Your last day in Hokkaido is a perfect chance to explore any sights you may have missed, pick up some final souvenirs, and enjoy one last taste of Hokkaido’s incredible cuisine before heading to the airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend the morning and early afternoon in Sapporo before taking a train or bus to New Chitose Airport for departure.
🚶 Morning: Last-Minute Sightseeing & Shopping
If you have a few hours before your flight, here are some great ways to spend your final morning in Sapporo:
• Visit Nijo Market 🍣
– A must-visit seafood market where you can enjoy a fresh breakfast bowl (kaisendon) featuring Hokkaido’s famous sea urchin, salmon roe, and crab.
– Perfect for picking up last-minute local delicacies like dried scallops, seafood snacks, and Hokkaido sweets.
• Explore Sapporo’s Historic & Cultural Sites 🏯
– Walk through the Hokkaido Shrine, a peaceful Shinto shrine in Maruyama Park.
– If you missed it earlier, visit Sapporo Clock Tower, one of the city’s oldest landmarks.
– Discover the Sapporo Beer Museum if you didn’t get a chance to try Hokkaido’s famous beer on Day 1.
• Shop for Souvenirs in Tanukikoji Shopping Street & Daimaru Department Store 🛍️
– Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade is one of Sapporo’s best spots to buy local souvenirs, such as Shiroi Koibito cookies, Royce chocolates, and Hokkaido cheese snacks.
– The Daimaru Department Store (near Sapporo Station) has a food basement (depachika) where you can grab premium Japanese sweets and bento boxes for your flight.
🍣 Lunch: Final Hokkaido Meal Before Departure
Before heading to the airport, enjoy one last meal in Hokkaido! Here are some top recommendations based on your cravings:
🍜 Sapporo Miso Ramen – Head to Ramen Republic (Sapporo Station) for one of the best bowls in the city.
🥩 Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) – Try Hokkaido’s famous grilled lamb BBQ at Matsuo Jingisukan.
🍛 Soup Curry – This spicy Hokkaido specialty is a great choice before your flight; check out GARAKU Soup Curry.
✈️ Afternoon: Transfer to New Chitose Airport & Departure
🚄 How to get from Sapporo to New Chitose Airport:
• JR Rapid Airport Train: 🚆 37 minutes from Sapporo Station to New Chitose Airport.
• Airport Bus: 🚌 60 minutes, cheaper but slower option.
Once at the airport, you can:
• Explore the airport’s amazing shopping and food options!
• Grab a final Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream before leaving 🍦
• Buy last-minute souvenirs at the airport’s shopping area.
Best Time to Visit Hokkaido
Hokkaido is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Each season offers unique scenery, weather, and seasonal activities, so here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
❄️ Winter (December–February) – Snow Festivals & Ski Resorts
Why visit in winter?
• World-class skiing & snowboarding in Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu.
• Magical snow-covered landscapes perfect for winter photography.
• Sapporo Snow Festival (February) – One of Japan’s biggest winter events featuring massive ice sculptures.
• Hot springs (onsen) are extra relaxing in the snow!
Best activities in winter:
• ❄️ Skiing & snowboarding in Niseko, Furano, and Tomamu.
• ⛄ Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival & Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.
• ♨️ Enjoy a hot spring bath in Noboribetsu or Jozankei Onsen.
• 🦀 Eat Hokkaido’s best winter seafood (crab season!).
📌 Who is it best for? Skiers, snowboarders, and travelers who love winter wonderland.
🌸 Spring (March–May) – Cherry Blossoms & Mild Weather
Why visit in spring?
• 🌸 Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms bloom later than Tokyo & Kyoto (late April – early May).
• 🌿 Cool weather, great for sightseeing.
• 🦊 Baby animals at Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa.
Best activities in spring:
• 🌸 Cherry blossom viewing at Goryokaku Park (Hakodate) & Maruyama Park (Sapporo).
• 🏔️ Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park.
• 🦊 Visit the adorable foxes at the Hokkaido Fox Village.
📌 Who is it best for? Travelers who want mild weather & cherry blossoms without Tokyo crowds.
🌻 Summer (June–August) – Lavender Fields & Scenic Drives
Why visit in summer?
• 🌿 Cooler than the rest of Japan – perfect for escaping Tokyo’s heat!
• 🌻 Furano’s lavender fields are in full bloom (July).
• 🏞️ Best season for road trips and scenic landscapes.
Best activities in summer:
• 🌻 Visit Furano & Biei’s lavender fields.
• 🚗 Go on a Hokkaido road trip to Shiretoko or Lake Toya.
• 🎣 Enjoy fresh summer seafood & outdoor festivals.
📌 Who is it best for? Nature lovers, flower enthusiasts, and road trippers.
🍁 Autumn (September–November) – Fall Foliage & Cooler Weather
Why visit in autumn?
• 🍁 Vibrant red & orange leaves at Daisetsuzan National Park.
• 🍂 Mild weather, fewer crowds than summer.
• 🎃 Seasonal Hokkaido autumn foods like roasted chestnuts & pumpkin desserts.
Best activities in autumn:
• 🍁 Explore the stunning fall foliage in Daisetsuzan & Jozankei.
• 🏞️ Take a scenic drive through Eastern Hokkaido.
• 🍂 Enjoy hot springs with fall colors in the background.
📌 Who is it best for? Hikers, photographers, and travelers who prefer cool weather.
Final Recommendation: When Is the BEST Time to Visit Hokkaido?
• Winter (December–February) if you love skiing & snow festivals.
• Summer (June–August) if you want flower fields & outdoor adventures.
• Spring (April–May) if you want cherry blossoms & cool weather.
• Autumn (September–October) if you love fall foliage & peaceful landscapes.
👉 Related Post: Not sure when to visit Japan? Read our Best Time to Visit Japan: Month-by-Month Travel Guide for a complete seasonal breakdown!
Best Food in Hokkaido to Try
Hokkaido is known as Japan’s ultimate food paradise, offering some of the freshest seafood, most delicious ramen, and high-quality dairy products in the country. Thanks to its rich natural environment and cold climate, the island produces top-tier ingredients, making its local cuisine unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a ramen enthusiast, or someone with a sweet tooth, Hokkaido’s food scene will leave you wanting more!
Sapporo Miso Ramen – Hokkaido’s Most Famous Ramen
📍 Where to try: Sapporo (Ramen Alley, Ramen Republic)
Hokkaido is known for three regional ramen styles, and Sapporo’s miso ramen is the most famous. This rich and flavorful dish features:
• Thick miso-based broth with a deep umami taste.
• Butter and corn toppings (a Hokkaido specialty!).
• Curly noodles that absorb the thick broth.
🔥 Must-try places:
• Ramen Shingen – One of the top-rated miso ramen spots in Sapporo.
• Sumire Ramen – Famous for its deep, rich miso broth.
Hokkaido Kaisendon – Fresh Seafood Bowls
📍 Where to try: Hakodate, Sapporo’s Nijo Market, Otaru
Hokkaido is home to Japan’s best seafood, and kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) are a must-try. These bowls are typically topped with:
• Uni (sea urchin) – Creamy, fresh, and full of umami.
• Ikura (salmon roe) – Bursting with briny goodness.
• Crab, scallops, and salmon – Freshly caught from Hokkaido’s cold waters.
🔥 Best places to try:
• Hakodate Morning Market – Famous for its seafood kaisendon.
• Sapporo Nijo Market – Great selection of fresh seafood bowls.
Soup Curry – Hokkaido’s Unique Curry Dish
📍 Where to try: Sapporo
Unlike traditional Japanese curry, soup curry has a light, spicy, and flavorful broth, served with vegetables and meat. It’s the perfect dish for warming up in Hokkaido’s cold winters.
🔥 Top soup curry restaurants:
• Soup Curry GARAKU – One of Sapporo’s best-rated spots.
• Suage+ – Known for its flavorful, rich soup base.
Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) – Hokkaido’s Famous Grilled Lamb BBQ
📍 Where to try: Sapporo, Asahikawa
Genghis Khan (Jingisukan) is Hokkaido’s signature BBQ dish, featuring grilled lamb cooked over a special metal dome-shaped grill. The meat is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavors.
🔥 Best places to try:
• Sapporo Beer Garden – A must-visit for an authentic Genghis Khan experience.
• Daruma – One of Sapporo’s most famous lamb BBQ restaurants.
Hokkaido Crab – The Best in Japan
📍 Where to try: Hakodate, Sapporo, Otaru
Hokkaido is known for four types of high-quality crab, served boiled, grilled, or in a luxurious crab hot pot (kani nabe). The most famous varieties include:
• 🦀 King Crab (Tarabagani) – Large, meaty, and incredibly sweet.
• 🦀 Snow Crab (Zuwaigani) – Delicate and slightly sweet.
• 🦀 Hairy Crab (Kegani) – Known for its rich, flavorful meat.
🔥 Where to eat the best crab:
• Sapporo Nijo Market & Hakodate Morning Market – Perfect for freshly steamed or grilled crab.
• Kani Honke – A famous seafood restaurant specializing in crab dishes.
Hokkaido Soft-Serve Ice Cream & Dairy Products
📍 Where to try: Throughout Hokkaido
Hokkaido produces Japan’s best dairy products, thanks to its lush green pastures and high-quality milk. You’ll find incredibly creamy soft-serve ice cream, as well as delicious dairy-based products like cheese and butter.
🔥 Must-try treats:
• 🍦 Lavender soft-serve ice cream from Furano.
• 🧀 Hokkaido cheesecake & milk pudding.
• 🥛 Hokkaido fresh milk – Served in cafes across the region.
📌 Best places to try:
• Farm Tomita (Furano) – Famous for lavender-flavored soft-serve.
• LeTAO (Otaru) – The best spot for Hokkaido cheesecake.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Hokkaido
Hokkaido is truly a dream destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, world-class cuisine, unique cultural experiences, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting in winter for its famous ski resorts and hot springs, in spring for cherry blossoms, in summer for breathtaking flower fields, or in autumn for colorful foliage, this island offers unforgettable experiences year-round.
Top reasons to visit Hokkaido:
✅ Breathtaking Natural Landscapes – From Furano’s flower fields to Shiretoko National Park’s rugged coastlines, Hokkaido is a paradise for outdoor lovers and photographers.
🏔️ Endless Adventures in Every Season – Whether you want to ski in Niseko, hike in Daisetsuzan, or relax in Noboribetsu’s onsens, Hokkaido has it all.
🍣 Unmatched Food Scene – From Sapporo miso ramen to fresh seafood, crab, and dairy products, Hokkaido’s food culture is one of Japan’s best.
🚗 Scenic Road Trips & Peaceful Atmosphere – Hokkaido is much less crowded than Tokyo and Kyoto, making it perfect for relaxed travel and beautiful scenic drives.
Who Should Visit Hokkaido?
• Nature lovers & adventure seekers – Endless outdoor activities await!
• Food enthusiasts – Some of Japan’s best dishes originate here.
• Couples & families – Plenty of relaxing, family-friendly attractions.
• Winter travelers – Skiing, snowboarding, and hot springs make it a winter paradise.
Check out the Japan National Tourism Organization for more tips, guides, and recommendations.
Ready to Explore More of Japan?
If you’re planning to visit other parts of Japan after Hokkaido, check out our other Japan travel guides:
👉 Best Places to Visit in Japan – A complete guide to Japan’s must-visit spots!
👉 10-Day Japan Itinerary – The perfect Japan travel plan for first-time visitors.
👉 Best Time to Visit Japan – Find out when to visit based on seasons & activities!
Whether you’re planning a week-long adventure or a seasonal getaway, Hokkaido offers unforgettable experiences that make it one of Japan’s best travel destinations.
✈️ Have you been to Hokkaido before? What’s your favorite part of this beautiful island? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
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