The second largest island in Japan is also the northernmost prefecture. Hokkaido has plenty to offer and attracts visitors all year round. From skiing resorts to flowery fields, from traditional villages to hip towns – one can discover an entire world on the island.
10. See the Blue Pond in Biei
Biei is a small town, surrounded with beautiful nature. Meanwhile the Blue Pond is an artificial lake, that has formed after building a dam in 1988 to prevent mudflow from the Bieigawa River. The striking blue color is claimed to be the result of aluminum hydroxide. Moreover the color depends on the season and time of the day as water itself is not blue, but only an effect of diffraction.
Why go there?
It is a world-wide famous spot. It became a desirable tourist attraction after Apple used a photo for their OS X Mountain Lion. With the protruding dry slim trees the pond exudes an enigmatic appearance.
9. Visit Sapporo Beer Museum
In the 1860’s Germany introduced beer to Japan. It has become the most popular and favorite alcoholic beverage ever since. The museum offers free guided tours and also 30 minutes of beer tasting for a small fee.
Why go there?
Located in Sapporo, find time to learn about this famous beverage and get to taste local beer.
8. Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival
Sapporo is the fourth largest city in Japan located on the island of Hokkaido. If you are looking for some winter fun, this is the right place to go. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major winter event in Japan, which attracts more and more visitors from Japan, as well as from abroad. Artists present many amazing snow and ice sculptures. The seven days event opens in February.
Why go there?
The annual event allows to admire the incredible works of art made of ice. This is one of the best festivals of the kind in the world.
7. Climb Mount Asahi
At 2,290.9 m (7,516 ft) height, it is the tallest mountain in the island of Hokkaido. However it is easy to climb and hikers find it a popular destination in summer. Meanwhile in winter it is a popular spot with skiers and snowboarders.
Why go there?
Visitors can find accommodation in the village of Asahidake Onsen on the slopes of the mountain.
6. See Shibazakura in Spring
Every spring thousands of visitors head to Takinoue Park to see the vibrant Pink Moss or Shibazakura. Between May and June the fields below the mountainous area get covered in a beautiful colorful carpet of blossoming flowers.
Why go there?
See the postcard-pretty site this spring.
5. Visit National Parks
There are six huge national parks on the island of Hokkaido, that feature impressive natural surroundings. From lakes to mountains and volcanoes, from waterfalls and woods to blossoming fields in spring and summer – anytime of the year one will find great sight seeings.
Why go there?
The hiking trails will allow to explore beautiful nature and have a relaxing day in the great outdoors.
4. Relax in Noboribetsu Onsen
The hot springs of Noboribetsu are the most popular and always at the top of the onsens in Hokkaido. The water is rich with healing minerals and is embedded in staggering surroundings, that provide visitors a complete getaway from busy cities.
Why go there?
Stay at a hotel and enjoy the most exquisite SPA treatments in the country.
3. Relish the Seafood Dishes
The waters that surround the island are rich with marine life. Fishermen catch and deliver fresh seafood to the markets and restaurants every day. Therefore visitors can taste the delicacies on their journey around the island every day.
Why go there?
Visit Otaru – an old port and its Sushi Shop Street. Traditional delicious seafood meals are the main attraction here.
2. Go Skiing in Furano
The skiing resort is popular among the skiers and snowboarders for its exceptionally soft powdery snow. However, in summer it is famous for flowery fields that cover vast areas. Thousands of visitors come to see the feast of colorful blossoms.
Why go there?
Furano has preserved its cultural heritage, yet provides visitors with plenty of fun outdoor activities.
1. Explore Hakodate
The historic port city was the first in Japan to open international trade. Therefore its culture and architecture are quite diverse. The view from Mt. Hakodate is considered to be one of the most spectacular cityscapes in Japan!
Why go there?
The city is lively, with plenty of historic, cultural sightseeings, events as well as great food and natural surroundings!
