The best 20 things to do while you travel to Hokkaido

Let's escape this heat of Japanese summer by going to somewhere cool and more uncomfortable-HOKKAIDO. This cold northern island is cold every month throughout the year. Maybe the first word that comes to your head when you hear ‘Hokkaido’ would probably be ‘cold’; however, the wonderous and gorgeous sights created by volcanoes are not something you should miss when get a backpack and travel to Hokkaido:

Asahiyama Zoo

The animals of Asahiyama Zoo live in exhibits that are made to mimic their natural environments. Efforts were made especially in the breeding of animals from the colder regions. And the zoo has been successful in the natural reproduction of animals such as polar bears.

Mt. Hakodate

From Mount Hakodate, you can get a panoramic view of the city of Hakodate below. The wide Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait spread out in front of your eyes. The scenery changes with the seasons, but it is the night view that is overwhelmingly beautiful.

Jigokudani (Hell Valley)

Jigokudani (hell valley) is located right next to Noboribetsu hot springs. White smoke wafts up from the blowholes and you are enveloped in hot air that makes you feel as if you were in hell. The primeval forest in the surrounding area is known for its beautiful foliage in fall.

Mt. Moiwa

Mount Moiwa has one of the top 3 night views of Hokkaido, along with Hakodate and Otaru. On top of that, in the primeval forest of Mount Moiwa, designated as a Natural Monument, you can encounter various examples of flora and fauna.

Farm Tomita

Hokkaido’s leading tourist spot where you can enjoy the entire day. Admire the 15 hectare lavender field and the flowers, and enjoy the delicious culinary making use of local ingredients.

The Seven Star Tree

The Seven Star Tree became an overnight sensation when its image was used on a package of the Seven Star cigarettes. It is a scenic spot that represents the beautiful scenery of the hills of Biei.

Shikisai-no-Oka

Several dozen kinds of flowers bloom in the wide fields, and the large vicinity of Biei Town becomes like a carpet of blossoms. You can also enjoy snowmobiling during the winter.

Lake Mashū

The beautiful scene of a volcano, a forest, and a lake can be found in Hokkaido’s Teshikagacho District. The crater, Lake Mashū, is a prefectural heritage, and the surrounding area can also be enjoyed for its hot springs villages.

Blue Pond

This is a prominent tourist spot in the forested hillside of the Biei area. Truly one of the most hidden scenic sites, entry to this area was restricted up until 2010.

Lake Toya

A lake located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya is a caldera lake formed from volcanic activity. Along with nature and the surrounding landscape, you are completely free to enjoy the onsen and the outdoors any way you like.

Patchwork Road

The scenery of farmland spreading over a beautiful hilly zone brings together a wonderful collection of flowers and produce. There are many tourist spots to enjoy the grand landscape where you can appreciate the nature of Biei.

Sapporo Snow Festival

One of the largest events in Hokkaido for which more than 2 million people visit annually. Plenty of events where you can encounter huge snow and ice sculptures only to be found in an environment rich in snow.

Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse

The townscape that has been recognized as a prefectural heritage site and the historic red brick warehouse’s atmosphere create a must-see tourist destination when you come to Hakodate.

Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu

Graceful skiing on a huge site that spans from the summit of Mt. Annupuri to the foot of the mountain. A ski resort that can be enjoyed by the whole family with a variety of courses.

Kami-no-Koike

A pond that has a depth of up to 5m, it is fed with 12000 tonnes of underground water per day from Lake Mashū. In its clear waters, there are fallen trees and fish. And depending on the season, the hue of the blue color changes.

Abashiri Prison Museum

Part of the buildings that had actually been used during the Meiji Era has been preserved and opened as a museum. Carvings of the prisoners of the time have been left, and there is a fascinating air to the place.

Sapporo TV Tower

The symbol of Sapporo standing out in the middle of the city. There is an observation deck to enjoy the nightscape along with restaurants. It is a superb spot to appreciate the scenery of Sapporo which changes every season.

Lake Shikotsu

Although it is located in a very cold region of Japan, the water at the bottom of the lake is quite warm which means it is a caldera lake that doesn’t freeze over. The area has numerous tourist spots and surrounding nature.

Biei Hills

The town of Biei in Hokkaido is famous as a town of hills which has been used in commercials and televised dramas. The epic landscape just spreads out and it feels as if you are standing in the middle of a painting.

Ōnuma Quasi-National Park

Located close to Hakodate, this is a large park which includes 3 lakes and the volcano Komagatake. This is a large natural resort which can be enjoyed fully by families for the environment that is very Hokkaido.