Hokkaido Region

Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaidou) is the largest of Japan’s regions located on the northernmost and second-largest island in Japan.

It is not only one of Japan’s 4 main islands, alongside Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu, but also the largest and northernmost of Japan’s 47 prefectures.

The region is renowned for its unspoiled nature, diverse wildlife, vibrant snow festivals, unique indigenous Ainu culture, and the deliciousness of its food.

Geography & Climate

Geography

Hokkaido showcases a diverse terrain, including high mountain ranges, lush forested areas, vast flowered plains, hidden island gems, and frosty rugged coastlines.

The region is completely surrounded by the ocean and flanked by the Sea of Japan in the west, the Sea of Okhotsk in the northeast, and the Pacific Ocean in the southeast.

It is home to some of Japan’s biggest and wildest national parks, largest lakes, most extensive mountain ranges, and best volcanic sceneries.

mountainous terrain (Daisetsuzan, Mount Asahi)
volcanic plateaus (Mount Meakan, Lake Toya)
plains and wetlands (Kushiro Marshlands)
wilderness and wildlife (Shiretoko)
drift ice (Abashiri)

Climate

Hokkaido has four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, summers are mild and pleasant, while spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures and beautiful landscapes including late cherry blossoms and early fall foliage.

Cherry Blossom Season (Sakura): Late April to early May
Autumn Leave Season (Koyo): Late September to early October

Spring in Hokkaido is typically from late April to early June. The climate is usually still cool and due to its mild temperatures, Hokkaido’s sakura season starts later. So cherry blossoms can often be seen until early May.

Hokkaido’s summer lasts from June to August. It is warm and considered extremely comfortable by most Japanese people and visitors since it is less humid than other regions of Japan. The temperatures and climate are perfect to enjoy the summer outside.

Autumn in Hokkaido, from September to November, showcases Japan’s beautiful fall foliage with vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The temperatures are mild, but nights can be cool so don’t forget to bring your jacket.

Hokkaido’s winter lasts from December to February. The region is famous for heavy snowfall and its amazing powder snow. It turns into a perfect winter wonderland and a haven for winter sports and snow enthusiasts.

In general, Hokkaido’s climate is relatively cooler compared to the rest of Japan, making it an ideal destination for winter and snow fans and those who want to escape the heat of Japan’s summer season.

Summer and winter are some of the best seasons to visit.

Spring: 10°C – 20°C (50-68°F)
Summer: 20°C – 25°C (68-77°F)
Autumn: 15°C to 20°C (59-68°F)
Winter: -10°C to -2°C (14-28°F)

Highlights & Hidden Gems

National Parks: Hokkaido is home to several national parks, including Daisetsuzan, Shiretoko, Shikotsu-Toya, and Akan Mashu, showcasing a variety of landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and volcanoes.
Wildlife: The island is known for its diverse wildlife, including Ussuri brown bears, Ezo red foxes, and fluffy white long-tailed tits. In the east, you can even do whale-watching tours and see orca whales, Dall’s porpoises, sperm whales, and minke whales.
Onsen & Hot Springs: Hokkaido offers some of Japan’s best and most famous onsen resorts. Noboribetsu, Sounkyo Onsen, Jozankei Onsen, and Toyako Onsen are just some of the numerous hot spring resorts.
Ski & Snow Resorts: Thanks to its abundant snowfall and light powder snow, Hokkaido is one of the best places to go skiing and snowboarding. Niseko, Rusutsu, Furano Ski Resort, and Tomamu are popular and famous.
Lavender Fields: Furano and Biei are famous for their picturesque lavender and flower fields, which bloom in summer. You can also enjoy all kinds of lavender-flavored foods and sweets.
Snow Festivals: Some of the biggest, most famous, and most beautiful snow festivals take place in Hokkaido, such as the Sapporo Sno Festival, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, and the Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.

Top Destinations & Attractions

Top Destinations

Sapporo: Hokkaido’s capital and the largest city in Hokkaido. It is known for the Sapporo Snow Festival, Sapporo beer, uniquely designed city parks, and the huge entertainment and nightlight district Susukino.
Otaru: A small charming coastal town right next to Sapporo. It is known for its beautifully preserved canal area, the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, Kitaichi glass art, and a unique music box museum.
Hakodate: A historic port city with influences from the West. The city is most famous for its spectacular night views from Mount Hakodate, star-shaped fortress, morning market, and fresh seafood.
Noboribetsu: A hot spring town and one of Hokkaido’s most famous onsen resorts. It features unique geothermal features and is known as “Hell Valley”.
Furano: Rural area famous for its lavender fields, picturesque hills, and beautiful flower landscapes in summer.
Asahikawa: Central town famous for its local ramen, winter festival, and zoo.

Events & Festivals

Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo)
Yosakoi Soran Festival (Sapporo)
Asahikawa Winter Festival (Asahikawa)
Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (Otaru)
Chitose Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival (Shikotsu-Toya National Park)