Discover Hokkaidō: A Guide to Adventure and Nature

Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaidō, is best known globally as a ski and snowboard destination – thanks to its legendary powder snow.

Outdoor adventure is the main reason to visit this naturally stunning region. Beyond winter sports, the green season brings opportunities for epic hikes, cycling, and camping trips, or simply slowing down and appreciating the photogenic landscapes.

Traveling in Hokkaidō

Travel in Hokkaidō is distinct from other regions in Japan: it’s more nature than people, and points of interest can be far apart. This makes it the best place in Japan for a road trip; otherwise, you’ll probably want to stick to one area – to avoid spending most of your time in transit. Plan your perfect trip with this guide to essential things for first-time visitors.

When Should I Go to Hokkaidō?

The best time to visit depends on your activities. For skiing and snowboarding, January and February are considered peak season, although most resorts remain open well into spring. During this time, you need to plan ahead to secure accommodations early.

While winter attracts international travelers, summer is peak season for Japanese visitors. July, August, and September are perfect months for hiking, camping, and cycling in and around the island’s spectacular national parks. Hokkaidō summers are mild compared to the rest of the country, where heat and humidity can be overwhelming.

Moreover, autumn and then winter come early; snow can fall as early as September in the mountains, signaling the end of the green season. By November, snow could be falling in Sapporo, marking the onset of cold weather, which persists until spring.

How Long Do You Need in Hokkaidō?

Given its vastness, Hokkaidō rewards those who can stay longer. If you plan to ski, the answer likely is as long as you can afford. With only a few days, sticking to one resort is advisable; however, with a week, you could visit two resorts along with exploring Sapporo, the capital city.

It’s hard to imagine visiting Hokkaidō for less than three days unless you focus on Sapporo or Hakodate. With three or four days, you might explore a combination of Hakodate, Sapporo, and Shikotsu-Tōya National Park.

Is It Easy to Get to and Around Hokkaidō?

Hokkaidō is easily accessible via New Chitose Airport, which has international connections to cities across Asia. Frequent flights to major airports in Tokyo and Kansai make reaching Hokkaidō convenient. Direct trains connect the airport to Sapporo in under 45 minutes.

For those considering train travel, Japan’s iconic bullet train can take you from Tokyo to Hakodate in about four hours, where you can then continue to Sapporo. The city itself is compact, making it easy to navigate by public transportation.

Top Things to Do in Hokkaidō

Niseko United is the resort that put Hokkaidō on the map as a skiing and snowboarding hotspot. It offers the most amenities, including a vibrant aprés-ski scene, and boasts exceptional powder snow. You can also seek out lesser-known resorts like Rurutsu and Furano.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, Daisetsuzan National Park is a fantastic destination. This national park offers stunning landscapes and numerous hiking trails, making it ideal for summer adventures. Additionally, Shikotsu-Tōya National Park features beautiful caldera lakes and popular hot spring resorts.

How Much Money Do I Need for Hokkaidō?

On one hand, Hokkaidō can be a budget-friendly destination; there are many campgrounds, including free options. Those cycling around the region can find affordable accommodations known as “rider houses.”

However, during peak snow season, areas like Niseko offer mostly upscale lodgings, where prices can match those of other major international resorts. Lift tickets, though, present a good value, especially considering they offer access to world-class powder.

• Capsule hotel: ¥8000

• Basic room for two: ¥25,000

• Self-catering chalet: ¥40,000

• Train fare to Sapporo from the airport: ¥1150

• Bus fare to Niseko from the airport: ¥3000

• Coffee: ¥500

• Ramen in town: ¥1000

• Ramen on the slopes: ¥1600

• Beer: ¥800

How Do I Stay Safe While Traveling in Hokkaidō?

Winters in Hokkaidō can be severe. During January and February, temperatures rarely rise above freezing, and strong winds can lead to hazardous road conditions. Therefore, exercise caution when driving and consider joining a guided tour for skiing or snowboarding.

Additionally, take heed of bear warnings. While attacks from brown bears (higuma) are infrequent, hikers often attach bells to their backpacks to deter bears. Before heading out on hikes, stop by information centers at national parks for valuable resources and safety tips.

What Shall I Pack for Hokkaidō?

Major snow resorts offer competitively priced gear rental packages, allowing you to ski or snowboard without your own equipment. Outdoor enthusiasts will find shops in Sapporo and Niseko offering rentals, though it can help to have some Japanese language skills for gear rentals in campgrounds.