Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. From the stunning landscapes to the vibrant festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do in Hokkaido. If you’re planning a trip and wondering what this captivating region has to offer, here are eight must-do activities to ensure an unforgettable journey.
1. Ski and Snowboard in Niseko
Niseko is renowned worldwide as a premier ski destination, offering some of the best powder snow on the planet. The area boasts several interconnected ski resorts, including Grand Hirafu, Niseko Village, and Annupuri, each catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Tips for Your Ski Trip:
- For Beginners: Start at Hanazono, known for its wide, gentle slopes.
- For Advanced Skiers: Head to the backcountry areas for some thrilling off-piste action.
- Essentials: Don’t forget to check the Niseko United Resort Maps for the best routes and lifts.
Ramat Niseko provides easy access to these ski areas via their free first-tracks shuttle and local village shuttles, ensuring you can hit the slopes with ease and return to a cozy lodge to relax after a day of adventure.
The lodges offer comfortable amenities, warm hospitality, and stunning views of Mount Yotei, enhancing your winter sports experience.
2. Visit the Blue Pond (Aoiike) in Biei
The Blue Pond in Biei is a picturesque spot that seems almost otherworldly. Its striking blue color, caused by natural minerals in the water, is mesmerizing and makes for fantastic photos.
Best Times to Visit:
- Spring and Summer: Enjoy the vibrant colors and lush surroundings.
- Winter: Witness the pond’s magical transformation under a blanket of snow.
Nearby, you can explore the beautiful Shirogane Waterfall and take in the serene atmosphere of this unique locale. The waterfall is a short drive from the Blue Pond and offers equally stunning views, especially in winter when the falls freeze into a beautiful cascade of ice.
3. Explore Shiretoko National Park
Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for nature lovers. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including brown bears, foxes, and deer, as well as stunning landscapes of mountains, forests, and coastline.
Highlights:
- Hiking Trails: Choose from various hike trails that offer breathtaking views and close encounters with nature.
- Boat Tours: Get a different perspective of the park from the water, especially the rugged Shiretoko Peninsula.
- Wildlife Viewing: Shiretoko is one of the best places in Japan to see wildlife in their natural habitat. Look out for brown bears, foxes, and eagles.
To ensure a sustainable visit, follow park guidelines and respect the natural habitat. Use designated trails, avoid feeding the wildlife, and take your litter home.
4. Enjoy the Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan’s most famous winter events, drawing visitors from around the globe. Held annually in February, the festival features incredible ice and snow sculptures, cultural performances, and delicious street food.
The festival takes place across three main sites: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome, each offering unique attractions.
Key Attractions:
- Ice Sculptures: Marvel at the intricate designs and enormous snow statues. These sculptures are created by teams from around the world and range from delicate carvings to massive structures.
- Odori Park: The main site, filled with activities and light displays. This 1.5-kilometer stretch is the heart of the festival, featuring the largest and most elaborate sculptures.
- Susukino: Known for its ice sculpture competition and lively atmosphere. The sculptures here are smaller but no less impressive, with many featuring interactive elements.
- Tsudome: Family-friendly site with snow slides, snow rafting, and indoor activities. It’s a great spot for kids to enjoy snow play.
Travel Tips:
- Accommodation: Book your accommodation early, as hotels fill up fast during the festival. Consider staying in nearby areas like Chitose if Sapporo is fully booked.
- Warm Clothing: Dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof clothing to stay comfortable while exploring the outdoor sites.
- Transportation: Utilize public transport to navigate the festival sites easily. Sapporo’s subway and bus systems are efficient and well-connected.
5. Relax in the Hot Springs (Onsen)
Hokkaido is renowned for its onsen, natural hot springs that offer a perfect way to unwind and experience Japanese culture.
The island’s volcanic activity has blessed it with numerous hot spring resorts, each offering unique bathing experiences.
Top Onsen Resorts:
- Noboribetsu Onsen: Known for its diverse mineral baths and scenic valley. The area is often referred to as “Hell Valley” due to the steam vents, sulfurous streams, and other volcanic activity.
- Jozankei Onsen: Located near Sapporo, ideal for a day trip. The hot springs here are set in a lush valley, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
- Toyako Onsen: Situated by Lake Toya, this resort offers stunning lake views alongside its relaxing baths.
Onsen Etiquette:
- Shower before entering the baths. Use the washing stations to thoroughly clean yourself before soaking.
- Enter the baths naked; swimsuits are not allowed. Onsen are traditionally enjoyed without clothing, ensuring the water remains clean.
- Keep your hair out of the water. Use a towel or hair tie to keep long hair from contaminating the baths.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking water before and after your soak can help prevent dehydration.
6. Discover Furano’s Lavender Fields
Furano is famous for its stunning lavender fields, which bloom in vibrant purple hues during the summer months. The fields are a photographer’s dream and provide a fragrant and serene atmosphere.
The most famous farm, Farm Tomita, offers panoramic views of the lavender fields with the Tokachi Mountain Range in the background.
Best Times to Visit:
- July to August: Peak bloom time for lavender. The fields are at their most vibrant, and the air is filled with the scent of lavender.
- Other Flowers: Visit in spring and autumn to see different seasonal blooms. Furano’s farms also grow poppies, lilies, and sunflowers, creating a tapestry of colors throughout the year.
Activities:
- Farm Tours: Learn about lavender cultivation and the farm’s history. Many farms offer guided tours that provide insight into the cultivation process and the various uses of lavender.
- Lavender Products: Shop for lavender-scented products, including essential oils, soaps, and sachets. These make perfect souvenirs or gifts.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Enjoy lavender-flavored treats such as ice cream, tea, and sweets.
7. Sample Hokkaido’s Culinary Delights
Hokkaido’s cuisine is a feast for the senses, known for its fresh seafood, dairy products, and unique local dishes.
Must-Try Foods:
- Seafood: Don’t miss the uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe). These delicacies are at their freshest and most flavorful in Hokkaido.
- Dairy Products: Sample Hokkaido’s famous cheeses and ice cream. The island’s dairy farms produce rich, creamy products that are beloved across Japan.
- Ramen: Try the rich and hearty miso ramen, especially in Sapporo. This variant of ramen features a savory broth made from fermented soybean paste, often topped with butter and corn.
- Jingisukan: A local dish of grilled lamb and vegetables, named after Genghis Khan. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for cold days.
Where to Eat:
- Sapporo Nijo Market: A bustling market where you can sample fresh seafood and other local specialties.
- Otaru’s Sankaku Market: Known for its morning catch and seafood breakfasts.
- Ramen Alley in Sapporo: A famous spot to taste different styles of ramen from various vendors.
8. Explore Otaru Canal and Historical Streets
Otaru, a charming port town, is known for its picturesque canal lined with historical buildings and warehouses. The town’s well-preserved architecture and romantic ambiance make it a popular destination for visitors.
Things to Do:
- Walking Tours: Stroll along the canal and explore the quaint streets. The canal is especially beautiful at dusk when the gas lamps are lit, casting a warm glow over the water.
- Shopping and Dining: Enjoy the local shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants. Otaru is famous for its glassware, music boxes, and delicious sushi.
- Historical Sites: Visit the Otaru Museum and old warehouses to learn about the town’s maritime history.
Points of Interest:
- Otaru Music Box Museum: Home to a vast collection of music boxes and a shop where you can create your own.
- LeTAO: A renowned dessert shop famous for its double fromage cheesecake.
- Otaru Sakaimachi Street: A charming shopping street with numerous boutiques and craft stores.
Hokkaido offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from thrilling outdoor activities to serene natural beauty and cultural festivals. Whether you’re skiing down Niseko’s powdery slopes or relaxing in a tranquil onsen, there’s something for everyone in this diverse region. Plan your stay at Ramat Niseko to ensure a comfortable and memorable Hokkaido adventure.