Hokkaidō
is Japan's wild north
Welcome to Hokkaidō
Hokkaidō (北海道) defies the image of Japan as a crowded nation. It's a different world up here, or at least it feels like it, with 20% of Japan's land area but only 5% of its population. Japanese identify this northern land with its wildlife and mountains, greenery and agriculture, snowy winters, temperate summers and arrow-straight roads disappearing into the horizon... Read More
Top experiences in Hokkaidō
Sights in Hokkaidō
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When the snow stops falling: the lesser-known pleasures of Hokkaidō
In the past two decades, resorts like Niseko have made their way onto the shortlist of top ski and snowboarding destinations in Asia thanks to the presence of consistent, world-class powder. Yet this emphasis sells the rest of the island short: there’s plenty to enjoy when the snow isn’t falling, and now, with the new Hokkaidō shinkansen (bullet train) connecting Tokyo to the southern port of Hakodate, getting there has never been easier.
Hokkaidō road trip: exploring Japan's wild north
View from a highway rest stop in Memuro, central Hokkaidō © Junichi Miyazaki / Lonely Planet
Best things to do in summer in Japan
The Akita Kantō Matsuri (Pole Lantern Festival). Image by Rosino / CC BY-SA 2.0
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Hokkaidō adventures
Winter Festivals of Japan
This 13-day trip joins together two Japan winter tours to create one unforgettable experience that covers some of the major winter events this country has to offer. From the famous onsen hot springs throughout Japan that make the country so inviting in winter, to the free time to discover new and historical districts in Tokyo and Kyoto, to the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Otaru Light Festival in Hokkaido, this tour is the best answer for anyone looking for a different sort of adventure.
Hokkaido Winter Festivals
This quick five-day trip to the famous Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the most unique specifically-winter tours we offer. Explore the celebrated snow and ice sculptures created for this amazing event (held yearly since 1950), visit a light festival in the coastal town of Otaru, hike to see the geysers in Jigokudani, and opt to enjoy hot springs with a stay in Noboribetsu. Opt to stick around post-tour and take advantage of the chance to ski in winter-perfect Hokkaido. This tour is the ideal add-on to any winter travel in this part of the world.
Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo Including Hoheikyo Onsen and Lunch
This half-day mountain bike tour, perfect for beginners, rewards you with a soak at Hoheikyo Onsen. After a 1.5-hour ride along an easy, paved path through the ‘onsen’ (hot spring) town of Jozankei for a snack, you’ll delight in the pure waters of Hoheikyo's outdoor baths, followed by a curry lunch that's popular among locals. Round-trip transport is included from Sapporo. Numbers are limited to 10 on this small-group tour, ensuring a personalized experience with your expert guide.
Lake Shikotsu Mountain Bike Tour from Sapporo
Explore Hokkaido’s Lake Shikotsu by mountain bike with an expert guide. You’ll depart along the Chitose River and then ride through the woods to the tranquil caldera lake, enjoying breathtaking views of neighboring mountain peaks as you pedal. Take a break during the moderate, 5-hour ride to purchase your own lunch at your choice of lakeside restaurants. Round-trip transport is available from the Sapporo train station, a nearby hotel or New Chitose Airport. Numbers are limited to 10 on this small-group tour, ensuring a personalized experience.
Ice Fishing on Barato River from Sapporo
Participate in one of Hokkaido’s most popular winter activities: ice fishing for smelt on the frozen Barato River. This seasonal half-day tour includes a fishing guide who provides your equipment (just bring your winter clothes) and then prepares your catch into tasty tempura. After a restaurant lunch (morning tour only) you have the option to be dropped off at a nearby onsen (hot spring) or return to Sapporo station by coach.