Hokkaido, Japan Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, famed for its seasonal wonders, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures.

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and seasonal wonders. Known for its stunning landscapes, Hokkaido offers a serene escape from the bustling cities of mainland Japan. Visitors are greeted by expansive fields of flowers, majestic mountains, and pristine lakes. During winter, the island transforms into a snowy paradise, making it a top destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The famous Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually, showcases incredible ice sculptures and attracts tourists from around the world. Hokkaido is also a haven for food lovers. The island is renowned for its fresh seafood, delectable dairy products, and local delicacies such as miso ramen and jingisukan (grilled mutton). The local markets, like Sapporo's Nijo Market, offer a feast for the senses with their vibrant displays of seasonal produce and freshly caught fish. Cultural experiences abound in Hokkaido. The indigenous Ainu culture is an integral part of the island’s heritage, and visitors can learn about their traditions and history at museums and cultural centers. Hot springs, or onsen, are another highlight, providing a relaxing way to soak in the island’s natural mineral waters amidst scenic surroundings. Whether you're exploring the flower fields of Furano, hiking through the rugged terrain of Daisetsuzan National Park, or soaking in the hot springs of Noboribetsu, Hokkaido promises an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hokkaido.

Visit the Sapporo Snow Festival in February to see stunning ice sculptures and enjoy winter activities.
Try the local seafood, especially at Hakodate Morning Market and Otaru's Sankaku Market.
Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace, as public transportation can be limited in rural areas.
Don't miss the flower fields in Furano and Biei during summer for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Experience the Ainu culture by visiting museums and cultural centers dedicated to this indigenous group.
Make time to soak in one of Hokkaido's many onsen for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Dress warmly if visiting in winter, as temperatures can drop significantly and snowfall is heavy.

Explore Hokkaido: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Hokkaido

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Asahiyama Zoo

Explore Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido's premier wildlife park, where innovation meets conservation for an unforgettable animal experience.

4.5

Sapporo TV Tower

Discover stunning views and rich culture at Sapporo TV Tower, a must-visit observation deck in the heart of Hokkaido's capital.

4.1

Panoramic Flower Gardens Shikisai-no-oka

Discover the breathtaking floral landscapes of Shikisai-no-oka in Biei, Hokkaido, where vibrant blooms meet stunning natural beauty in every season.

4.2

Goryōkaku Tower

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Goryōkaku Tower, Hakodate's iconic observation deck and cultural landmark.

4.3

Best landmarks in Hokkaido

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Sapporo TV Tower

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Sapporo and the surrounding landscapes at the iconic Sapporo TV Tower, a must-visit destination in Hokkaido.

4.1

Cape Sōya

Discover Cape Sōya, Japan's northernmost point, where stunning sea views meet rich cultural history in breathtaking Hokkaido.

4.4

Cape Chikyu

Discover the awe-inspiring views of Cape Chikyu, a premier observation deck in Muroran, Hokkaido, where nature's beauty unfolds before your eyes.

4.2

Kanno Farm

Discover the charm of Kanno Farm in Hokkaido, where fresh produce and delectable ice cream create unforgettable experiences in nature.

4.1

Best restaurants in Hokkaido

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Yuiga Doxon

Discover the authentic taste of Japanese curry at Yuiga Doxon in Furano, Hokkaido – where every bite is a delightful experience.

4.1

Oshokuji to Goenkai no Mise Kumagera

Experience authentic Hokkaido flavors at Oshokuji to Goenkai no Mise Kumagera, a top-rated Japanese regional restaurant in Furano.

4.1

Hakodate Uni Murakami Nippon Life Sapporo Building Store

Discover exquisite seafood dining at Hakodate Uni Murakami in Sapporo - where every dish tells a story of Hokkaido's ocean bounty.

4.2

Umi Hachikyo

Discover Sapporo's finest seafood at Umi Hachikyo - an izakaya offering authentic Japanese flavors with fresh catches from Hokkaido.

4.2

Best bars in Hokkaido

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THE NIKKA BAR

Experience the essence of Japanese whiskey culture at The Nikka Bar in Sapporo, where every sip tells a story.

4.4

Beer Bar NORTH ISLAND

Dive into Sapporo's craft beer scene at Beer Bar NORTH ISLAND, where local brews and stunning city views create an unforgettable experience.

4.3

The Long Bar

Experience Sapporo's nightlife at The Long Bar, where crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you in the heart of the city.

3.9

Flair bar es

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Sapporo at Flair Bar es, where delicious steaks and cocktails meet entertainment in an electrifying atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Hokkaido

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UTAGE SAPPORO

Unleash your inner party animal at UTAGE SAPPORO, the ultimate night club destination in Hokkaido's capital, enriching your travel experience with unforgettable nights.

2.5

Precious Hall

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Sapporo at Precious Hall, a premier night club offering music, dance, and unforgettable experiences.

4.6

Riviera Sapporo

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Sapporo at Riviera Sapporo, the ultimate night club and karaoke destination for an unforgettable experience.

3.5

D-mode Sapporo

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Sapporo at D-mode, where music and dance create an unforgettable experience in Japan's vibrant capital.

4.4

Best shops in Hokkaido

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JR Tower

Explore JR Tower in Sapporo: A shopping haven with stunning views and diverse dining experiences.

4.1

Tanukikoji Shopping Street

Discover the lively Tanukikoji Shopping Street in Sapporo, where shopping, dining, and culture meet in a delightful experience.

4.1

Daimaru Sapporo

Explore the vibrant shopping scene at Daimaru Sapporo, where local flavors meet international fashion in the heart of Hokkaido.

4.0

Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima

Discover unbeatable deals and a fantastic shopping experience at Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo-Kitahiroshima, your go-to outlet destination in Hokkaido.

4.0

Explore Hokkaido on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Hokkaido, mapped for you.

Hokkaido Essentials

Hokkaido is accessible by air, sea, and rail. The main airport is New Chitose Airport (CTS) near Sapporo, which handles both international and domestic flights. Alternative airports include Hakodate Airport (HKD) and Asahikawa Airport (AKJ). For those traveling from Tokyo, the JR Hokkaido Shinkansen offers a high-speed rail option. Ferries also connect Hokkaido to the main islands of Honshu and Kyushu, with services operating from ports like Oarai in Ibaraki Prefecture to Tomakomai in Hokkaido.
Hokkaido boasts an efficient public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. The JR Hokkaido Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, making it a convenient option for tourists. Local buses and trams are available in cities like Sapporo and Hakodate. Renting a car is also popular for exploring rural areas and national parks. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive for long distances.
The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but cash is still commonly used, especially in rural areas and small establishments. ATMs that accept international cards are available in major cities, convenience stores, and post offices. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and emergencies.
Hokkaido is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is recommended to take standard precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always wise.
In case of emergency, dial 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance. Most emergency personnel speak some English, but it is useful to know basic phrases in Japanese. Major cities like Sapporo have hospitals with English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies (薬局 'yakkyoku') are widely available.
Fashion: Do dress modestly and avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Layers are essential due to Hokkaido's variable weather. Religion: Do respect local customs and remove shoes when entering temples and shrines. Public Transport: Do be quiet and polite on public transport. Don’t talk loudly or eat and drink on trains and buses. Greetings: Do bow slightly as a sign of respect when greeting. Handshakes are less common but acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like seafood and ramen. Don’t tip; it is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude.
To experience Hokkaido like a local, visit onsen (hot springs) and try local foods at traditional izakayas (pubs). Participate in seasonal festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival in winter or the Yosakoi Soran Festival in summer. Explore local markets such as Sapporo's Nijo Market for fresh seafood. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore smaller towns and scenic areas. Engaging with locals can provide unique insights into Hokkaido's culture and lifestyle.

When is the best time to visit Hokkaido?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Hokkaido

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Hokkaido. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloこんにちは
  [Konnichiwa]
- Goodbyeさようなら
  [Sayōnara]
- Yesはい
  [Hai]
- Noいいえ
  [Iie]
- Please/You're welcomeお願いします
  [Onegaishimasu]
- Thank youありがとう
  [Arigatou]
- Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [Sumimasen]
- How are you?お元気ですか？
  [Ogenki desu ka?]
- Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [Genki desu. Anata wa?]
- Do you speak English?英語を話せますか？
  [Eigo o hanasemasu ka?]
- I don't understandわかりません
  [Wakarimasen]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [Menyū o misete kudasai]
- I don't eat meat肉は食べません
  [Niku wa tabemasen]
- Cheers!乾杯！
  [Kanpai!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [Okaikei o onegaishimasu]
- Help!助けて！
  [Tasukete!]
- Go away!どいて！
  [Doite!]
- Call the Police!警察を呼んで！
  [Keisatsu o yonde!]
- Call a doctor!医者を呼んで！
  [Isha o yonde!]
- I'm lost迷いました
  [Mayoimashita]
- I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [Guai ga warui desu]
- I'd like to buy...…を買いたいです
  [… o kaitai desu]
- I'm just looking見ているだけです
  [Mite iru dake desu]
- How much is it?これはいくらですか？
  [Kore wa ikura desu ka?]
- That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [Sore wa takasugimasu]
- Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [Nedan o sagete moraemasu ka?]
- What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [Ima nanji desu ka?]
- It's one o'clock今1時です
  [Ima ichi-ji desu]
- Half past (10)10時半です
  [Jū-ji han desu]
- Morning朝
  [Asa]
- Afternoon午後
  [Gogo]
- Evening夕方
  [Yūgata]
- Yesterday昨日
  [Kinō]
- Today今日
  [Kyō]
- Tomorrow明日
  [Ashita]
- 11
  [Ichi]
- 22
  [Ni]
- 33
  [San]
- 44
  [Shi]
- 55
  [Go]
- 66
  [Roku]
- 77
  [Nana]
- 88
  [Hachi]
- 99
  [Kyū]
- 1010
  [Jū]
- Where's a/the...?…はどこですか？
  [… wa doko desu ka?]
- What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [Jūsho wa nan desu ka?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [Chizu de misete moraemasu ka?]
- When's the next (bus)?次のバスはいつですか？
  [Tsugi no basu wa itsu desu ka?]
- A ticket (to ....)…へのチケット
  [… e no chiketto]

History of Hokkaido

Hokkaido's early history dates back to the Jomon period (14,000–300 BCE), characterized by its cord-marked pottery. Archaeological discoveries suggest that the Jomon people were hunters, gatherers, and fishers, living in pit dwellings and using sophisticated tools and pottery. The island's rich natural resources provided a bounty for these early inhabitants, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.
The Ainu are the indigenous people of Hokkaido, with a distinct language, culture, and spiritual beliefs centered around nature. The Ainu culture thrived until the Japanese colonization in the 19th century. Traditional Ainu crafts, music, and dances are still celebrated today, particularly in museums and cultural centers such as the Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum and the Ainu Museum in Shiraoi.
The Matsumae clan established the first Japanese settlement in Hokkaido in the early 17th century during the Edo period. They built Matsumae Castle, which served as a crucial trading point and defense against foreign incursions. The castle town of Matsumae became a melting pot of Japanese and Ainu cultures, fostering trade and cultural exchange.
During the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, the Japanese government initiated a large-scale colonization of Hokkaido to strengthen its frontier against potential Russian expansion. The Hokkaido Development Commission was established in 1869, leading to significant agricultural and industrial development. Settlers from mainland Japan transformed the landscape, introducing modern farming techniques and establishing infrastructure.
Hokkaido's development was significantly influenced by foreign expertise during the Meiji Era. American agricultural expert William S. Clark played a pivotal role in establishing Sapporo Agricultural College (now Hokkaido University) in 1876, promoting Western agricultural practices. Other foreign advisors contributed to the introduction of new technologies and industries, shaping Hokkaido into a unique blend of Japanese and Western cultures.
During World War II, Hokkaido played a strategic role due to its proximity to Russia and the northern Pacific. The island saw the construction of military bases and fortifications. Post-war, Hokkaido experienced economic difficulties and food shortages, but it quickly recovered and resumed its development trajectory.
In recent decades, Hokkaido has become a major tourist destination, renowned for its natural beauty, ski resorts, and hot springs. The island's unique culture, including Ainu traditions, continues to be celebrated and preserved. Events such as the Sapporo Snow Festival attract millions of visitors annually, showcasing the island's vibrant culture and history.