Japan is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Asia. This is not surprising because the country is endowed with modern cities and beautiful islands. While many choose to go to Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka for a memorable vacation, you also need to consider visiting the island of Hokkaido if you are aiming at indulging in the ultimate vacation. The island is especially popular among ski lovers as it is known for its spectacular ski areas, not to mention snowboarding and ski resorts. Other accommodations, such as ryokans with onsens, are available as well. But Hokkaido is also known for its hot springs, volcanoes, and of course, parks, lakes, and rice terraces that contribute to the island’s natural beauty. You may find it hard to decide which attractions to visit because there are just too many. Read on to learn about the top things to do in Hokkaido, Japan.
Tip from Content Creator
Hokkaido really is the place for the ultimate vacation since it is full of onsen towns and villages. I recommend going in the fall because the colorful autumn landscape is really magical. I can’t wait to go back to Japan!
Is it your first time visiting Hokkaido? Read through Janice's guide here: https://wheresjanice.com/hokkaido-daisetsuzan-furano/
1. See the close-up view of the lava dome at Mt. Tarumae
Mt. Tarumae is a popular place to visit in Hokkaido for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the main attractions of this volcano is the close-up view of its lava dome, which can be seen from the summit. The hike to the top of the mountain takes around 2-3 hours and offers rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.
The trail is well-maintained but can be steep in places, so proper hiking gear is recommended. It’s a unique and thrilling experience to witness the power of nature in action. On clear days, hikers can also see the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
2. Indulge in snow activities at North Snow Land (from USD 3.99)
North Snow Land is a popular winter destination in Hokkaido, Japan. This snow park offers a range of activities to add to their Hokkaido itinerary, including sledding, snowmobiling, and snow tubing.
The park’s main attraction is its ski slopes, which cater to beginners and experienced skiers alike. North Snow Land also features a snow escalator, where visitors can easily ride up the hill. For those who prefer a slower pace, there are snowshoeing trails through the surrounding forests.
The park transforms into a winter wonderland at night, with the illuminated slopes and snow sculptures creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can warm up with hot drinks and food in the park’s cozy café.
Chitose North Snow Land Ticket
3. Tour the star-shaped Fort Goryokaku
Fort Goryokaku is not just a fort. It is a unique–probably the most unique–fort in Japan. Why? Because the Western-style fortress has the shape of a star, if you look from high above. Formerly a military fort during the Meiji period, it has now become a public park. Other than the shape of the star, the fort is also known as one of the most popular spots to enjoy the cherry blossoms. There are more than a thousand cherry blossom trees in the area of the forest alone. With that being said, the best time to visit Fort Goryokaku is around early May.
Fort Goryokaku
Address: 44 Goryokakucho, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0001, Japan
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
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4. Take in superb city views atop Mount Hakodate
Stand atop Mount Hakodate to take in the superb city and bay views of Hokkaido. Nestled at the southern end of the peninsula, Mount Hakodate is a wooded mountain that can be reached by bus or car. But, for the best experience, you may want to reach the mountain by ropeway. As soon as you get to the summit, you may want to go directly to the observation platform to marvel at those sweeping views. You can also view Mount Rokko in Kobe and Mount Inasa in Nagasaki from the observation platform. Good news is, you will not have to pay for anything to be on the observation platform.
Mount Hakodate
Address: Hakodate, Hokkaidō, Japan
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 780 JPY (7 USD)
5. Enjoy winter sports at Niseko Village
As mentioned briefly in the introductory paragraph, Hokkaido is loved by many ski lovers because of its winter activities and ski areas. One of the most popular towns in which you can have direct access to major ski centers is Niseko Village. Enjoy winter sports fun as you are skiing on the slopes of Mount Niseko-Annupuri. After, you can take pleasure in the hot spring bath, known as onsen. Niseko Village’s surrounding mountains are fully loaded with hot spring resorts. Just choose whichever you like.
Niseko Village
Address: 47, Aza Fujimi, Niseko-chō, Abuta-gun, Hokkaidō, Japan
Website: Niseko Village
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 4800 JPY (45 USD)
6. Take a sightseeing cruise around picturesque Lake Toya
Lake Toya, one of the most picturesque lakes in Japan, is a must-visit. It would be a loss to take in the beauty of the lake just by having a stroll near the lake. To enjoy the best of Lake Toya, you need to take a sightseeing cruise from Nakanoshima Cruise Pier that is located right behind Hotel Grand Toya. Indulge in the clear blue water, marvel at the surrounding hills, and just let yourself be one with nature for a while.
Lake Toya
Address: Iburi, Hokkaido, Japan
Website:Lake Toya cruise
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 1420 JPY (13 USD)
7. Visit the famous scenic spots of Muroran
Nestled along the Pacific Ocean, Muroran is a port and an industrial city that offers a myriad of scenic spots. For example, you can enjoy surfing or sunbathing on Itanki Beach, which is known for its blue water and soft sands. You should also make a quick stop at Cape Chikyu that features a lighthouse and a lake. Finally, you cannot miss Hakuco Bridge, a suspension bridge that has opened since 1998. Do not forget to look around you when you are crossing the bridge as you are surrounded by the beauty of the sea.
Muroran
Address: 1-2 Saiwaichō, Muroran-shi, Hokkaidō, Japan
8. Have a thermal foot bath in Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Do not worry about this attraction in Hokkaido. Although it is called Hell Valley in English, this valley simply offers a place where you can indulge in natural foot bath for free. Situated right above the town of Noboribetsu Onsen, Jigokudani offers a crater that is filled with sulfuric hot springs along with other volcanic activities. Jigokudani is the main source for the hot spring waters in Noboribetsu. While you are enjoying your thermal foot bath, you can also admire the attractive views of the surrounding wooded hills.
Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Address: Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Explore Lake Shikotsu
Set just one hour’s drive away from Sapporo City, Lake Shikotsu offers not only spectacular views but also a unique underwater experience. Revel in the beauty of nature offered by Lake Shikotsu by boarding a sightseeing boat which has a bottom part is made of glass. You will be amazed at how transparent the water of the second deepest lake in Japan really is.
Lake Shikotsu
Address: Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Lake Shikotsu
Opening hours: 10am - 3pm (daily)
Price: 1000 JPY (9 USD)
10. See horses up-close at Northern Horse Park
Who does not love horses? This animal is incredibly strong that we have such a deep admiration towards it. Whether you are fond of horses or not, you can have a good time at Northern Horse Park, a leading theme park in Japan with only one main focus: horses. Featuring more than 80 horses of 12 different breeds, Northern Horse Park lets you interact, experience, and play with the horses, including ponies and retired race horses. While having fun with the horses, you can also appreciate the beauty of nature throughout the ranch.
Northern Horse Park
Address: 114-7 Misawa, Tomakomai, Hokkaido 059-1361, Japan
Website: Northern Horse Park
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 800 JPY (7 USD)
11. Have a picnic by the flower beds of Odori Park
Japan is a country with a myriad of parks and they are all astonishing. Hokkaido’s is no different. Take Odori Park as an example. The park has successfully attracted tourists from all over the world because of its flower beds and fountains that are very pleasing to they eyes and soul. A lot of Japanese people like to have a picnic or simply take a relaxing stroll around the park. The park is also known for its seasonal festivals throughout the year, like the Lilac Festival in spring and the Soran Festival during summer time.
Odori Park
Address: 7 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
12. See spectacular ice sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival
Just like Harbin in China, Hokkaido in Japan also regularly hosts a snow festival called the Sapporo Snow Festival. The festival is held annually for approximately one week in between the end of January and the beginning of February. A lot of tourists from all over Japan and across the globe come to the snow festival to admire the spectacular snow and ice sculptures. There are also concerts and events that are performed on a sculptured stage. Don’t forget to bundle up because it is going to be extremely cold with only snow and ice around you.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Address: Sapporo, Japan
Opening hours: 8:30am - 10:30pm (one week every February)
Price: 720 JPY (7 USD)
13. Take a sunset cable car ride up Mount Moiwa
Presenting scenic views of the southwestern part of Sapporo, the forested mountain of Mount Moiwa is worth visiting. From its summit, you can enjoy an observation deck that overlooks the whole city. Of course, the most stunning view of the city is when the sun goes down. That is why you need to take a sunset cable car ride to get to the summit during sunset time.
Mount Moiwa
Address: Central Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Mount Moiwa
Opening hours: 10:30am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 600 JPY (6 USD)
14. Stroll along Otaru Canal
Breathe in the ancient but at the same time romantic vibes as soon as you set foot at Otaru Canal. The historic canal was built to be a means of boat shipping to Hokkaido. But now, the canal has become one of the major attractions. Indulge in a pleasant and relaxing stroll along the canal at anytime of the day. If you are aiming at the most romantic atmosphere, you better visit the canal in the evening when the gas lamps start to get lit. You can also take a boat ride along the canal. What is more, Otaru Canal is fully packed with a myriad of restaurants and shops.
Otaru Canal
Address: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan
Website: Otaru Canal
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Run through the sunflower fields of Himawari no Sato
One single sunflower has the ability to bring joy to your life. What if there are thousands of them? What will you feel then? Run through the sunflower fields of Himawari no Sato to experience something beyond joy, something that cannot be described. Himawari no Sato is not just a sunflower garden, it is the biggest sunflower garden in Japan. Of course, there is no doubt that the best time to visit Himawari no Sato is on a fine summer day.
Himawari no Sato
Address: 078-2511 Hokkaido, Uryu District, Hokuryu, Japan
Website: Himawari no Sato
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
16. Catch sightings of playful seals at Senhoshimisaki Park
Get the chance to see adorable seals up-close. If you want to catch sightings of this playful creature, you must make a stop at Senhoshimisaki Park, which is known for its unusual rocks that were naturally formed through the lava flow from the eruption of Mount Rishiri a long time ago. Moreover, the park also features numerous natural tide pools and in one of this pool lives all the seals. You can play with and feed the seals. But, you will not be able to spot the seals when the waves are high so be mindful of the weather before visiting the park.
Senhoshimisaki Park
Address: Misaki Senhoshi, Rishiri, Rishiri District, Hokkaido 097-0311, Japan
Website: Senhoshimisaki Park
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5:15pm (daily)
Price: 500 JPY (5 USD)
17. Trek around Rebun Island, the 'island of flowers'
Escape to Rebun Island and trek the whole island to enjoy a memorable nature retreat. Rebun Island is called the island of flowers not without reasons. Featuring a lot of alpine flowers and other flora species, Rebun Island is best visited between June and August when all the flowers are blooming. You can admire the colorful flowers by following through either the walking trails or the hiking trails.
Rebun Island
Address: Rebun Island, Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Rebun Island
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 3000 JPY (28 USD)
18. Discover the quirky monuments dotting Cape Soya
Situated on the most northern part of Hokkaido, Cape Soya offers more than a dozen monuments. All the monuments are uniquely beautiful and if possible, you are recommended to explore all of them. But if you are short on time, you may want to stop by a monument called Tower of Prayer that is located on the top of the cape. The monument was built as a reminder of the cold war era. Another interesting monument is Akebono that displays a female and a male embracing each other to celebrate the dairy agriculture of Hokkaido.
Cape Soya
Address: Soyamisaki, Wakkanai, Hokkaido 098-6758, Japan
Website: Cape Soya
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
19. See exotic winter animals at Asahiyama Zoo
It is your time to meet all the endearing animals in Japan by making a stop at Asahiyama Zoo. While the zoo features diverse native wildlife from Hokkaido such as wolves and cranes as well as animals from around the globe like big cats and polar bears, there is one highly popular attraction that you do not want to miss: the Penguin Walk. Through this event, you can observe the penguins walking live from a very close range. This event is usually held between December and mid-March.
Asahiyama Zoo
Address: Kuranuma Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8205, Japan
Website: Asahiyama Zoo
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5:15pm (daily)
Price: 4290 JPY (40 USD)
20. Hike through Daisetsuzan National Park
Being the largest national park in Japan, Daisetsuzan National Park offers the pristine wilderness that cannot be found elsewhere. Hike through the wilderness and let yourself be lost in the paradise of nature. Appreciate the unspoiled nature by hiking Mount Kurodake, one of the easiest peaks in the park. You may also want to relax your muscles at Kogen Onsen.
Daisetsuzan National Park
Address: 078-1701 Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Daisetsuzan National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 1000 JPY (9 USD)
21. Witness the serene turquoise waters of Shirogane Blue Pond
The waters of Shirogane Blue Pond have the most breathtaking color, which is the turquoise color. This beautiful deep turquoise color is a result of minerals dissolved in the water. You can simply enjoy the serenity of the pond by taking a stroll beside it. Whether it is a 10-minute or a 30-minute walk, you will want to come back to this place again just to see the beautiful turquoise waters.
Shirogane Blue Pond
Address: Shirogane, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan
22. Be awed by the lavender fields at Farm Tomita (from USD 46.0)
You have seen a park loaded with sunflowers, and a lake with rich turquoise waters, and now you are going to enjoy another beautiful park in Hokkaido. Visit Farm Tomita and you will be presented with vast lavender fields. The views of these lavender fields are just unbelievable. You need to visit the place to understand what we are talking about. Other than the lavender fields, you can also expect to see flower gardens that are just as beautiful.
Farm Tomita
Address: 15 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan
Website: Farm Tomita
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
byFood Experience
Photogenic Lavender Garden and Cherry Picking Tour
Explore the picturesque town of Minamifurano on this Photogenic Lavender Garden and Cherry Picking Tour. Immerse yourself in the sweet scent and vibrant hues of the lakeside lavender garden at Lake Kanayama. Then, go on to indulge in all-you-can-eat cherry picking at a nearby orchard, a delightful experience for fruit enthusiasts. Don’t forget to take cute pictures for your social media feed. Then, you can recharge at a quaint log cabin hotel for lunch, adding to the rustic charm of your journey.
Photogenic Lavender Garden and Cherry Picking Tour
Duration: 9hours
23. Take a dreamy walk among the clouds at Unkai Terrace
When you were a little child, did you ever wonder what it feels like to be in between the clouds? You could feel how fluffy and soft the clouds are. Wonder no more because you can have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take a dreamy cloud walk at Unkai Terrace. Also known as the place above the sky at 1,088 meters (3,570 ft), you can wander around the sea of clouds. A short ropeway ride will bring you to the deck to witness one of the most incredible beauties on Earth.
Unkai Terrace
Address: Nakatomamu, Shimukappu, Yufutsu District, Hokkaido 079-2204, Japan
Website: Unkai Terrace
Opening hours: 5am - 8am (daily)
Price: 1900 JPY (18 USD)
24. Catch a glimpse of the 'phantom' Taushubetsu Bridge
You may be curious why this bridge is called the phantom bridge. Can a bridge disappear? It is indeed possible in Hokkaido. Catch a glimpse of the phantom Taushubestu Bridge. You may see the bridge perfectly from top to bottom today, but some other day it may be a completely different story. This case is particularly true around June every year because during that period, the water level of the lake rises, thanks to the melting snow and the rainfall, making the bridge completely disappear.
Taushubetsu Bridge
Address: Nukabiragensenkyo, Kamishihoro, Kato District, Hokkaido 080-1403, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
25. Go birdwatching in the magnificent Kushiro Marsh Observatory
Birds are such beautiful and fragile creatures that just by watching them fly, you will be sidetracked and stop whatever it is you are doing to completely focus your attention to them. Hokkaido has the perfect place where you can go birdwatching. Find your way to an observatory deck called Kushiro Marsh Observatory where you can enjoy seeing songbirds, cranes, and herons.
Kushiro Marsh Observatory
Address: 6-11 Hokuto, Kushiro, Hokkaido 084-0922, Japan
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 470 JPY (4 USD)
26. Admire the crimson colors of Lake Notoro
In Hokkaido, you can admire the striking crimson colors of Lake Notoro, the 13th largest lake in Japan. The lake is famous for its coral grass that display the pretty crimson colors. The best time to visit Lake Notoro is in September when this special sea plant species is in full blossom. With the blue lake as the backdrop, Lake Notoro is just picture-perfect.
Lake Notoro
Address: Hokkaido, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
27. Discover the unusual moss balls of Lake Akan
There are so many unique things that you can only find in Japan. This attraction offers another unique thing that can rarely be found elsewhere. Visit Lake Akan to discover the unusual moss balls. Did you know what these moss balls actually are? Moss balls is a species of filamentous green algae that grow into large but cute green balls. The balls can grow as big as the size of a soccer ball–a truly fantastic phenomenon.
Lake Akan
Address: Hokkaido, Japan
28. Gaze into the clearest lake in Japan, Lake Mashu
What about Lake Mashu? What makes this lake different from the other lakes? The answer lies on the water of the lake. When you gaze into the lake, you will understand what we are talking about. The water is extremely clear that Lake Mashu is claimed to be the clearest lake in Japan, and among the clearest in the world. If you do not believe us, you have to go and see for yourself.
Lake Mashu
Address: Hokkaido, Japan
Website: Lake Mashu
29. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around Shiretoko Five Lakes
Just like the name says, Shiretoko Five Lakes boasts a set of five small lakes that are to be enjoyed by each and every visitor. All lakes are equally beautiful and worth admiring. The five small lakes have existed for a long time after the eruption of the nearby Mountain Io took place. The lake was then fed by the underground springs. The results are those small lakes. The best way to enjoy the lakes is by enjoying a tranquil stroll along an 800-meter (875-yard) long wooden boardwalk. Take your time, there is no need to rush.
Shiretoko Five Lakes
Address: Hokkaido, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 250 JPY (2 USD)
30. Bathe in the warm waters of Kamuiwakkayu Falls
Bathing in the warm waters of Kamuiwakkayu Falls is superb, especially when your body is tired and your muscles are complaining after a day of adventure in Hokkaido. You may want to stop for a while and enjoy the one and only Kamuiwakkayu Falls. An outdoor onsen experience is completely yours to enjoy as soon as you reach the waterfalls. Where do the waterfalls get their warm waters? It is all nature’s work. It is what you will get when an active volcano meets a river–fresh water and hot spring water that comes from Mount Lozan. To enjoy the outdoor onsen, you may want to avoid going in the months of November to June because the place is usually closed because of heavy snow.
Kamuiwakkayu Falls
Address: Onnebetsumura, Shari, Shari District, Hokkaido 099-4356, Japan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
31. Discover Shiretoko's famous drift ice phenomenon
Last but not least, it would be interesting to discover Shiretoko’s famous drift ice phenomenon. When the heat strikes in Hokkaido, you may want to look for a cold place to cool off. There is no place better than Shiretoko Rausu that will give you an unforgettable experience of boarding a modern vessel. This vessel will break through the ice into pieces–you do not want to miss this superb experience. If you are lucky during summertime you can meet the orcas, sperm whales, and other marine species. When you are on the vessel, be sure to have a look-around to see the incredible natural landscapes.
Shiretoko Rausu Summer Drift Ice Watching in Hokkaido, Japan - Klook
Duration: 2hrs30 Min Duration
32. Experience the magic of Lake Shikaribetsu in winter (from USD 46.0)
Experience the magical Ice Village Twilight Tour on Lake Shikaribetsu. Marvel at the ephemeral ice village, a winter wonder set against the serene lake. To have a unique keepsake, craft your own ice drinking glass for a nominal fee. When the chill becomes too much, you can relax in the soothing embrace of an onsen (hot spring) or take a warm foot bath. A complimentary drink at the Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan Ice Cafe is included in the itinerary.
The tour concludes with a warm, locally sourced meal in Shikaoi Town, a testament to Hokkaido’s culinary richness. This immersive journey combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and gastronomic delights, offering an unforgettable winter adventure.
Ice Village Twilight Tour on Frozen Lake Shikaribetsu
Duration: 3.5hours
33. Explore the morning market and enjoy a barbecue (from USD 171.0)
Indulge in Hokkaido’s culinary treasures with the Morning Market and Fresh Seafood Barbecue experience. Begin at Ishikari Harbor Morning Market, renowned for its daily catch. After a fruitful 40-minute shopping spree, venture to a local farm for additional ingredients for the barbecue. At Michi no Eki Ishikari, you can enjoy the barbecue feast including premium pork and seafood. Then, visit the esteemed Milk Garden dairy farm for a taste of Hokkaido’s beloved soft-serve ice cream.
This immersive journey offers a hands-on harvest experience with the help of a knowledgeable guide and comprehensive insurance for a seamless adventure.
Morning Market and Fresh Seafood BBQ in Hokkaido
Duration: 7hours
34. Learn to make soba noodles (from USD 82.0)
Immerse yourself in Japanese culinary tradition with this Soba Making and Tempura Lunch experience in Sapporo. Learn the art of handcrafting soba noodles, a beloved staple made from buckwheat flour cherished for their delicate texture and distinct taste. The noodles are served in a warm broth or a cool dip.
Then, go on to taste the noodles you just made along with a delectable tempura lunch, expertly prepared by the skilled chefs from Mondo restaurant. Enjoy the convenience of door-to-door transport, ensuring a hassle-free adventure.
Soba Making and Tempura Lunch in Sapporo
Duration: 4hours
Prepare to be stunned by the awesomeness of Hokkaido
The next time you are in Japan, be sure to choose Hokkaido. Because after reading through the article, how can you say no to all those amazing attractions and awesome things to do? Prepare yourself because you are going to be stunned by the awesomeness of Hokkaido, Japan right away.
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