Hokkaido is Japan’s northern prefecture and home to a snowy paradise with brilliant natural features and welcoming cities and towns available in equal measure. Winter holidays are especially popular here, given all the snow and opportunities for skiing among resorts like Furano and Niseko. Additionally, you can embrace the season in the city of Sapporo thanks to the Sapporo Snow Festival held every year, though the city’s signature beer and ramen are available all year long.
If you plan on visiting during the summer, Hokkaido welcomes you to mildly warm weather that offers a satisfying reprieve from southern Japan’s humidity. These conditions make it suitable for hiking and exploring the various national parks in the region, such as Daisetsuzan National Park and Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu. If you find yourself near one of the coastal regions of Hokkaido, expect some of the best seafood in the country, including freshly caught crab and salmon.
Top destinations in Hokkaido
Where will you go next?
Niseko
Niseko is a village in the heart of Shiribeshi Subprefecture on the island of Hokkaido known for its scenic mountain range, ski resorts and outdoor adventure activities. The Niseko Annupuri Kokusai Ski Area and Niseko Moiwa Ski Resort offer lodges,...
Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido. It’s well known for ramen, beer, snow, and being home to some of Japan’s most spectacular festivals. The most impressive is the Sapporo Snow Festival, held annually in Odori Park with huge scenes and...
Sapporo, on the northern island of Hokkaido, is the 5th-largest city in Japan and packed with interesting things to do. A lot of historical attractions, as well as shopping malls and parks, are located in Sapporo, and draw many tourists in...
In a city as large and cosmopolitan as Sapporo, it really isn’t that hard to find good international food or traditional local cuisine. Variations, of course, abound and you’ll be able to pick and choose between pan-Asian, European, Japanese and...
As in most large Japanese cities, shopping malls are the most popular places to shop in Sapporo. You'll find all manner of goods inside, from souvenirs and bargains, to exclusive, designer goods. There's no such thing as a typical mall, however, and the...
Sapporo is known for its rich food culture and at its best markets you can find fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits from around Hokkaido. From famous restaurants that bring in the tourists to hidden gems where the locals dine, Sapporo...
10 Best Bars, Live Music, and Nightclubs in Sapporo
Many nightlife lovers see Sapporo as a more laid-back and relaxed destination than equivalent-sized cities in Japan. The main nightlife centre is Susukino – the largest north of Tokyo – with many 24-hour bars, restaurants, pubs. It's estimated there are more than 4,000 venues within this loosely-defined...
The best things to do after dinner in Sapporo include endless fun nightspots, especially in the entertainment district of Susukino. Make the most of your Sapporo nightlife by barhopping or dancing all night at a dance club. The night view...
Our Sapporo Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help you plan your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Japan. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from New Chitose Airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do...
Niseko
Sapporo
15 Best Things to Do in Sapporo
10 Most Recommended Ski Resorts in the Sapporo Area
5 Best Ski Resorts in Niseko
9 Places Where Locals Love to Go in Sapporo
8 Best Things to Do with Kids in Sapporo
10 Things to Do in Sapporo on a Small Budget
Niseko Ski Resort in Hokkaido
10 Best Road Trips from Sapporo
10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Sapporo
10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Sapporo
10 Best Local Dishes from Sapporo
10 Best Foodie Areas in Sapporo
10 Best Shopping Experiences in Sapporo
9 Best Markets in Sapporo
10 Best Bars, Live Music, and Nightclubs in Sapporo
9 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Sapporo
