Hokkaido

Sapporo Chuo is the vibrant heart of Hokkaido’s capital city, featuring major landmarks like Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower, and the city’s administrative core. It’s a balanced fusion of bustling commercial avenues, seasonal events such as the world-renowned Snow Festival, and accessible green spaces. This district is also home to underground shopping malls, local cuisine hubs, art galleries, and museums, making it a dynamic cultural and civic center throughout the year.

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful winter scenery, world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival, and delicious cuisine like miso ramen and fresh seafood. Attractions like Odori Park, the Sapporo Clock Tower, and Mount Moiwa offer unique experiences throughout the seasons. In winter, the city transforms into a snowy wonderland, drawing skiers and snow lovers from around the globe. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife scene in Susukino and a deep connection to beer culture, with the Sapporo Beer Museum being a must-visit.

Hakodate is a historic port city in southern Hokkaido, renowned for its night view from Mount Hakodate, which is considered one of the best in the world. The city offers a blend of Japanese and Western influences, evident in places like the Motomachi district and the red-brick warehouses. Hakodate Morning Market is a foodie paradise offering fresh seafood such as uni and squid. The Goryokaku Fort and Tower present a star-shaped glimpse into the city’s samurai-era history. Hakodate’s hot springs and seasonal cherry blossoms add to its year-round appeal.

Otaru is a picturesque harbor city along Hokkaido’s western coast, famous for its romantic canals, historical architecture, and delicious sweets. The Otaru Canal, lined with gas lamps and old stone warehouses, is especially magical at dusk and during the Snow Light Path Festival. The city is also known for its glassware craftsmanship and music box museum. Sakaimachi Street offers a delightful walk through shops selling handmade crafts, seafood, and desserts. With easy access from Sapporo, Otaru is a perfect day-trip destination offering a nostalgic and charming atmosphere.

Asahikawa, located in central Hokkaido, is the island’s second-largest city and a gateway to the Daisetsuzan National Park. It is home to the popular Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its innovative animal enclosures that allow close-up views of penguins, polar bears, and seals. The city also offers access to nearby ski resorts and hot springs, making it ideal for winter sports and relaxation. Asahikawa’s local ramen, featuring a rich soy sauce-based broth, is a must-try. Cultural attractions such as the Asahikawa Museum of Art and Tokiwa Park enhance the city's appeal.

Muroran is a coastal city located in southwestern Hokkaido, known for its scenic cliffs, industrial beauty, and panoramic ocean views. The city’s most iconic spot is Cape Chikyu, where visitors can gaze out over the vast Pacific Ocean from dramatic cliffside vistas. Muroran is also home to unique night views from the Muroran Factory Area, blending lights and sea into an industrial art scene. The city has a rich history in steel manufacturing and is known for its local specialty: curry ramen. Visitors can also enjoy natural hot springs and nearby hiking trails.

Kushiro, located in eastern Hokkaido, is famed for its wetlands, fresh seafood, and romantic sunsets over the Kushiro River. The Kushiro Shitsugen (Wetlands) is Japan’s largest marshland, home to rare wildlife such as the red-crowned crane. Visitors can explore this protected area by boardwalks, trains, and observation towers. The Washo Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers, offering the unique “katte-don,” a DIY seafood rice bowl. In the evening, the riverside comes alive with warm colors, making the city's sunsets one of the most beautiful in Japan.

Obihiro, located in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, is known for its agricultural richness, delicious local foods, and unique culture. It’s the birthplace of butadon (pork rice bowl), a local specialty that's a must-try for food lovers. Obihiro also features the exciting world of Ban’ei horse racing, where large draft horses race while pulling heavy sleds. The city is surrounded by fertile fields and is a hub for Tokachi’s renowned dairy products, sweets, and wine. Midwinter brings stunning snow-covered landscapes, while nearby hot springs offer relaxation year-round.

Kitami, situated in northeastern Hokkaido, is a city surrounded by vast plains and forests, well known for its mint production, winter festivals, and warm-hearted community. Kitami once produced the majority of Japan’s mint and now celebrates this history at the Kitami Mint Memorial Museum. The city experiences some of the coldest temperatures in Japan, making it a great spot for winter events such as the Kitami Winter Festival, featuring illuminations and ice sculptures. It is also a gateway to nearby hot spring areas like Onneyu Onsen, and a base for exploring the Okhotsk region.

Yubari is a small city in central Hokkaido, once thriving as a coal mining town and now known for its famous Yubari Melons, cultural heritage, and nostalgic scenery. Though its population has declined, Yubari retains charm through its retro streets and seasonal festivals. The Yubari International Fantastic Film Festival attracts cinephiles from around the world, while abandoned mining sites and museums tell stories of its industrial past. The region is especially beautiful in autumn when colored leaves cover the surrounding hills.

Iwamizawa, located in the Sorachi subprefecture, is a city that blends rural charm with a rich cultural background. Known for its rose gardens and music festivals, Iwamizawa serves as a hub connecting Sapporo and Furano. Its Rose Garden Park is especially popular in summer, featuring thousands of roses in bloom. The city also emphasizes arts and education, with museums and cultural events year-round. It is a peaceful destination ideal for those seeking scenic drives, local foods, and the slower pace of countryside life in Hokkaido.

Abashiri, on the coast of the Sea of Okhotsk, is most famous for its drift ice in winter, along with the historic Abashiri Prison Museum. The region offers stunning natural beauty year-round, including lakes, mountains, and coastal scenery. In winter, visitors can take the drift ice sightseeing icebreaker “Aurora” for an unforgettable arctic experience. The museum preserves the history of Japan’s Meiji-era penal system with real prison structures and artifacts. Abashiri is also a gateway to Shiretoko National Park and attracts nature lovers and photographers alike.

Tomakomai is a port city located in southern Hokkaido, serving as a major transportation and industrial hub. It offers easy access from Honshu via ferry and is known for its seafood, forestry, and the nearby Lake Utonai, a Ramsar wetland site ideal for birdwatching. The city also features the Tomakomai City Museum and a lively harbor district with fresh seafood markets. In winter, snow sports and scenic ice-covered lakes attract visitors, while its central location makes it a great base for exploring southern Hokkaido.

Wakkanai is Japan’s northernmost city, located in Hokkaido’s Sōya region. It serves as a gateway to the remote Rishiri and Rebun islands and offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Japan and Sakhalin on clear days. Famous for its chilly climate, Cape Sōya and its symbolic monuments mark the northern tip of Japan. In summer, wildflowers bloom across the grassy hills, while the harsh winters bring a serene beauty. Wakkanai also features unique cultural influences due to its proximity to Russia, visible in local cuisine and architecture.

Ebetsu is a suburban city near Sapporo, known for its brick-making heritage and lush nature. The Historical Village of Hokkaido, located nearby, provides a glimpse into Hokkaido’s pioneering past with preserved buildings and cultural exhibits. The city also emphasizes education and the arts, housing several universities and public art installations. It’s surrounded by greenery, making it an ideal place for nature walks and seasonal flower viewing. Ebetsu combines the accessibility of an urban suburb with a calm, community-oriented atmosphere.

Shibetsu is located in northern Hokkaido and is often called the “town of sheep” due to its thriving sheep farming industry. The city hosts a Sheep Festival every summer, attracting families and agricultural enthusiasts. The landscape is dotted with wide plains and low hills, offering panoramic views year-round. Shibetsu also boasts a peaceful rural atmosphere and clean air, perfect for relaxation. In winter, the city becomes a snow-covered wonderland ideal for snowshoeing and winter photography.

Nemuro is the easternmost city in Japan, offering rugged coastal beauty, rich seafood, and unique wildlife. Cape Nosappu is known for its dramatic sunrises and its views toward the disputed Northern Territories. The city is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during the migratory seasons. Nemuro’s port delivers fresh catches daily, including its famous Sanma (Pacific saury). It’s also historically significant with various lighthouses, churches, and Ainu heritage. The city's remote charm draws in visitors looking for untouched nature and serenity.

Chitose is the main gateway to Hokkaido, home to New Chitose Airport. Surrounded by lakes and forests, the city offers both modern convenience and natural beauty. Lake Shikotsu, a caldera lake with crystal-clear waters, is ideal for kayaking, diving, and sightseeing throughout the year. The city also boasts hot springs, shopping outlets, and salmon-related attractions, including the Salmon Hometown Chitose Aquarium. It's a perfect base for exploring southern Hokkaido while enjoying relaxing stays.

Furano is a picturesque town in central Hokkaido, widely loved for its vibrant lavender fields and dramatic landscapes. In summer, the area becomes a sea of purple as farms like Farm Tomita bloom in full color. In winter, Furano transforms into a ski paradise with soft powder snow, attracting skiers from around the world. The town also hosts wine vineyards, cheese factories, and art galleries, offering a blend of rural charm and cultural depth. It’s a top choice for travelers seeking beauty in every season.

Noboribetsu is one of Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring towns, nestled in a volcanic area rich with geothermal activity. Jigokudani (Hell Valley), with its steaming vents and bubbling sulfur pools, is a dramatic natural site that showcases the region's volcanic power. The area offers a variety of therapeutic hot springs, each with unique mineral compositions. In addition to its onsen culture, Noboribetsu features attractions like Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura (a historical theme park) and a bear park, making it ideal for both relaxation and family fun.

Eniwa is a peaceful city located between Sapporo and Chitose, known for its natural parks and flower gardens. Ecorin Village is one of the top attractions, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, petting zoos, and seasonal flower displays, including tulips and sunflowers. The city also boasts clear rivers and accessible hiking trails leading to waterfalls and mountain views. With its calm environment and accessibility, Eniwa is a favorite spot for locals to enjoy leisurely weekend trips.

Fukushima is a coastal town in southern Hokkaido, overlooking the Tsugaru Strait. It is celebrated for its dramatic natural scenery, such as the striking rock formations of Iwabe Coast, the mystical Blue Cave, and lush forested hills. The town honors its sumo heritage at the Yokozuna Chiyonoyama Chiyonofuji Memorial Hall, commemorating two grand champions born here. Visitors can also explore the Seikan Tunnel Museum, which showcases the world's longest undersea tunnel linking Hokkaido and Honshu. Additionally, Fukushima offers fresh seafood, quiet fishing villages, scenic hiking trails, and panoramic ocean views that make it a perfect retreat for nature and history lovers alike.

Niseko is a world-renowned ski destination in Hokkaido, famous for its powder snow and international atmosphere. The area offers a mix of four connected ski resorts that form one of Japan’s largest winter sports zones. In summer, Niseko becomes a lush green playground for rafting, mountain biking, and hot spring relaxation. With stylish accommodations, farm-to-table restaurants, and breathtaking views of Mount Yotei, Niseko is a year-round escape for both adventure seekers and luxury travelers.

Rusutsu is a large resort town just south of Niseko, known for its expansive ski terrain and family-friendly atmosphere. With over 37 trails and modern lift systems, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Rusutsu also features an amusement park, golf courses, and luxurious accommodations like the Westin Rusutsu Resort. In the green season, the area becomes a hub for hiking, horseback riding, and scenic drives. It’s a balanced destination combining fun, relaxation, and great hospitality in a mountain setting.

Kutchan is a small town in the heart of the Niseko region, often considered its cultural and logistical center. The town is close to major ski areas and offers easy access to Mount Yotei, known as the “Mount Fuji of Hokkaido.” Kutchan is famous for its local potato dishes, especially "Jaga-ryori", and its cozy izakayas that reflect regional charm. Though small, the town hosts events like the Yukitopia Snow Festival and provides a blend of outdoor adventure and warm local culture.

Yoichi, located in Hokkaido, is a charming coastal town known for its whisky distillery, fresh seafood, and scenic landscapes. The Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery is a major draw, offering tours and tastings. Visitors can also explore the Fugoppe Cave, one of Japan's oldest archeological sites with mysterious petroglyphs. With beautiful coastal views, orchards, and local seafood markets, Yoichi is perfect for travelers seeking both nature and culture.

Kuriyama is a peaceful town in central Hokkaido, best known for its rich agricultural land and the Kitanoyatai Kuriyama Market, a local favorite for seasonal produce and dishes. The town is also home to the Hoppy Street, where visitors can experience local brewing culture. During spring, cherry blossoms line the streets, especially around Kuriyama Park, creating picturesque scenes. With its laid-back vibe and regional cuisine, Kuriyama offers a refreshing countryside retreat from urban life.

Biei is one of Hokkaido’s most scenic towns, renowned for its rolling hills, colorful flower fields, and the iconic Blue Pond. The town is perfect for photography, especially around the Patchwork Road and Panorama Road, where seasonal landscapes shift dramatically. Biei also offers cozy cafes and art galleries that blend seamlessly with nature. Whether you're cycling through its hills or admiring the lavender blooms, Biei provides a serene and unforgettable experience year-round.

Erimo, located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, is famous for Cape Erimo, where dramatic cliffs meet the roaring Pacific Ocean. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, with strong winds, wild seals, and panoramic ocean views. The Cape Erimo Wind Museum offers insight into the area's unique weather and environment. In summer, visitors can witness the vibrant green pastures and encounter local wildlife. Erimo’s rugged beauty and remoteness make it a hidden gem for those seeking raw natural experiences.

Akkeshi, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is a quaint seaside town known for its historical sites and vibrant seafood culture. The town is famous for its oyster farming, which has been practiced for centuries. Visitors can explore the Akkeshi Oyster Museum, enjoy fresh oysters, and visit the scenic Akkeshi Bay. Additionally, Akkeshi is home to historical sites like the Akkeshi District Court and the Old Akkeshi Prison. It is an excellent destination for seafood lovers and those seeking a relaxing, coastal experience.

Rausu, located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in Hokkaido, Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Rausu is a gateway to the Shiretoko National Park, famous for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and sightseeing tours around the stunning landscapes, including the Shiretoko Five Lakes. The town is also well-known for its seafood, especially its fresh crab and fish, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and food lovers.