basic information

Hokkaido is the second largest, northernmost and least developed of Japan's four main islands.

Hokkaido's weather is harsh in winter with lots of snowfall, below zero temperatures and frozen seas, while in summer, it does not get as hot and humid as in the other parts of the country.

With its unspoiled nature, Hokkaido attracts many outdoor lovers, including skiers and snowboarders in the colder seasons and hikers, cyclists and campers from June to September.

Attractions

Cities

Sapporo The largest city on the island of Hokkaido. Hakodate Southernmost city on Hokkaido. Otaru Harbor city near Sapporo with a canal. Abashiri Known for its prison and drift ice in winter.

Resorts

Niseko Leading snow resort with lots of powder snow. Furano Town with beautiful lavender and flower fields. Noboribetsu Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort. Jozankei Onsen Popular hot spring resort near Sapporo. Rusutsu Attractive ski resort near Niseko.

National Parks

Rishiri and Rebun Small islands near Hokkaido's northern tip. Shiretoko National park on an unspoiled peninsula. Daisetsuzan Hokkaido's largest and wildest national park. Onuma Park National park 20 kilometers north of Hakodate. Lake Shikotsu Picturesque caldera lake near Sapporo. Akan National Park National park with beautiful lakes. Lake Toya Site of Mount Usu, an active volcano. Kushiro Marshlands Marshlands populated by Japanese cranes.

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Restaurants

Select area Tokyo-Yokohama Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe Nagoya Kyushu Hokkaido Tohoku Hokuriku Chugoku Okinawa Select type Japanese dishes Western dishes Chinese dishes Asia, ethnic style, borderless Cafe Japanese Izakaya Western style Izakaya Asian, borderless style Izakaya Dining bar, Beer Restauran Bar, pub Space, entertainment Family dining, fast food

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Tours and Packages

World Heritage Shiretoko & Eastern Hokkaido Tour A 4-day package tour that takes visitors to see some of Hokkaido's many natural treasures.

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