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.

National Parks

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

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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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Tour Packages

Free Plan Hokkaido - 7 Days Free plan covering Furano, Asahikawa, Abashiri, Kushiro and Sapporo. Free Plan Hokkaido - 5 Days Free plan covering Sapporo, Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Hakodate. More vacation packages Individual or guided.

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