As the second largest island in Japan, Hokkaido is a great place for travelers to explore the magnificance of nature and the beauty through the season changing. We introduce to you the best 40 places that you have to visit in Hokkaido.
Enjoy vewing cherry blossoms in Goryokaku Park, and the 3 Michelin Star night view of Hakodate. There are many major events in winter,too! Such as the Sapporo Snow Festival, featuring snow statues and illumination centering around Odori Avenue. From Hanami in spring to skiiing in winter, it's always a good time to visit Hokkaido. Now, let's check them out!
Asahiyama Zoo
Impressive for its various methods to charm visitors with the animals’ lifestyles and conduct
Asahiyama Zoo is not just limited to the animals but also covers the natural ecologies that thrive there. There have been particular efforts given to breeding in the cold regions, and the zoo has been successful in the natural reproduction of animals such as polar bears.
Displays that have become famous overnight Currently visited by over 3 million people annually, Asahikawa Zoo has naturally been popular with the Japanese but has also attracted overseas tourists. In the 1990s, annual visits had dropped to 200,000 people, but through various tactics to be able to view the animals up close and have them live in their own environments, it progressed to the point of becoming Japan’s No. 1 zoo. As a good example in recreating different regions, it is a zoo that has gotten attention from the rest of the nati...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:30 AM ~ 3:30 PM )
Please check the homepage for opening schedule
Phone
0166-36-1104
Price
- Adult: 820 JPY
Website
www5.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp
Mt. Hakodate
The 3 Michelin Star night view of Hakodate has a beauty that is a must-see
From Mt. Hakodate, you can get a panoramic view of the city of Hakodate below. In front of your very eyes, the wide Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait spread out. The expressions change with the seasons but it is especially the night view that has an overwhelming beauty.
Also enjoy the view on the ropeway There are many ways to get up to the peak. Mt. Hakodate has an altitude of 334m, and because there are paths available to get up the mountain, you can climb up there in a little under 1 hour. For example, there are gentle walking trails. You can also try recommended routes to reach the peak while feeling the nature of Mt. Hakodate. As well, there are tour buses and a direct bus from JR Hakodate Station to the peak, but a ride to the top on the ropeway via a large gondola is wonderful. The gondola holds 125 p...
Price
- Adult: 660 JPY
- Child: 330 JPY
Admission is required when using the ropeway to get up the mountain.
Website
www.334.co.jp
Cape Kamui
The contrast between the clear blue sea and the rugged precipices is amazing
At the most popular Cape Kamui of Shakotan, a 300-degree view can be seen from the tip of the cape that protrudes into the deep sea.
The beauty of the Shakotan Blue is breathtaking Shakotan in Hokkaido is a beautiful marine tourist destination that has been designated as the prefecture’s only “underwater quasi-national park” where the clear blue of the ocean is known as Shakotan Blue. Cape Kamui is located on the Shakotan Peninsula overlooking some steep precipices for which there is a 770-meter nature trail known as the Charenka Route starting from the parking area. After walking the route for 20 to 30 minutes, a huge 300-degree panoramic view will sprea...
Business hours
- Everyday (10:00 AM ~ 3:30 PM )
The opening and closing of the gates will differ depending on the time
April 8:00am～6:00pm
May 8:00am～7:00pm
June 8:00am～7:30pm
July 8:00am～7:00pm
August～October 8:00am～6:30pm
November 8:00am～5:00pm
December～March 10:00m～3:30pm
Phone
0135-44-3715
Website
www.kanko-shakotan.jp
Shiretoko Five Lakes
Experience the nature of Shiretoko via a wooden boardwalk going to the first lake and nature trails that can be walked upon throughout the five lakes
The expansive landscape of the World Natural Heritage site of Shiretoko can be witnessed at Shiretoko Five Lakes. It is also the natural habitat of the brown bear, and a tourist spot whose untouched nature can be enjoyed.
Take 2 ways to walk around the area Shiretoko Five Lakes is surrounded by a primeval forest and the Shiretoko Mountains. Within this region of lush flora and fauna, you can experience the grandness of nature here. There are 2 ways to navigate through Shiretoko Five Lakes. First, there is the wooden boardwalk course which has a total length of 800m and goes as far as the shores of one of the lakes. The boardwalk ranges from 2 to 5 meters in height and there is an electric fence with 7000 volts of current running around it so in the unlikely ev...
Business hours
- Everyday (7:30 AM ~ 6:30 PM )
Wooden boardwalk: 7:30am-6:30pm（refer to the homepage for any changes due to the season）
Nature trails: 7:30am-6:30pm
Phone
0152-24-3323
Price
- Free
However, there is a fee-required period depending on the nature trail (refer to homepage).
Website
www.goko.go.jp
Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium
The wide panorama of Sapporo and the Ishikari Plain can be seen from the observation lounge
One of the settings for the 1972 Winter Olympics. Even now, it is an active ski jump facility used for numerous international competitions. The view from the observation lounge is a must-see.
The Okurayama-Schanze that was used in the Olympics The Okurayama-Schanze was the ski jump platform that was used for the 90m jump when the Winter Olympics were held in Sapporo in 1972. Currently, many international competitions are still held there, and not only is it an active jump facility, but it also has modern equipment to handle summer jumps and night jumps. For those folks who knew about the Olympics back then, it must be a place that brings back a lot of memories. And even for those tourists who didn’t know, it is also a place...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 5:00 PM )
Phone
011-641-8585
Price
- Adult: 500 JPY
- Child: 300 JPY
These are the lift fees.
Website
www.sapporo-dc.co.jp
Moerenuma Park
A park bringing together nature and art as if the entire facility is a sculpture
World-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi was behind the design of the park, and its beautiful landscape with its geometrical fountains and playground equipment is one of its attractions. It is a park filled with nature whose expressions change with the seasons.
A park to get in touch with art and nature In spite of its location within the city of Sapporo, Hokkaido, Moerenuma Park has an atmosphere that feels as if it is in the midst of Mother Nature. Based on the Circular Green Belt concept that takes advantage of the green spaces in Sapporo, it was first opened in 2005. It was built according to the world-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi under the concept of the whole park being one sculpture, so there are works of art everywhere in the facility. Also, there are 2600 beautiful cherry and maple trees,...
Business hours
- Everyday (7:00 AM ~ 10:00 PM )
Phone
011-790-1231
Price
- Free
Website
moerenumapark.jp
Mt. Moiwa
You can enjoy the 360-degree grand panorama of the scenery of Sapporo
Mt. Moiwa can be counted as having one of the Top 3 Night Views of Hokkaido alongside Hakodate and Otaru. On top of that, in the primeval forest of Mt. Moiwa that has been designated as a Natural Monument, you can encounter various examples of flora and fauna.
The grand panorama of the scenery of Sapporo There is the Mt. Moiwa Viewing Point where you can get a panoramic view over Sapporo from the 531m summit. From here, you can get a 360-degree view of the city where the Ishikari Plain and Ishikari Bay spread out. Named Inkarushibe after the Ainu word for “a place to be always climbed and look out over”, the Viewing Point is enjoyed for its dynamic view. The lovely night view that spreads out in front of you has a grandness only to be found in Hokkaido. Accordingly, the incredible beaut...
Business hours
- Everyday
Price
- Free
Farm Tomita
Enjoy the spectacular view of Japan’s largest lavender field
Hokkaido’s leading tourist spot where you can enjoy the entire day admiring the 15-hectare lavender field and cultivated flowers, along with delicious cuisine making use of local ingredients.
Japan’s No. 1 lavender field Furano City in the center of Hokkaido is especially famous for its lavender and every year, numerous tourists come and visit for that wonderful scent and view. Farm Tomita is renowned for having the largest lavender field in the Furano area. Boasting a wide 15 hectares, the peak time is in July and so the journey to the farm is notable for its traffic jams. Also, the farm’s Traditional Lavender Field has the longest history of its type in Japan. Its grand landscape unfurls like a violet carpet and the...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:30 AM ~ 4:30 PM )
Phone
0167-39-3939
Price
- Free
Website
www.farm-tomita.co.jp
Odori Park
A park spanning 1.5 kilometers from Odori Nishi 1-chome to 12-chome in the center of Sapporo
With flower beds and grass prettily arranged, this is a park which beautifully adorns the landscape of Sapporo. As a rest area for many people, it is used all throughout the year for various events.
A park in the city where you can catch your breath Odori Park continues for 1.5 km in the center of Sapporo, Hokkaido. The lush green park matches well with TV Tower and the central city streets, and it plays a role as a place of respite for the many people coming and going. Selected as one of The Top 100 Cityscapes, Odori Park has contributed to the increase in greenery within Sapporo. From April to autumn, the various flowers blooming in the area seek to calm tourists’ hearts. The flower beds during the seasons of flowers are a scenic...
Price
- Free
Website
www.sapporo-park.or.jp
Lake Mashū
A beautiful crater lake in Mashū Blue whose clarity is the highest in Japan
The beautiful scene of volcano, forest and lake enjoyed in Hokkaido’s Teshikagacho District. The crater lake of Lake Mashū has also been chosen as a heritage site for the prefecture, and the surrounding area can also be enjoyed for its onsen villages.
A grand landscape born from nature Lake Mashū has a depth of up to 200 meters and is a crater lake which boasts a clarity that is one of the highest in the world. A crater lake is formed when the crater part of a volcano collapses into itself, and since there are no rivers and few impurities to flow into it, the lake water that is conserved there has a high transparency. It is a lake whose surface changes expression with the season and the daily weather. It is also a lake which is often foggy to the point that it is referred to as Foggy Lake...
Price
- Free
Website
en.wikipedia.org
Blue Pond
This mystical pond whose appearance changes depending on the season and the angle of light is a hidden must-see spot
Within the natural and hilly Biei area, this is a prominent tourist spot. Truly one of the hidden scenic sites whose entry was restricted up to 2010.
A mystical pond which shines in blue The town of Biei in Hokkaido where the Blue Pond is located is a place where you can feel the great outdoors of the prefecture through its rolling hills. Along with the Furano district, Biei is a popular area that is a member of The Association of The Most Beautiful Villages in Japan. The town has many tourist spots such as magnificent Mt. Tokachi which have been blessed by nature and are very relaxing. The Blue Pond is one other such site. It is a body of water that was created from a dam which was built...
Price
- Free
Website
www.biei-hokkaido.jp
Noboribetsu Onsen
Hokkaido’s foremost onsen town where you can enjoy hot springs in the middle of grand Mother Nature
Noboribetsu Onsen which is easily accessible from urban centers such as Sapporo and Hakodate is far and away the most popular onsen area in Hokkaido. You can even do a day-trip tour of 14 onsen
The popular onsen area that regularly ranks highly in Japan Noboribetsu Onsen which is located close to Hokkaido Prefecture’s Noboribetsu City, is a highly popular onsen town that has gathered many fans in the nation. An area that has had a long history ranging from the Edo Era, it has garnered overwhelming fame and popularity even within the prefecture since its first onsen inn was established in the Meiji Era. Along with the fact that it has great access from Hokkaido’s urban centers, it is an onsen area with fine quality water...
Phone
0143-84-3311
Website
www.noboribetsu-spa.jp
Shikisai-no-Oka
Panoramic flower fields overflowing with the scent of lovely blossoms throughout the four seasons
Several dozen kinds of flowers bloom in the wide fields, and the large vicinity of Biei Town becomes just like a carpet of blossoms. You can also enjoy snowmobiling during the winter.
The large gardens have a breathtaking beauty Biei in Hokkaido has rolling hills surrounded by a chain of mountains so that the area can be appreciated for its grand landscape. With its never-ending horizon and Mother Nature, it is a tourist area to calm body and soul. Shikisai-no-Oka consists of panoramic flower fields which makes use of the dynamic nature in Biei. Within its 15 hectares, it boasts a variety of blooms from spring to autumn. The scene of colorful flowers against the backdrop of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range is incredible. I...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 4:00 PM )
Phone
0166-95-2758
Price
- Free
However, there is a request for donations of 200 yen at the entrance to cover maintenance costs
Website
www.shikisainooka.jp
Ningle Terrace
A shopping area whose log houses produce a warm atmosphere
Located in the forest of the New Furano Prince Hotel, it’s an area where you can enjoy shopping in the middle of nature. Its craft shops and cafes have become famous so that it has even been used for filming on TV.
A shopping area of a string of log houses Hokkaido’s Furano is a city of sights to see from the lavender in summer to the skiing in winter, and Ningle Terrace is a shopping area located in a forest next to the New Furano Prince Hotel. “Ningle” refers to a 15cm-tall character known as The Wise Man of the Forest in a book of the same title written by So Kuramoto, famous for the popular drama “Kita no Kuni kara” (From the North Country), and the shopping area was created based on the writer’s ideas. The craf...
Business hours
- Everyday (12:00 PM ~ 8:30 PM )
The Seven Star Tree
A lone oak tree standing among the hills of Biei which stretch off in all directions
The Seven Star Tree became an overnight sensation when its image was used on a package of Seven Star cigarettes. It is a scenic spot that represents the beautiful scenery of the hills of Biei.
Enjoy the wide hills of Biei The town of Biei is an agricultural region in Hokkaido and is an attractive tourist area for its landscape of hills on the wide farmland. Beautiful scenery can be enjoyed such as Patchwork Road for its patchwork-like fields of differing colors due to the different types of crops planted, and Panorama Road with its 360-degree view of the landscape. This is a hilly region whose expressions change over the seasons. An oak tree that has become a symbol for the hills Near Patchwork Road where the beautiful hills of...
Shiroi Koibito Park
The theme park by Shiroi Koibito, the famous sweets representing Hokkaido
With not just a tour of the confectioner’s factory, there are plenty of highlights at the park such as displays and the history of candy along with the ability to create your original sweets. This is a place for all those people with a sweet tooth.
Take a tour of the factory of Shiroi Koibito, the famous sweets of Hokkaido When it comes to Hokkaido souvenirs, there is Shiroi Koibito (White Lovers), white chocolate sandwiched between two crisp langue de chat cookies. On the iconic blue-and-white packages, there is a picture of Mt. Rishiri on Rishiri Island, and the cookies have become loved by many people as the famous sweets of Hokkaido. At Shiroi Koibito Park, you can go on a tour of the manufacturing facility. Beyond the glass, you can witness the process of the chocolate being sand...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM )
Phone
011-666-1481
Price
- Adult: 600 JPY
- Child: 200 JPY
Along with the New Year’s Holidays, there are cases in which the opening times will change at irregular intervals
Website
www.shiroikoibitopark.jp
Patchwork Road
A patchwork landscape of hills spreading over a wide area
The scenery of farmland spreading over a beautiful hilly zone brings together a wonderful collection of flowers and produce. There are many tourist spots to enjoy the grand landscape where you can appreciate the nature of Biei.
The grand nature of Biei is on an astounding scale The hilly area that spreads everywhere is the attractive Biei of Hokkaido. One of the tourist areas where you can enjoy the grand scenery born in the midst of Mother Nature within the prefecture is Patchwork Road. To avoid any damage from continuous re-planting of the same or similar crops in the same area, a variety of flowers and produce is raised in this area. The scenery is just like a patchwork quilt and the path that goes through this hilly area to be able to view this scenery is Patc...
Website
en.wikipedia.org
Lake Toya
The 9th biggest lake in Japan and one of the Three Great Landscapes of Hokkaido
A lake located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Lake Toya is a caldera lake formed from volcanic activity. Along with nature and the surrounding landscape, you are completely free to enjoy the onsen and the outdoors any way you like.
A huge natural environment blessed with flora and fauna With Shikotsu-Toya National Park in the surrounding vicinity, Lake Toya has also been registered as a Japanese and World Geopark. Furthermore, it is one of Hokkaido’s foremost tourist spots that has been recognized for its myriad beautiful views that have been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Great Views. It also boasts status as Japan’s 3rd-largest caldera lake as well as a picturesque spot to see Mt. Usu and Mt. Showashinzan, and even Mt. Yotei off in the distance. Th...
Website
en.wikipedia.org
Niseko Village Ski Resort
Enjoy sports, shopping and cuisine as you enjoy nature on Mt. Niseko Annupuri
The super popular ski resort will satisfy even the most advanced of skiers. The high-quality powder snow is the selling point. In 2014, a shopping area reminiscent of an old Japanese town was also opened.
It’s not just about skiing! You can enjoy a variety of activities Mt. Niseko Annupuri at Hokkaido’s Niseko. The lovely natural scene that spreads out there is especially full of winter sports, and during that season, many tourists visit so that they can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. Among the numerous ski resorts on Annupuri, the Niseko Village Ski Resort has a lot of slopes with a high degree of difficulty so that the advanced skiers can enjoy them to their hearts’ content. Furthermore, besides skiing and snowboarding, a...
Phone
0136-44-2211
Price
8-hour lift ticket (for all mountains in Niseko) Adults: 5600 yen Children: 3100 yen
1-day ticket Adults: 5000 yen Children: 3100 yen
（Peak season 12/13-3/22）
1-day ticket Adults: 4600 yen Children: 2850 yen
（Off season 12/1-12/12, 3/23-4/7）
F
Website
www.niseko-village.com
Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area
Even novices will have plenty of fun here at this calm and relaxing resort
Among the ski resorts at winter sports-filled Niseko, this ski area is recommended for its many relatively gentle slopes that will appeal to families and beginners alike.
The great feeling of sliding down within nature Hokkaido’s Niseko is a hit for winter sports due to the superior powder snow which falls during winter. In recent years, along with Japanese tourists, the resort has also attracted an increasing number of overseas tourists who want to enjoy the skiing and snowboarding. Niseko Annupuri International Ski Area is a resort located on the active volcano of Annupuri, and with its characteristic gentle slopes, it is especially recommended for those novices at winter sports and people who want to...
Phone
0136-58-2080
Price
8-hour lift ticket (good for all mountains in Niseko) Adults: 5600 yen Children: 3100 yen
1-day ticket Adults: 6400 yen Children: 3500 yen
2-day ticket Adults: 11500 yen Children: 6300 yen
Website
annupuri.info
Rusutsu Resort
Hokkaido’s largest ski resort where you can enjoy the view from the mountaintop
The total length of the ski runs is 42km. One of the charming points of the resort is that there are a variety of courses for beginners and advanced skiers to enjoy.
While getting that perfect view Rusutsu Resort is the largest resort of its kind in Hokkaido located in the village of Rusutsu. With a total of 37 courses, it expands through 3 mountains: Mount Isola, East Mountain and West Mountain. In particular, a superb view of Lake Toya and Mt. Usu spreads out from Mt. Isola which you can ski down while seeing the façade of Mt. Yotei. To be able to see this incredible view as you go down the mountain is a true pleasure that can only be experienced in Hokkaido. From the continuous high-quality mo...
Phone
0136-46 -3111
Price
- Adult: 5500 JPY
- Child: 2750 JPY
Cost of a one-day ticket
Website
en.rusutsu.co.jp
Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
The source for Noboribetsu Onsen. The spectacular sight of the hot water that bubbles up even now makes it a highlight.
Located right next to Noboribetsu Onsen, white smoke wafts up from the blowholes and you are enveloped in hot air that feels just like hell. The primeval forest in the surrounding area is beautiful for its foliage in fall.
Feel the breath of the great land Jigokudani is located right beside Hokkaido’s Noboribetsu Onsen. With the remains of a 450-meter crater, even now gases of sulphur and other elements and hot water used at the onsen rise up as the source spring. From the reddish-brown face of the mountain, smoke puffs up and you can feel the surrounding hot air on your skin. At the entrance of Jigokudani, there are also 2 observation points which are recommended to view the whole landscape. The contrast between the surrounding primeval forest and the...
Price
- Free
Website
en.visit-hokkaido.jp
Kami-no-Koike
A beautiful cobalt-blue pond created from the underground springs of Lake Mashū
A pond that has a depth of up to 5m, it is fed with 12000 tonnes of underground water per day from Lake Mashū. In its clear waters, there are fallen trees and fish. And depending on the season, the hue of the blue color changes.
A mysterious blue pond Lake Mashū is called Kamuito (the Pond of God) in the Ainu language, and its water level doesn’t change at all since there are no rivers flowing in or out of the lake. It is said that the explanation lies in the waters of Lake Mashū flowing into the surrounding ponds as underground water. Kami-no-Koike is one of those ponds, and its name means “The Child Pond of God”. It is a small pond with a circumference of 220m and a depth of 5m, but it is a popular place visited by many tourists. The overriding...
Price
- Free
Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu
The largest resort among the Niseko ski resorts that can be enjoyed by the whole family
Graceful skiing on a huge site that spans from the summit of Mt. Annupuri to the foot of the mountain. A ski resort that can be enjoyed by the whole family with a variety of courses.
The most popular ski resort in Niseko Every year, many skiers from Japan and abroad come to Hokkaido’s Niseko area in search of high-quality powder snow. Even among the many ski resorts there, Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu is always blessed with opportunities to ski on fresh snow thanks to the large site, and it has also been popular with overseas skiers. With a variety of courses available, you can ski down and enjoy different vistas without tiring of any of them. Naturally, it’s great for advanced skiers, but school less...
Business hours
- Everyday (8:30 AM ~ 8:30 PM )
Phone
0136-22-0109
Price
8-hour lift ticket (Niseko All Mountain) Adults 5600 yen、Children 3100 yen
1-day ticket Adults 5100 yen, Children 2800 yen
※Ski resort fees will differ depending on usage time. Niseko All Mountain and all 1-day tickets are representatively listed.
Website
www.grand-hirafu.jp
The Furano Cheese Factory
A site where you can observe the making of cheese up close
Not only can you sightsee through a cheese factory, but there is also an area directly run by the factory which provides products such as cheese and candies. Furthermore, there is also a facility to find out about the history of cheese and workshops.
This is the must-see factory for cheese lovers Select ingredients are chosen in the rich environment of Furano in Hokkaido Prefecture, and at The Furano Cheese Factory, the most delicious cheese is produced. Fresh milk from Furano farms is used which takes about 4 months to become cheese, and it is at this cheese factory that this process can be observed up close. The factory is surrounded by beautiful birch trees, and it’s possible to view the cheese production facility and aging rooms beyond the glass. You can also learn about the h...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 4:00 PM )
Phone
0167-23-1156
Price
- Free
Hokkaido Shrine
Also known as a famous site for cherry blossoms, the shrine is alive with hatsumode visitors during the New Year’s holidays
Hokkaido Shrine has looked after Hokkaido since the days of its development. On its grounds which are lush in nature, wild animals such as the Hokkaido squirrel can be seen. The beauty of the spring cherry blossoms and plum flowers is also something that cannot be missed.
A shrine that has accompanied Hokkaido’s long history Hokkaido Shrine had its origins from 1869 when Emperor Meiji ordered the enshrining of three deities for the reclamation of Hokkaido. At the time, the land that had been known as Ezo became the prefecture of Hokkaido, and from the very beginning of it becoming Japanese territory, the citizens of the prefecture have embraced the shrine. On its 180,000 square-meter grounds filled with history, there are many cherry trees planted there, and with the coming of spring, the intensely bea...
Business hours
- Everyday (7:00 AM ~ 4:00 PM )
2/1～2/14 7:00am～4:00pm
2/15～3/31 7:00am～4:30pm
4/1～10/15 6:00am～5:00pm
10/16～10/31 6:00am～4:30pm
11/1～12/31 7:00am～4:00pm
Phone
011-611-0261
Price
New Year’s Day 0:00am～7:00pm
Jan. 2nd-3rd 6:00am～6:00pm
Jan. 4th-7th 6:00am～4:00pm
Jan. 8th-31st 7:00am～4:00pm
The above opening times apply to the New Year’s season.
Website
www.hokkaidojingu.or.jp
Sapporo Snow Festival
A snow festival featuring snow statues and illumination centering around Odori Avenue in Sapporo
One of the largest events in Hokkaido for which more than 2 million people visit annually. Plenty of events where you can encounter huge snow and ice sculptures only to be found in an environment rich in snow.
The Odori Avenue venue The Sapporo Snow Festival takes place mainly at 3 venues, and the events held there can vary depending on the venue. First, the most well-known part of the festival which involves the gigantic snow and ice sculptures is held on Odori Avenue. This is the main venue for the snow festival. Spanning from Odori Avenue Nishi Itchome to Juu-Nichome, there are snow sculptures so large that you have to look up, as well as citizen-made sculptures all over that are small and cute. There are also interactive events such as a snow...
Price
- Free
Varies according to the event
Website
www.snowfes.com
Abashiri Prison Museum
An outdoor museum to learn about the history of the reclamation of Hokkaido and the prisoners who lived there
Part of the buildings that had actually been used during the Meiji Era has been preserved and opened as a museum. Carvings of the prisoners of the time have been left, and there is a fascinating air to the place.
Learn about the prison during the development of Hokkaido The reclamation of the huge area of Hokkaido occurred during the Meiji Era. It was a time when many hands were needed, so prisoners were also used as a labor force. Abashiri Prison Museum is known as a valuable facility where you can get a glimpse of prisoners working off their sentences through their contributions to the development during this age and their lifestyles. As Japan’s only prison museum, tableware and historical goods that were used in the relocated barracks dur...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 5:00 PM )
April-October 8:00am-6:00pm
November-March 9:00am-5:00pm
Phone
0152-45-2411
Price
- Adult: 1080 JPY
- Child: 540 JPY
Website
www.kangoku.jp
Furano Jam Garden
Enjoy delicious jam making abundant use of the ingredients of Furano
Hokkaido Prefecture’s Furano is blessed with Mother Nature and idyllic farming communities. You can enjoy sampling jam making the best use of its ingredients and taking part in workshops making use of secret recipes.
A safe, beautiful and natural taste Enjoy delicious jam that uses fresh ingredients born from the plentiful nature of Hokkaido’s Furano at Furano Jam Garden. Located about 20km away from downtown Furano in Rokugou Village which became famous overnight due to the popular television drama “Kita no Kuni Kara” (From The North Country), it’s a place where you can fully savor the taste of nature in the middle of a grand wilderness. Jam is made to bring out the essential sweetness of the ingredients, and in the interests of...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 5:30 PM )
Phone
0167-29-2233
Price
- Free
For events such as the jam-making classes, separate admission is required
Website
www.furanojam.com
Biei Hills
There is no doubt about the impressiveness of the horizon and the hills that go off everywhere
The town of Biei in Hokkaido is famous as a town of hills which has been used in commercials and televised dramas. The epic landscape just spreads out and it feels as if you are standing in the middle of a painting.
Patchwork Road The hills of Biei in Hokkaido are characterized by a wealth of agriculture. It is especially the farmscapes on these hills that make it the No. 1 tourist spot for Biei. Forests were cleared to create the farmlands of today which led to the grand hills that can be seen today. Biei, which is located at the foot of the Daisetsuzan Tokachidake Mountain Range, is filled with crops that differ from season to season especially to prevent repeated cultivation so the hills take on different colors resembling a patchwork. For that reason...
Phone
0166-92-4378
Website
www.biei-hokkaido.jp
Goryokaku Tower
Get a full view of the former Goryokaku and the city of Hakodate from the observation deck
The tower opened in 2006 has a height of 107 meters. The view from the observation deck changes depending on the time and scenery. You can also learn about the history of Goryokaku and Hakodate.
The highest tower from which to view Goryokaku and Hakodate The observation deck of Goryokaku Tower is one of the recommended places to view Hakodate which is famous for the beauty of its nightscape. From there, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Goryokaku which is known for its star-shaped fort, the streets of Hakodate, Tsugaru Strait, the Yokotsu Mountains and other features. The scenery during the daytime is also wonderful, but the nighttime illumination and the turning off of the lights are especially recommended. During the Goryo...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM )
4/21～10/20 8:00am-7:00pm
10/21～4/20 9:00am-6:00pm
1/1 6:00am-7:00pm
Phone
0138-51-4785
Price
- Adult: 840 JPY
- Child: 420 JPY
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
The red brick warehouse is a famous Hakodate tourist spot where you can enjoy shopping and cuisine
The townscape that has been recognized as a prefectural heritage site and the historic red brick warehouse’s atmosphere create a must-see tourist destination when you come to Hakodate.
A tourist spot steeped in the profound atmosphere of the Meiji Era The mark consisting of the kanji for “woods” under a right angle displayed on the red brick warehouse is the official trademark for the old Kanemori Yobutsu-Ten (Western Goods Store). This warehouse which was built in the Meiji Era is operated by Kanemori Shosen Inc. which began as Kanemori Yobutsu-ten. The property has been recognized as a Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings and is also known as a famous tourist site in the city of Hakodate whic...
Business hours
- Everyday (9:30 AM ~ 7:00 PM )
May vary depending on the season
Phone
0138 -27-5530
Website
www.hakodate-kanemori.com
Otaru Canal
Recommended for the night lighting which brings a warm atmosphere
Active as the gateway into a developing Hokkaido from 1923, even now, facilities like restaurants have been revived in their original form. Otaru Canal is also known as the venue for the Snow Light Path Festival.
You can feel the atmosphere of a trip back through time During the age of Hokkaido’s development, ships being able to make deliveries directly to the warehouses began with Otaru Canal. Built from offshore reclamation, the canal makes a gentle curve with a total length of 1140m. The former waterway was halved, and currently, it is now a walking path and boulevard garden. In the surrounding area, there is Canal Plaza with stores where you can purchase special products of Otaru, and facilities such as the Otaru Civic Museum. Also, you ca...
Price
- Free
Website
translate.google.co.jp
Takino Suzuran Hillside National Government Park
Enjoy the various activities in the huge 400ha area surrounded by nature
At Hokkaido’s only national park, you can enjoy a variety of natural experiences in its wide spaces. The rainbow at Ashiribetsu Falls that can only be seen during October is especially a must-see.
Natural experiences to be enjoyed all throughout the year Hokkaido’s only national park, Takino Suzuran Hillside National Government Park boasts a vast eye-opening area of 400 hectares. Ashiribetsu Falls is in particular very famous and the name of “Takino” which means “field of waterfalls” originated from this waterfall. The park consists of 4 zones: Chuushin, Keiryu and the two East and West zones for the Taki-no-Mori (Waterfall Woods) area. With different events going on through spring, summer, fall and winte...
Phone
011-592-3333
Price
- Adult: 410 JPY
- Child: 80 JPY
Prices may vary depending on the event
Website
www.takinopark.com.e.bn.hp.transer.com
Sapporo TV Tower
The night view of Sapporo from the jewel-like TV Tower has been called one of the New Top Three Nightscapes of Japan
The symbol of Sapporo standing out in the middle of the city. There is an observation deck to enjoy the nightscape along with restaurants. It is a superb spot to appreciate the scenery of Sapporo which changes every season.
The symbol of Sapporo to enjoy shopping and dining Sapporo TV Tower which is located in Odori Park in the center of Sapporo is famous as a tourist spot representing the city. At a height of 147.2 meters, it is easy to see and access once you walk upon Odori Avenue so that it is visited by many tourists. During events such as New Year’s, the tower is illuminated in a variety of colors so that it is recommended as a photography spot. It doesn’t just fulfill a role as a television broadcast tower, but it is also a commercial facilit...
Phone
011-241-1131
Price
- Adult: 720 JPY
- Child: 300 JPY
The above is the admission to the observation deck in the tower
Website
www.tv-tower.co.jp
Nakajima Park
A lush green park in the middle of the city of Sapporo
Its contrast with the surrounding beautiful mountains is lovely as a nationally-recognized Important Cultural Property. Nakajima Park is filled with people throughout the year as an event venue.
Recommended strolling to feel nature The most exciting area in Sapporo is the entertainment district of Susukino beside which is Nakajima Park. Although it is located in the center of the city, it is rich in greenery and no matter which season you visit, the surrounding mountains help create the beautiful scenery. On the beautiful surface of Shobu Pond from where you can view Mt. Moiwa, you can also see wild birds. It is a great place to take a walk during spring and summer, but the park is also refreshing in the fall for the changing colors...
Price
- Free
Website
www.welcome.city.sapporo.jp
Lake Shikotsu
Japan’s northernmost ice-free lake is a part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park
Although it is located in a very cold region of Japan, the water at the bottom of the lake is quite warm which means it is a caldera lake that doesn’t freeze over. The area has numerous tourist spots and surrounding nature.
Enjoy the magnificent landscape by the lakeshore The origin of Lake Shikotsu came from the Ainu word for “big hollow”. It is a caldera lake which was formed about 40,000 years ago and is known for being the nation’s northernmost ice-free lake. Also, it is a beautiful body of water that boasts one of the best examples of clear water in Japan. In the area around the lake, there is a magnificent range of mountains including Mt. Eniwa, Mt. Tarumae and Mt. Fuppushi. You can enjoy yourself simply walking around the lakeshore area...
Website
en.wikipedia.org
Philosophical Tree
A poplar tree tilting as if it is thinking about something
(The tree was cut due to bad manners of tourists. You can no longer see this tree.) A lone poplar tree that pops up in the middle of the open farmland and beautiful hills of Biei Town is known as the Philosophical Tree (Tetsugaku-no-Ki), and as it endures the cold of winter, it is covered in lush green foliage in the summer.
A poplar tree that seems to be thinking The Philosophical Tree is one of the notable tourist spots in the town of Biei, Hokkaido Prefecture. It’s a poplar tree that suddenly juts out in the middle of the wide farmland. It’s located among the hills that go off everywhere but it is that opposite-facing slanting stance of the tree which has given it its name of the Philosophical Tree. It is that force of life that is striking during the warm season when the greenery is thriving. Also in the winter, the tree appears even deeper in tho...
Website
www.biei-hokkaido.jp
Oshinkoshin Falls
To look out on the grand ocean from the observation point at the top of the falls is incredible
Selected as one of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan, it is also one of the Shiretoko Hakkei (8 Picturesque Spots of Shiretoko) as a site that you should not miss. You will also want to focus on the fall’s different expressions over the seasons. The waterfall can be approached midway through a series of stairs.
Get a glimpse of Mother Nature at Shiretoko through the sight of these charming falls Hokkaido’s Shari-cho where Oshinkoshin Falls is located is a town situated in the World Heritage-recognized region of Shiretoko on the western side of the prefecture. Even among the many sightseeing spots of Hokkaido, this tourist spot representing Shiretoko which also faces the boundless expanse of the Okhotsk Sea is a site that cannot be overlooked. Oshinkoshin is not only one of the Top 100 Waterfalls of Japan, but it is also one of the Shiretoko H...
Phone
0152-22-6226
Ōnuma Quasi-National Park
Enjoy a variety of activities within the grand nature of Hokkaido
Located close to Hakodate, this is a large park which includes 3 lakes and the volcano Komagatake. This is a large natural resort which can be enjoyed fully by families for the environment that is very Hokkaido.
A park with many sights to see surrounded by Japanese white birch and maple trees Ōnuma Quasi-National Park is one of the New Top Three Views of Japan alongside Miho-no-Matsubara in Shizuoka Prefecture and Yaba Valley in Oita Prefecture. The park includes the three lakes of Onuma, Konuma and Junsai. The name of Onuma came from the Ainu word “boro toh” which means “a large marsh”, the meaning of “onuma”. A serene and relaxing scene of lakes and marshes spreads out surrounded by nature including Japanese whi...
Price
- Free
Vehicles and other activities require separate charges
Website
en.wikipedia.org
Hokkaido is a beautiful city and lot of the spots depends of the weather and period of the year, despite the hidden places and to know them, it is good to be with people that understand the place.
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Blogs about Hokkaido
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