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ClothingThe snow begins to melt fast in April. Wearing a light coat or jacket is advisable. Short sleeves are comfortable on warm days in around June onward.
Short sleeves are fine most of the time, but it would be a good idea to bring along a light jacket when you go out at night or visit the countryside (e.g., a mountain or lake area).
In September, mornings and nights are cold.In October and November, it gets colder, and a sweater or a coat is necessary.
Snow covers the ground and temperatures drop below freezing. An overcoat, winter gloves and a hat are necessary. Wearing winter shoes/boots or attaching an anti-skid device to shoes is a must. The day-night temperature difference is still big in March, and a coat is necessary.
Tulip Early May – early Jun. Lavender Mid-late Jul.
Sunflower Late Jul. – late Aug.Autumn foliageMid-Sept. – late Oct.
Cherry blossomEarly to mid-May
WinterAutumnSummer
Food Hot Springs
[Food]
[Events]
[Flowers/plants]
6:08/16:27 6:45/16:01 7:06/16:10 6:50/16:465:18/18:00 4:29/18:35 3:58/19:07 3:59/19:08 4:25/18:57 4:58/18:11 5:31/17:17
Average temperatures (high/low)
*Average temperatures (°C): average high and low temperatures in Sapporo (2015) *Sunrise/Sunset: average times of sunrise and sunset in Sapporo (times recorded around 20th of each month in 2014)
Sunrise/Sunset
April May June July August September
Fruit picking
October November December January February March
●Asia Cup International Dog-Sled Race [Sapporo/Mar.]
●Lake Shikotsu Opening Festival [Chitose/mid-Apr.]
●Kamiyubetsu Tulip Fair [Yubetsu/early May – early Jun.] ●Hokuryu Sunflower Festival [Hokuryu/mid-Jul. – late Aug.] ●Sapporo Autumn Fest [Sapporo/mid-Sept – early Oct.]
●Sapporo Lilac Festival [Sapporo/late May] ●Pacific Music Festival [Sapporo and other places/early-late Jul.]●Toyako Onsen Illumination Street [Toyako/early Nov. – late Mar.]
●Nemuro Crab Festival [Nemuro/early Sept.]
●Shizunai Cherry Blossom Festival [Shinhidaka/early to mid-May] ●Otaru Ushio Festival [Otaru/late Jul.]●Hakodate Goryokaku Festival [Hakodate/mid-May]
●Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival [Matsumae/late Apr. – mid-May]
●Rebun Flower Festival [Rebun/early Jun.]
●Sapporo Summer Festival [Sapporo/mid-Jul. – mid-Aug.] ●Ishikari Salmon Festival [Ishikari/late Sept.] ●Hakodate Christmas Fantasy [Hakodate/early-late Dec.]
●Otaru Snow Story [Otaru/mid-Nov. – mid-Jan.]
●YOSAKOI Soran Festival [Sapporo/early Jun.] ●Hokkai Navel Festival [Furano/late Jul.]
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●Autumn Wine Festival [Ikeda/early Oct.] ●Sounkyo Hyobaku Festival [Kamikawa/mid-Jan. – late Mar.]
●Diamond Dust in KAWAYU [Teshikaga/mid-Dec. – mid-Mar.]
●German Christmas Market in Sapporo [Sapporo/late Nov. – late Dec.]
▲Chitose & Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival [Chitose/late Jan. – mid-Feb.]
▲Sapporo Snow Festival [Sapporo/early Feb.]
▲Asahikawa Winter Festival [Asahikawa/early Feb.]
●Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Display [Toyako/late Apr. – late Oct.] ●Akkeshi Iris Festival [Akkeshi/late Jun. – early Jul.] ●Hokkaido Balloon Festival [Kamishihoro/early to mid-Aug.] ●Akkeshi Oyster Festival [Akkeshi/early to mid-Oct.]
▲Sapporo White Illumination [Sapporo/late Nov. – mid-Mar.]
●Lake Akan Ice Festival [Kushiro/early Feb. – mid-Mar.]
●Vasaloppet Japan [Asahikawa/early Mar.]
Spring Summer Autumn Winter
● Soft-serve ice cream
● Ramen
● Salmon hot pot (Ishikari nabe)● Pork bowl
● Sushi
● Genghis Khan mutton BBQ
● Beer● Cheese and other dairy products
● Wine
Among several sushi types, hand-shaped vinegared rice topped with fresh fish and shellfish is the most common. Enjoy seasonal Hokkaido seafood, including sea urchin, squids, prawns and scallops.
Ramen is a Japanese noodle dish served in a hot soup. Hokkaido is known for its ramen, and particularly miso-flavored ramen in Sapporo, soy sauce-flavored ramen in Asahikawa and salt-flavored ramen in Hakodate are popular.
With a vibrant dairy farming industry, Hokkaido is home to many cheese factories. Butter, yogurt and many other dairy products are also produced.
In Hokkaido, where dairy farming is a key industry, the soft-serve ice cream made from locally produced fresh milk is not to be missed.
Sapporo was where one of the first beers was brewed by Japanese people. Distinctive local craft beers are brewed in various parts of Hokkaido.
This leading spa resort in Japan is also known as a “department store of hot springs” due to the nine different kinds of spring water in the area.
Niseko Hot Spring encompasses three towns, offering different kinds of spring water.
Broil mutton and vegetables on a special iron grill and dip them in a sauce. The dish can also be enjoyed by broiling marinated meat in the sauce.
Salmon hot pot is a popular local dish in Hokkaido. It is cooked by simmering chunks of salmon and vegetables (e.g., cabbage and onion) in a miso-flavored soup.
Boasting Japan’s largest output of wine grapes, Hokkaido is home to many wineries.
This bowl of rice topped with pork seasoned with a mildly sweet sauce is a specialty of Obihiro, a city known for its pork production.
This well-known hot spring resort is a conveniently located sightseeing base about a 10-minute drive from Hakodate city center and a 5-minute drive from Hakodate Airport. From the resort’s guest rooms and open-air baths facing the sea, you can see the lights of squid fishing boats at night from summer to autumn.
This hot spring resort is nestled in a rugged and beautiful gorge within Daisetsuzan National Park.
In this hot spring resort nestled in Daisetsuzan National Park, visitors can enjoy open-air hot spring bathing on the frozen lake in winter.
Located only five meters from Lake Kussharo, this open-air mixed bathing facility allows bathers to view swans flying over the lake in winter.
Hot spring water from smoke-spewing Mt. Io in the Shiretoko Mountains flows into a river and has formed a natural open-air bath. Caution should be taken on the slippery grounds.
This open-air hot spring bath is located in a forest on the mid-slope of Mt. Tokachida-ke. Since it is a mixed bath, women are advised to wrap their body with a bath towel or wear a swimsuit, and men are also advised to hide themselves with a towel.
This hot spring resort is located only about a 45-minute drive from central Sapporo – a great place to take a day trip for a soak.
●Yunokawa Hot Springs [Hakodate]
● Noboribetsu Hot Springs [Noboribetsu]
● Niseko Hot Springs [Niseko, Kutchan and Rankoshi]
●Kamuiwakka Yunotaki Falls [Shari]
● Jozankei Hot Springs [Sapporo]
● Lake Kussharo Kotan Hot Springs [Teshikaga]
● Sounkyo Hot Springs [Kamikawa]
● Fukiage Hot Springs [Kamifurano]
Hokkaido produces apples, cherries, grapes and many other fruits. Orchards in central Hokkaido (most notably Yoichi and Niki) as well as southern and northern Hokkaido allow visitors to pick and eat fruit straight from the trees.
Bird watchingHokkaido is an important stopover for migratory birds from Siberia and also has many wetlands registered under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. Hokkaido also serves as a wintering area for whooper swans and various other birds, making local lakes and swamps a popular bird watching destination.
● Mashike● Asahikawa● Sapporo● Yoichi
● Niki● Sobetsu● Nanae
● Lake Kutcharo● Lake Tofutsu● Shunkunitai● Lake Akkeshi / Bekambeushi Marsh● Lake Utonai● Onuma Quasi-National Park
Hokkaido offers ample opportunities to climb mountains while viewing colorful autumn leaves. Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage in the magnificent Taisetsu Mountain Range, where among the 2,000-meter peaks autumn arrives earlier than anywhere else in Japan.
This long-running fireworks display held from late April to October at Lake Toya can be viewed from a sightseeing boat on the lake, hotel guest rooms and open-air bathing facilities.
Takikawa, a city located in central Hokkaido, has Japan’s largest area of rape fields under cultivation. Rape blossoms are at their best from late May to early June. Canola oil is produced from rapeseed.
Shizunai Nijukken Road in Shinhidaka Town, central Hokkaido, is said to have one of the longest rows of cherry blossom trees in Japan. Approximately 3,000 trees are in full bloom along the straight 7-kilometer-long road from early to mid-May.
Enjoy the landscapes, flowers, trees, gentle forest aromas and birdsong of Hokkaido, while trekking through fields and mountains – a feast for the senses.
Hokkaido offers a variety of river experiences for rafters, from trips down gentle streams to thrilling whitewater adventures.
Mountain stream fishing is popular in various parts of Hokkaido as the island has many clear streams. Enjoy fishing for species such as landlocked cherry salmon, rainbow trout and whitespotted char in summer.
Dolphin and whale watching boat tours are available in Muroran. Visitors are most likely to spot dolphins and whales from mid-June to mid-August.
Known for its wine, Ikeda in eastern Hokkaido holds this annual festival to celebrate grape harvesting and preparations for wine brewing. Enjoy local fare at the event, which offers all-you-can-drink wine, a whole-roasted cow and other delights.
Squid Mar. – Sept. Squid Mar. – Sept.
Lily bulb Dec. – Feb.Sea urchin Jul. – Oct.
Corn Jul. – Sept.
King crab Mar. – Nov. King crab Mar. – Nov.
Salmon Oct. – Nov.
Oyster Sept. – Apr.OysterSept. – Apr.
Pacific saury Sept. – Oct.
Horse hair crab All year
Melon Jul. – Sept.
Moss pink is a ground-hugging plant with small flowers similar to cherry blossoms. When the flowers are at their peak, the vast flower fields look as if they have been carpeted pink. The eastern Hokkaido towns of Ozora and Takinoue are well known for their moss pink, and the best time to view the flower is from mid-May to early June.
Japan’s largest wetland, Kushiro-shitsugen is known as a habitat for red-crowned cranes, a Special Natural Monument of Japan. Well-maintained walking trails through the wetland’s pristine natural environment are equipped with viewing spots where visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes.
●Autumn Wine Festival [Ikeda]
●Daisetsuzan National Park [Kamikawa, Higashikawa, Kamishihoro, etc.]Lake Mashu is often shrouded in fog. Winter offers great opportunities to see the lake’s clear water as the region has many sunny days during the season. Walking in snowshoes along the outer rim of this crater lake, you would be able to enjoy the lake’s diverse scenery.
Hokkaido has a lot of snow in winter, so ski resorts with quality powder snow are found virtually everywhere.
Enjoy a thrilling experience speeding over snow fields on a rafting boat or snow banana boat pulled by a snowmobile.
This annual event held from December 1 to 25 is known for a 20-meter-tall, offshore floating Christmas tree decorated with about 50,000 light bulbs. During the period, various events are held, especially on weekends.
Enjoy fishing for pond smelt through holes on frozen lakes and rivers. The fish is delicious when deep fried (tempura).
●Lake Mashu [Teshikaga]
●Pond smelt fishing
●Snow rafting
●Lake Shikaribetsu Hot Springs [Shikaoi]
The sightseeing icebreaker cutting a path through the frozen sea surface offers visitors a chance to view the drift ice floating in the Sea of Okhotsk. It is available from January to March.
●Sightseeing Icebreaker [Mombetsu and Abashiri]
●Skiing
●Rape blossoms [Takikawa]
●Kushiro Shitsugen National Park [Kushiro City, Tsurui, Shibecha and Kushiro Town]
●Fishing
●Rafting●Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Display [Toyako]
●Trekking
Hokkaido is home to many lakes, wetlands, rivers and other natural resources, offering opportunities to enjoy canoeing in beautiful natural surroundings.
●Canoeing
Being Japan’s largest horse producing area, Hokkaido has many facilities for horseback riding. These facilities offer visitors opportunities to experience horseback riding on riding grounds and enjoy riding on natural trails in places such as forests, beaches and marshland.
●Horseback riding
●Dolphin & whale watching [Muroran]
●Moss pink [Ozora and Takinoue]
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This festival is held in Sapporo’s Odori Park in late May, when lilac blossoms are at their best. Visitors can enjoy drinking a bowl of whipped powdered green tea or listening to live music while viewing around 400 lilac trees in full bloom.
●Sapporo Lilac Festival [Sapporo]D
●Cherry blossoms [Shinhidaka]C
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This Ainu festival is intended to express appreciation to marimo algae balls in Lake Akan. It greets algae balls from the lake and sees them off back to the lake.
●Marimo Festival [Kushiro]Hot-air balloon rides provide a panoramic 360-degree view of Hokkaido’s magnificent landscapes from the sky. With a tethered ride, anybody can enjoy the sensation of ascending into the sky.
●Hot-air balloon rides
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●Hakodate Christmas Fantasy [Hakodate]C
Tourist Information
Get international medical insurance to cover your medical expenses.
Hokkaido Tourism Organizationhttp://en.visit-hokkaido.jpTEL +81-(0)11-231-0941 Office of Prefectural Tourism Promotion,Department of Economic Affairs,Hokkaido GovernmentN3 W6, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, HokkaidoTEL +81-(0)11-204-5305
Hokkaido-Sapporo Tourist Information CenterHokkaido-Sapporo “Food and Tourism” Information CenterNorth Exit, West Concourse, JR Sapporo Station, N6 W4, Kita-ku, Sapporo, HokkaidoTEL +81-(0)11-213-5088 FAX +81-(0)11-213-5089Sapporo International Communication Plaza Foundation (SICPF)3F, Sapporo MN Bldg., N1 W3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, HokkaidoTEL +81-(0)11-211-3670 http://www.plaza-sapporo.or.jp
http://en.visit-hokkaido.jpHokkaido Tourism Organization
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Surrounded by the ocean and blessed with bountiful nature, Hokkaido is a rich source of food with vibrant fisheries, agriculture and dairy farming industries. It offers a wealth of fine food, ranging from elaborately presented fare to simple dishes that bring out the true flavor of their ingredients.
The location of two volcanic zones in Hokkaido makes it a paradise for hot spring lovers. In fact, hot springs are found all over Hokkaido, with abundant hot spring water providing visitors with great opportunities to soak away the fatigue of a day spent traveling around.
Tourist MapHOKKAIDO
1.2℃/-4.6℃ 1.9℃/-3.6℃13.7℃/4.6℃ 19.6℃/9.7℃ 21.0℃/13.5℃ 26.0℃/18.0℃ 26.4℃/19.4℃ 22.5℃/14.9℃ 15.2℃/6.7℃ 8.6℃/2.2℃ 3.7℃/-2.2℃
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●Lavender [Kamifurano, Nakafurano, Furano, etc.] ●Sunflowers [Hokuryu]Expansive purple fields are a signature landscape of Hokkaido in summer. Lavender is at its best from mid- to late July. Lavender goods, including potpourri, aromatic oils and herbal tea, are popular with visitors.
Hokuryu in northern Hokkaido is known for its 1.3 million sunflowers blooming on 23 hectares of hillside from late July to early August, when they are at their best. Hokuryu’s sunflower maze is also not to be missed.
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●Sounkyo Gorge [Kamikawa]Located in Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Gorge welcomes the first autumn leaves in Japan. Bright hues of red and yellow contrast against green conifers, creating stunning landscapes.
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Tourist Map HOKKAIDO
*If you do not have insurance, you can get it after arriving in Japan.
Toyokoro
Biei
Train line is currently closed between JR Mukawa Station and JR SAmani Station.
Kikonai Station
Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station
South Hokkaido Railway Company (Goryokaku⇔Kikonai)Hokkaido bullet train
RebunIslandCape Sukoton
Alpine Botanical Garden
Monument of the Northernmost Tip of JapanCape Soya
Cape Noshappu
Wakkanai Airport
North Okhotsk Prefectural Natural Park
Shumarinai Prefectural Natural Park
Rishiri-Rebun-SarobetsuNational Park
Wakkanai
Wakkanai Park
Hyosetsu no Mon(Gate of Ice and Snow)
Cape SukaiObservatory
MomoiwaObservatory
Rishiri Fuji
Glass boat
Rishiri Town Museum
Mt. Rishiri
SarobetsuWilderness Toyotomi
Horonobe
Teshionakagawa
Otoineppu
Bifuka
Nayoro
Kembuchi
Wassamu
Kamikawa
Shirataki
Maruseppu
Engaru
ShibetsuSheep Farm
World Sheep Museum
TomaLimestone Cave
Patchwork Hills
Ice Pavilion
Asahidake
Asahidake
Sounkyo
OnneyuAzalea Park
Kurodake
Asahiyama Zoo
Old Hanada Fishing Mansion
Ryusei Falls & Ginga Falls
Picture Book Museum
Pippu
Kamui Ski Links
Chiebun Sunflower Field
Himawari no Sato(Home of Sunflowers)
Takinoue Park(Moss Pink)
Omusaro Primeval Flower Garden
Komuke Primeval Flower Garden
Wakka Primeval Flower Garden
Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden
Shari Primeval Flower Garden
Ikushina Primeval Flower Garden
Kumanoyu
Kamuiwakka YunotakiFalls
ShiretokoPass
Oshinkoshin Falls
Furepe Falls (Maiden’s Tears)
Shiretoko Goko Lakes
Shiretoko Nature Center
Lily Park
Senmo Line
Ura-Mashu Observatory
Stopover for swansTodowara
Nemuro Kurumaishi (A wheel shaped rock)Shunkunitai Wild Bird Sanctuary
Nemuro Line
Japanese rose colonies
Northern Primeval Flower Garden
Notsuke PeninsulaNature Center
Whale Watching
Pierson Memorial House
Kitami MintMemorial Museum
Bihoro Pass
Mt. Shari-dake
LakeKussharo
Lake MashuNemuro-Nakashibetsu Airport
Observatory No.1
Stopover for Japanese cranes
Biwase Observatory
Ayamegahara (Iris Garden)
Stopover for swans
Stopover for swansHosooka MarshViewpoint
Kushiro MarshObservatory
Observatory No.3
Japanese Crane Sanctuary
Old National Railway Shihoro Lineconcrete arch bridges
Hagoromo Falls
Sekihoku Pass
Takushinkan
Hinode Park(Lavender)
Farm Tomita
Furano
Tomamu Tokachishimizu
ObihiroShin-Yubari
New Chitose Airport
Okadama Airport(Sapporo)
Lake Okotampe
Garo Gorge
Mt. Tarumae
Mt. Yotei
Lake Shikotsu
Lake Toya
Mt. Eniwa-dake
Lake Utonai(stopover for swans)
Mt.Okura
Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
Bannosawa Falls
Ten Most Beautiful Spotsin Shiribeshi
Shiraoi PorotokotanAinu Museum
Lake KuttaraJigokudani (Hell Valley)
Crater ObservatoryMt. Usu
Orofure Pass
Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
Old NakamuraHouse
Okushiri Tsunami Museum
Esashi YokoyamaResidenceUbagami Shrine
Goryokaku
Trappistine Convent
Trappist Monastery
Matsumae Castle &Residence of the Matsumae Clan
NoboribetsuDate Jidaimura
Iris Garden
Iris Park
Flower gardens
Esan Tsutsuji (Azalea)
Park
Matsumae Park (Cherry trees)
Chitose Salmon Aquarium
Otaru Aquarium
Kida KinjiroMuseum of ArtArai Memorial
Museum of ArtShin-Sapporo
Sapporo
Otaru
Bankei
Snow Cruise Onze
Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway Otaru Tenguyama
Sapporo Teine
SapporoKokusai
Asarigawa Onsen
KiroroSnow World
Iwanai Kokusai
Niseko Grand Hirafu
Hanazono Niseko
Niseko Moiwa
Muroran Kogen Danpara
Okushiri
Chisenupuri
Niseko Annupuri
Weiss
NakayamatogeKogen
Sanlaiva
Rusutsu Resort
Niseko Village
Oiwake
Tomakomai
Higashi Muroran
Muroran
Oshamambe
Yakumo
Hakodate
Heidi FarmYuni Garden
Minami Chitose
Yubari
Memuro
Shintoku
Shiranuka
Kushiro
Urahoro
IkedaIkeda Wine Castle
Naumann’s Elephant Museum
Iwanai Gorge
Nissho Pass
Tokachi Millenium Forest
Lily of the valley colonies in Biratori
Ainu Culture Museum
Northern Horse Park
Cherry Tree-Lined Nijukken-doro AvenueThoroughbred Ginza
Yushun Village AERU(Horseback riding)
Samani
Takikawa
Furano Wine Factory
Furano Cheese FactoryIce Milk Factory
Furano Handcraft Factory
Flower LandKamifurano
Naitai Highland RanchRokugo-no-Mori Forest
Sahoro Resort
Furano
Nakafurano Hokusei
Hoshino ResortsTOMAMU
Yubari Resort Mount Racey
Lake Nukabira
Japanese CraneObservation Center
Breeding ground for Japanese cranes
Japanese Crane Reserve
Onnenai Visitor Center
Kottaro MarshViewpoint
Odaito
Bekambeushi Marsh
Akan National Park
Mt. Oakan-dakeLake Akan
Onneto
Lake Chimikeppu
Lake Shikaribetsu
Tokachi Obihiro Airport
Mt. Horoshiri-dake
Saru River
Mukawa River
Cape Chikyu
Onuma
Konuma
Hakodate Airport
Uchiura Bay
Okushiri Island
Okushiri Airport
Shiribeshi-Toshibetsu River
Shiribetsu River
Cape Shakotan
Shakotan Peninsula
Cape Kamui
Cape Benkei
Mt. Komagatake
Mt. Apoi-dake
HyakuninBeach
Cape Erimo
Kaze no Yakata (Hall of Breezes)
Pacific Ocean
Tokachi River
Mt. Tokachi-dake
DaisetsuzanNational Park
Mt. TomuraushiMt. Ishikari-dake
Mt. Asahi-dakeMt. Kuro-dake
Ropeway
Ropeway
Nukabira
Tomuraushi
Tenninkyo
Fukiage
Shirogane
Tokachidake
Shikaribetsu Kohan
Shintoku
Meakan
Tokachigawa
Mt. Meakan-dake
Kiritappu Marsh
LakeAkkeshi
Daikoku IslandKushiro River
Akan River
Kushiro Airport
Lake Toro
Cape Nosappu
Cape Ochiishi
Nemuro
Lake Furen
Shibazakura Park(Moss Pink)
Flower ParadiseKitami
Rubeshibe
Ikutahara Memambetsu
Bihoro
Abashiri
AbashiriPrison Museum
Tulip Park
Engaru Park
Sea of Okhotsk
Lake Saroma Wakka Nature Center
Rikubetsu AstronomicalObservatory
Aurora Terminal (Icebreaker)
Garinko Station (Icebreaker)
Toyotomi
Mt. Piyashiri
Lake Shumarinai
Uryu River
Sorachi River
LakeKanayama
Mt. Ashibetsu-dake
Yubari Coal Mine Museum
Karikachi Pass
Kanda Nissho Art Museum
LakeKanayama
Mt. Yubari-dake
Furano-Ashibetsu Prefectural Natural Park
Ishikari RiverIris Garden
Japanese rose colonies
Sapporo Sato-Land Farm ParkMoerenuma Park
Yukara Ori FolkCraft Museum
KamuikotanAsahikawa
Cape OfuyuMt. Shokambetsu-dake
Uryunuma Marsh Asahikawa Airport
Rumoi River
Cape Ogon
Kunimare Sake Brewery
Mt. Teshio-dake
Shokotsu River
Yubetsu River
Lake Saroma
LakeNotoro
LakeTofutsu
Tokoro River
YoroushiWakoto
Sunayu Kawayu
Kotan
MashuAkan Kohan
Lake Saroma
Lake Abashiri
Abashiri River
Okhotsk Mombetsu Airport
Teshio-dake PrefecturalNatural Park
AbashiriQuasi-National Park
Sharidake PrefecturalNatural Park
Notsuke-Furen PrefecturalNatural Park
MemambetsuAirport
Cape Shiretoko
Shiretoko National ParkShiretokoPeninsula
Notsuke Peninsula
Mt. Rausu-dake
Shokambetsu-Teuri-YagishiriQuashi-National Park
Lake KutcharoStopover for swans
Reindeer Tourist Farm
Shosambetsu Astronomical Observatory
RishiriIsland
Yagishiri IslandTeuri Island
Sea of Japan
Himenuma
Otadomari Swamp
Flower gardenKafuka
Wakkanai
RishiriRishirifuji
RebunSarufutsu
Toyotomi
Horonobe
Esashi
Nakagawa
Otoineppu
Teshio
Embetsu
Shosanbetsu
Haboro
Tomamae
Bifuka
Oumu
Okoppe
Mombetsu
Yubetsu
EngaruSaroma
Nishiokoppe
Takinoue
Shimokawa
Shibetsu
Kembuchi
Horokanai Wassamu
AibetsuKamikawa
Tohma
Asahikawa
HigashikawaHigashikagura
Pippu
Takasu
ChippubetsuNumata
Obira
Rumoi
Mashike
Hokuryu
Shintotsukawa
SunagawaUrausu
Tsukigata
Naie
MikasaBibai
Iwamizawa
YubariKuriyamaNanporo
Ebetsu
Kitahiroshima
Sapporo
OtaruNiki
Akaigawa
Kyowa
KutchanKyogoku
Kimobetsu
SobetsuToyako
Makkari RusutsuNiseko
Toyoura
Oshamambe
Yakumo
Imakane
Setana
Okushiri
Date
RankoshiSuttsu
ShimamakiKuromatsunai
Iwanai
YoichiFurubira
Shakotan
Kamoenai
Tomari
IshikariTobetsu Shinshinotsu
NaganumaYuni
KamisunagawaUtashinai
Takikawa
UryuMoseushi
Fukagawa
AkabiraAshibetsu
Biei
Kamifurano
Nakafurano
Furano
Minamifurano
ShintokuShikaoi
Shimizu Memuro
Obihiro
Otofuke Ikeda
Honbetsu
Ashoro
Rikubetsu
OketoKunneppu
Tsubetsu
BihoroKitamiOzora Koshimizu
Abashiri
Shari
Kiyosato
Rausu
Shibetsu
Nakashibetsu
Teshikaga
Betsukai
Nemuro
HamanakaAkkeshi
Shibecha
Tsurui
Kushiro CityShiranuka
Urahoro
Makubetsu
Toyokoro
Nakasatsunai
Sarabetsu
Taiki
Hiroo
Erimo
SamaniUrakawa
Shinhidaka
Niikappu
Hidaka
Mukawa
Biratori
Atsuma
Tomakomai
Shiraoi
Noboribetsu
Muroran
Shikabe
Nanae
Hakodate
Hokuto
Assabu
EsashiKaminokuni
Kikonai
Shiriuchi
FukushimaMatsumae
Otobe
Mori
Abira
Chitose
Eniwa
Kushiro Town
Shihoro
Kamishihoro
Shimukappu
Nayoro
Nakatombetsu
Hamatonbetsu
Skunk cabbage colonies
Sarobetsu PrimevalFlower Garden Beniya Primeval Flower Garden
Kushiro ShitsugenNational Park
Akkeshi PrefecturalNatural Park
Otokoyama Sake Brewery & Sake Museum
Hakodate Nanae
Yubari OnsenYuka-no-yu
Yunni-no-yu
Shikotsuko
Toyako
Futamata Radium
Ginkonyu
Esan
Sobetsu
Date
Shikabe Geyser
Yunokawa
Nagareyama
Kojohama
Noboribetsu
Asarigawa
Weiss
Iwanai
Weiss Hanazono
Goshiki
KombuKombugawa
Toya Kitayuzawa
Yakushi
YumotoNiimi
Raiden
Yunosato
KutchanJozankei
Kamome Island & Kaiyo Maru
Mt. Hakodate
Nabetsuru Rock
Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru KaiganQuasi-National Park
Kariba-Motta PrefecturalNatural Park
Hiyama PrefecturalNatural Park
Matsumae-Yagoshi PrefecturalNatural Park
Esan PrefecturalNatural Park
Onuma Quasi-NationalPark
Hokkaido Prefectural Natural Park“Nopporo Forest Park”
Shikotsu-ToyaNational Park
Hidaka-sanmyaku Erimo Quasi-National Park
Neiparu Forest
Dolphine & whale watching
Wakkanai
Tomamae
Haboro Nayoro
Shiokari Pass MaruseppuAbashiriko
YAMA NO Aquarium
Utoro
Ainu Kotan in the Lakeside Akan
Anpanman Shop in Furano
Rape field
Otaru Music Box Museum
Ecorin Village
Sapporo Dome
KyogokuFukidashi Koen
Pirika
Yakumo
Harvester Yakumo
Matsumae
Windsor Snow Village
Northern Arc Resort
Hokuto-moheji IC
Hokuto-tomigawa IC
Hokuto-chuo ICNanae-okawa IC
Onumakoen IC
Mori IC
Kunnui IC
Oshamambe IC
Toyoura-IC
Muroran ICNoboribetsu-higashi IC
Noboribetsu-Muroran IC
Abuta-Toyako ICDate IC
Usuzan SA
Kuromatsunai-JCT
Kuromatsunai-minami IC
Kuromatsunai IC
Yakumo IC
Otoshibe IC
Hokuto-oiwake IC
Akagawa IC
Hakodate ICNanae-honcho IC
Nanae-fujishiro IC
Shiraoi IC
Tarumae SA
Tomakomai-nishi IC
Tomakomai-higashi IC
New ChitoseAirport IC
Chitose IC
Eniwa IC
Kitahiroshima IC
Sapporo-minami IC
Oyachi ICKitago IC
Sapporo JCT
Asari IC Zenibako IC
Oiwakecho IC
Yubari IC Mukawa-Hobetsu IC
Shimukappu ICTomamu IC
Tokachi-Shimizu ICTokachiheigen SA
Otofuke-Obihiro IC
Ikeda IC
Honbetsu JCT Honbetsu IC
Urahoro IC
Shiranuka IC Shoro IC Akan ICKushiro-nishi IC
Kushiro-higashi ICKushiro-chuo IC
Ashoro IC
Memuro IC Obihiro JCTMemuro-Obihiro IC
Obihiro-Kawanishi IC
Kofuku IC
Nakasatsunai IC
Sarabetsu IC
Churui-Taiki IC
Churui IC
Chitose-higashi IC
Chitose-Eniwa ICWattsu SA
Numanohata-nishi ICNumanohata-
higashi IC
Tomato-chuo IC
Atsuma ICMukawa IC
Hidaka-Tomikawa IC
Hidaka-Mombetsu IC
Otaru IC
Teine IC
Sapporo-nishi IC
Shinkawa IC
Sapporo-kita IC
Fushiko IC
Kariki ICSapporo ICEbetsu-nishi IC
Nopporo PA
Ebetsu-higashi IC
Iwamizawa SA
Iwamizawa IC
Mikasa IC
Bibai IC
Naie-Sunagawa IC
Sunagawa SA
Takikawa IC
Fukagawa JCT
Fukagawa IC
Asahikawa-Takasu IC
Asahikawa-Kita IC
Pippu JCT
Shibetsu-Kembuchi IC
Nayoro IC
Nayoro-kita IC
Chiebun IC
Bifuka IC
Bifuka-kita IC
Wassamu IC
Pippu-kita IC
Aizan-kamikawa IC
Ukishima ICShirataki IC
Oku-Shirataki IC
Kamikawa-Sounkyo IC
Aibestu IC
Fukagawa-nishi IC
Chippubetsu ICNumata ICHokuryu-Himawari IC
Rumoi-Horonuka IC
Rumoi-Owada IC
Toyotomi-kita IC
Toyotomi-horoka IC
Toyotomi-sarobetsu IC
Horonobe IC
Kitami-kitakami ICKitami-nishi IC
Kunneppu ICKitami-chuo IC
Kitami-kawahigashi IC
Kitami-higashi IC
Bihoro IC
MemambetsuAirport IC
Maruseppu IC Engaru – Setose IC
Rikubetsu – Shotoshibetsu IC
Erimo
Urakawa
Tomakomai
Shiraoi
Muroran
Mori
Todohokke
Hakodate
Matsumae
Esashi
Setana
Iwanai
YoichiOtaru
Ishikarishinkou
Ishikari
Mashike
Rumoi
Haboro
Yagishiri
Teshio
Oniwaki
Kutsugata
Oshidomari
Wakkanai
Soya
Esashi
Mombetsu
Abashiri
Nemuro
Kiritappu
Kushiro
Tokachi
Funadomari
Teuri
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Central Hokkaido
What is Hokkaido like?
Access to Hokkaido
Access in Hokkaido
By air
Northern Hokkaido
Southern Hokkaido
Vast expanses of flowers and the rugged beauty of the gorge
OkhotskThis area displays a unique scene each season: Moss pink in the spring, colorful flowers in the summer, glassworts in the fall, and drift ice in the winter.
New Chitose Airport is the main gateway to Hokkaido and serves both domestic and international flights. The availability of many flights between New Chitose and Tokyo makes it convenient to fly to Hokkaido via Japan’s mainland, Honshu. Hokkaido’s other major cities, including Hakodate, Asahikawa, Obihiro, Kushiro and Wakkanai, also have airports.
Ferry terminals with services to Honshu are located in Tomakomai, Otaru and Hakodate. Particularly, Tomakomai has two terminals with services to the following regions of Japan: Tohoku, Kanto, Tokai and Kansai.
Driving is the most efficient way to travel over vast stretches within Hokkaido. A good alternative is to travel long distances by train or plane and then switch to a rental car to explore your destination.
Intercity bus services connecting major cities in Hokkaido are available. They may take more time than train services, but prices are more reasonable.
One-day or half-a-day bus tours to popular sites in Hokkaido are available. There are a wide range of courses to choose from to suit all needs.
Limited express trains connect major cities across Hokkaido, allowing more flexibility for your travels.
The appeals of Hokkaido include a rich natural environment and four distinct seasons – the northern land offers magnificent views over primeval forests and wetlands, colorful fields covered with flowers, and landscapes of snow and ice. Visitors can savor a rich variety of natural bounties in Hokkaido, from fine seasonal fare to the natural hot springs that are found in various parts of the prefecture.
After the launch of Hokkaido Shinkansen (Shin-Aomori ⇔ Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto) in March 2016, Hokkaido and Tokyo are now connected in 4 hours and 2 minutes at the fastest via Shinkansen (Hayabusa).
Urban tourist attractions and stunning natural beauty created by volcanoes
Being half northern pika and half Hokkaido sika deer (both of which live in Hokkaido), this cute mascot helps publicize the appeal of Hokkaido as a tourist destination.
Discover buildings and streetscapes from the time of the samurai warriors
TokachiThe vast farmland is full of potential from settlers.
By train JR
By car
By train JR■ JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
New Chitose Airport and Sapporo Okadama Airport are connected with other major cities in Hokkaido, such as Hakodate, Kushiro and Wakkanai. Most destinations are within a one-hour flight.
By air
Ferry services are available for traveling to Rishiri, Rebun and other remote islands. It is advisable to check schedules in advance, particularly in winter when the services are often cancelled due to inclement weather.
By ferry
■ Distances between major cities
■ Intercity buses
■ Regular sightseeing buses
■ Limited express trains etc.
By ferry
3326:1749110:174429:423768:263678:023547:292465:341593:45
1173:54
White-tailed eagle
Designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in 2005, Shiretoko is home to over 300 kinds of animals, including rare animals such as white-tailed eagles, a Natural Monument of Japan.
Seal
ClionesSeal
Kushiro – NemuroNatural tapestry of forests and lakes – a land of splendor and mystery
Animals in Shiretoko
Area: 83,457 km2 (approx. 22% of Japan’s total landmass)
Location: Longitude: 139° 20’ − 148° 53’ east Latitude: 41° 21’ − 45° 33’ northHokkaido is on a similar latitude to London (the U.K.) and Munich (Germany).
Population: 5,349,558 (July 2017)
Ezo red fox
Kyun Chan, Hokkaido’s tourism mascot
JR
Hokkaido bullet train
Expressway
Motorway (toll)
Motorway (free)
National highway
Prefectural road
Hot springs
Scenic spot
Flower site
Michinoeki (roadside station)
Harbor
Ski slopes
Activity
Airport
Kunashiri Island
Shikotan Island
Habomai Islands
Etorofu Island
AbashiriRishiri
Shibetsu
Nemuro
Memambetsu
Okhotsk Mombetsu
Nemuro Nakashibetsu
KushiroTokachiObihiro
Otaru
Sapporo
Hakodate
OmaAomori
Niigata,Maizuru
Sapporo←→Noboribetsu←→Muroran Express Hakucho Approx. 2 hr. 25 min.Sapporo←→Noboribetsu Onsen←→Toyako Onsen Express Onsen←→Express Iburi Approx. 2 hr. 50 min.Sapporo←→Shizunai←→Urakawa Express Pegasus Approx. 3 hr. 45 min.Sapporo←→Hakodate Express Hakodate Approx. 5 hr. 25 min.Sapporo←→Asahikawa←→Mombetsu Express Ryuhyo Mombetsu Approx. 5 hr. 15 min.Sapporo←→Obihiro Potato Liner Approx. 3 hr. 40 min.Sapporo←→Kitami←→Abashiri Dreamint Okhotsk Approx. 6 hr. 20 min.Sapporo←→Kushiro Starlight Kushiro Approx. 5 hr. 45 min.Sapporo←→Shibetsu←→Nayoro Express Nayoro Approx. 3 hr. 30 min.Sapporo←→Asahikawa←→Engaru Express Engaru Approx. 4 hr. 56 min.Sapporo←→Mashike←→Haboro Limited Express Haboro Approx. 3 hr. 10 min.Sapporo←→Haboro←→Toyotomi Limited Express Haboro Approx. 5 hr. 10 min.Sapporo←→Wakkanai Wakkanai / Hamanasu Approx. 5 hr. 50 min.Sapporo←→Nemuro Aurora Approx. 9 hr. 30 min.Asahikawa←→Obihiro North Liner Approx. 3 hr. 45 min.Asahikawa←→Kushiro Sunrise Asahikawa-Kushiro Approx. 6 hr. 35 min.Kushiro←→Nemuro Limited Express Nemuro Approx. 2 hr. 50 min.
Ltd. Exp. Kamui Sapporo←→Asahikawa Approx. 1 hr. 30 min.Ltd. Exp. Super-Tokachi Sapporo←→Obihiro Approx. 2 hr. 40 min.Ltd. Exp. Soya Sapporo←→Wakkanai Approx. 5 hr.Ltd. Exp. Super-Hokuto Sapporo←→Hakodate Approx. 3 hr. 30 min.Ltd. Exp. Super-Ozora Sapporo←→Kushiro Approx. 4 hr. 10 min.Ltd. Exp. Okhotsk Sapporo←→Abashiri Approx. 5 hr. 20 min.
*The travel times required that are shown above are subject to change.1710
* This mark indicates a website is available only in Japanese.
Donan Bus http://www.donanbus.co.jp
Hokkaido Chuo Bus http://www.chuo-bus.co.jp
Engan Bus http://www.engan-bus.co.jp/
Hokuto Kotsu Bus http://www.hokuto.co.jp
JR Hokkaido http://www2.jrhokkaido.co.jp/global
Hokkaido Chuo Bus http://www.chuo-bus.co.jp Hokuto Kotsu Bus http://www.hokuto.co.jpHOT BUS http://www.hotbus.co.jp
Hokkaido Rail Pass http://www2.jrhokkaid.co.jp/global
JAL http://www.jal.com ■ New Chitose←→Memambetsu ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Rishiri ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Kushiro ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Hakodate ■ Hakodate←→Okushiri
Heart Land Ferry http://www.heartlandferry.jp ■ Esashi←→Okushiri ■ Setana←→Okushiri ■ Wakkanai←→Rishiri (Oshidomari) ■ Wakkanai←→Rebun (Kafuka) ■ Rishiri (Oshidomari)←→Rebun (Kafuka)←→Rishiri (Kutsugata)Haboro Enkai Ferry http://www.haboro-enkai.com ■ Haboro←→Yagishiri←→Teuri
ANA http://www.anaskyweb.com ■ New Chitose←→Wakkanai ■ New Chitose←→Hakodate ■ New Chitose←→Kushiro ■ New Chitose←→Memambetsu ■ New Chitose←→Nemuro-Nakashibetsu
HAC https://www.info.hac-air.co.jp/ ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Kushiro ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Hakodate ■ Okadama (Sapporo)←→Rishiri ■ Hakodate←→Okushiri
Dohoku Bus http://www.dohokubus.com
Kushiro Bus http://www.kushirobus.jp
Hachinohe,Akita,Sendai,Niigata,Oarai,Nagoya,Tsuruga
Tomakomai
Asahikawa
New Chitose
Hong Kong,Hawaii, Guam, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Kuala Lumpur
Hakodate
Wakkanai
Tokyo(Haneda)
Tokyo(Haneda),Osaka(Kansai),Nagoya(Chubu)
Tokyo(Haneda),Tokyo (Narita),Osaka (Itami),Osaka (Kansai),Nagoya(Chubu),
Tokyo(Haneda), Narita, Osaka (Itami, Kansai), Nagoya(Chubu), Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, Hanamaki, Sendai, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Niigata, Matsumoto, Toyama, Komatsu, Shizuoka, Kobe, Okayama, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Okinawa
New Chitose Airport Terminal Building http://www.new-chitose-airport.jpJAL http://www.jal.com ANA http://www.anaskyweb.comADO http://www.airdo.jpSKY http://www.skymark.co.jp FDA http://www.fujidream.co.jpCathay Pacific Airways http://www.cathaypacific.comHong Kong Airlines http://www.hongkongairlines.comSingapore Airlines http://www.singaporeair.comHawaiian Airlines http://www.hawaiianairlines.comUnited Airlines http://www.united.comAurora Airlines http://www.flyaurora.ru/en/AirAsia X http://www.airasia.comPeach Aviation http://www.flypeach.com/pc/enVanilla Air https://www.vanilla-air.com/en/Jetstar Airways http://www.jetstar.com/jp/en/homeTigerair http://www.tigerair.comScoot http://www.flyscoot.comJuneyao Airlines http://www.juneyaoair.comHainan Airlines http://www.hnair.com/Jeju Air http://www.jejuair.netEastar Jet https://www.eastarjet.com
Tsugaru Kaikyo Ferry http://www.tsugarukaikyo.co.jpTaiheiyo Ferry http://www.taiheiyo-ferry.co.jpShin Nihonkai Ferry http://www.snf.jpSilver Ferry http://www.silverferry.jpMOL Ferry http://www.sunflower.co.jp/ferry/index.shtmlSeikan Ferry http://www.seikan-ferry.co.jp
JR Hokkaido http://www.jrhokkaido.co.jp TEL.011-222-7111 Japan Rail Pass http://www.japanrailpass.netJR East-South Hokkaido Rail Pass http://www.jreasthokkaido.com/e/
Scenic Byway Hokkaido http://www.scenicbyway.jp/english/index_e.htmlDrive Hokkaido http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/ks/dms/saftydrive/Northern Road Navi http://northern-road.jp/navi
Upper row: shortest distances using major roads (km)Lower row: travel time required
Tokyo(Haneda),Nagoya(Chubu)
Tokyo(Haneda),Nagoya(Chubu),Osaka(Kansai)
Tokyo(Haneda),Nagoya(Chubu)
Tokyo(Haneda),Nagoya(Chubu),Osaka(Itami)
Tokyo(Haneda)
Pass type3-day
For Ordinary Cars¥16,500¥22,000¥24,000
¥22,000
5-day7-day
Flexible4-day
● Oshinkoshin Falls [Shari]This spectacular and beautiful waterfall forks into two on its way toward the basin. A lookout higher than the falls commands breathtaking views of both the falls and the Sea of Okhotsk.
3
● Northern Land of the Aquarium [Kitami]People can enjoy the ecology of fish that are able to survive the harsh environment. They have a special tank that includes a water fall and even one that freezes during the winter, keeping their fish in near-natural environments.
2
This 738-meter-high pass is at the summit of the Shiretoko Crossing Road, which connects the towns of Rausu and Shari (Utoro area). Snow may linger into July.
●Shiretoko Pass [Rausu]1
●Shiretoko Goko Lakes [Shari]
Five fantastic lakes are nestled in primeval forest. Since the area is home to brown bears and many other wild animals, visitors are advised to check for open routes and review safety and manner guidelines before starting on a walk.
4
Kiritappu-shitsugen is known as a “wetland of flowers” because of the various blooms that appear from spring to autumn. It is also a stopover of red-crowned cranes and other migratory birds.
●Kiritappu-shitsugen (Kiritappu Marsh) [Hamanaka]
5
This park with a total area of 12.5 hectares showcases 1.2 million colorful tulips in full bloom in 7-hectare fields from early May to early June.
● Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park [Yubetsu]1
This lake nestled in Akan National Park is one of the most famous lakes in eastern Hokkaido. It provides a habitat to marimo algae balls, designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. A sightseeing boat takes visitors to Churui Island in the lake, where a marimo exhibition and observation center is located.
●Lake Akan [Kushiro]3
This forest provides visitors with opportunities to take a stroll in four different types of gardens, join a Segway tour of the area’s fields and hills, enjoy horseback riding and pet sheep and goats.
● Tokachi Millennium Forest [Shimizu]3
Tsurumidai is a major feeding ground for red-crowned cranes, a Special Natural Monument of Japan. Around 200 of the cranes visit the ground from around November to March every year.
●Tsurumidai Plain [Tsurui]4
This largest public ranch in Japan encompasses about 1,700 hectares of land. The lookout standing about 800 meters above sea level overlooks the entire ranch as well as the Tokachi Plain and the Akan Mountains.
●Naitai Highland Ranch [Kamishihoro]2
The arch bridge sinks under water in the summer and appears again every winter. It is often called the “mythical bridge”. You can see it from the Taushubetsu Observatory or on a guided tour.
●Taushubetsu River arch bridge [Kamishihoro]1
●Nabetsuru Rock [Okushiri]5This rock stands about 19.5 meters high to the east of Okushiri Island. Naturally formed by the waves, it has the shape of a pot handle, which is what nabetsuru means. It is illuminated at night, creating a spectacular sight.
●Onuma Quasi-National Park [Nanae, Shikabe and Mori]This natural park encompasses Mt. Komagatake, a large lake and a small lake. It offers opportunities for visitors to enjoy canoeing, fishing, cycling and other outdoor activities. The park is also a wintering site for whooper swans and other migratory birds.
4
●Goryokaku Park [Hakodate]This park includes the Goryokaku Fort, Japan’s first Western-style fortification shaped like a star, which was built in the latter half of the 19th century. The adjacent observation tower commands a view of the star-shaped fort. The park draws many visitors in spring as a popular cherry-blossom viewing spot.
3
●Morning Market [Hakodate]Situated only a one-minute walk from JR Hakodate Station, this seafood market features some 280 shops, including some where visitors can enjoy seafood rice bowls and other dishes. Most of the shops are open from early morning to around noon (varies by shop).
3●Inishie Road [Esashi]This road carries on the history of Esashi Town, which thrived on Japanese cypress logging and herring fisheries from the 17th century to the 1860s. The road is lined with wholesale stores, warehouses, stores, a shrine, a temple and other historic buildings and sites. Local cuisine such as herring soba noodles is a must-try here.
2●Matsumae Castle [Matsumae]This northernmost castle in Japan was built in 1606. Its donjon was rebuilt and today houses various items from the feudal period, including clothes and paintings. The lookout on the third floor commands sweeping views of the Tsugaru Strait.
1
This outdoor museum is designed to highlight the history and culture of Japan’s indigenous Ainu people. It houses traditional Ainu dwellings, called cise, and showcases their everyday living in the old days. The museum also offers opportunities for visitors to see traditional Ainu dancing and enjoy hands-on activities to learn about Ainu culture.The facility will be temporarily closed in April 2018 and the new one, called The Symbolic Space for Ethnic Harmony, is set to open in April 2020.
●Ainu Museum Shiraoi Poroto Kotan [Shiraoi]8
●Mt. Usu [Toyako, Sobetsu and Date]Mt. Usu is a large active volcano in Hokkaido, with a mountaintop station that commands stunning views of Mt. Showa-Shinzan and Lake Toya. Visitors can also see craters from walking trails on the mountain, and a ropeway service to the peak is available, making it accessible to all.
7
● Noboribetsu Hell Valley [Noboribetsu]Noboribetsu Hell Valley is an old crater created by a volcanic eruption around 10,000 years ago. Different kinds of spring water gushing out supply the natural baths of nearby hotels and Japanese-style inns.
5
●Otaru Canal [Otaru]Otaru Canal was built in the 1920s as a channel connecting warehouses and the Port of Otaru, which thrived as the gateway to Hokkaido during the period of land reclamation. Stone-built warehouses and gas lamps stand along the 1,140-meter-long canal, recalling the area’s heyday.
2●Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery [Yoich]Masataka Taketsuru was a leading expert of whisky in Japan. After his studies in Scotland, he chose Yoichi town for brewing. There is a restaurant at the factory and tours of the distillery are also available.
3
Lake Toya is Japan’s third largest caldera lake, created by a gigantic volcanic eruption some 110,000 years ago. Sightseeing boats allow visitors to enjoy viewing the lake’s beautiful surroundings, and to alight and stroll on islands on the lake during summer.
●Lake Toya [Toyako and Sobetsu]4
●Cape Kamui [Shakotan]The Shakotan Peninsula located to the west of Otaru in central Hokkaido is known as a scenic spot with appeals including precipitous cliffs and fantastically shaped rocks. Cape Kamui on the peninsula commands a view of the beautiful clear sea whose color is known as Shakotan Blue.
6
Lake Kussharo, Japan’s largest caldera lake, is known for its beautiful cobalt blue water. It is also a popular destination for wind surfing, yacht sailing and other watersports.
●Lake Kussharo [Teshikaga]2
● Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill [Sapporo]In this observation hill set in idyllic surroundings, sheep graze over vast pasture land. The hill offers sweeping views of Sapporo and the surround-ing Ishikari Plain. A statue of Dr. William S. Clark, who played an important role in the history of Hokkaido, stands on the hill.
1
●Asahiyama Zoo [Asahikawa]This popular municipal zoo is a showcase for the natural behavior of animals kept in an environment similar to their natural habitats in the wild. It features various unique facilities, including one where visitors can see polar bears from the viewpoint of their prey – seals.
4
● Sarobetsu Wilderness [Toyotomi and Horonobe]This 23,000-hectare northernmost low-lying moor in Japan includes a primeval flower garden, which showcas-es around 100 varieties of wetland plants and flowers that bloom from early summer to autumn.
2
●Cape Soya [Wakkanai]Situated at 45° 31' 22" N, this northernmost point in Japan has a monument designed in the motif of the North Star. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, visitors get a strong sense that they are at the country’s northern end.
1
● Rishiri and Rebun islands [Rishiri, Rishirifuji and Rebun]These islands are located to the west of Wakkanai. A beautiful mountain in the center of Rishiri Island is popular with mountain climbers. Rebun Island is known for its 300 or so varieties of lovely alpine plants and flowers that bloom in summer.
3
● Patchwork no Michi (Patchwork Road) [Biei]Patchwork no Michi encompasses the hilly terrain between National Routes 237 and 452. The name comes from the area’s landscape, where roads weave through colorful fields.
5
Michinoeki roadside stations are rest areas for drivers and are equipped with toilets. They also sell local specialties and offer tourist information.
■ Michinoeki (roadside station)
By bus
Kuril Islands
Legend 0 10 20 30 40 50 km
Hakodate
56311:1868713:2966214:1859513:0256311:1455010:414428:463788:212314:442485:112545:052464:521944:02
4168:2653110:2551511:2644810:104068:103947:372865:422315:291172:331012:19982:01901:48
4268:3051010:1750610:104408:543858:023737:292565:342365:271613:391333:20881:56
3857:054428:524398:453737:293186:373056:041974:091694:021043:06651:55
3466:514458:514409:453748:293216:363096:032004:081573:48842:35451:24
210:31
681:25
521:14
1563:04 Toyako
Muroran
Sapporo
Asahikawa
Otaru
Obihiro
Akan
Kushiro
Abashiri
Nemuro
Wakkanai
Utoro
Tomakomai
New ChitoseAirport
3156:074539:084149:073477:513286:533166:202084:251303:10391:11
2504:553617:102845:572174:412875:542354:41
4167:552454:432535:041873:481212:281192:23
3967:141562:521412:44871:45741:33
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This museum highlights the history and culture of sake brewing – a traditional industry of Japan. In addition to sake-brew-ing tools from the old days, the museum also displays Ukiyoe woodblock prints. Free sake samples are available.
●Otokoyama Sake Museum [Asahikawa]4
↑Travel time required to the destination
Exclusive for foreign nationals visiting Japan, this pass allows unlimited rides in reserved seats on JR Hokkaido’s limited express trains for a designated period. For more information, please visit JR Hokkaido’s website.
Kyun Chan
*Routes in service may change depending on the season.
Tokyo SapporoShin-
Hakodate-HokutoApprox. 4 hr. 2 min.(Fastest)
Shinkansen Hayabusa
Approx. 3 hr. 24 min.
Ltd. Exp. Hokuto
This type of horse race is the only one in the world. It is a complete show of the horse’s power and speed. These race horses are twice as heavy as thoroughbreds and compete almost all year round.
●Banei Horse Racing [Obihiro]4
The lake changes color from sky blue, to emerald green, to a deep blue depending on the season, the weather, and angle you look at it. This beautiful lake is about 2.5km around.
●Lake Onneto [Ashoro]6
Several art museums, restaurants, and gardens dot the extensive grounds. A famous garden called the “Rokka Forest” is also highly recommended.
●Nakasatsunai Art Village [Nakasatsunai]
5
Recommended