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]

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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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B

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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7

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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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20℃

10℃

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Spring

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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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Average low temperature

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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

●5

●4

●3

●2

●1

●6

●3●4

●5

●1●3

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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

4698：341242：151733：241492：50

3305：561863：23821：35

4127：31

5149：20

1653：11

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