HOKKAIDO

Hokkaidō – The Northern Frontier

Hokkaidō, Japan’s northernmost island, is a region of vast wilderness, breathtaking landscapes, and dramatic seasonal contrasts. Unlike the rest of Japan, Hokkaidō remains largely untouched by urbanisation, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes to sprawling flower fields and steaming hot springs, the island offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the country.

• Sapporo: The capital of Hokkaidō, Sapporo is a modern city surrounded by stunning nature. Known for its vibrant winter culture, rich brewing history, and thriving food scene, Sapporo serves as the gateway to Hokkaidō’s beautiful landscapes. The city comes alive every February with the Sapporo Snow Festival, where intricate ice and snow sculptures transform the streets into a winter wonderland.

Interesting Facts About Hokkaidō

• History: Hokkaidō was historically inhabited by the Ainu, an indigenous people with a distinct language, culture, and traditions. The town of Akan hosts the Ainu Kotan, where visitors can experience traditional Ainu crafts, dance performances, and folklore.
• Temples & Shrines: While Hokkaidō has fewer traditional temples compared to mainland Japan, the Hokkaidō Jingu Shrine in Sapporo is a significant Shinto site, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and protector deities of the island.
• Nature: Hokkaidō is home to six national parks, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife. Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most remote and pristine places in Japan, where brown bears, foxes, and rare sea eagles thrive. The Daisetsuzan National Park, often called "the roof of Hokkaidō," features towering volcanic peaks, untouched forests, and spectacular hiking trails.
• Food: Hokkaidō is Japan’s premier destination for fresh seafood, producing some of the country’s best crab, sea urchin, and scallops. The city of Otaru is famous for its sushi, while Hakodate Morning Market serves up steaming bowls of kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) topped with ikura (salmon roe) and uni (sea urchin). Hokkaidō is also the birthplace of miso ramen, a rich and hearty noodle dish perfect for cold winters.
• Activities: The island is famous for its winter sports, with ski resorts like Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu offering some of the best powder snow in the world. During summer, Hokkaidō transforms into a hiking and cycling paradise, with scenic routes winding through Lake Toya, the Biei Hills, and the blue waters of Shirogane Blue Pond.

Hokkaidō remains Japan’s most adventurous region, where nature reigns supreme and visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery, unique cultural experiences, and some of the best seasonal activities in the country.

‍