Hokkaido in Japan

As you wander through deep forests and alongside crystal-clear lakes, the majestic peaks of volcanoes suddenly emerge before you. Meanwhile, behind you, bustling cities line the coast of the endless ocean. On Hokkaido in Japan, you can have it all!

Hokkaido, which some may know only as a pumpkin, is also one of Japan's beautiful islands. Located in the far north, it hides an astonishing natural paradise: Green meadows, snow-capped mountain peaks, and colorful flower fields meet the wild, turquoise ocean. What exciting cities are hidden in this picturesque landscape, and what else does this idyllic island have in store for you? We're about to reveal it. Are you ready for an unforgettable journey?

After Honshu, Hokkaido is Japan's second-largest island and forms the northernmost tip of the four main islands, completing the country. If you are searching for flights from the United States to Hokkaido, you will make a brief stop, for example in Tokyo. Hokkaido has several airports, with the best connections typically landing at Shin-Chitose Airport in Sapporo. If you're taking a longer trip to Japan, you can reach Hokkaido from the neighboring island of Honshu either by ferry or by taking the Shinkansen, the famous Japanese high-speed train, which will whisk you straight to Hakodate.

In addition to breathtaking nature, you will find vibrant cities in Hokkaido. The largest city on the island and the fifth largest in Japan is Sapporo, located in the west of Hokkaido. The city, home to nearly two million people, became famous because it hosted the first Winter Olympics in Asia in 1972. One landmark that the residents are especially proud of is the Clock Tower. You will also find a wealth of culture and history at places like the Historical Village of Hokkaido and the Sapporo Beer Museum. Notably, Sapporo is incredibly green: parks like Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park and Moerenuma Park invite you to take leisurely walks and enjoy relaxed hours.

While the blooming of numerous flower fields in spring and summer is simply spectacular, a trip to Japan in winter is also worthwhile. This is when an unusual event takes place in Odori Park: the Yuki Matsuri, better known as Sapporo's Snow Festival. Since 1950, massive sculptures made of snow and ice have been created, featuring landmarks from around the world. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come to enjoy this winter wonderland.

At the southern tip of Hokkaido lies another major city: Hakodate. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the port city from Mount Hakodate, especially at night when many travelers are drawn to admire the shimmering lights.

If you prefer not to hike, the Hakodate Ropeway will comfortably take you to the observation platform. Additionally, you should definitely visit Goryokaku Park. While a magical atmosphere prevails here, especially during the cherry blossom season, the view from the observation tower is worthwhile year-round. The star-shaped castle looks simply stunning from above.

Japanese cuisine is well-known for its exceptional quality. Hokkaido has its unique specialties: regional dairy products like homemade ice cream are popular year-round on the island, and, of course, due to its proximity to the sea, fish plays a significant role. Fresh sushi is a must-try. You can enjoy it, for example, at Sushi Yasu, while at Nijo Market, you can get fresh seafood. At the Morning Market in Hakodate, you can even have it served for breakfast.

In Sapporo, you'll find excellent restaurants and delicious food at every corner, but we particularly recommend Gotsubo for seafood. Japanese noodles are another specialty you can enjoy at Ramen Shingen Minami-6jo. At Toriton Kyokushin in Asahikawa, you can savor excellent sushi that travels on conveyor belts so that you can easily grab the most delicious pieces. You'll likely encounter such running sushi often. Sweet treats and savory snacks can be found at the café Rokkatei Goryokaku in Hakodate.

When thinking of Japanese cities, you might immediately picture crowds of people, flashing advertisements, and modern skyscrapers. However, the picturesque town of Biei in the heart of Hokkaido demonstrates that things can be quite different.

With only about 10,300 inhabitants, this area is surrounded by endless rural idyll. A highlight in Biei is undoubtedly the colorful flower fields like Shikisai no Oka, which stretch across a hilly landscape towards the snow-capped mountains on the horizon. The Blue Pond, a small reservoir that creates a magical backdrop with its seemingly unreal colors, and the impressive Shirahige Falls are also especially popular.

What distinguishes Hokkaido and makes it absolutely unique is its unmistakable nature and scenic beauty. You can primarily experience this in the many national parks that cover large portions of the island. Rugged cliffs meet turquoise water, green forests climb steep slopes, and mirror-like lakes reflect their stunning surroundings. Above it all rise the peaks of mighty volcanoes - a sight that will simply leave you speechless.

Let's start with Hokkaido's largest national park, Daisetsuzan National Park. Located in the heart of the island, east of Asahikawa and Furano, it spans an impressive 2,267 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in all of Japan. Here you'll find Asahi-dake, the island's highest peak at nearly 2,300 meters. In addition to breathtaking views of the often mist-shrouded mountain peaks, you can also discover a diverse wildlife and plant life while hiking. Adorable pikas, colorful butterflies, and even brown bears call this park home.

Admittedly, Shiretoko National Park is not the easiest to reach due to its remote location at the northeastern tip of the island. However, you can get here easily by bus or boat, and once on site, it's best explored on foot.

The journey to this UNESCO World Heritage site is definitely worthwhile: nowhere else in Japan can you see such unspoiled and impressive landscapes, and the chances of spotting wild brown bears are also highest here. The Kamuiwakka Waterfall, which cascades dramatically from steep cliffs right down to the beach, is another unique highlight of the national park.

A natural wonder that you can find on various islands in Japan is onsen. These are water basins created by hot spring sources, traditionally used for bathing in Japan. Did you know that Hokkaido is home to one of only three hot saltwater sources in the world? Sometimes you can find a cozy accommodation right near the baths, like at Kourakuen in Otaru. The Niseko Konbu Onsen Tsuruga Moku-no-sho also combines relaxing bathing with luxury lodging. For a truly adorable spectacle, you should travel to Yunokawa Onsen in Hakodate: here, at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, little monkeys relax in warm water.

Tip from Urlaubsguru: In Japan, bathing in onsens has a long tradition, so you should familiarize yourself with the proper etiquette beforehand. It's important to wash yourself thoroughly before entering the bath. Tattoos are also typically frowned upon - at least in traditional onsens - so it's advisable to cover them up when possible.

We must admit that we're completely in awe of Hokkaido's incredible landscape. If you feel the same, you shouldn't hesitate-pack your bags and set off to explore this dreamy island. Let the unique nature take your breath away, fall in love with the many exciting cities, and be enchanted by Japan's fascinating culture. You'll find even more tips for your Japan trip in our travel magazine. An adventure you will never forget!