Chasing the Northern Lights: A Guide to Hokkaido’s Best Aurora Viewing Spots

If you’re a fan of the Northern Lights, Hokkaido is one of the best places in the world to catch this amazing natural phenomenon. Hokkaido is the second-largest island of Japan and is located in the northernmost part of the country, making it an ideal destination for anyone hoping to witness the Aurora Borealis. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best spots in Hokkaido for viewing the Northern Lights.

1. Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also one of the best places in Hokkaido to see the Northern Lights. The park has a variety of activities to offer, including trekking, fishing, and hot springs. During the winter months, the park is covered in snow, which makes it even more magical when the Northern Lights appear in the sky.

2. Lake Akan

Located in eastern Hokkaido, Lake Akan is another fantastic location for viewing the Northern Lights. The lake is surrounded by mountains and is a popular spot for fishing, hiking, and skiing. During the winter months, you can take a boat tour on the lake, which is a great way to see the Northern Lights. The tour takes about an hour and a half and is usually offered from late December to early March.

3. Abashiri

Abashiri is a small city located on the northeastern coast of Hokkaido. It’s known for its ice floes and is a popular spot for winter activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing. During the winter months, you can also catch the Northern Lights from Abashiri. The city has a few observation decks where you can watch the Aurora Borealis, including the Aurora Observatory and the Okhotsk Tower.

4. Niseko

Niseko is a popular ski resort located in western Hokkaido. It’s known for its excellent powder snow and is a great place to go skiing or snowboarding. During the winter months, the resort also offers Northern Lights tours. The tour takes you to a remote location where you can watch the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. The tour is only offered on clear nights, so make sure to check the weather forecast before booking.

5. Sounkyo Gorge

Sounkyo Gorge is a beautiful canyon located in central Hokkaido. It’s known for its stunning waterfalls and is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing. During the winter months, the gorge is covered in snow and is a great place to see the Northern Lights. There are several observation decks in the area where you can watch the Aurora Borealis, including the Ginga no Taki Falls Observation Deck and the Ryusei no Taki Falls Observation Deck.

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights in Hokkaido

1. Check the weather forecast: The Northern Lights are only visible on clear nights, so it’s important to check the weather forecast before heading out.
2. Dress warmly: Hokkaido is one of the coldest regions in Japan, so make sure to dress warmly. It’s a good idea to wear layers and bring a hat, gloves, and a warm coat.
3. Use a tripod: To take good photos of the Northern Lights, it’s important to use a tripod. This will help keep your camera steady and prevent blurry photos.
4. Be patient: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so it’s impossible to predict exactly when they’ll appear. Be patient and stay outside for at least a few hours to increase your chances of seeing them.

In conclusion, Hokkaido is a fantastic destination for anyone hoping to see the Northern Lights. With its remote location, stunning natural landscapes, and relatively low light pollution, Hokkaido offers a unique and unforgettable experience for Aurora Borealis chasers. Whether you choose to visit Shiretoko National Park, Lake Akan, Abashiri, Niseko, or Sounkyo Gorge, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty of the Northern Lights.

One of the best things about chasing the Northern Lights in Hokkaido is that you can combine it with other winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and hot spring hopping. Hokkaido is known for its excellent powder snow, so if you’re a fan of winter sports, you won’t be disappointed. And after a long day of outdoor activities, you can relax in a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) and warm up your body.

In addition to the tips we mentioned earlier, here are a few more things to keep in mind when chasing the Northern Lights in Hokkaido:

1. Be prepared to travel: Depending on where you’re staying, you may need to travel for several hours to reach the best Aurora viewing spots. Consider renting a car or joining a guided tour to make the most of your time.
2. Book accommodations in advance: Winter is peak season in Hokkaido, and accommodations can fill up quickly. Make sure to book your hotel or ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in advance.
3. Try local cuisine: Hokkaido is known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood, meat dishes, and dairy products. Make sure to try local specialties like seafood donburi, miso ramen, and cheese tarts.
4. Respect nature and local customs: Hokkaido is a pristine natural environment, and it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions. Follow the Leave No Trace principles, and be courteous to other visitors and locals.

In summary, Hokkaido is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to see the Northern Lights. With its stunning landscapes, winter sports, and unique cultural experiences, Hokkaido offers a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll never forget. So pack your warm clothes, grab your camera, and get ready to chase the Aurora Borealis in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

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