Category: Japan

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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Sapporo, the capital city of Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, is a winter wonderland that boasts a fascinating mix of cultural, culinary, and outdoor activities. As the largest city in Hokkaido, Sapporo offers a variety of experiences that cater to different interests and ages. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, Sapporo has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Sapporo.

1. Explore Odori Park

Odori Park, a 1.5-kilometer-long park located in the heart of Sapporo, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park is known for its lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and stunning fountains. During the winter months, Odori Park transforms into a winter wonderland with the Sapporo Snow Festival taking place. The Snow Festival is an annual event that features snow and ice sculptures from around the world. The festival attracts millions of visitors each year and is one of the largest winter festivals in the world.

2. Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum

If you’re a beer lover, then the Sapporo Beer Museum is a must-visit. The museum is located in the historic Sapporo Brewery and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of beer in Japan. The museum features exhibits on the brewing process, the history of beer in Japan, and a tasting room where you can sample some of Sapporo’s famous brews.

3. Try Sapporo’s famous ramen

Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen, a hearty bowl of noodles, vegetables, and meat in a savory miso broth. There are many ramen shops in Sapporo, but some of the most popular include Ichiran, Sumire, and Sapporo Ramen Republic, a collection of eight ramen shops in one location. Be prepared to wait in line, as these shops are very popular with locals and tourists alike.

4. Go skiing or snowboarding

Hokkaido is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, and Sapporo is no exception. The city is surrounded by several ski resorts, including Sapporo Teine Ski Resort, which hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics, and Bankei Ski Area, which offers night skiing. If you’re a beginner, there are also several ski schools in the area that offer lessons for all ages.

5. Visit the Hokkaido Shrine

The Hokkaido Shrine, located in Maruyama Park, is a Shinto shrine that dates back to 1869. The shrine is dedicated to the souls of the Meiji Emperor and Empress Shoken and is one of the most important shrines in Hokkaido. The shrine features several buildings, including the Main Hall, which is designated as a national important cultural property.

6. Explore the Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space

The Sapporo Underground Pedestrian Space is a network of underground shopping malls and pedestrian walkways that connect many of the major buildings in Sapporo. The space is particularly popular during the winter months when the cold temperatures make it difficult to walk outside. The underground space features shops, restaurants, and even a movie theater.

7. See the Clock Tower

The Clock Tower, located in the city center, is one of the most famous landmarks in Sapporo. The tower was built in 1878 and served as the city’s first public clock. Today, the tower is a museum that showcases the history of Sapporo and its development over the years.

8. Take a day trip to Otaru

Otaru, a quaint port town located 30 minutes by train from Sapporo, is a popular day trip destination for visitors to the area. The town is known for its charming canal area, which is lined with historic buildings that now house cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, which features an extensive collection of music boxes from around the world.

9. Enjoy a hot spring (onsen) experience

There are several hot springs (onsen) near Sapporo where visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural mineral-rich waters. One popular option is Jozankei Onsen, located about an hour’s drive from Sapporo. The onsen features several outdoor baths with views of the surrounding mountains and is particularly popular during the fall foliage season.

10. Take a stroll through the Susukino entertainment district

Susukino is the largest entertainment district in Hokkaido and features a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The district is particularly popular with visitors looking to experience Sapporo’s nightlife. During the winter months, the area is also home to the Susukino Ice Festival, which features ice sculptures and light displays.

In conclusion, Sapporo is a fascinating city that offers a mix of cultural, culinary, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture, trying new foods, or enjoying winter sports, Sapporo has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Japan’s northern capital for a trip that you won’t soon forget!

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Welcome to Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island and a true winter wonderland. Hokkaido is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Hokkaido can be overwhelming, but fear not! I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary for a 7-day trip to Hokkaido that will help you make the most of your time on this stunning island.

Day 1: Sapporo

Start your trip in Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. Sapporo is known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and stunning architecture. Take a stroll around the city center, visit the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, and enjoy a bowl of Hokkaido’s famous ramen noodles at one of the many ramen shops in the area.

In the afternoon, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, where you can learn about the history of beer in Japan and sample some of the famous Sapporo beer. End your day with a visit to the Odori Park, where you can see the Sapporo TV Tower and the Sapporo Snow Festival (if you’re visiting in February).

Day 2: Otaru

On your second day, take a day trip to Otaru, a small port town located about an hour from Sapporo. Otaru is famous for its canals, historic buildings, and glassware. Start your day by walking along the Otaru Canal, which was built in the early 20th century to transport goods from ships to warehouses. The canal is surrounded by picturesque old warehouses that have been converted into restaurants, cafes, and shops.

After walking along the canal, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, where you can see and purchase unique music boxes, many of which are made by local craftsmen. Next, head to the Kitaichi Glassware shop, which sells beautiful handcrafted glassware, including wine glasses, vases, and Christmas ornaments.

Day 3: Niseko

On your third day, it’s time to hit the slopes! Hokkaido is famous for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, and Niseko is the perfect place to experience it. Niseko is located about two hours from Sapporo and is home to some of the best powder snow in the world.

Spend the day skiing or snowboarding down the mountain, and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei. After a long day on the slopes, relax in one of the many natural hot springs in the area, known as onsens.

Day 4: Asahikawa

On your fourth day, head to Asahikawa, the second-largest city in Hokkaido, known for its zoo and winter festivals. The Asahiyama Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in Japan and is home to a variety of animals, including penguins, polar bears, and red pandas.

In the afternoon, visit the Asahikawa Winter Festival, which takes place every February. The festival is famous for its elaborate ice sculptures, many of which are over 10 meters tall. You can also enjoy local food and drink, such as grilled Hokkaido scallops and hot sake.

Day 5: Lake Toya

On your fifth day, visit Lake Toya, a beautiful caldera lake located about two hours from Sapporo. The lake is surrounded by mountains and is famous for its hot springs, including the famous Lake Toya Onsen.

Take a boat tour around the lake and enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Usu and Mt. Showa Shinzan. After the boat tour, take a cable car up to the top of Mt. Usu, an active volcano. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

In the evening, relax in one of the many hot springs in the area and try the local cuisine, such as grilled Hokkaido scallops, fresh seafood, and Hokkaido milk ice cream.

Day 6: Shikotsu-Toya National Park

On your sixth day, explore the beautiful Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which is located about an hour from Sapporo. The park is home to two beautiful caldera lakes, Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, as well as numerous hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Start your day by visiting the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, which takes place every February. The festival features beautiful ice sculptures and other winter activities, such as ice-skating and snowshoeing.

After the festival, take a hike along one of the many trails in the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In the evening, relax in one of the many hot springs in the area, such as the Hoheikyo Onsen, which is known for its stunning outdoor hot springs.

Day 7: Furano

On your final day in Hokkaido, visit Furano, a small town located in the center of the island that is famous for its lavender fields and delicious wine. Furano is located about two hours from Sapporo and is a perfect place to end your trip.

Start your day by visiting the Furano Cheese Factory, where you can see how cheese is made and sample some of the delicious local cheese. Next, head to the Furano Wine Factory, where you can learn about wine-making in Hokkaido and sample some of the local wines.

In the afternoon, visit the Tomita Farm, which is famous for its beautiful lavender fields. The fields are in full bloom from late June to early August and are a must-see when visiting Hokkaido. You can also enjoy other seasonal flowers, such as poppies and sunflowers.

Conclusion:

Hokkaido is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Hokkaido can be overwhelming, but this 7-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time on this stunning island.

From the vibrant city of Sapporo to the beautiful caldera lakes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Hokkaido has something for everyone. Whether you’re a skier, a foodie, or a nature lover, you’re sure to find something to love in Hokkaido. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Hokkaido today!

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