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Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan, and it is renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. Hokkaido is a wonderland of picturesque landscapes, including majestic mountains, clear lakes, and vast wilderness. In this article, we will take you on a 5-day journey through Hokkaido, where you will discover the beauty of this unique and fascinating island.

Day 1: Sapporo

Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and the perfect starting point for your journey. We recommend that you arrive early in the day to make the most of your time here. There are plenty of things to see and do in Sapporo, from exploring the bustling downtown area to visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum.

One of the must-visit attractions in Sapporo is the Hokkaido Shrine. The shrine is dedicated to four deities, including the first emperor of Japan. The shrine is located in a forested area and has a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Another highlight of Sapporo is the Sapporo Clock Tower. The clock tower is a symbol of the city and is one of the few remaining western-style buildings from the early 20th century. Inside, you can learn about the history of Sapporo and its clock-making industry.

In the evening, we recommend that you visit the Susukino district, which is famous for its nightlife. You can sample local cuisine, enjoy a few drinks, and soak up the lively atmosphere of this bustling area.

Day 2: Otaru

On your second day, we recommend that you take a day trip to the charming town of Otaru. Otaru is located just a short train ride from Sapporo and is known for its picturesque canal, glassworks, and historic architecture.

One of the highlights of Otaru is the Otaru Canal, which is lined with stone warehouses that were built in the early 20th century. The canal is especially beautiful at night when it is illuminated by gas lamps.

Another must-visit attraction in Otaru is the Kitaichi Glass Sangokan. The glassworks was established in 1901 and is now a museum where you can learn about the history of glassmaking in Otaru and see a wide variety of beautiful glassware.

In the afternoon, we recommend that you explore the historic streets of Otaru. The town is full of charming buildings that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You can also visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, which has an impressive collection of music boxes and other musical instruments.

Day 3: Asahikawa

On your third day, we recommend that you travel to Asahikawa, which is known for its beautiful nature and unique culture. Asahikawa is the second-largest city in Hokkaido and is located in the central part of the island.

One of the must-visit attractions in Asahikawa is the Asahiyama Zoo, which is famous for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to observe the animals up close. The zoo is home to over 700 animals, including polar bears, penguins, and red pandas.

Another highlight of Asahikawa is the Asahikawa Ramen Village, where you can sample some of the best ramen in Hokkaido. The village is a collection of eight ramen shops that serve different styles of ramen, so there is something for everyone.

In the evening, we recommend that you visit the Asahikawa Winter Festival, which takes place in early February. The festival features large snow sculptures, ice slides, and a variety of food and drink stalls. The festival is a celebration of winter in Hokkaido and is a must-see for anyone visiting the island during this time.

Day 4: Furano and Biei

On your fourth day, we recommend that you visit the stunning towns of Furano and Biei. These towns are known for their picturesque landscapes, including vast flower fields, rolling hills, and beautiful mountains.

One of the must-visit attractions in Furano is the Tomita Farm, which is famous for its lavender fields. The farm has over 50 varieties of lavender and is particularly beautiful in the summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

Another highlight of Furano is the Furano Cheese Factory, where you can learn about the cheese-making process and sample some of the delicious cheese produced on site. The factory also has a large gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and other locally made products.

In the afternoon, we recommend that you visit the town of Biei, which is known for its beautiful landscapes. The town is famous for its patchwork hills, which are a unique sight to behold. The hills are covered in different crops, such as potatoes, wheat, and canola, and are particularly stunning in the fall when the colors change.

Day 5: Shiretoko National Park

On your final day, we recommend that you visit Shiretoko National Park, which is located in the eastern part of Hokkaido. The park is known for its stunning scenery, including rugged cliffs, clear lakes, and pristine forests.

One of the must-visit attractions in Shiretoko National Park is the Shiretoko Five Lakes. The lakes are located in a beautiful valley and are surrounded by dense forests. The lakes are home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, and are a popular spot for hiking and nature walks.

Another highlight of the park is the Shiretoko Peninsula, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The peninsula is a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including the Steller’s sea eagle and the Blakiston’s fish owl.

In the evening, we recommend that you visit the town of Utoro, which is located at the entrance of the park. Utoro is a fishing town that is known for its fresh seafood, including crabs, scallops, and salmon. You can enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset over the Sea of Okhotsk.

Conclusion

Hokkaido is a fascinating and beautiful island that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From the vibrant culture of Sapporo to the stunning landscapes of Furano and Biei and the pristine wilderness of Shiretoko National Park, there is something for everyone on this island. We hope that this 5-day itinerary has inspired you to discover the beauty of Hokkaido and create your own unforgettable travel experience.

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Japan is a land of contrasts, from the towering skyscrapers of Tokyo to the ancient temples of Kyoto. But if you want to experience a different side of Japan, one that is less crowded and more serene, then Hokkaido is the perfect destination. Hokkaido is the northernmost of Japan’s four main islands, and it is known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and fresh seafood. In this 10-day itinerary, we’ll explore the best that Hokkaido has to offer.

Day 1: Sapporo

Your journey begins in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. Sapporo is a modern city with a laid-back atmosphere, known for its beer, ramen, and winter snow festival. Start your day by visiting the Sapporo Clock Tower, which was built in 1878 and is a symbol of the city. Then, head to the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the history of beer in Japan and taste some local brews. For lunch, try some of the famous Sapporo ramen, which is made with a rich miso broth.

In the afternoon, take a stroll around Odori Park, a large green space in the heart of the city. If you’re visiting in the winter, the park is the site of the Sapporo Snow Festival, which attracts millions of visitors each year. In the evening, head to Susukino, the city’s entertainment district, to try some local seafood at one of the many izakayas (Japanese pubs).

Day 2: Otaru

On day two, take a day trip to Otaru, a charming port town about 30 minutes from Sapporo by train. Otaru is known for its canals, glassware, and fresh seafood. Start your day by taking a stroll along the Otaru Canal, which is lined with historic buildings and street lamps. Then, head to the Otaru Glass Museum to see the town’s famous glassware.

For lunch, try some of the fresh seafood at the Otaru Sankaku Fish Market, which has been in operation for over 100 years. After lunch, take a walk around the historic district, which is full of shops selling traditional Japanese souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some of the local sweets, such as the Otaru Orgel (music box) cake.

Day 3: Asahikawa

On day three, head to Asahikawa, a city in the center of Hokkaido. Asahikawa is known for its zoo, which is one of the best in Japan, and its ramen, which is made with a soy sauce broth. Start your day by visiting the Asahiyama Zoo, which is home to over 700 animals, including penguins, polar bears, and red pandas. The zoo is known for its innovative animal exhibits, which allow visitors to see the animals up close.

After lunch, head to the Asahikawa Ramen Village, which is a collection of eight ramen shops. Try some of the different varieties of ramen, and see which one is your favorite. In the evening, take a stroll around the Asahikawa Winter Festival, which takes place in early February and features large snow sculptures.

Day 4: Furano and Biei

On day four, head to Furano and Biei, two picturesque towns in the middle of Hokkaido. Furano is known for its lavender fields, which bloom in the summer, while Biei is known for its rolling hills and scenic views. Start your day by visiting the Farm Tomita in Furano, which is one of the most popular lavender farms in Japan. The farm is open from late May to early October, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. Take a walk through the fields and enjoy the beautiful fragrance of lavender. You can also buy some lavender products, such as soap and essential oil, as souvenirs.

After visiting the lavender fields, head to Biei, which is about 20 minutes away by car. Biei is known for its patchwork of fields and hills, which create a stunning landscape. The best way to explore the area is by renting a bicycle, which you can do at the Biei Station. Some of the must-see spots include the Shirogane Blue Pond, which has bright blue water and white trees, and the Panorama Road, which offers a panoramic view of the landscape.

Day 5: Sounkyo

On day five, head to Sounkyo, a valley in the Daisetsuzan National Park. Sounkyo is known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and autumn leaves. Start your day by taking a cable car to the top of the Kurodake Mountain, which has a height of 1,984 meters. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and forests. If you’re visiting in the autumn, the view is especially beautiful due to the colorful leaves.

After descending from the mountain, head to the Ginga no Taki and Ryusei no Taki waterfalls, which are located near the Sounkyo Onsen hot spring resort. The waterfalls are about 100 meters tall and are surrounded by lush vegetation. In the evening, relax in one of the hot springs and enjoy the tranquility of the valley.

Day 6: Lake Akan

On day six, head to Lake Akan, a scenic lake in the eastern part of Hokkaido. Lake Akan is known for its marimo, which are spherical algae that live in the lake. Start your day by taking a cruise on the lake to see the marimo up close. You can also visit the Marimo Exhibition and Observation Center, where you can learn about the biology and ecology of the marimo.

After visiting the lake, head to the Ainu Kotan, which is a village of the Ainu people, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. The village is located on the shore of the lake and has traditional Ainu houses, crafts, and souvenirs. You can also try some of the Ainu cuisine, which includes dishes made with salmon and venison.

Day 7: Abashiri

On day seven, head to Abashiri, a city on the northeast coast of Hokkaido. Abashiri is known for its drift ice, which is ice that floats on the sea and creates a unique landscape. Start your day by visiting the Abashiri Prison Museum, which is a former prison that was in operation from 1890 to 1984. The museum has exhibits on the history of the prison and the daily life of the prisoners.

In the afternoon, take a drift ice cruise on the Sea of Okhotsk, which is one of the only places in the world where you can see drift ice. The best time to see the ice is from January to March, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly. The cruise takes about an hour and a half and offers a chance to see seals, eagles, and other wildlife.

Day 8: Shiretoko

On day eight, head to Shiretoko, a peninsula in the northeastern part of Hokkaido. Shiretoko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its pristine nature and wildlife. Start your day by visiting the Shiretoko Five Lakes, which are a group of five small lakes surrounded by beautiful forested mountains. The area is known for its stunning autumn foliage and is also home to brown bears, deer, and other wildlife.

In the afternoon, take a boat tour to see the Shiretoko coastline, which is known for its rugged cliffs and clear waters. The tour takes about two hours and offers a chance to see wildlife such as seals, sea otters, and whales.

Day 9: Lake Toya and Noboribetsu

On day nine, head to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu, which are both popular tourist destinations in Hokkaido. Start your day by visiting Lake Toya, which is a volcanic caldera lake with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can take a scenic cruise on the lake or hike along one of the many trails in the area.

After visiting Lake Toya, head to Noboribetsu, which is a hot spring town known for its therapeutic waters. You can visit the Noboribetsu Onsen, which is a large hot spring resort that offers a variety of indoor and outdoor baths, saunas, and relaxation areas. You can also visit Jigokudani, also known as “Hell Valley,” which is a geothermal valley with boiling mud pools and steam vents.

Day 10: Hakodate

On your final day, head to Hakodate, a city located in the southern part of Hokkaido known for its stunning views and historical buildings. Start your day by visiting the Hakodate Morning Market, which is a lively seafood market that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, including crabs, sea urchins, and scallops. You can also try some of the local dishes, such as kaisendon (seafood bowl) and grilled squid.

After visiting the market, take a cable car to the top of Mount Hakodate to enjoy the panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. The view from the mountain is particularly beautiful at night, when the city lights up and creates a sparkling sea of lights.

In the afternoon, visit the Motomachi district, which is a historic neighborhood that has preserved Western-style buildings from the Meiji era. You can visit the Old Public Hall of Hakodate Ward, which is a building that was used as a town hall during the Meiji era and is now a museum showcasing the history of Hakodate.

In the evening, head to the Bay Area, which is a modern area with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can try some of the local dishes, such as Hakodate ramen and seafood dishes, and enjoy the city’s nightlife.

Conclusion

Hokkaido is a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and culture seekers. With its stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unique culture, Hokkaido offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This 10-day itinerary covers some of the best spots in Hokkaido and offers a glimpse into the region’s beauty and charm. Whether you’re visiting in the winter or summer, Hokkaido is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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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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