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A Family-Friendly Hokkaido Itinerary: Fun Activities for Kids and Adults

Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a popular destination for travelers who want to experience a different side of the country. With its beautiful natural landscapes, delicious food, and unique culture, Hokkaido offers something for everyone, including families with kids. In this post, we’ll share a family-friendly Hokkaido itinerary that’s packed with fun activities for both kids and adults.

Day 1: Sapporo

Odori Park

Your Hokkaido adventure begins in Sapporo, the largest city on the island. Sapporo is known for its beer, ramen, and beautiful parks. Start your day with a visit to Odori Park, a large park in the heart of the city. The park is beautiful year-round, but in winter, it’s transformed into a winter wonderland with a snow sculpture festival. After enjoying the park, head to the Sapporo Beer Museum, where you can learn about the history of beer in Japan and sample some of the local brews.

Susukino

In the afternoon, head to the Susukino district for a bowl of Sapporo’s famous miso ramen. This hearty soup is made with a miso-based broth and topped with vegetables, pork, and sometimes butter. After lunch, take a stroll around the streets of Susukino and check out the many shops and restaurants.

For the evening, consider taking a dip in one of Sapporo’s many hot springs, or “onsen.” There are several public baths in the city, but if you want a more private experience, consider booking a room at a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn.

Day 2: Otaru

Otaru Canal

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 canal, which is lined with old warehouses that have been converted into shops and restaurants. Start your day with a walk along the canal, taking in the beautiful scenery and stopping for a coffee or snack at one of the many cafes.

Otaru Music Box Museum

Next, head to the Otaru Music Box Museum, which is filled with beautiful music boxes and other handcrafted goods. Kids will love exploring the museum and trying out the different music boxes.

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

In the afternoon, head to the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, which is about 30 minutes from Otaru by bus. The distillery is located in a beautiful valley and offers tours and tastings. While kids won’t be able to sample the whisky, they’ll enjoy learning about the distilling process and exploring the beautiful grounds.

Day 3: Niseko

On day three, head to Niseko, a ski resort area located about two hours from Sapporo by train. Niseko is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but even if you’re not a winter sports enthusiast, there’s plenty to do in the area.

Start your day with a visit to the Niseko Village Snow Park, where you can enjoy tubing, sledding, and other snow activities. Next, head to the Niseko Milk Kobo, a dairy farm and bakery that offers delicious ice cream and pastries. Kids will love seeing the cows and goats, and adults will enjoy the freshly baked bread and cheese.

In the afternoon, take a snowshoeing tour through the beautiful forests surrounding Niseko. The tour will take you to a beautiful lookout point with stunning views of Mt. Yotei and the surrounding mountains.

Day 4: Lake Toya

On day four, head to Lake Toya, a beautiful lake located about two hours from Sapporo by train. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers beautiful views year-round.

Start your day with a visit to the Lake Toya Volcano Science Museum, where you can learn about the geology and history of the area. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and adults will appreciate the stunning views from the observation deck.

Next, take a cruise on the lake, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the active volcano, Mt. Usu. There are several different cruises to choose from, including a pirate-themed cruise that’s sure to be a hit with kids.

In the afternoon, head to the Usuzan Ropeway, which takes you up to the summit of Mt. Usu. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike down the mountain on one of the many trails.

Day 5: Asahikawa

On day five, head to Asahikawa, a city located about 90 minutes from Sapporo by train. Asahikawa is known for its zoo, which is one of the best in Japan.

Start your day with a visit to the Asahiyama Zoo, which is home to a wide variety of animals, including polar bears, penguins, and red pandas. The zoo is famous for its unique animal exhibits, which are designed to give visitors a close-up view of the animals in their natural habitats.

In the afternoon, head to the Asahikawa Ramen Village, a collection of eight ramen restaurants located in a single building. Each restaurant specializes in a different style of ramen, so you can try a variety of different dishes.

Day 6: Furano

On day six, head to Furano, a town located about two hours from Sapporo by train. Furano is known for its lavender fields, which are in bloom from late June to early August.

Start your day with a visit to the Farm Tomita, a beautiful lavender farm with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Kids will love running through the fields and taking in the fragrant smells, while adults will appreciate the beautiful scenery.

In the afternoon, head to the Furano Wine Factory, where you can taste locally produced wine and learn about the winemaking process. The winery also offers tours of its beautiful vineyards, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 7: Otaru

On your final day in Hokkaido, head back to Otaru for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing. Check out the many glassware shops in town, which offer beautiful handcrafted glass items.

In the afternoon, head to the Otaru Canal for a sunset stroll. The canal is beautiful at any time of day, but the sunset is particularly magical. End your day with a seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants in town, and toast to a successful Hokkaido adventure.

Conclusion

Hokkaido is a wonderful destination for families with kids, offering a wide variety of activities that are sure to please everyone. From exploring the beautiful parks of Sapporo to skiing in Niseko to visiting the animals at the Asahiyama Zoo, there’s something for everyone in Hokkaido. With its stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, and unique culture, Hokkaido is a destination that your family will never forget.

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Hong Kong’s Street Performers and Buskers: Experiencing the City’s Vibrant Arts Scene

Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant arts scene that extends far beyond the confines of traditional theaters and museums. A visit to Hong Kong’s streets can reveal a plethora of talented performers and buskers who are eager to share their artistic talents with the world. From musicians to acrobats to street magicians, Hong Kong’s street performers offer a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers who are willing to take a stroll through the city’s crowded streets.

One of the best places to experience Hong Kong’s street performers is in the popular district of Central. This bustling commercial hub is home to some of the city’s best street performers who can be seen entertaining locals and tourists alike with their mesmerizing talents. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a musical performance, a magic show, or a display of acrobatics, Central is the perfect place to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant arts scene.

One of the most popular forms of street performance in Hong Kong is music. The city is home to a diverse array of musicians who can be found playing their instruments on street corners, in parks, and even on the city’s iconic trams. The music in Hong Kong is as diverse as the city itself, with performers playing everything from traditional Chinese music to modern Western pop hits.

One of the best places to experience Hong Kong’s music scene is at the Star Ferry pier in Tsim Sha Tsui. Here, you can catch a ferry across Victoria Harbour while enjoying the sweet sounds of local musicians who often play on the pier. The view of the city skyline from the ferry is breathtaking, and the music only adds to the experience.

If you’re looking for something a bit more theatrical, Hong Kong’s street performers offer a range of shows that are sure to leave you spellbound. Acrobats, dancers, and contortionists can be seen performing in public spaces throughout the city, displaying their incredible talents to crowds of captivated onlookers.

One of the most impressive displays of acrobatics can be seen in Kowloon’s Kowloon Park, where performers put on a breathtaking display of balance and agility. The park is also home to regular cultural events that showcase traditional Chinese dance, music, and martial arts performances.

For those who prefer a bit of magic, Hong Kong’s street magicians offer an exciting and interactive experience that is not to be missed. These performers can be seen doing everything from card tricks to mind-bending illusions, often involving audience participation that makes the shows even more engaging.

One of the best places to experience Hong Kong’s street magic scene is at the Temple Street Night Market in Yau Ma Tei. Here, you can catch a number of street magicians performing to crowds of eager onlookers. The bustling market atmosphere only adds to the excitement of the shows, creating an unforgettable experience.

Hong Kong’s street performers and buskers also offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant cultural heritage. Many of the performers draw inspiration from traditional Chinese art forms, incorporating elements of dance, music, and theater into their shows.

One of the best places to experience this cultural fusion is in the district of Sheung Wan, where traditional Chinese and Western influences collide. Here, you can catch a number of street performers who incorporate elements of both cultures into their shows, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Hong Kong’s street performers and buskers offer a vibrant and diverse arts scene that is not to be missed. From music to acrobatics to magic, these talented performers offer a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers who are willing to take a stroll through the city’s crowded streets. So the next time you find yourself in Hong Kong, be sure to take a moment to experience the magic of its street performers and buskers. You won’t be disappointed!

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Discovering the Beauty of Hokkaido in 5 Days: A Journey Through Nature and Culture

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 Beer Museum

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.

Hokkaido Shrine

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.

Sapporo Clock Tower

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.

Susukino

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.

Otaru Canal

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.

Asahiyama Zoo

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

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.

Sea of Okhotsk

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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