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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

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.

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

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.

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.

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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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.

Japan Travel eSim provides an effortless and affordable solution to stay connected while traveling in Japan. Our product delivers fast and dependable data without requiring traditional SIM card registration.

With Japan Travel eSim, you can avoid the complexities of registering for a traditional SIM card. You only need to scan the QR code to install the eSim, and you can start using your phone right away. It’s a simple, quick, and hassle-free process.

Our eSim is not only user-friendly but also cost-effective. We offer highly competitive pricing in the market, so you can stay connected without exceeding your budget. Moreover, our eSim is completely transparent, with no hidden fees or surprise charges.

The outstanding feature of Japan Travel eSim is the quality of our data. Our eSim provides fast and reliable internet connectivity, ensuring that you can stay connected and share your travel experiences with your loved ones back home. You won’t have to worry about choppy video calls or slow loading times anymore.

Don’t let the complexities of traditional SIM card registration or high costs stop you from staying connected during your travels in Japan. Choose Japan Travel eSim for an easy, affordable, and reliable solution to all your connectivity needs. Enjoy your trip to Japan without worrying about staying connected.