Hokkaido's Towns and Sights, Each Full of Character
Vast Hokkaido wears a completely different face in each town. The exotic air of a port town, the calm of a town on the hills, a resort in snow country: touring each one's character is the real joy of travel.
Here we introduce the towns and tourist sights that represent Hokkaido, along with what makes each appealing.
Because the area is so vast, the trick to enjoying it fully is to narrow down where you go.
Touring the character of each town
Hakodate
A port town known for the night view from Mount Hakodate and for the churches and Western-style buildings lining the slopes of the Motomachi district. At the morning market you can taste freshly caught seafood amid an exotic atmosphere.
Source:函館市 公式サイト
Otaru
The Otaru Canal, lined with stone warehouses and gas lamps, is its symbol. It is also known for the herring mansions that convey its history of prosperity from herring fishing, and for glass and music-box crafts.
Source:小樽市 公式サイト
Furano and Biei
Famous for early-summer lavender fields and the 'Patchwork Road' of hills drawn by their crops. Gentle hills and farmland create the open, spacious scenery so characteristic of Hokkaido.
Source:富良野市 公式サイト
Asahiyama Zoo
Located in Asahikawa, it won nationwide popularity for 'behavioral exhibits' that show animals' natural movements. The winter penguin walk has become a signature attraction.
Source:旭川市旭山動物園 公式
Noboribetsu
Sourced from Jigokudani, where steam and hot mud well up, it is one of Hokkaido's leading hot spring resorts, with a variety of water qualities. The landscape with rising steam is a highlight in itself.
Source:登別市 公式サイト
Niseko
A ski resort spreading at the foot of Mount Yotei. Slopes and lodgings cluster in areas such as Hirafu, and with its fine, powdery snow it is highly popular with visitors from overseas, growing into an international resort.
Source:倶知安町 公式サイト
Sapporo
Hokkaido's central city. Sights gather here, such as Odori Park, the Clock Tower, and the Susukino entertainment district, and as the prefectural capital it bustles with seasonal events too.
FAQ
Is Hokkaido better in winter or summer?
It depends on your goal. For enjoying snow, such as the Snow Festival and skiing, go in winter; for lavender, mountain climbing, and island-hopping, go in summer. The way its face changes so much by season is the charm of Hokkaido.
Any tips for getting around the vast region well?
Touring the whole region at once is tough, so the trick is to narrow down to areas such as central, southern, or eastern Hokkaido. For travel between cities, consider making use of limited express trains, rental cars, and flights.