Hokkaido Summer Itinerary

Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a stunning destination in the summer months. With its cooler climate and breathtaking natural landscapes, it's the perfect escape from the heat of the cities. This comprehensive itinerary will guide you through the best of Hokkaido, from its vibrant cities to its serene countryside.

Travel Tips

Weather: Hokkaido's summer temperatures range from mild to warm, so pack light layers. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in mountainous areas.
Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the rural areas, but public transportation is also convenient. Consider purchasing a JR Hokkaido Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains in Hokkaido.
Language: English isn't widely spoken, so carrying a phrasebook or translator app can be helpful. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can also enhance your experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport and take the train to Sapporo.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore Sapporo's vibrant downtown area. Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower and stroll through the historic Sapporo Ekimae-dori Street.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Sapporo's famous ramen shops, such as Ramen Alley or Susukino Ramen Yokocho.

Day 2: Sapporo

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn about the history of beer in Japan. Enjoy a beer tasting session.
Afternoon: Explore Odori Park, a central park that hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. Visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Relax in a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Consider visiting Jozankei Onsen, located about an hour from Sapporo, for a traditional onsen experience surrounded by nature.

Day 3: Otaru Day Trip

Morning: Take a train to Otaru, a charming port city known for its canal and preserved historic buildings.
Afternoon: Explore the Otaru Canal and visit the Otaru Music Box Museum to see a beautiful collection of music boxes.
Evening: Enjoy a romantic walk along the Otaru Canal illuminated by gas lamps. Have dinner at one of the local seafood restaurants before heading back to Sapporo.

Day 4: Furano and Biei

Morning: Rent a car and drive to Furano, known for its stunning lavender fields (best seen in July). Visit Farm Tomita, one of the most famous lavender farms in Hokkaido.
Afternoon: Drive to Biei and visit the Shikisai no Oka flower fields, where you can see a variety of colorful flowers.
Evening: Return to Sapporo and relax at your hotel. Consider visiting the Sapporo Beer Garden for dinner and try their famous Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) dish.

Day 5: Asahikawa and Asahiyama Zoo

Morning: Take a train to Asahikawa and visit the Asahiyama Zoo, known for its innovative animal enclosures. Don't miss the Penguin Parade and the Polar Bear Tank.
Afternoon: Explore Asahikawa's downtown area and try local delicacies like Asahikawa ramen, known for its rich and flavorful broth.
Evening: Return to Sapporo and rest for the night. Alternatively, you can explore Sapporo's nightlife in Susukino, the city's entertainment district.

Day 6: Noboribetsu Onsen

Morning: Check out of your hotel and take a train to Noboribetsu Onsen, a famous hot spring resort known for its healing waters and picturesque surroundings.
Afternoon: Explore the Jigokudani (Hell Valley), a volcanic crater with steaming vents and sulfurous streams. Take a walk along the walking trails to experience the unique landscape up close.
Evening: Relax in one of the many onsens in Noboribetsu and enjoy a traditional kaiseki (multi-course) dinner at your ryokan.

Day 7: Lake Toya

Morning: Take a bus or train to Lake Toya, a beautiful caldera lake surrounded by mountains. Visit the Usuzan Ropeway and take a cable car ride to the top of Mt. Usu for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.
Afternoon: Explore the Lake Toya area and enjoy water activities such as boat cruises or kayaking on the lake. Visit the Toyako Visitor Center to learn about the geology and history of Lake Toya.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake and watch the sunset over the water. Consider having dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Day 8: Sapporo Exploration

Morning: Return to Sapporo from Lake Toya. Spend the morning exploring more of Sapporo's attractions, such as the Hokkaido Shrine and the Maruyama Park.
Afternoon: Visit the Sapporo Art Park, which houses various sculptures and art installations in a beautiful natural setting.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Sapporo's top-rated restaurants, savoring local specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb) or Hokkaido seafood.

Day 9: Rural Hokkaido Experience

Morning: Take a scenic train or bus ride to Biei and explore the charming countryside. Visit the Patchwork Road, a scenic route lined with colorful fields and farmhouses.
Afternoon: Continue your journey to Furano and visit the Furano Cheese Factory to learn about cheese-making in Hokkaido and sample some delicious cheeses.
Evening: Return to Sapporo and relax at your hotel. Consider packing a picnic dinner and enjoying it in one of Sapporo's parks, such as Moerenuma Park.

Day 10: Departure from Sapporo

Morning: Check out of your hotel and take the train to New Chitose Airport for your departure. Take one last stroll through Sapporo's downtown area and pick up any last-minute souvenirs.
Afternoon: Board your flight home, carrying with you memories of your unforgettable summer adventure in Hokkaido.

Travel Essentials:

Currency: Japan uses the yen (JPY), so it's advisable to carry cash as credit cards are not widely accepted. ATMs are available but may not accept all foreign cards.
Emergency Numbers: Keep a list of important numbers, including the ambulance (119), police (110), and fire (119). For 24-hour emergency assistance and general information, you can also contact Japan Helpline at +81-6-4395-0555.
Health Insurance: Make sure you have travel health insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses. Check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage in Japan, and carry your insurance card and policy information with you at all times.

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it the perfect summer getaway in Hokkaido. Don't forget to pack your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unforgettable moments along the way!