A Complete Guide of Hokkaido

Welcome to Japan’s Northernmost Island

Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, offers a distinct charm that sets it apart from Honshu. With its vast natural landscapes, fresh local cuisine, and stunning seasonal scenery, Hokkaido provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. This comprehensive guide explores the island’s key attractions, seasonal highlights, and essential travel information.

Hokkaido Overview

Geography and Size

Hokkaido spans approximately 83,424 square kilometers, accounting for about 22% of Japan's total land area. It is the largest of Japan’s 47 prefectures and the second-largest island after Honshu. The island boasts breathtaking mountains, vast plains, primeval forests, and wetlands, offering a diverse natural environment.

Population and Major Cities

Hokkaido has a population of around 5.1 million (as of 2023), making up roughly 4% of Japan's total population. The population density is significantly lower than in other parts of Japan, creating a unique blend of expansive nature and urban areas. The major cities include:

• Sapporo (approx. 1.97 million people) – the political, economic, and cultural center of Hokkaido

• Hakodate, Asahikawa, and Kushiro – key regional cities with distinct local attractions

Hokkaido's GDP is approximately 18 trillion yen (2023).

How to Get to Hokkaido

By Air

The most common way to reach Hokkaido is by air. New Chitose Airport (near Sapporo) serves as the main gateway, with flights from Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) taking about 1.5 hours. Other major airports include Hakodate, Asahikawa, Kushiro, and Memanbetsu, providing convenient domestic and international connections.

By Train

The Hokkaido Shinkansen, which opened in 2016, connects Honshu to Hokkaido via the Seikan Tunnel. Travel time from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station is approximately 4 hours. Within Hokkaido, express and local trains offer scenic rail journeys across the island.

By Ferry

Ferries are another exciting way to travel to Hokkaido, with routes from Aomori, Akita, and Niigata to Hakodate, Otaru, and Tomakomai. This option is ideal for travelers planning a road trip, as vehicles can be transported via ferry.

Accommodation in Hokkaido

Ryokan (Traditional Inns)

Hokkaido has around 300–400 ryokan, primarily located in hot spring resorts such as Noboribetsu, Lake Toya, and Jozankei. These inns provide a traditional Japanese experience with kaiseki cuisine and onsen baths.

Hotels

With approximately 1,000–1,200 hotels, Hokkaido offers a wide range of accommodations. Sapporo and Hakodate feature luxury hotels and business hotels, while resort areas like Niseko and Tomamu cater to international visitors with high-end resorts. The glamping trend has also gained popularity in recent years, providing stylish stays in Hokkaido’s pristine nature.

Best Seasons to Visit Hokkaido

Hokkaido has distinct seasons, each with unique attractions. The two most recommended travel periods are:

Summer (July–August)

• Cool and comfortable climate – lower humidity than Honshu

• Breathtaking flower fields – Furano’s lavender fields and Biei’s rolling hills

• Outdoor adventures – trekking, canoeing, and cycling in Shiretoko and Daisetsuzan National Parks

• Fresh seasonal seafood – perfect for enjoying Hokkaido’s famous sea urchin and scallops

Autumn (Late September–Mid-October)

• Vibrant autumn foliage – spectacular fall colors in the Daisetsuzan Mountains

• Milder crowds – compared to the peak summer season

• Seasonal delicacies – sanma (Pacific saury), salmon, mushrooms, and pumpkins

• Perfect for hot springs – cooler weather enhances the relaxing onsen experience

Travel Tips for Hokkaido

Transportation

Due to its vast size, choosing the right transportation is crucial for efficient travel. While major cities are well-connected by trains and buses, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Hokkaido’s rural and scenic areas. However, in winter, driving can be hazardous due to snow-covered roads, so public transportation is advisable for those unfamiliar with winter driving.

Clothing Recommendations

Hokkaido is colder than most parts of Japan. Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bringing a light jacket is wise. From autumn onward, layered clothing and winter gear are essential, especially in mountainous regions.

When exporting goods to Hokkaido

Hokkaido has its own market characteristics and consumption trends that differ from those of Honshu. In addition, due to high logistics costs, products that are not produced in Hokkaido and differentiated products with high added value are particularly promising. The key to success will be to select products that take into account the regional characteristics and climate, such as highly functional cold weather gear and specialized ski and snowboard equipment.

※Regulations and procedures for exporting Hokkaido seafood vary depending on the country or region of the destination.