People travel to Hokkaido for a variety of reasons: to ski at Niseko Ski Resort, to stroll through Furano’s majestic flower farms, or to sample seafood dishes. This northernmost island in Japan offers many breathtaking attractions in every season, making it a destination worth visiting every time. Want to take an unforgettable trip to Hokkaido? Here’s a quick guide to the best attractions in Sapporo, Hakodate, Niseko and other neighboring towns in Hokkaido!

Quick Tour

Via Shutterstock
Currency: Yen (¥)
Languages: Nihongo (Japanese)
Airport: New Chitose Airport
Hokkaido is a year-round destination. However, if you plan to visit at a specific time, here are the best times to visit Hokkaido:

Spring and cherry blossom season: late April to mid-May
Winter and ski adventure: December to February
Autumn foliage: September to October
Summer Getaway: June to August

Visiting Hokkaido

Win Jarusathit via Shutterstock
Getting there by plane
It’s a well-known fact that Japan has one of (if not the) most efficient transportation systems in the world. In Hokkaido in particular, you can choose from a variety of travel options, whether by air, land or sea. If you are going to other parts of Hokkaido, you can take a plane.

New Chitose Airport, Hokkaido’s main international airport, is located in Sapporo. It takes 90 minutes to fly from Tokyo to Sapporo. You can also take the Hokkaido Shinkansen train from Tokyo, which is a 4-hour ride.

By train
If you are coming from Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen to Hakodate via the Hokkaido Shinkansen. There are also limited express trains that run through major cities such as Sapporo and Noboribetsu. For an even better fare, buy a Hokkaido Rail Pass, which you can use on local trains and some JR Hokkaido buses.

JR PASS｜Hokkaido Rail Pass｜Information on Sapporo, Noboribetsu and Furano Area Passes
Get the amazing JR Rail Pass and explore the sights of Hokkaido, Noboribetsu or Furano without worrying about transportation.

By bus
Hokkaido has its own sightseeing bus. Explore Sapporo, Utoro and Asahikawa on the North Line, or take the South Line to New Chitose Airport, Tokachi River or Mojo. Intercity buses are also available.

By car
The most convenient way to get around is by car. However, if you do not know how to drive, you can charter a car to pick up and drop off up to 8 people. Cabs are available in Hokkaido, but they can be expensive if you travel long distances. A rental car or airport transfer is more recommended.