Hokkaido is huge, and finding the right things to do here is not a walk in the park.
Encompassing a total area of nearly 84,000 square kilometers, Hokkaido is a gift of mother nature, with plenty of natural parks encircling famous hot spring retreats.
No matter what time of the year, major cities like Sapporo, Otaru, Hakodate, and Furano beckon the attention of globetrotters to celebrate the great outdoors. In spring, cherry blossoms flank the tree-lined paths while winter rings in a festive vibe.
In this article, I’ll be breaking down the best things to do in Hokkaido by region, covering amazing attractions such as holy shrines, scenic parks, bustling markets, and more.
Let’s dive right in!
Things To Do In Sapporo
Odori Park & Sapporo TV Tower
Without traveling further afield, Odori Park should be the first thing on your bucket list to Sapporo thanks to its central location smack dab in the heart of the city.
Spanning across 1.5 kilometers stretching through 13 blocks, the park beckons attention when spring is around the corner and the crowds flush in to watch cherry blossoms.
Stay updated and keep up with major events such as the Sapporo White Illumination Festival that takes place every winter.
East of the park stands the 147.2-meter Sapporo TV Tower. Climb to the 90.38-meter observatory if your fitness level agrees for panoramic views of Odori Park, Mount Moiwa, and the Sea of Japan, with Sapporo lighting up as night falls.
Hokkaido Shrine
Going strong since 1869, the ancient Shinto shrine celebrates the long-established religious tradition of the country, paying tribute to various deities including Emperor Meiji.
Wrapped around by a lush landscape where ancient trees make a statement, Hokkaido Shrine is a cherry blossom haven, nestled in the core of Maruyama Park. Don’t forget to delight your sweet tooth with some of the tastiest street snacks during the flower season amid cherry and plum blossoms.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street
Looking for a place to max out your credit card? Don’t let Tanukikoji Shopping Street go to waste!
Going strong since 1869, this famous shopping hub in Sapporo is dubbed the oldest shopping district in all of the city, housing over 200 stores along a kilometer-long covered arcade.
Here you can find everything from restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops to thrift stores.
Nijo Market
On every given sunny day, freshly caught seafood flocks into this bustling market, turning Nijo into some of the liveliest shopping scenes filled with an assortment of twittering chats and authentic scents.
Though not the biggest market in Hokkaido, Nijo bears a rich historical value, offering authentic delicacies such as fresh seafood, dry goods, fruits, and vegetables.
Bargain-friendly seafood restaurants complement the market’s offerings.
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Deck
Bordering the western tip of Sapporo, the Hitsujigaoka Observation Deck emerges as a quaint vantage point, sitting on top of a hill and paying tribute to Sapporo’s agricultural heritage. Here you will need an entry ticket to reach the top, providing a glimpse into Dr. Clock’s history and panoramic views.
Shiroi Koibito Park
Sapporo is not short on natural parks but Shiroi Koibito is specifically amazing.
Once a chocolate factory, Shiroi Koibito Park resembles a European castle. Beyond chocolate history, you’ll have a chance to engage in plenty of hands-on experiences making famous keepsakes or sign up for a factory tour and projection shows.
Sapporo Beer Museum
One of the most talked-about attractions in Sapporo, it’s widely recognized as the birthplace of Japanese beer.
Established in 1987, the museum doesn’t require entry tickets despite the remarkable collections and insights into beer brands, brewing processes, and Sapporo’s history are beyond compare.
Guided tours include beer tastings, and there’s a paid tasting area for sampling various rare beers.
Things To Do In Otaru
Otaru Canal
The coastal city has plenty of great activities to celebrate the majestic outdoors. But if you’re short on time, sign up for a scenic voyage and traverse the Otaru Canal which once served as a vital maritime waterway.
Completed in 1923 after nine years of excavation, this 1140-meter canal is flanked by historic stone warehouses from the Taisho and Showa eras.
Along the shore, you’ll see 63 gas lanterns flanking from both sides, creating a magical atmosphere, especially during the snow festival or when the lanterns first light up.
Things To Do In Hakodate
Mt. Hakodate Night Vista
Jutting out from the southernmost of Hokkaido, the Mt. Hakodetel captivates view seekers from around the world thanks to its mesmerizing view when the city sprawls below, creating an impactful scene.
Stand atop the observatory that’s 334 meters high and soak up the enchanting cityscape as the sun is out while the large arches of lights along coastal roads form a captivating play of light on the city.
Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse
Standing the test of time, the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse has been part of the country’s history since it was erected in the Meiji era.
Surviving a great fire, Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse today stands against the Hakodate Port backdrop, welcoming tourists and locals alike into this shopping hub.
Kanemori is now a vivid shopping mall, offering diverse local delights from delicious food to unique souvenirs. Despite the size, it boasts a comprehensive collection, making it a remarkable stop for tourists and travelers.
Goryokaku
The centrally located fortress is a historical masterpiece, jutting out to the sky in a star-shaped building since the late Edo period.
One of the best times to visit the fortress is spring when the cherry blossoms along its moat create a colorful spectacle, making it a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot.
When autumn is around the corner, the maples turn red while winter comes and blankets the ancient floor with a thick layer of snow.
Climb to the top of the fortress for the view of Mt. Hakodate at a distance as well as the Tsugaru Strait and the Yokotsu Mountains.
Hachiman-Zaka Slope
Come over to this Insta-worthy spot as you stroll down the scenic tree-lined slope that’s overlooking Hakodate Bay.
Hachiman-Zaka exudes a European and American seaport city vibe. The stone-paved road leads straight to the sea, surrounded by churches and Western-style houses. As you make your way to the end of the slope, stop by Motomachi, a Catholic Church founded in 1867. The small holy shrine today decks the slope with a 33-meter-high octagonal tower featuring a rooster, offering a glimpse into Hakodate’s European influence.
Hakodate Morning Market
Open daily from 5 AM (or 6 AM in summer) till noon, the morning market of Hakodate is a fun way to kick start your adventure on a high note. With proximity to JR Hakodate Station, this thriving trading hub spans four blocks, chock full of freshly caught seafood of all kinds.
From crabs and salmon eggs to sea urchins, you name it!
The best part?
Why not enjoy a scrumptious breakfast like a local right at its food vendor? I highly recommend a serving of uni-ikura donburi if the brilliant orange pearls of salmon roe over steamed rice is what your heart desires.
Things To Do In Furano
Farm Tomita
It’s scenic, it’s colorful, it’s mesmerizing.
The beauty of Farm Tomita is barely seen elsewhere. Known as the oldest lavender field in all of Japan, Tomita seems as if it steps out of a fairytale book, charming hearts with stunning purple lavender every summer when the field turns into a vibrant, rainbow-like spectacle.
The sun-kissed field is gigantic, split into two areas – one is the outdoor flower field while the other is the greenhouse garden.
Other than lavender, Tomita also blooms with poppies and chrysanthemums. You can sign up for one of the essential oil workshops there as well.
Ningle Terrace
If you come with kids, then Ningle Terrace is definitely a must-see!
Located by the side of the Shin Furano Prince Hotel, the enchanting village is named after mythical dwarves. Here you can browse a shopping complex of 15 shops disguised in quaint wooden cottages, offering specialty craft souvenirs and delectable treats such as cakes, cheeses, and ice creams with local artisans at work.
Things To Do In Biei
Shikisai Hill
About half an hour’s ride north of Furano, Shikisai Hill is a large sun-kissed flower field where 30 varieties of flora species shine on a seven-hectare land.
The stunning scenery is best enjoyed on a sunny October day when admission is free. You can rent one of the bicycles or quad bikes and even golf carts to go around if you’re not short on time. One thing to keep in mind is that the terrain is slightly steep and graveled so stick to walking if your fitness level doesn’t agree.
Read More: Hokkaido Biei’s Must-Visit Attraction: Shikisai no Oka – A Patchwork Flower Field of Dreamlike Colors
Shirogane Blue Pond
Shirogane is hands down one of my favorite places to see in Biei. A 20-minute car ride northwest of Shikisai Hill takes you to the stunning turquoise water.
The crowds flock here in summer, waiting to admire the deep cobalt blue color surrounded by lush greenery.
Meanwhile, winter transforms the landscape into a picturesque contrast of blue and white with nightly illuminations.
Patchwork Road
The terms “Patchwork Road” refer to the areas around Biei and are not necessarily related to any certain roads. From above, the fields, resembling a colorful patchwork, change with the seasons — cherry blossoms come in spring and vibrant flowers thrive in summer. The Patchwork Road offers year-round enjoyment of nature’s changing tapestry.
Things To Do In Asahikawa
Asahiyama Zoo
Coming with kids? Well, Asahikawa has just the right thing!
The zoo sits on the outskirts of the city, drawing crowds during school breaks and holidays to this beloved zoological garden.
One of the coolest things to do there is to walk down the glass tunnel through the penguin pool. You can also take an up-close look at the wolves and polar bears outside of the glass domes.
A polar bear feeding show is hosted regularly while the playful seals chill out inside a cylindrical tank.
What Else Can You See In Hokkaido?
Lake Toya (four-hour ride from Hokkaido): perfectly encircled by three nature parks and featuring a small island at its heart, Lake Toya was created by a volcanic eruption 110,000 years ago and is known as one of the top spots for hot spring retreats.
Lake Shikotsu (an hour’s ride from Sapporo): surrounded by stunning mountains like Mount Eniwa and Mount Tarumae, the deep blue lake is part of the lush Shikotsu-Toya National Park, featuring a bird sanctuary and campgrounds along with many restaurants featuring dishes crafted from regional ingredients like red salmon.
Jigokudani – Hell Valley (90-minute car ride from Sapporo): is an otherworldly landscape devoid of vegetation, emitting white smoke. When the sun is out, the mystical landscape turns up thanks to a sea of flickering lights.
Final Words:
Occupying over 20% of Japan’s area, Hokkaido came into its golden age during the Meiji era when holy shrines and ancient trading hubs were erected.
Hokkaido is different from the big cities of Japan – say Tokyo, but the peaceful setting there and the simple way of living make this place such an interesting getaway to detox your mental health and reflect your inner self.
Today, Hokkaido remains a large farming area with beautiful flower fields and turquoise lakes dotting different parts of the island.