Embark on a captivating 5-day journey through Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, known for its scenic beauty, unique attractions, and delicious cuisine.
Sapporo:
- Weather: The best times to visit are late spring (May) and early autumn (September-October), with mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Summers are warm, and winters can be cold with heavy snowfall.
- Tips: Dress in layers to accommodate varying temperatures. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring parks and shopping streets.
Noboribetsu:
- Weather: Enjoyable weather in late spring and early autumn, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. Summers are pleasant, while winters are cold and snowy.
- Tips: Bring comfortable footwear for walking in natural areas. A lightweight jacket is recommended for cooler evenings.
Furano and Asahikawa :
- Weather: Spring and autumn are ideal for visiting, with mild temperatures. Summers are warm and perfect for lavender blooms, while winters are cold.
- Tips: Wear light layers and sun protection in the summer. Don't forget your camera for the beautiful landscapes and flower fields.
Otaru:
- Weather: Late spring and early autumn offer the best weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Summers are warm, and winters can be cold with snowfall.
- Tips: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring markets and canals. A light jacket is advisable for cooler days.
This itinerary promises a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in Hokkaido.
Hotel: Quintessa Hotel Sapporo
Flight: Check Here
Day 1: Sapporo - A City of Charm and Flavors
Arriving at New Chitose Airport, I was greeted by a cool breeze and the promise of an exciting journey. After a quick hour and a half commute to Sapporo, I checked into the Quintessa Hotel Sapporo, a comfortable and centrally located base for my explorations.
My first stop was a delightful lunch of Suage+ Soup Curry, (map) a unique Hokkaido specialty. The flavors were rich and comforting, costing around ¥2,000.
Recommended: Tonkotsu Curry, Chicken Katsu Curry, Vegetable Curry
Next, I wandered through Odori Park (map) a green oasis in the heart of Sapporo, with its beautiful flower displays and the iconic Sapporo Snow Festival sculptures.
Recommended: Visit during Sapporo Snow Festival, Take a stroll along the park, Admire the beautiful flower beds, Attend a festival or event.
The Sapporo TV Tower (map), just a short walk away, offered stunning panoramic views of the city. The observation deck, with its TV Daddy Shrine, provided a unique perspective, costing around ¥1,000 for entry.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street (map), a bustling hub of shops and restaurants, was my next destination. I browsed through the MEGA Don Quijote, Tanukiya, and Tanukikoji Yokocho "HUG EAT," finding souvenirs and local delicacies. Dinner was a feast of Japanese Shabu-shabu Sukiyaki at Fujiyama, costing around ¥5,000.
Day 2: Sapporo - Exploring History and Indulging in Seafood
Starting my day at the vibrant Nijo Market (map) I savored a delicious breakfast of fresh seafood and local specialties, costing around ¥1,000.
Recommended: Fresh Seafood, Crab, Oysters, Grilled Corn
The Shiroi Koibito Park (map) a charming chocolate factory and theme park, was next on my list, where I indulged in delicious cookies and enjoyed a delightful tour.
Recommended: Take a factory tour, Learn about chocolate-making, Explore the beautiful gardens, Shop for souvenirs
Lunch was a satisfying Tonkatsu Tamafuji Pork Cutlet (map)
costing around ¥2,000.
Recommended: Tonkatsu, Loin Cutlet, Hire Cutlet, Rosu Cutlet
The Hokkaido Government Old Building (map) a magnificent red brick structure, provided a glimpse into Sapporo's history.
For dinner, I treated myself to a luxurious crab feast at the Crab House Sapporo Ekimae (map) a splurge at around ¥15,000.
Recommended: King Crab, Snow Crab, Horsehair Crab, Crab Croquettes
The evening ended with breathtaking views from the JR Tower Observation Deck T38 (map) costing around ¥500. BuyTicket: Here
Day 3: Noboribetsu - A Journey Through Volcanic Landscapes
A scenic two-hour journey brought me to Noboribetsu, a town nestled amidst stunning volcanic landscapes. I spent the morning exploring the Jigokudani (map) a valley of steaming hot springs and bubbling mud pools.
Recommended: See the snow monkeys: This is the main attraction, so don't miss it! Visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park, Enjoy the onsen experience.
The Onsen Market, a short walk away, offered a delicious lunch of Hell Crab Rice, costing around ¥3,000.
provided an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures.
Recommended: Visit bear enclosures, Experience “human cage”, Feed bears,
Observe bear cubs, Explore Brown Bear Museum, Learn Ainu culture, View from Kuttara Lake observation deck
The afternoon was spent at the Oyunuma River Natural Footbath (map)
soaking my feet in the warm mineral-rich waters.
Dinner was a delightful Yakitori experience at Kushi Tori Sapporo Station North Exit (map) costing around ¥3,000.
Recommended: Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), Kushiyaki (grilled skewers)
Chicken wings, Pepper stick
Day 4: Furano and Asahikawa - Lavender Fields and Local Delights
A scenic train ride took me to Furano, a town renowned for its breathtaking lavender fields. I wandered through the Furano Farm (map)
the Furano Melon House (map) and the Nakafurano Town Lavender Garden (map) enjoying the fragrant blooms and indulging in lavender ice cream.
Recommended: See the rare white lavender “Misato sekka” in Nakafurano Town Lavender Garden
Lunch was a delicious Kaiten Sushi experience at Topical (map) costing around ¥2,500.
Recommended: Fresh tuna sushi, Salmon sushi, Prawn sushi, Avocado salmon sushi, “Shaki-Shaki” salmon sushi
The afternoon was spent exploring Asahikawa, a charming town known for its beautiful parks and museums.
Dinner was a delightful local experience at Tenkin Honten (map)
costing around ¥3,000.
Day 5: Otaru - A Journey Through History and Charm
My final day in Hokkaido was spent exploring Otaru, a coastal town known for its picturesque canals and historic buildings. I started my day at the Otaru Triangle Market (map) savoring a delicious seafood breakfast, costing around ¥2,000.
Recommended: Kawashima Fish Shop, Kaisendon (Seafood Donburi), Crab
The Otaru Canal (map) with its charming stone warehouses and February Snow Light Path, was a sight to behold. I also visited the Suitengu Shrine (map) a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to the sea god.
Lunch was a delightful Tempura Zangya Tendon at Otaru Denuki (map) costing around ¥3,000.
Recommended: Seafood bowls, Zangi (Hokkaido-style fried chicken), Bakudan Yaki (giant takoyaki)
The afternoon was spent browsing through the Otaru Sakaimachi Street Shopping Street (map) and visiting the Otaru Music Box Museum (map)
My journey ended with a final farewell to Hokkaido at New Chitose Airport, filled with memories of breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and the warm hospitality of the people.
Hokkaido is a destination that will stay with me forever, a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. I highly recommend this 5-day itinerary for anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure in Japan.
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