Hokkaido: A Dreamy Winter Wonderland.
by Evelyn Turner.18
Nov 14, 2024
Here is a travel guide for Hokkaido:
Must-Visit Attractions
- Mount Hakodate: Take a cable car to the top of the mountain to enjoy a panoramic view of the bay at night. The view is one of the world's top three night views, along with Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor and Italy's Naples.
- Lake Toya: This volcanic lake and active volcano, Mount Usu, are part of the Toya-Usu UNESCO Global Geopark. The lake never freezes in winter, and there are fireworks in summer.
- Otaru Canal: Made famous by the movie "Love Letter," the canal is lined with unique craft shops. The winter scenery is especially romantic and nostalgic.
- Blue Pond: A famous tourist attraction in Biei, the pond's blue water and surrounding scenery are like a fairy tale.
- Cape Kamui: Enjoy the breathtaking view of the deep blue sea, known as Shakotan Blue.
- Lake Akan: The fifth largest freshwater lake in Hokkaido, known for its marimo algae balls. The beautiful round marimo balls, over 15 cm in diameter, are a sight to behold.
Food Recommendations
- Jingisukan: Grilled lamb with onions, bean sprouts, and special sauce. The meat is tender and not gamey.
- Butadon: Pork rice bowl from Obihiro, Hokkaido. The rice and pork are of high quality, and the original butadon is a must-try.
- Soya Black Beef: A premium Japanese beef. Try it at SteakHouseVin in Hokkaido, which has a Michelin star.
- Sapporo Ramen: A representative dish of Hokkaido, including Sapporo miso ramen, Hakodate salt ramen, and Asahikawa soy sauce ramen. Try them at the original Sapporo Ramen Yokocho or other ramen streets.
- Uni Don: Loved for its delicious taste and nutritional value. The uni don at Hakodate Mura is authentic.
Accommodation Recommendations
- The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa: Ideal for ski season, with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
- Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa: Convenient location with many nearby facilities.
- Hotel WBF Hakodate Watatsuminoyu: Enjoy the hot springs and relax.
- Dai-ichi Takimotokan: A historic Japanese-style hot spring hotel. Note that check-out time is early.
Transportation Guide
- Air: Hokkaido has New Chitose Airport, Hakodate Airport, and more. New Chitose Airport is the largest. Take the JR express train or bus from the airport to Sapporo.
- Train: JR Hokkaido's rail network covers the entire region. Buy a JR Hokkaido Rail Pass for unlimited rides on JR trains for a certain period.
- Car: Self-driving allows for flexible itineraries. Hokkaido's roads are in good condition.
Other Tips
- Festivals: Hokkaido has popular festivals like the Yosakoi Soran Festival, Sapporo Lilac Festival, and Sapporo Snow Festival.
- Souvenirs: Try Shiroi Koibito and Rokkatei Marusei Butter Sandwich.
Post by Evelyn Turner.18 | Nov 14, 2024












