Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido! Introducing classic and hidden gems
This issue's special feature is Hokkaido ・ Central Hokkaido sightseeing!
First time
Hokkaido
Don't get lost when traveling,
Sapporo
・
Otaru
・
Noboribetsu and Lake Toya
Contains
Central Hokkaido area
Focus on
did,
Introducing popular and hidden tourist spots
I will.
Around each spot
Recommended activities and experience information, plus ticket reservations
Please check it out as well!
table of contents
- 1 What is the central part of Hokkaido like?
- 2 Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Sapporo city area
- 3 Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Sapporo area
- 4 Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Otaru and Shakotan area
- 5 Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Toya and Noboribetsu area
- 6 Top 10 Popular Activities in the Central Hokkaido Area
- 7 Enjoy sightseeing in the central Hokkaido area
- 8 Feature articles recommended by the editorial department
What is the central part of Hokkaido like?
Central Hokkaido area
is literally,
Hokkaido
Refers to the center of
.
It is the prefectural capital
Sapporo
In addition,
Otaru
・
Ishikari
・
Noboribetsu and Tomakomai
These include familiar areas, as well as areas that have been featured in TV dramas.
Hidaka
It is also known as "Hokkaido's inner sanctum."
Jozankei
, extremely popular with inbound tourists
Niseko and Rusutsu
too,
Central Hokkaido
is located.
The gateway to Hokkaido
New Chitose Airport
and the busiest terminal station in Hokkaido.
Sapporo Station
We also have.
From urban areas to scenic spots and resort spots that coexist with nature, A wide range of things to see and do So, Even if you just drop by, you can enjoy the Hokkaido atmosphere. Yo.
Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Sapporo city area
Central Hokkaido Recommended tourist spots The first batter is, Sapporo city area We have picked out some classic spots with spectacular views, sightseeing spots, and photogenic spots.
1. Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway
Located in the south of Sapporo city,
Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway
" is a popular viewing spot where you can get a panoramic view of the Ishikari Plain! You can reach the summit area at an altitude of 531m by ropeway and mini cable car.
Easy access
is.
A 360-degree open panorama
is perfect for achieving a photogenic look that is typical of Hokkaido.
A restaurant where you can enjoy a romantic night view and spectacular scenery
We also recommend visiting at night to see this!
To book your tickets for the Sapporo Mt. Moiwa Ropeway in advance, please use the link below. We are currently offering priority night-time ticket plans that are convenient for busy times, as well as tours that take you around nearby spots!
[Hokkaido, Sapporo] Sapporo night view viewing private taxi tour 2 hours
"Sapporo Night View Viewing" 2-hour course departing and returning from Sapporo city ★ "Inkarshupenupuri" (Watchful Mountain) in the language of the indigenous Ainu people. ★ A 360-degree view unfolds from the observation deck at the summit, 531 meters above sea level. ★ Not only can you see the cityscape of Sapporo, but the lights that continue into the distance. It's like "an upside-down jewel box"! ★ A Vellfire can also be specified for use by up to 4 people only.
You can enjoy the spectacular view of Sapporo, which has been recognized as one of Japan's New Top Three Night Views, in a short space of time! Furthermore, it is a comfortable and easy plan that can only be achieved by chartering a taxi! You can enjoy travel and sightseeing in a private space! This is a great value price that also includes the fee for the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway and the mini cable car. We will guide you to the spectacular view spot that is counted as one of Hokkaido's Top Three Night Views! Mt. Moiwa and Asahiyamaki, recommended by locals
Address: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
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2. Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observatory
Sapporo
For area view spots,
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observatory
" is also a must-see.
Experience the spectacular view of Sapporo city and the Ishikari Plain
is a staple of tourism in central Hokkaido!
A bronze statue of Dr. Clark posing with the blue sky and spectacular view in the background
There are also
Hokkaido
・
Sapporo
This is the perfect photo spot to enjoy the unique look.
Besides the scenery,
Sheep shearing in spring, lavender fields in summer, and a snow park in winter.
Another attractive feature is that there are different attractions, such as nature and activities, depending on the season you visit.
You can reserve your admission ticket for the observation deck from the link below! Central Hokkaido Enjoy the spectacular views and nature to the fullest.
[Notes for reservations. Please read this before making a reservation] After confirming the contents, we will send you a message from our store via message box. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please confirm and respond accordingly. If there is no response by the specified date and time, it will be treated as a temporary cancellation as it will affect other reservations. Thank you for your understanding.
Address: 1 Hitsujigaoka, Toyohira Ward, Sapporo City, Hokkaido
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3. Shiroi Koibito Park
The theme is "Shiroi Koibito," a classic Hokkaido souvenir sweet. At the factory on the premises, you can observe the manufacturing process of Shiroi Koibito and Baumkuchen through the glass! Shiroi Koibito Park There are also many sweets and goods that can only be purchased here.
Experience making your own Shiroi Koibito chocolate with an original photo package, or enjoy chocolate tasting.
Be sure to check out the experience programs that can only be found at specialized facilities
Not only is it a great trip for families, but couples and friends can also join in and create wonderful memories of their trip to Hokkaido.
The scenery includes rows of British-style buildings and a rose garden that is in full bloom from early summer to autumn.
Another great point is that there are plenty of photo spots.
is.
If you're visiting Shiroi Koibito Park while sightseeing in central Hokkaido or Sapporo, we recommend joining a taxi or chartered driving tour! Let a local driver who is familiar with the area guide you and quickly tour the tourist spots, including the park.
[Hokkaido, Sapporo] Private taxi ride to your destination! A 6-hour winter tour of Sapporo!
It is very difficult to find an available taxi in Sapporo in winter. We recommend making an early reservation!! You can rent a taxi for 6 hours and enjoy sightseeing in Sapporo city to your heart's content. We will help you with photography, so group photos are no problem, and the car is always waiting. For example, Snow Festival venue (2/5-2/12) *Held online Shiroi Koibito Park Hokkaido Government Red Brick Jozan
It is very difficult to find an available taxi in Sapporo in winter. We recommend making a reservation early!! You can rent a taxi for 8 hours and enjoy sightseeing in Sapporo city to your heart's content. We will help you with photography, so group photos are no problem, and the car is always waiting. For example, Snow Festival venue (2/5-2/12) *Held online Shiroi Koibito Park Hokkaido Government Red Brick Jozan
Address: 2-2-11-36 Miyanosawa, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
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Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Sapporo area
Central Hokkaido
for,
There are many tourist spots outside of Sapporo
there is.
In the following,
Sapporo suburbs
We will introduce recommended spots in Hokkaido! The main focus is on nature spots that are full of Hokkaido's unique atmosphere.
1. Lake Shikotsu
" Lake Shikotsu (Shikotsuko)" is Central Hokkaido One of the most popular sightseeing and activity spots Lake Shikotsu Onsen has been a popular hot spring resort since its opening in the Taisho era. A hot spring resort with a magnificent lake view It is popular as a place to stay, and the coast is lined with campsites, hot spring inns, hotels, and other accommodations.
As a lake, it boasts some of the best water quality in Japan, with transparency exceeding 10m! Canoe or SUP If you join the tour, Unique photos that make you feel like you're floating in the air You can also take photos.
Below are some recommended experience tours at Lake Shikotsu!
Relax and enjoy the beautiful blue of Lake Shikotsu and the lush green of the outer rim of the volcano.
Hokkaido
・
Central Hokkaido
Why not come and enjoy the great outdoors?
"Extraordinary Experience Activity" held at Lake Shikotsu in Chitose / SUP experience tour of approximately 2 hours. A luxurious SUP experience tour at Lake Shikotsu, which has the best water quality in Japan for 11 consecutive years. The high quality of the water and beautiful scenery will enrich your soul and create wonderful memories with friends and precious family. You will also see Japan's oldest "mountain line railway bridge"! The guide will take photos and provide them to you as an album.
This is a two-hour SUP experience tour held at Lake Shikotsu in Chitose. A luxurious SUP experience tour at Lake Shikotsu, which has the best water quality in Japan for 11 consecutive years. The high quality water and beautiful scenery will enrich your soul and create wonderful memories. You will also see Japan's oldest "mountain line railway bridge"! The guide will take photos and provide them to you as an album. You can rest assured as the guide guides over 200 tours a year.
Hokkaido SUP experience tour is the most popular experience. Highly transparent lake water: Lake Shikotsu's high transparency is sure to be an amazing experience. You can see the bottom of the lake more than 10m deep from the SUP board, so you can fully enjoy the beauty of the water. This is a special experience that you can't get anywhere else. Natural beauty: Surrounded by the outer crater rim
[Hokkaido, Lake Shikotsu] Relaxing Lake Shikotsu SUP Tour | Drone Photography Included
★ SUP tour at Lake Shikotsu, boasting the best water quality in Japan ★ Capture your memories in the best possible way with drone photography! Fishing equipment, snorkels, nets, and more are available for free rental! This tour is enjoyable for everyone from beginners to experienced SUPers! Reservations are accepted until 10:00 PM the night before! ----------------◼︎ Event times: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Address: Shikotsuko Onsen Bangaichi, Chitose City, Hokkaido
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2. Chitose River
Ishikari River system first-class river "
Chitose River
(Chitosegawa)" is
Central Hokkaido
・
Sapporo
It is a popular spot where you can enjoy sightseeing and river activities in the surrounding area! It is also known as the home of salmon, which is familiar to Japanese people.
If you visit Chitose River
A visit to the Chitose Aquarium, the home of salmon, is a must
The museum's first facility in Japan, the Underwater Observation Zone,
You can look directly into the river from a room embedded in the Chitose River bank.
You can see them swimming up the river to spawn in September and October.
You might be able to see the salmon swimming up close
I don't know.
Along the river, a rich natural landscape of trees and aquatic plants spreads out,
Canoe Tour
It's a great way to join and enjoy cruising.
Below are some recommended plans! Check the length of the course and the area where it is held, and join the tour that interests you.
[Chitose River Cruise] Just a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, the Chitose River will make you think, "Wow, such a rich natural environment is spread out in such a place!" As you cruise down the river accompanied by a guide, you can see fish peeking out from the crystal clear water and small birds flying through the trees. You can learn a lot about Hokkaido's wildlife and vegetation, Ainu culture, and pioneering history through this magnificent natural environment.
[Chitose River Cruise] Just a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, the Chitose River will make you think, "Wow, such a rich natural environment is spread out in such a place!" As you cruise down the river accompanied by a guide, you can see fish peeking out from the crystal clear water and small birds flying through the trees. You can learn a lot about Hokkaido's wildlife and vegetation, Ainu culture, and pioneering history through this magnificent natural environment.
[Chitose River Cruise] Just a 20-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, the Chitose River will make you think, "Wow, such a rich natural environment is spread out in such a place!" As you cruise down the river accompanied by a guide, you can see fish peeking out from the crystal clear water and small birds flying through the trees. You can learn a lot about Hokkaido's wildlife and vegetation, Ainu culture, and pioneering history through this magnificent natural environment.
[Participation fee] ・Participation by two or more people (junior high school students and above): 8,500 yen/person ・Participation by one person (high school students and above): 10,000 yen/person ・Children (ages 4 to elementary school): 5,000 yen/person *If two or more people participate and wish to ride alone, the price will be per person. [Duration] ①7:0
Address: 2-312 Hanazono, Chitose City, Hokkaido
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Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Otaru and Shakotan area
Next up: Otaru/Shakotan area Recommended in Central Hokkaido Tourist spots, Hokkaido Focus on activities that allow you to experience culture and nature, and photogenic spots We would like to introduce it to you.
1. Otaru Canal
Otaru
If you want to enjoy the traditional scenery,
Otaru Canal
" is recommended!
Since ancient times,
It flourished as the gateway to the development of Hokkaido
Otaru area
During the Taisho era, a canal was constructed in its current location to expand the space for barges to dock due to an increase in cargo volume. However, after the war, the canal ceased to function, and half of the river was filled in, resulting in its current appearance.
If you walk along the canal,
Stone warehouses built in the Taisho era
You can enjoy the retro scenery with the buildings lined up on the opposite bank!
The gas lamps installed along the walking path are still in use. Visit the canal at night from the end of the year,
The warm evening light is reflected softly on the water, creating a truly atmospheric "Otaru photogenic" scene.
It's also fun to do that.
If you want to enjoy sightseeing in central Hokkaido, including Otaru, we recommend chartering a taxi or joining a day trip bus tour! Below we have picked out some recommended experiences and popular plans around the Otaru Canal.
This is a 4-hour sightseeing tour of Otaru in a luxury Lexus taxi. We will take you to famous spots in Otaru, such as the Otaru Canal, Kitaichi Glass, Sakaimachi Street, LeTAO, and the Otaru Guest House. For lunch, we recommend enjoying some of the port town's finest seafood and sushi. Enjoy the historic city of Otaru.
Why not try making your own original glass in Otaru? Our glassblowing experience will be attended to one-on-one by our craftsmen, so you can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. ~Plan flow~ ① Gathering and check-in ② Decide on the product to make while looking at samples ③ Start of glassblowing experience ④ End and disband
Address: Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido
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2. Otaru Blue Cave
Otaru × A representative nature spot " Otaru Blue Cave " is also a place you should definitely visit! Inside the cave, formed by wave erosion, The light filtering in from outside creates a mysterious blue glow on the sea surface. You can enjoy. *Due to a rockfall that occurred in July 2025, it is currently not possible to enter the cave.
A popular local cruise tour departs from Otaru city and heads to the cave area. Lighthouses along the coastline, sites associated with the Ainu people, and gigantic rock formations shaped like animals etc. Visit multiple photo spots You can.
Activity Japan has many experience tours around the Blue Cave (Otaru) listed!
[Hokkaido, Otaru] The Original! Otaru Blue Hidden Land Cruise 2026
The original! Otaru Blue Hidden Land Cruise by Tsusen Co., Ltd. Departing from the Otaru Canal, the 70-minute cruise through the Otaru Canal and Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park will fly by with a fun guide. The boat will stop at various points to provide a fun tour. The refreshing open boat is perfect for taking photos! The seagull feeding experience is also popular. All seats have individual captain seats with 360° rotation by the window, providing excellent visibility and comfort! *Since last year
[Hokkaido, Otaru] Blue Cave | Famous Captain's Adventure Let's Go Cruise!
This tour will take you to the Blue Cave while listening to stories about Otaru's little-known nature, history, and culture! You will be guided to the Blue Cave while remaining on board the boat. Because it is an all-weather boat (with a cabin), you won't be splashed by the waves! You can enjoy a comfortable cruise even on rainy days! The boat also has an open deck space where you can feel the sea breeze.
Otaru Blue Cave Attraction Cruise Prolomarine *Roofed boat. Light rain OK! ￥6,000
The Otaru Blue Cave Attraction Cruise takes you on a high-speed boat. The boat has a roof, so you won't get wet even if it rains a little or you get hit by waves. There are plenty of seats so that even those who are worried about sunburn can enjoy the ride comfortably. There are also bench seats so you can sit next to your children. You can enjoy the speed, thrills, and excitement that you normally wouldn't get to experience.
Address: Shioya, Otaru, Hokkaido
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Recommended sightseeing spots in central Hokkaido | Toya and Noboribetsu area
Southern central Hokkaido Toya/Noboribetsu area for, Nature, hot springs, and tourist spots Below we will introduce two classic spots in the area.
1. Lake Toya
"
Lake Toya
(Toyako) is, along with Lake Shikotsu,
Central Hokkaido
It is one of the most popular lakes.
Mount Usu, an active volcano that continues to this day
is just around the corner, and if you take the ropeway
Access to an observation deck near the crater
From the observation deck, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Toya's beautiful blue combined with the lush green mountains that surround it!
Meanwhile, the lakeside area is famous as a hot spring resort that has been around since the Taisho era.
A place where you can enjoy the view of Lake Toya at many hotels and inns.
Some accommodations allow day trip bathing,
Central Hokkaido
It's a good idea to stop by during your sightseeing and enjoy a little hot spring tour.
At Lake Toya, spectacular views and lake activities that allow you to enjoy the perfect location are gaining popularity.
Below you will find information on recommended tours! Find a plan that interests you and enjoy the three great things about sightseeing in central Hokkaido: spectacular views, hot springs, and activities.
[Recommended points of this menu] ▷ Feel the heartbeat of the earth! Lake Toya is a gift from nature. Lake Toya is the third largest caldera lake in Japan, created by the power of a volcano. From the lake, you can see Mt. Usu, Mt. Showa-Shinzan, and the famous Mt. Yotei, making it a truly spectacular cruise. ♪ ▷ Don't worry, even if you're a beginner! We'll teach you the basics of SUP and provide fun instruction.
Lake Toya, one of Hokkaido's leading tourist destinations, is a caldera lake rich in nature, surrounded by Mt. Usu and Mt. Showa Shinzan. On this tour, your guide will thoroughly explain how to ride and paddle before you try it, so even first-timers can enjoy SUP with peace of mind. There are also stylish cafes and hot spring towns around the lake, so you can enjoy the Lake Toya area with all your senses.
A private SUP tour on Lake Toya, one of Japan's 100 most scenic spots! Friends, couples, families, and beginners are all welcome! Free photos and videos! Float leisurely on Lake Toya, boasting exceptional clarity. ☆彡 A certified SUPA instructor will provide thorough instruction and guidance, so you can participate with peace of mind. Each tour is a private plan for one group, so you can enjoy the tour at your own pace.
Address: Toyako Town, Abuta District, Hokkaido
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2. Noboribetsu Bear Park
Noboribetsu Onsen This is a tourist spot located on the summit of Mt. Shihorei, which towers to the west of the city! Access by ropeway from the hot spring town The high-speed gondola can accommodate six people and takes about seven minutes. The ropeways depart one after another, so even when it's crowded, you don't have to wait long, which is a nice feature.
The park is divided into two areas, "Random 1" and "Random 2".
A total of about 80 Ezo brown bears are kept here.
It has been done.
The animals in the first ranch are relatively laid back, and can be observed at close range through the glass. On the other hand, there are many active animals in the second ranch, and they come running around asking for snacks.
Observe the adorable creatures as they appeal in various poses
Yes, you can.
Please use the link below to reserve your admission ticket in advance! Enjoy the powerful and cute bears to your heart's content and feel the power of Hokkaido's nature.
Address: 224 Noboribetsu Onsencho, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido
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Top 10 Popular Activities in the Central Hokkaido Area
- 4.5
- (60 reviews and experiences)
Located about 30-40 minutes by car from central Sapporo, the popular Ibarato River is the perfect place to experience ice fishing for smelt! Pick-up from Sapporo Station is included, and all equipment is provided, so you can come empty-handed! Feel free to join us. This is an outdoor activity, so please dress warmly. (Only rubber boots are available for free rental. Please request on the day.) Bait cannot be used.
- 4.8
- (43 reviews and experiences)
This is a smelt fishing experience tour brought to you by a leading smelt fishing guide who has guided the most customers in Hokkaido. This is a luxurious plan that will take you exclusively to the Minami fishing spot, known as the best spot, at Lake Shinotsu in Shinshinotsu Village, one of Hokkaido's best smelt fishing spots. It was also the location for filming the smelt fishing segment of a certain famous variety show from Hokkaido.
- 4.1
- (5 reviews and experiences)
If you come to Sapporo, take a trip out and try smelt fishing! Pick-up from Sapporo Station is included. A guide will provide a mini lecture and support with patrols. There are separate flush toilets for men and women, and a rest hut (with merchandise for sale), so you can enjoy the experience in peace and relaxation! ★A hidden spot for smelt fishing in Sapporo★ "Toretagoya Fujii Farm" is one of the few hidden spots near Sapporo where you can enjoy smelt fishing, and is popular among locals. From Sapporo by car
- 4.7
- (16 reviews and experiences)
===================================Go fishing with a fishing sage! A plan to go smelt fishing empty-handed♪ Drilling holes, fishing, frying the smelt you catch... This is a smelt fishing tour where you do it all by yourself from start to finish! Since you're not prepared, you'll be taking on the challenge yourself, so you can learn while having fun.
- 4.9
- (9 reviews and experiences)
Sapporo Smelt Ice Fishing Tour | Earth Outdoor Tours Welcome to the ultimate winter experience: catching sparkling silver fish on a frozen lake - that's the beloved winter tradition of Sapporo, "smelt fishing." Earth Outdoor Tours offers this uniquely Hokkaido experience in an easy and safe way. An unforgettable adventure that can be enjoyed by all ages.
- 4.8
- (58 reviews and experiences)
====================================■ Choose your preferred plan for day or night! ■ Free rental of "snowshoe sets" for easy walking on fluffy snow! ■ (Day) Held in a forest inhabited by small animals such as long-tailed tits and Hokkaido squirrels! ■ (Night) Held on a snowy hill with a panoramic view of one of Japan's three greatest night views! ■
- 4.6
- (8 reviews and experiences)
This is a smelt fishing experience tour brought to you by a leading smelt fishing guide who has guided the most customers in Hokkaido. This is a luxurious plan that will take you to the exclusive Minami fishing spot, known as one of the best spots at Lake Shinotsu in Shinshinotsu Village, one of the best smelt fishing spots in Hokkaido. It is also the location where the smelt fishing scene of a certain famous variety show from Hokkaido was filmed.
《Student-only discount plan》 *Please show your student ID before boarding the bus. The popular ice fishing experience at the Barato River, about 30-40 minutes by car from central Sapporo, is now a hot topic! Pick-up from Sapporo Station is included, and all equipment is provided, so you can come empty-handed! Feel free to join. Please wear warm clothing as this is an outdoor activity. (Long
- 4.7
- (11 reviews and experiences)
~Schedule for the day~ [08:00] Sapporo Station North Exit, board the group bus (meeting point) [10:30] Asahiyama Zoo (approx. 120 minutes, including lunch, at your own expense) [13:20] Christmas tree (approx. 15 minutes) [14:10] Biei Blue Pond (approx. 30 minutes) [14:50] Shirahige Falls (approx. 20 minutes) [15:10] Return to central Sapporo and enjoy the day
- 5.0
- (17 reviews and experiences)
This is a smelt fishing experience that can be enjoyed in the ponds and riverbeds of the Ishikari River system, about 50 minutes from central Sapporo. In this COVID-19 era, we need to avoid crowded fishing in tents of about 3.3 m2, and while following the new Hokkaido guidelines and Go To Travel campaign, we also need to provide the enjoyment of winter without any worries. Therefore, we will be joining you on the ice.
Enjoy sightseeing in the central Hokkaido area
This time Hokkaido ・ Central Hokkaido Area attractions We featured about!
Central Hokkaido area
for,
An area where nature spreads from the city
On my first trip to Hokkaido
There are plenty of attractive spots to visit
is.
Please use this special feature as a reference for your next trip to Hokkaido.
Central Hokkaido area
Please enjoy sightseeing.
*The content of this article is current as of January 2026.
Featured image provided by:
photoAC
