Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is known for its stunning natural scenery, delicious food, and unique culture. Spring in Hokkaido brings with it the promise of blooming flowers, melting snow, and warmer temperatures, making it an ideal time to visit. In this article, we'll take a look at a sample Hokkaido spring itinerary, covering some of the best things to see and do on the island during this season.
Day 1-2: Sapporo
Sapporo is Hokkaido's largest city and the perfect starting point for your Hokkaido adventure. Begin your trip with a visit to Odori Park, where you'll find a beautiful display of spring flowers, including cherry blossoms and tulips. If you're a beer lover, you can't miss visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum, where you can learn about the history of beer production in Japan and sample some of the brewery's finest offerings.
Charted Taxi Sightseeing Tour in Sapporo (Explore Former Hokkaido Government Office, Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park and more!)
Toyohira-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Cycle around the lower Ishikari River and around Genghis Khan (3 hours-course)
Ishikari District, Hokkaido
Rent a Kimono and stroll around Sapporo
Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Private Taxi Sightseeing Tour in Sapporo (Ishiya Chocolate Factory, Okurayama Jump Stadium, Sapporo Winter Sports Museum, Mt. Moiwa Mountain, Shegaoka Observation Deck, Sapporo Dome and more!)
Sapporo, Hokkaido
Day 3-4: Otaru
Located about an hour from Sapporo by train, Otaru is a charming port town that's worth a visit. Take a stroll down the picturesque canal, lined with old brick warehouses that have been converted into restaurants, cafes, and shops. You can also visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, which features a collection of over 25,000 music boxes from around the world. Head to the Sakaimachi shopping street in the evening to sample some of Otaru's famous seafood.
Otaru Blue Cave Cruising Tour
Otaru, Hokkaido
Blown glass experience! Right next to the Otaru Canal! Feel free to experience it between sightseeing trips! (15 minutes course)
Otaru, Hokkaido
Rental Kimono walk around Otaru cityscape full of romance (1 hour course)
Otaru, Hokkaido
Kimono rental right from Otaru Station-Sightseeing with traditional kimono! Popular 3-hour course
Otaru, Hokkaido
Spend A tipsy day in Hokkaido: Visit the wineries, sake breweries, and distilleries in Otaru and Yoichi
Otaru, Hokkaido
Day 5-6: Furano and Biei
Spring is the perfect time to visit Furano and Biei, two small towns known for their stunning flower fields. Visit the Farm Tomita lavender fields in Furano to see acres of purple flowers in bloom, and stop by the Shikisai no Oka flower fields in Biei to see a variety of colorful blooms. You can also visit the Furano Cheese Factory to sample some of Hokkaido's famous dairy products.
Family-friendly rafting experience (half-day plan)
Furano-shi, Hokkaido
Go Cycling in Furano and Enjoy the Refreshing Nature Views
Furano-shi, Hokkaido
All-terrain Vehicle Tour (Both children and beginners are welcome!)
Furano-shi, Hokkaido
Private Taxi Sightseeing Tour around Furano & Biei (One-day trip)
Furano-shi, Hokkaido
Chartered taxi “Furano/Biei/Asahikawa sightseeing plan” (1 day course)
Furano-shi, Hokkaido
Day 7-8: Shiretoko National Park
Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most beautiful natural areas. In the spring, you can see brown bears, deer, and other wildlife emerging from hibernation, and you can also see some of the park's stunning waterfalls and coastal cliffs. Take a boat tour to see the park's dramatic coastline, or hike one of its many trails to experience its beauty up close.
Shiretoko Five Lakes Guided Tour (Afternoon Plan)
Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Bird watching experience: Let's get some tips on bird watching!
Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Let's walk through the World Natural Heritage Forest and see the waterfalls on the cliffs and Cape Shiretoko
Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Go on Trekking Tour around Shiretoko Natural Heritage and See the Furepe Falls Where Yoou Can Observe Wild Animals and Birds
Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Shiretoko Five Lakes 3 hours all around! Guided morning trekking (up to 10 people)
Shari-gun, Hokkaido
Day 9-10: Lake Toya
Lake Toya is a volcanic caldera lake located in southern Hokkaido. Take a relaxing boat ride on the lake to see the surrounding mountains and forests, or visit the Usuzan Ropeway to see panoramic views of the area. You can also visit the Toyako Onsen hot springs for a relaxing soak in natural hot water.
Noboribetsu Hot spring morning guided walking tour
Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Chartered taxi “Lake Toya/Noboribetsu sightseeing plan” (1 day course)
Lake Tōya, Hokkaido
Noboribetsu Hot spring night guided walking tour
Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
In conclusion, Hokkaido is an excellent destination for a springtime getaway, with plenty of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious food to enjoy. This itinerary is just a starting point, so be sure to explore the island's many other attractions and activities during your visit. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing in a beautiful natural setting, Hokkaido has something to offer everyone.
Frequently asked questions
QWhat is the best time to visit Hokkaido?
ASpring is a great time to visit Hokkaido due to blooming flowers, melting snow, and warmer temperatures.
QWhat is the best way to end a Hokkaido spring itinerary?
AVisitors can end their trip in Sapporo, exploring the city's many museums, parks, and shopping areas or enjoying a visit to the Nijo Fish Market to sample some of Hokkaido's freshest seafood.
QWhat is the weather like in Hokkaido during the spring?
AHokkaido's spring weather can vary, but typically temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It can still be quite chilly, especially in the evenings, so it's important to bring warm layers.
QWhat are some other outdoor activities to do in Hokkaido during the spring?
AHokkaido is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and skiing. In the spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing, as well as other flower festivals, such as the Shibazakura Festival.
QHow long should a Hokkaido spring itinerary be?
AA Hokkaido spring itinerary can be as short as 5-7 days or as long as 2-3 weeks, depending on how much time you have and what activities you want to do. It's important to factor in travel time between destinations, as well as time to rest and relax.
