Hokkaido, which means “Northern Sea Circuit” in Japanese, is the second-largest island of Japan and accounts for about 22% of the country’s total land area. Its winter months offer some of the most breathtaking experiences in the country and along with its diverse natural natural beauty, it’s no wonder Hokkaido draws a crowd.
Watch out because during winter, the temperatures can plummet to as low as -12°C (10°F), transforming the landscape into a snow-covered winter wonderland.
Unlike the rest of Japan, Hokkaido enjoys a different climate characterized by long, cold winters and cool summers, due to its location at a higher latitude.
The intense snowfall is one thing, but the quality of the snow is also next-level. Often referred to as the “powder capital of the world”, the snow in Hokkaido is incredibly dry and powdery, making it a paradise if you’re into snowsports!
The island also boasts unique wildlife, delicious cuisine featuring fresh seafood, and a rich cultural heritage influenced by the indigenous Ainu people.
In this blog post, we’ll be covering some of the best places to visit in Hokkaido during winter!
History of Hokkaido
The Ainu are the indigenous people of Hokkaido, and they have lived in the region for thousands of years.
Their culture, language, and lifestyle were distinct from the rest of Japan, with a heavy reliance on hunting, fishing, and gathering. The Ainu had a profound respect for nature, and their beliefs and traditions were deeply rooted in the natural world.
During the Meiji period (1868-1912), the Japanese government started a campaign to colonize Hokkaido in an effort to secure the region against potential threats from Russia.
The government implemented the Hokkaido Development Commission, and many Japanese moved to the region, bringing with them new agricultural techniques and technologies.
This period marked a significant change in the demographics and landscape of Hokkaido, as the Ainu were marginalized, and their lands were taken over by the Japanese settlers.
Today, the Ainu culture, although diminished, is still present and efforts are being made to preserve and promote it. And despite its modernization, Hokkaido still retains that sense of wilderness and adventure.
Best Places to Visit in Hokkaido During Winter
1. Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is going to be the first touch point for many. One of the biggest draws of visiting Sapporo in winter would have to be the Sapporo Snow Festival, held every February.
The festival attracts over 2 million visitors each year and features giant ice sculptures and snow statues across three main sites: Odori Park, Tsudome, and Susukino (Sapporo’s very own red-light district).
Another must-visit attraction in Sapporo is the Sapporo Beer Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of beer in Japan and offers beer tasting sessions. Here, you can learn about the brewing process and the history of Sapporo beer, one of the oldest and most popular beer brands in Japan.
To get a glimpse of Hokkaido’s past, visit the Historical Village of Hokkaido. This open-air museum features well-preserved buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods. There are plenty of other spots to see around Sapporo, you can get a personalized tour with a local to see the best of the city.
Lastly, don’t miss the Shiroi Koibito Park, home to the famous Shiroi Koibito cookies. This theme park offers factory tours, cookie-making experiences, and a beautiful rose garden. And if you’re thinking of what souvenir to get for your loved ones, you definitely won’t go wrong with Shiroi Koibito.
Sapporo is usually a good place to set up a base in as you explore other parts of Hokkaido but the next place is also a good contender.
2. Asahikawa
Asahikawa is Hokkaido’s second-largest city, located in the center of the island. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is known for its butter corn ramen, sake, and the Asahiyama Zoo.
Asahiyama Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Asahikawa, especially during the winter. The zoo is home to over 400 animals from 124 different species, including polar bears, seals, and penguins.
I won’t forget seeing the wolves howl as the sun started to set, Hokkaido used to be full of them but now Asahiyama Zoo is the only place to see them.
Asahikawa is also a gateway to the Daisetsuzan National Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and onsens. Though Mt. Asahidake is best attempted during summer for those amazing alpine flowers.
Asahikawa also has its own Snow Festival which usually runs in conjuction with Sapporo’s and we were able to visit this one as well, it’s much larger in scale!
It’s also a great place to hole up in as you explore other parts of the region, the rates are much cheaper compared to Sapporo and it’s less crowded.
3. Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu is located in the southwestern part of Hokkaido and the Noboribetsu Onsen area is the most famous attraction in the town.
It is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in Japan and offers a variety of onsen baths, ranging from sulfur springs to iron-rich springs.
The area is also home to the Jigokudani, coined as “Hell Valley,” a volcanic crater created by the eruption of Mount Kuttara. Easily confused with Owakudani in Hakone, the valley is filled with sulfurous streams, boiling ponds, and steam vents, creating a dramatic otherworldly landscape.
4. Hakodate
You can’t mention Hakodate with out Mt. Hakodate. The vista of the city, sandwiched between the two bays and illuminated at night, is considered one of the three best night views in the world along with Hong Kong and Naples.
You can reach the summit by ropeway, car, or on foot.
The city is also known for its unique star-shaped fort, Goryokaku. It was built in the 19th century for the defense of the city but is now a public park, especially popular during the cherry blossom season.
In winter, the fort is covered in snow, and the light-up at night makes the star shape even more apparent. There’s plenty more to see in Hakodate and if you’re keen, you can join a customizable tour!
5. Niseko
If you’re looking for a place to shred some powder, look no further than Niseko.
One of my favorite places in all of Japan, Niseko is renowned worldwide as one of the best ski destinations in Japan! It’s quite famous for its powder snow, often referred to as “Japow”, which is some of the lightest and driest snow in the world.
The area is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Mt. Yotei, often referred to as “the Fuji of Hokkaido”. If you’re riding in the Hirafu area, you’ll have Mt. Yotei in front of you as you ride down the slopes.
Niseko also offers a range of onsens which is the perfect way to soothe sore muscles and relax amidst the snowy landscape.
As my good friend Sam once said as we were chilling in an onsen after a day of riding “What a life!”
6. Otaru
Otaru, a small harbor city west of Sapporo, offers a different kind of charm. There are tours departing from Sapporo towards Otaru though the train ride going to Otaru is one of the most scenic rides in Japan, it makes you feel like you’re in a Ghibli movie as the train cruises beside the ocean.
Known as the “Wall Street of the North” in the Meiji and Taisho eras (1868-1926), the city was a thriving financial center with numerous canals used for transportation, and beautiful, historic stone buildings, many of which are preserved to this day.
The Otaru Canal is one of the city’s iconic landmarks. During winter, the snow-covered buildings and gas lamps along the canal create a romantic atmosphere and it’s especially enchanting during the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival when the canal and other parts of the city are decorated with snow lanterns and small sculptures.
I recommend trying out a guided tour with a local to really get the most out of your trip in Otaru.
We were actually able to visit all three snow festivals during a weekend trip in Hokkaido!
7. Shikaribetsu Kotan
Shikaribetsu Lake transforms into a magical winter wonderland known as the Shikaribetsu Kotan during the coldest months of the year, usually from late January to late March.
Kotan means “village” in the Ainu language, and the Shikaribetsu Kotan is a village made entirely of ice and snow. The village features ice buildings, including an ice bar, ice chapel, and ice hotel.
There are also various ice sculptures and artworks scattered throughout the village. At night, the village is illuminated, creating a beautiful and romantic atmosphere.
You can also do some ice fishing, snowmobiling, and hot tubbing in an open-air bath carved out of ice!
8. Abashiri
When it comes to Abashiri, its gotta be the drift ice experience.
During winter, the Sea of Okhotsk is covered by drift ice, or “ryuhyo” in Japanese, and Abashiri is one of the best places to observe this natural phenomenon.
The best way to experience the drift ice is by taking an icebreaker cruise. The ships depart from the Abashiri port and take you on a journey through the sea covered with ice.
It’s a unique experience that allows you to observe the harsh and beautiful winter landscape of Hokkaido up close. The drift ice is usually visible from late January to early March so as long as you’re there during winter, there’s a high chance you can see them.
If you’re curious, the Okhotsk Ryu-hyo Museum provides information about the drift ice phenomenon and the local wildlife.
9. Furano
Furano, while famous for its picturesque lavender fields in the summer, is also a popular destination during the winter months.
Furano Ski Resort is one of the top ski destinations in Hokkaido if you’re not too keen on Niseko’s international crowd and they also have the Furano Winter Festival!
You can also visit the Ningle Terrace, a collection of artisan cottages in the woods, which feels like a place out of a fairytale during winter!
10. Biei
Biei is renowned for its idyllic rolling hills and scenic landscapes, which have earned it the nickname “the most beautiful village in Japan”. Another popular destination in Hokkaido during summer for its colorful flower fields, Biei also offers a host of attractions in winter.
The panoramic vistas of snow-covered hills and trees in Biei are a sight to behold. There are a number of famous trees around the area which are extremely photogenic during winter, maybe even more so during summer. Catch this Biei – Furano Cycling Guide if you’re visiting around summer!
Another amazing spot is the Shirogane Blue Pond, a man-made pond that is a brilliant blue color due to the natural minerals in the water. In winter, the contrast between the blue water and the white snow is particularly striking. You can join a tour that visits the Blue Pond and Furano through here.
11. Lake Mashu
Lake Mashu is a caldera lake formed over 7,000 years ago by volcanic activity. It is one of the clearest lakes in the world, with visibility up to 40 m (131 ft) in depth. The lake is surrounded by steep crater walls and is almost perfectly circular in shape.
In winter, Lake Mashu is covered in snow, creating a stunning contrast with the deep blue color of the water. The lake is often shrouded in mist, which adds an air of mystery to the landscape.
There are several viewpoints around the lake that offer panoramic views of the area, the most popular being the Mashu First Observatory and the Mashu Third Observatory. It’s a bit of a ways to get there, but this right here is Hokkaido’s nature at its finest.
Where to Stay in Hokkaido
When it comes to Hokkaido, it’s always a good idea to spend a few nights in Sapporo as a home base, from there you can visit nearby areas such as Otaru and Noboribetsu.
If you want to spend some more time in Furano or Biei, then staying in Asahikawa is also another great choice.
Here are just some of my recommendations:
Best Hotels in Hokkaido:
- The Base Sapporo Susukino – features rooms with city views, free WiFi, air conditioning, and various amenities including a desk, electric tea pot, fridge, microwave, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, balcony, and a private bathroom with a bidet. Additionally, bed linen and towels are provided in each room.
- Hotel Classe Stay Sapporo – features a shared lounge, free WiFi, and luggage storage facilities. Each room at the hotel is equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen, towels, and a fridge.
- Hotel Wing International Asahikawa Ekimae – one of my favorites in Asahikawa, I have stayed here two times and the location is quite convenient. It features a restaurant, a shared lounge, and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and private bathrooms. The hotel also offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage for guests. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, bed linen, and towels.
Best Hostels in Hokkaido:
- The Stay Sapporo – offering simply furnished dormitory and family-type rooms with free WiFi access throughout the property. The Stay Sapporo offers services such as free luggage storage and bicycle rental. You’re welcome to use the shared kitchen and lounge areas, and there is a vending machine on site. Rooms feature carpeted floors and city views, while bathroom facilities are shared.
- SappoLodge – prides itself as the most convenient and comfortable guest house in Sapporo. Designed with an urban lodge concept, it features a warm, wooden bar on the first floor, promoting communication between guests and locals. The knowledgeable staff, all residents of Sapporo, can recommend off-the-beaten-path spots not found in guidebooks, and the bar provides an opportunity to gather exciting information from locals. SappoLodge offers spacious bed spaces, larger than those in typical guesthouses.
- B Cycle – with a modern Scandinavian design, it provides a comfortable space across various room types. Although there is only one bath, there are three lavatories, and a sento (public bath) is nearby. The common living room has a large dining table and is equipped with WiFi.
How to Get Around Hokkaido
By Train
The rail network in Hokkaido is centered around its biggest city, Sapporo.
From Sapporo, you can head north to Wakkanai or Abashiri via Asahikawa; south to Hakodate along the Pacific coastline; west to Niseko via Otaru; and east to Obihiro and Kushiro.
The Bullet Train (Shinkansen) currently goes as far as Hakodate in the south of Hokkaido, with a line connecting to Sapporo under construction, planned for completion in 2030.
Other services include “local” trains that stop at every station and “limited express” trains that stop at select stations and require an extra ticket.
For foreign visitors planning extensive travel by train, the Japan Rail Pass offers unlimited travel on both local and limited express services.
The Hokkaido-specific JR Hokkaido Pass provides a flexible option: 4 days of travel within a 10-day period, perfect for combining adventure days with travel days.
By Bus
Buses in Hokkaido offer local services within towns and rural communities, as well as intercity services connecting population centers.
Direct bus services are available between Sapporo and many popular destinations, which might otherwise involve several train changes.
Local buses typically run between communities, and a few routes go to popular trailheads.
Note that daily services in rural areas are limited, and stop names are often only in Japanese.
Highway buses are a budget-friendly alternative to trains.
Although they take longer, they are cheaper and usually avoid the need for transfers. These buses have spacious luggage compartments, increasingly common onboard WiFi, and even an overnight service from Sapporo to Shiretoko National Park.
Major intercity bus operators include Hokkaido Chuo Bus and JR Hokkaido Bus from Sapporo, Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa, and Donan Bus running south from Sapporo.
Again, be aware that online timetables, except for JR Hokkaido Bus, are typically in Japanese only.
Other Transportation Options
- Flights: Hokkaido has several airports, and internal flights can be a quick way to cover large distances. However, this option is usually more expensive and less eco-friendly.
- Rental Car: Renting a car offers the flexibility to explore Hokkaido at your own pace, especially in remote areas not well-served by public transportation.
- Tours: Organized tour can be a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate transportation on your own. You can find plenty of private transfers, and day trips for Hokkaido in GetYourGuide.
Best Time to Visit Hokkaido in Winter
December to February is the peak of the winter season in Hokkaido. The temperatures during these months can range from -6°C (21°F) to 2°C (36°F) in December, and can drop as low as -12°C (10°F) in January and February. This is the best time to visit if you are interested in winter sports as there is usually a lot of snow and the ski resorts are fully operational.
February is also the month to visit if you are interested in the Snow Festivals scattered all around the region. Whether it’s Sapporo, Asahikawa, or Otaru, they’re all held around February.
March is still winter in Hokkaido, but the temperatures start to rise slightly. The snow quality is not as good as the previous months when it comes to winter sports. Still, this is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the snow without the extreme cold.
What to Pack For Hokkaido
Warm Clothing: Goes without saying, pack layers of warm clothing, including thermal underwear, fleece jackets, gloves, hat, scraf, and a waterproof and insulated outer layer. A down jacket is also highly recommended as it provides excellent insulation.
Waterproof Boots: Waterproof and insulated boots are a must for Hokkaido in winter. Make sure they have a good grip as the streets can be icy. We’ve seen plenty of people slip and fall around Sapporo during the Snow Festival!
Sun Protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen are also necessary as the sun can be quite strong, and the snow reflects UV rays.
Skincare: The cold and dry weather can be harsh on your skin, so pack moisturizer, lip balm, and other skincare products.
Portable Charger: Your phone’s battery drain faster in the cold.
Power Adapter: Japan uses Type A and Type B plugs. The standard voltage is 100V, and the standard frequency is 50/60Hz.
Hand Warmers: These are single-use packets that produce heat for several hours. They can be a lifesaver when you are outside for extended periods.
Face Masks: For the sensitive people, due to the cold and dry air, your respiratory system may be more susceptible to infections. Wearing a face mask can help to keep your nose and mouth warm and moist.
Travel Insurance: Make sure to have travel insurance that covers what you plan to do in Hokkaido and some more. I recommend getting SafetyWing as they provide a comprehensive package.
Plan Your Trip to Hokkaido | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
