Published 15th Jul. 2024
Reading time
Compared to Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, Japan’s island of Hokkaido sticks out like a gorgeous green thumb. While the others are known for their cultural offerings, with an abundance of temples to tick off, Hokkaido draws visitors with its splendid scenery – think world-class ski slopes and bubbling hot springs – as well as its succulent seafood and opportunities to learn about the indigenous Ainu people who call the island home. It’s not like you ever need an excuse for a trip to Japan, but read on for our five reasons to visit Hokkaido…
With Europe’s ski seasons slowly becoming six-months of slushy slopes, all eyes are turning to Japan for the yearly shredding fix. Thanks to Siberian snowstorms, Hokkaido’s mountainous terrain is blanketed in a light and powdery snow – affectionately known as ‘Japow’ – from late November to early April. The fluffy slopes are known to be deep, not steep, so skiers of all levels, from beginners to pros, can confidently plant their poles in the pow. To top it off, Hokkaido even has après-ski down to a science. Skip the Western table dancing for evenings spent soaking in an outdoor onsen (hot springs), Sapporo lager in hand, and you won’t need any other reason to visit Hokkaido.
If hurtling down a mountain at 20mph is your idea of holiday hell, fear not – Hokkaido slows life down a notch when the sun turns temperatures up. Summer sees the mountains flourishing with Japan's highest number of natural forests, teeming with trails trodden on by fewer feet than those in the Japanese Alps. While winding through woods, over volcanic peaks and around caldera lakes, keep an eye out for wildlife. Baring a stronger resemblance to that of Siberia than Japan, Hokkaido’s animals span from brown bears and giant eagles to tiny airborne squirrels.
Hokkaido knows how to have fun, but it also knows how to kick back and relax (and soothe skiing induced aches). Studded with over 250 steaming onsen areas, to visit Hokkaido is to indulge in true Japanese style. If you're craving a retreat while in Sapporo, take a trip to the nearby Jozankei Onsen within Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Established in 1866 by a monk who wanted to use the water’s healing properties, today, locals will be happy to point you to the place that best suits your needs. In autumn, the waters are enjoyed against a tapestry of pumpkin-coloured leaves. In winter, there’s no better feeling than escaping the cold air for a soothing soak.
Immersing yourself in a country’s culture is the heart and soul of any holiday. And as the home of the Ainu, one of Japan’s few indigenous groups, Hokkaido is an island rich in cultural heritage. Discover their centuries of history and participate in one of the 1,200 yearly festivals celebrating their religious beliefs, language and traditional dances. Or visit the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, the only site in Japan dedicated to preserving Ainu culture that's filled with authentic weapons, outfits and more.
You can’t visit Hokkaido without treating your tastebuds to the island’s soul-nourishing cuisine. Seafood sits number one on most menus, as the cool climate means it’s preserved and prepared quickly, landing on plates as fresh as you can get. Lake Saroma’s mineral-rich salt waters also help produce succulent scallops, served chargrilled, buttered or raw. Perhaps more surprisingly, Hokkaido is also lauded for its dairy products, with the soft-serve ice cream standing as a creamy crowd-pleaser. Flavours include lavender, melon, matcha and grape – something to satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re a family seeking Tokyo’s futuristic museums or a couple wishing to relax in Hokkaido’s onsens, we’ve got you covered. Our consultants have first-hand experience of living in Japan, so we know the secret spots off the beaten track (and how to reach them). Train travel is the best and most efficient way to explore the country, and wherever you visit, getting to grips with Japan’s diverse culture is a must. We work with guides who provide in-depth experiences on the history of Samurai or Geisha culture, and we have hand-picked traditional ryokan properties to rest your head in.
Enquire nowPractical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Do you want to immerse yourself in Japanese culture while also seeing as much of the country as you can in one trip? Enter Japan’s bullet train. Iconic, impressive and efficient, these sleek speedsters are an integral part of the country’s culture, transporting thousands of locals every day. In between strolling cherry-lined streets, sampling skewers of yakitori or watching anime shows, hopping aboard a bullet train should feature on any Japan holiday itinerary.
13th July 2026 - Japan Travel Tips
Just stepped off the Shinkansen, explored the vibrant streets of Tokyo and had your fill of ramen? Then you’ll know Japan is dazzling, and a little hectic at times. That’s where temples come in – and with over 150,000 sacred sites across the country, you’ll see signs for otera (temple) and jinja (shrine), everywhere. Follow them and find peaceful pavilions, meet resident deer bowing for a biscuit or two and even tiptoe through ninja hideouts filled with secret rooms.
27th April 2026 - Japan Travel Inspiration
A multifaceted metropolis, Tokyo caters to everyone – and every season. While it's become synonymous with cherry blossoms in recent (Instagrammable) years, it has far more to offer than merely a springtime sojourn. Painted in shades of red throughout autumn, blanketed in snow in winter, and heavy with heat and humidity in summer; this urban titan yields to the full influence of every season. Whether you want to part from the herd to witness snowy wonderlands or brave the crowds to capture the fleeting floral blooms, you can experience it all right here.
2nd March 2026 - Japan Travel Inspiration
Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from checking you in for your flights to our network of local Concierges
