Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island, is a vast wonderland of natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and unique cultural experiences. At 83,000 square kilometers, it’s the second-largest island in Japan. Hokkaido is easily accessible from Singapore with direct flights clocking in at around 9 hours. With so much to see and do, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your Hokkaido adventure!
Getting Around
Before we explore the top sights, it’s important to understand how to navigate Japan’s second-largest island. Hokkaido’s size means that you’ll need to plan your transportation wisely.
Depending on the duration of your trip, here are some transport options to consider:
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Rail: The JR Hokkaido network connects major cities. Consider a Japan Rail Pass if you are travelling to multiple cities and prefectures.
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Car rental: Ideal for families with children and elderly, or large group who will be planning their itinerary around rural areas and national parks.
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Bus services: Ideal for all type of travellers but need to pay attention to ride duration and frequency of buses. Bonus: Check out the regular sightseeing bus designed for tourists here.
Top 10 sights in Hokkaido, Japan
1. Sapporo
The capital city offers vibrant nightlife, the famous Sapporo Beer Museum, and the annual Snow Festival.
2. Otaru Canal
This picturesque canal area is lined with converted warehouses, perfect for romantic evening strolls.
3. Furano and Biei
Known for their stunning flower fields in summer and excellent skiing in winter.
4. Lake Toya
A caldera lake surrounded by hot springs and offering spectacular views of Mount Usu.
5. Noboribetsu Onsen
One of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, featuring the otherworldly Jigokudani (Hell Valley).
6. Shiretoko National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse wildlife and pristine nature.
7. Asahiyama Zoo
Renowned for its innovative enclosures and penguin walks in winter. Popular attractions include Polar Bear Aquatic Park and Seal Aquarium.
8. Hakodate
A charming port city with Western-style buildings and a stunning night view from Mount Hakodate.
9. Daisetsuzan National Park
Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan, is popular among the locals and tourists for hiking and it offers the best views during the autumn season.
10. Abashiri
Home to the Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum and famous for its drift ice tours in winter.
Experience the ever-changing beauty of Hokkaido throughout the seasons with Regular Sightseeing Bus tours.
From the bustling streets of Sapporo to the serene shores of Lake Shikotsu, these carefully curated routes showcase the best of Japan’s northernmost island. Relax in these comfortable buses equipped with multilingual audio systems, ensuring you don’t miss a single detail of Hokkaido’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
For more information about the different sightseeing routes in Hokkaido, click here.
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