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Primarily famous for its winter season, heavy snowfall, and stunning ski slopes, Hokkaido may actually be even better to visit during the summer. Less popular than the rest of the island during the summer, Hokkaido offers up wonderful natural destinations with far fewer tourists than other parts of Japan.
Being Japan’s most northern island, it enjoys a reprieve from the summer heat. For lovers of mountains, green lush green fields, boundless flowers, and temperate weather, Hokkaido is the perfect summer destination.
Hokkaido’s hottest month is August. During August enjoys average highs of 24 C (75 F) and average lows of 20 C (68 F) with perhaps the occasional 28 C (82 F) day. With sunshine nearly every day, Hokkaido becomes an incredibly attractive destination. Here is a seven-day itinerary to get the most out of Hokkaido during the summer.
Day 1: Land and Recover in Chitose or Sapporo
Some travelers may want to land and go directly the Sapporo, the primary city on Hokkaido. However, for those who want to get to immediately unwind Chitose does offer some nice destinations to do so.
Unwinding in Chitose
For those unwilling to make the 40-minute trip into Sapporo there is plenty to be entertained with inside Chitose, the airport city, itself. Doraemon Waku-Waku Sky Park is a great destination for those with kids. They can just be unleashed on the numerous activities they have available, and it is conveniently located right at the airport. The New Chitose Ramen Street is another popular choice for some quality calories right after the flight. Finally, Salmon Hometown Chitose Aquarium offers a scenic means of stretching the legs.
- The New Chitose Ramen Street, Cost - $$ - $$$
Start Off in Sapporo
More determined travelers will want to make the 40-minute journey into Sapporo to start their experience on Hokkaido off right. Susukino is one of Japan's most well-known entertainment districts and is a great place to vent some restless energy after the flight. There are shopping centers, restaurants, and bars throughout the district to entertain travelers. Sapporo Ramen Haruka is a great choice for food while in Susukino and The Nikka Bar is a great choice for drinks.
- Sapporo Ramen Bar - $$, Google Maps
- The Nikka Bar - $$, Google Maps
Day 2: Experience Furano’s Lavender Fields and Winery
Since the 1940s Lavender has been cultivated at Furano’s Fields. In the 60s and 70s, cheaper lavender began to arrive in Japan, so it was no longer necessary to harvest the lavender here. The result is that it was able to grow continuously and is now a go-to tourist attraction in Hokkaido.
In the midst of the lavender fields is the Furano Winery. Here visitors can experience a collection of local wines made from the grapes grown in the region. With a climate like southern France, it is an ideal location for a winery.
Day 3: Explore Sounkyo Daisetsuzan National Park
In the central part of Hokkaido, travelers can find Daisetsuzan National Park. The park is Japan’s largest mountain park and is the home to the Ishikawa River and Toachi River. None as the “Roof of Hokkaido” this park is the home to the Tokachi Mountain Range, an area of active volcanoes, deep canyons, and stunning ridgeline vistas. There is so much for travelers to explore and discover at this park!
- Trail Maps - Link
Day 4: Wander through Shiretoko National Park
The second national park on this itinerary is Shiretoko National Park. The park originates from the Ainu word “Shiri Etoku” meaning “a far corner of the earth” which is the perfect way to describe this park. This rugged landscape was formed by volcanic activity and is now the home of a vast variety of wildlife. There are numerous endangered raptors that call this park home and are at the top of the food chain here. This park is a World Natural Heritage site and it must-visit location for nature-loving travelers.
- Trail Maps - Link
Day 5: Explore Around Lake Toya
During the fifth day of this trip to Hokkaido, travelers should take the day to explore Lake Toya. Whether travelers just want to relax on its shores or wander around the scenic landscape that surrounds it, there's a bit for everyone. The lake isn’t the only attraction in the area. Travelers can also check out the fun Mount Usu Ropeway, the scenic Showashinzan volcanic area, and the Toyako Forest Museum.
Day 6: Visit Otaru Before Returning to Sapporo
This former center of colonial trade in Hokkaido, Otaru is full of canals and western-style architecture. The canals are still used today, but mostly by travelers who either walk along the canals or sail through them. Otaru is also home to harbor museums, many stores, and trendy eateries.
- Le Tao Pathos - Desert, $$-$$$
- Nouvelle Berg Letao Chocolatier Otaru Honten - Desert, $$-$$$
- Yabuhan - Noodles, $$-$$$
Day 7: One Last Day in Sapporo to Relax Before Departing from the Island.
Before departing Hokkaido travelers can enjoy Sapporo one more time. A location that many travelers enjoy is visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum. Travelers to Asia have probably seen the famous Sapporo beers in convenience store coolers. This is a great chance to see where it all started for the renowned Sapporo beer. Other places to visit would be the stunning view from the Mt. Okura Observatory or Odori Park with so much to see as travelers walk through it.