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Region in Japan — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇯🇵
Country
Japan
Type
Region
Best time to travel
July–August (summer), February (snow festival), December–March (ski)
Budget/day
90–150 €
Getting there from Germany
Flight to Sapporo New Chitose Airport (via Tokyo or direct, approx. 13–15 hours). Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hakodate (4 hours), then on to Sapporo.
About Hokkaido
Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, is a natural paradise that fundamentally differs from the rest of the country. Vast landscapes, untouched national parks, powdery snow in winter, and endless lavender fields in summer make the island a dream destination for nature lovers and foodies alike. In summer, the hills of Furano and Biei transform into a breathtaking sea of colors: The purple lavender fields of Farm Tomita are the most photographed motif in Hokkaido from July to August, complemented by sunflowers, poppies, and the gently rolling patchwork hills of Biei. The Daisetsuzan National Park, the largest in Japan, offers spectacular hikes through alpine volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and brown bear habitats. In winter, Hokkaido turns into a snow paradise: Niseko is considered one of the best ski resorts in Asia, with up to 15 meters of powder snow per season. The Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri) in February attracts over two million visitors with gigantic ice sculptures and illuminated snow landscapes. In Otaru, the romantic snow lantern path along the historic canal enchants visitors. Hokkaido is Japan's culinary treasure chest: The cold waters provide top-quality seafood — sea urchins from Rebun, crabs from Hakodate, and the Nijo fish market in Sapporo are legendary. The island is also famous for Sapporo miso ramen, fresh dairy products, and melon ice cream from Yubari. The hot springs (onsen) of Noboribetsu with their steaming Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and the UNESCO World Heritage site Shiretoko at the northeastern tip complete the experience.
Top 5 highlights in Hokkaido
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Sapporo Snow Festival
Every February, gigantic snow sculptures transform Odori Park into a winter wonderland – one of the largest snow festivals in the world.
Furano Lavender Fields
In July and August, the hills turn into a sea of lavender and colorful flowers – like the Provence of Asia.
Niseko Ski Resort
World-renowned for the lightest powder snow in the world – Japan's ski mecca with an international flair.
Shiretoko National Park
UNESCO World Heritage site at the northeastern tip with brown bears, sea eagles, and pack ice in winter.
Otaru
Romantic harbor city with canals, glass art, music boxes, and the best sushi in Hokkaido.
Hotels in Hokkaido
Vergleiche tausende Hotels, Apartments und Resorts auf Expedia – mit Bestpreis-Garantie, kostenloser Stornierung und Bonuspunkten.
* Weiterleitung zu Expedia.de. Es gelten die dortigen Nutzungsbedingungen.
Reise-SIM für Hokkaido
Günstig surfen im Urlaub mit travSIM
Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
Best time to travel for Hokkaido
Recommended travel time
July–August (summer), February (snow festival), December–March (ski)
Summer
Pleasant, 20–26 °C, no rainy season like in the south
Winter
Very cold, -10–0 °C, heavy snowfall especially on the west coast
How much does a holiday in Hokkaido cost?
Average costs per person per day
Budget
50–80 €
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
90–150 €
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
170–400 €
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
Book a package holiday to Hokkaido
Compare thousands of package holidays to Hokkaido and find the best deals with flight & hotel.
Compare package holidays now5 travel tips for Hokkaido
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Hokkaido – including Shinkansen to Hakodate.
In winter, rent a car with all-wheel drive and winter tires – the roads can be icy.
Niseko is expensive and crowded during the ski season – choose Furano or Rusutsu for cheaper skiing.
In summer, Hokkaido is pleasantly cool while the rest of Japan is suffocating in heat and humidity.
Hokkaido's dairy products are fantastic – definitely try soft ice cream and cheese.
Food & drink in Hokkaido
These specialties you must try!
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