Before your trip to Hokkaido, check out JAL's recommended gourmet spots and sightseeing spots. Original sightseeing map by area

This is OnTrip JAL original Hokkaido map. We will explain how to use it in detail at the end of the article.

1. [Introduction] Reviewing basic information about Hokkaido. What are the transportation options within the prefecture?

Hokkaido is one of Japan's leading tourist destinations, attracting many tourists from both within Japan and overseas throughout the year. In particular, the spectacular views that are unique to Hokkaido, such as the night view of Hakodate City, the Kushiro Marshlands, and the Blue Pond in Biei Town, are all so beautiful that you'll want to see them at least once in your lifetime. Another attraction of Hokkaido is that you can always enjoy delicious gourmet food made with fresh ingredients.

The total area of Hokkaido is about one-fifth of the total area of Japan, and is actually larger than the six Tohoku prefectures combined. Since it takes time to travel between cities, the key to traveling there is to plan your sightseeing in advance. The following areas are often used to talk about the vast Hokkaido.

■Central Hokkaido: an area including Sapporo and Otaru. It is also the gateway to Hokkaido, with New Chitose Airport and Sapporo Station.
Southern Hokkaido: This area includes Hakodate City and Fukushima Town. It has developed as Hokkaido's sea gateway, and has streets with an exotic atmosphere.
■Northern Hokkaido: This area includes Asahikawa City and Furano City. There are many tourist attractions, such as Asahiyama Zoo and lavender fields.
■ Eastern Hokkaido: This area includes Obihiro City, Kushiro City, the Shiretoko Peninsula, etc. You can enjoy scenic spots with dynamic nature.

Transportation within the prefecture includes cars, trains, and buses.
The appeal of traveling by car, such as rental cars, is that they are maneuverable. There are many wide, easy-to-drive roads, and except in central Sapporo, there isn't much traffic congestion. Many tourist spots in Hokkaido are far from train stations, so even if you're planning to visit only the same area, it's a good idea to rent a car to enjoy a stress-free trip.

If you're traveling between cities, the highway bus is convenient. You can travel without having to transfer, and the fare is often cheaper than the express train fare. For example, a ticket from Sapporo to Asahikawa costs around 2,000 yen.

For trains, there are various discount tickets available, such as tickets that allow you to get on and off the train freely within a designated area, or tickets that are bundled with the admission fee to a tourist facility. There are also limited-time tourist trains, such as the "Steam Locomotive Winter Wetlands Train" that runs every January, and the "Furano-Biei Norokko Train" that runs from June to September, so be sure to check before you travel.

2. [Hokkaido's temperature and climate] The best seasons throughout the year. Be sure to take precautions against the cold.

Spring is the time to enjoy cherry blossom viewing and snow scenery at the same time, summer is the time to appreciate the beauty of lush nature, autumn is the season for the most delicious food, and winter is the time to enjoy winter sports and snow scenery. In other words, each season has its own charm. However, you should be careful of the temperature.

Hokkaido's temperatures are always lower than those of Honshu, with the highest average temperature in August being about 22°C in Sapporo. This shows that summer temperatures are comfortable. However, there have been many midsummer days recently with temperatures exceeding 30°C, and on the other hand, there have been days when it feels chilly, so be sure to dress appropriately for the changes in temperature.

Winters are very cold, with the average temperature in Sapporo in February being -3.1°C. Even if you are traveling domestically, you should not be complacent and should check the temperature of the time of your visit and take proper measures against the cold.

3. [Sapporo and Otaru] A trip to Sapporo and Otaru, a standard Hokkaido tourist destination

The tram is a convenient way to explore Sapporo. Get off along the way and enjoy exploring Sapporo

Sapporo is a popular city in the center of Hokkaido, with plenty of gourmet food and tourist attractions. If you want to explore this big city, we recommend using the Sapporo City Tram. We will introduce some attractive spots that you will want to stop by on the way, such as popular local cafes and a popular shop selling soap made with ingredients from Hokkaido.

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A leisurely trip to Sapporo on the city tram. A local writer will guide you through everything from gourmet food to night views

Sapporo is a popular city for travel in Hokkaido. The Sapporo City Tram, a tram that runs in a circular loop around the southwestern area, is convenient for sightseeing. This time, we will introduce recommended spots along the Sapporo City Tram. Enjoy the rattling of the leisurely tram and get off along the way. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the unique charms of Sapporo.

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A model course for a road trip starting from Sapporo

If you want to explore Hokkaido, which boasts a vast area, we recommend renting a car and going on a drive. We will introduce a driving course that will take you to a whiskey distillery that has been used as a filming location for a TV drama, and places where you can experience the history of Hokkaido's development, and you can also enjoy the scenery along the way.

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An exhilarating drive in Hokkaido in early summer!

In the season when Hokkaido's natural beauty shines brightly, we recommend a road trip! This time, we will take an exhilarating road trip around nostalgic famous places familiar from the popular morning drama.

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Recommended for a winter trip to Hokkaido. The charm of the "Maruyama" area of Sapporo

The Maruyama area of Sapporo is dotted with stylish cafes and general stores, but it is also a place rich in nature with virgin forests nearby. It is easily accessible from Sapporo Station to Maruyama Koen Station, about 10 minutes by subway, making it an easy area to incorporate into your Sapporo sightseeing. Please see here for an article introducing recommended spots in the Maruyama area.

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Introducing Sapporo's fashionable area, Maruyama!

Maruyama is a fashionable area of Sapporo that is rich in nature and has beautiful snowy scenery. We will guide you on a trip to enjoy winter to the fullest in Maruyama. We will introduce you to a zoo where you can relax with the fluffy fur that is unique to the northern regions, a stylish old-style cafe, and a pancake specialty store.

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How to enjoy Sapporo White Illumination, a seasonal winter feature in Sapporo

This article introduces the highlights of Sapporo's "Sapporo White Illumination," one of the largest illumination events in Japan. It also provides detailed information on how to navigate the crowded venue and recommended photo spots.

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A guide to enjoying the 39th Sapporo White Illumination, from highlights to crowds

We will introduce the highlights of Sapporo's "Sapporo White Illumination," one of the largest in Japan. We will also explain the information you should know in advance, such as the crowd situation and recommended photo spots at each venue.

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Sapporo's hidden gourmet spots that only a few know about

Sapporo is rich in delicious local cuisine, so what kind of restaurants are loved by the locals? We asked local gourmets to tell us about the appeal of Sapporo cuisine, which goes beyond standard dishes such as Genghis Khan and soup curry.

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Local gourmets have carefully selected and introduced the best hidden gems in Sapporo that you should try now in 2019.

Introducing hidden gourmet spots to visit in Sapporo. When sightseeing in Sapporo, you can't miss the standard gourmet foods, but if you're there, you might as well try some hidden gourmet foods that are loved by locals. We asked local gourmets to tell us about 8 hidden restaurants that you should visit now.

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4. [Hakodate] A trip to Hakodate, one of Hokkaido's top tourist destinations, where you can enjoy gourmet food during the day and a night view at night

A trip to Hakodate, a city of delicious food and stunning views

Hakodate is one of Hokkaido's leading tourist cities, blessed with a wealth of tourist resources, including exotic cityscapes, seasonal nature, and fresh seafood. We will introduce the charms of Hakodate from various angles, including scenic spots and gourmet food.

[Article here]

Special feature on Hakodate City, Hokkaido
A trip to Hakodate that is full of charm!

Located at the southern tip of Hokkaido, Hakodate is a tourist city blessed with a wealth of tourist resources, including exotic cityscapes, seasonal nature, and fresh seafood. There are plenty of attractive spots, including the night view from Mt. Hakodate! We will introduce some of the best tourist spots among them.

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A half-day itinerary to fully enjoy Hakodate's sightseeing spots

If you want to enjoy your trip with an emphasis on food, we recommend this compact itinerary that takes you around the tourist attractions. Please refer to this article for a model itinerary that includes the must-see spots in Hakodate, such as Goryokaku and the night view from Mt. Hakodate.

[Article here]

Enjoy the charm of Hakodate! Starting from noon, enjoy Hakodate tour

This is a recommended model itinerary for touring Hakodate's popular sightseeing spots in half a day. Hakodate has many attractions, but the popular spots are concentrated in close proximity to each other, so if you go around well, you can enjoy it thoroughly in half a day. We recommend using the remaining time to enjoy Hakodate gourmet food to your heart's content.

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Enjoy the local atmosphere on a trip to the Western district of Hakodate, including hidden gems recommended by locals.

The old town "Western District" that spreads between Hakodate Port and Mount Hakodate not only retains its old streetscape, but is also dotted with stylish spots such as renovated cafes. A local writer introduces the charms of traveling in the Western District, where you can experience the unique climate and culture of Hakodate.

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The charm of Hakodate that is not a tourist destination: Locally loved gourmet food, hot springs, and accommodations. A trip to rediscover Hakodate

Hakodate's old town, commonly known as the "Western District," is a recommended tourist spot with shops renovated from old buildings and hot spring facilities that are loved by locals. This time, we will introduce the "old and new" charms of the Western District, focusing on spots where you can experience the culture and lifestyle of Hakodate.

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A smart way to get around Hakodate's photogenic spots using the city tram

Travel expert Ai Nishimura recommends a trip around Hakodate using the city tram. She will introduce you to some retro spots that you will definitely want to get off and take photos of along the way.

[Article here]

A trip to Hakodate's photogenic spots without renting a car (Part 1)

GoGo Trip will continue to introduce the scenery of various towns, focusing on walking around the town. This time, we will be visiting Hakodate, which has a historical atmosphere and an exotic atmosphere. We will go around the city, which has many attractions, by tram.

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5. [Okushiri Island] 30 minutes from Hakodate Airport. A trip to Okushiri Island, an easily accessible remote island

A three-day, two-night trip to Okushiri Island, where you can spend a relaxing time on the island

Did you know that you can easily enjoy a trip to a remote island in Hokkaido? Okushiri Island is easily accessible by plane in 30 minutes from Hakodate Airport, and is a recommended destination for beginners. Please see here for a sample itinerary for a 2-night, 3-day trip to enjoy island time at your own pace.

[Article here]

A trip around the beautiful Okushiri Island

Okushiri Island is a place where you can come into contact with nature and have your body and mind refreshed. The beauty of the sea of Okushiri is said to be 25m clear, and is called Okushiri Blue. Enjoy the local cuisine of Okushiri Island and experience the unique nature of Okushiri Island. Experience the relaxed pace of island time.

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6. [Obihiro/Tokachi] A trip to Obihiro and Tokachi to fully enjoy Hokkaido gourmet food

A model course for a road trip that covers all the must-see spots in Obihiro

We will introduce a model itinerary that covers the must-see spots for sightseeing in Obihiro, including the local specialty pork bowl and the "Ban'ei horse racing" that can only be seen here.

[Article here]

Enjoy an autumn drive that can only be found here!

Enjoy Obihiro's specialty pork bowl and Ban'ei horse racing, and take in the spectacular views of Tokachi's natural beauty... Embark on a journey through the beautiful autumn-hued land and experience the thrill of traveling that can only be experienced here and now!

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Departing from Obihiro. A greedy trip to fully enjoy Hokkaido in 2 nights and 3 days

We will introduce a greedy trip that departs from Obihiro and travels around Kushiro, Abashiri, and Asahikawa in 2 nights and 3 days. All travel within Hokkaido is by train. The scenery from the train window is beautiful, so even the long travel time is not a burden. Please see the introduction of the trip here.

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500 km in 3 days and 2 nights! A trip around Hokkaido on the JR Line (Part 1)

From Obihiro, we stopped off at Kushiro and Abashiri before heading to our final destination, Asahikawa. Using the JR Hokkaido Pass, we traveled a total distance of about 558 km by train over three days and two nights. We traveled around eastern and northern Hokkaido, where the autumn leaves are in full bloom and winter is beginning to feel. Now, let us introduce you to a route that will allow you to make exciting "new" discoveries at a great price and in comfort using the JR Hokkaido Eastern & Northern Hokkaido Campaign Pass!

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Also pay attention to the food! The appeal of Food Valley Tokachi Marathon

Every year, 5,000 runners from inside and outside Hokkaido participate in the "Food Valley Tokachi Marathon." One of the attractions of this event is being able to enjoy local gourmet food before and after the event. The gourmet spots recommended in this article are a must-read for those visiting Tokachi on a trip.

[Article here]

Run and eat in the Tokachi region. 2018 Food Valley Tokachi Marathon

Tokachi, Hokkaido, is one of Japan's great food treasures. The "Food Valley Tokachi Marathon" is held every year in Obihiro, located in the center of the prefecture. This time, we will introduce the appeal of the event as well as the gourmet food unique to Tokachi, such as pork bowls and cheese sweets.

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7. [Abashiri] A trip to Abashiri with plenty to see, including drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk and Abashiri Prison!

A delicious trip to Abashiri, where you can enjoy historical sites and stunning natural scenery at the same time

Abashiri City is a city that is home to many popular tourist spots, including Abashiri Prison, a historical site in Hokkaido, and the drift ice of the Okhotsk Sea, a spectacular sight that cannot be missed on winter trips to Hokkaido. We will introduce the city's charms from various perspectives, including spectacular spots, activities, and gourmet food.

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Special feature on Abashiri City, Hokkaido
Why not come and experience Abashiri, a town with delicious scenery, food, and experiences?

Abashiri City faces the Sea of Okhotsk in the eastern part of Hokkaido. It has a scenic townscape with the sea, mountains, rivers, lakes and forests, as well as agricultural products and seafood, making it a very attractive place. In winter, the southern limit of the drift ice, the Sea of Okhotsk, is completely covered with drift ice, creating a spectacular sight. There are plenty of things to see, such as the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum and the Abashiri Prison Museum, and we will introduce you to the delicious things that can only be experienced here, not just in taste, but in various situations and experiences.

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Eastern Hokkaido driving courses recommended by local writers

Eastern Hokkaido is the eastern area of Hokkaido that includes Furano, Tokachi, Shiretoko, Kushiro, etc. We asked a local writer to suggest a driving course that takes you around spots where you can park your car, take a stroll, soak in hot springs, and enjoy a sense of unity with nature.

[Article here]

5 scenic spots recommended by local writers Eastern Hokkaido, full of the charm of the northern land. We suggest a trip where you can feel one with nature with your whole body.

We will introduce some ideas for trips starting from Memanbetsu Airport in Hokkaido with the theme of "Enjoying the Northern Lands with Your Whole Body." Rather than just looking at beautiful scenery, we will suggest trips that you can enjoy with your whole body, walking around the area and soaking in hot springs, experiencing a sense of unity with nature.

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A three-day, two-night itinerary to fully enjoy Abashiri's culture and nature

This is a model course for enjoying Abashiri, which has many attractions, in 2 nights and 3 days. It covers the classic spots such as the drift ice observation of the Okhotsk Sea and Abashiri Prison, and also includes horse trekking where you can view the magnificent natural scenery on horseback. For details of the course, please click here.

[Article here]

A complete experience of Abashiri

A 3-day, 2-night trip that packs in all the charm of Abashiri!

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8. [Kushiro] A trip to Kushiro where you can experience the deep charm of Hokkaido

A trip to Kushiro, a beautiful city where red-crowned cranes fly

Kushiro is known as one of the three most beautiful sunset spots in the world. It is also a place where you can observe Japanese cranes, a species of crane that lives in Japan. We will introduce Kushiro, which is full of the charm of nature, focusing on the scenic spots.

[Article here]

Special feature on Eastern Hokkaido's "Kushiro"
Kushiro, the city with one of the world's three most beautiful sunsets

Kushiro City, located in the east of Hokkaido, is a natural summer resort with an average high temperature of 22 degrees, making it very cool and comfortable, and in winter, red-crowned cranes fly over the silvery white snow fields. Experience the great outdoors by canoeing in the Kushiro Marsh, or try the fresh seafood that only a port town can offer. We will introduce you to the charming city of Kushiro.

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Search for photogenic scenery. Enjoy Kushiro in 2 days and 1 night

Kushiro's sights are not just breathtaking. Travel writer Ai Nishimura focuses on the retro townscapes that unfold against the backdrop of beautiful nature. Enjoy delicious food while searching for your favorite streets and signs. Enjoy walking around the city.

[Article here]

Enjoy fine cuisine and retro townscapes. A two-day, one-night trip around Kushiro city

A two-day, one-night model itinerary for enjoying Kushiro, Hokkaido. We will introduce recommended tourist spots that you cannot miss when visiting Kushiro, such as Nusamai Bridge, which is said to be one of the "three best sunset spots in the world," and gourmet spots where you can enjoy delicious local food that originated in Kushiro.

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The charm of Kushiro in summer that you'll want to visit with your family

Kushiro in the summer has a cool and comfortable climate, even by Hokkaido standards. It is easily accessible from the airport, making it a perfect place to visit with the family to escape the summer heat. In this article, we will introduce a two-day, one-night model itinerary that will take you around Kushiro's tourist spots, which are recommended for family trips.

[Article here]

Stay healthy in a summer resort with three generations: Kushiro, 1 night, 2 days

Kushiro City, located in the east of Hokkaido, is a town with a very cool and comfortable climate, with an average summer high temperature of 22 degrees, making it a natural summer resort. Experience the great outdoors by canoeing in the Kushiro Marshlands, and try the fresh seafood that can only be found in a port town. It's fun, delicious, and good for both the body and the soul. Why not try spending the summer in Kushiro, which is full of such charms?

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Popular gourmet spots in Kushiro, a treasure trove of ingredients

Kushiro is a treasure trove of food, with an abundance of both seafood and mountain produce. Among the many attractive gourmet spots, we asked the editor-in-chief of a local media outlet to recommend some recommended restaurants. These include an authentic hamburger restaurant, a game restaurant, and a cafe famous for its homemade baked goods, all of which are great places to interact with locals.

[Article here]

Enjoy Kushiro gourmet food loved by locals. Must-visit hidden gems in 2019

Kushiro, located in eastern Hokkaido, is a treasure trove of ingredients. There are many restaurants where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients, but there are also many famous restaurants that are only known to those in the know. We spoke to Tatsuya Shimizu, editor-in-chief of the Kushiro local media "Field Note," and we will introduce some of the best restaurants.

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9. [Shiretoko] A trip to Shiretoko, where you will be overwhelmed by the natural beauty of this World Heritage Site

A trip to Shiretoko to experience the natural beauty of this World Heritage Site

Located in eastern Hokkaido, Shiretoko is registered as a World Heritage Site due to its unique natural environment and ecosystem. We will introduce the attractions of traveling to Shiretoko, focusing on activities that allow you to experience the nature with all five senses.

[Article here]

Special feature on Hokkaido and Shiretoko
Experience the World Heritage Site of Shiretoko with your body. Use all five senses to experience the great outdoors.

Shiretoko is located in the southeastern part of Hokkaido. In winter, Shiretoko is a location that you would never think was in Japan. Popular experiential activities include an eco-tour around the silent Shiretoko Five Lakes in the harsh winter, a snowshoe tour of Furepe Falls, and drift ice walks. We will introduce you to other attractions in winter Shiretoko.

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A two-day, one-night sample itinerary for Shiretoko in summer

We will introduce a two-day, one-night model itinerary that includes the "Shiretoko Cape Cruise," where you can observe the unique natural environment of the Shiretoko Peninsula up close, and a drive along the scenic "Shiretoko Cross-Island Road." Please use this as a reference for your future trips.

[Article here]

Spend the best summer vacation in Shiretoko! See, eat, play! Impress all five senses!

Enjoy a cruise, walk through the forest, and savor seafood delicacies... Take a summer vacation trip to experience the beautiful nature of Shiretoko with all your senses!

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10. How to use Google My Maps

The map in this article has been made into a MyMap so that it can be viewed on Google Maps.
Please use this when you want to check detailed information about a store or check out spots in each area.

Display a list of spot information

Select the menu button in the top left.

This will display a list of spots for each article, with pins in different colors for each article.

When you select a spot name, the corresponding pin on the map on the right will be highlighted, so zoom in to check the details.

Zoom in to see the whole map

Select the zoom button on the top right, which will launch your Google Maps app.
Once you register it in your Google Maps app, you can easily view it even when you're traveling, so please make use of it.

[Hokkaido Tourism Related Articles]

Carefully selected by JAL staff: 10 Hokkaido souvenirs to look for at New Chitose Airport

There are many souvenir shops lined up at New Chitose Airport. For those who are having trouble deciding what to buy because there are so many types of souvenirs, JAL staff working at the airport will introduce recommended Hokkaido souvenirs that they "can't help but buy themselves!" and "should definitely try!"

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