Japan's most Northern main island, known for its volcanoes, onsen (hot springs) and ski resorts.  The rugged Daisetsuzan National Park on the island is home to steaming, volcanic Mount Asahi.

Sapporo is Hokkaido’s capital city and is the 5^th largest city in Japan. There are many things to do whilst here, top attractions include the Sapporo Snow Festival which included large ice sculptures. There are many parks in this city, don’t miss visiting Moerenuma Park, a unique city park designed by Isamu Noguchi. Odori Park, in the city centre and the Botanic Garden which also houses a small Ainu museum. If you want to experience the local entertainment scene then had over to Susukino district. For excellent seafood, Curb Market is a must.  

The best time of year to visit, depends on your interests and passions. If you’re looking to ski and snowboard, then the colder winter months are the perfect time to experience some great snow fall. There are many ski resorts to choose from, a popular and leading snow resort is Niseko, with plenty of powder snow. If you’re looking for an attractive ski resort, check Rusutsu.

To enjoy hiking, cycling and camping, plan your visit from the months of June to September. Furano is a picturesque town with beautiful lavender and flower fields. Otaru is a harbour city with a canal running through it, check out the canal area and city centre for an authentic Hokkaido experience.

Don’t forget to enjoy hot springs, there are many options to choose from. Noboribetsu is Hokkaido’s most famous hot spring resort, there are many types of hot spring water surfaces to choose from. It is also part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, home to Jigokudani (Hell valley) with dramatic landscape showing hot steam vents, volcanic activity and sulphur streams.

Hokkaido offers stunning landscapes and the chance to reconnect with nature in a totally unique way. You can decide to experience the winter months, filled with snow, light shows and ice sculpture festivals. Alternatively, the spring and summer months offering great landscape scenery, warm weather and activities. Either way, your trip will be a unique and memorable experience, you might just have to come back for a second time to experience it in a different season!