Top Best Things to do in Hokkaido: Your Complete Travel Guide

Discover the Best Tourist Attractions, Entry Fees, Schedules & Travel Tips for Exploring the Things to do in Hokkaido

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences year-round. For the things to do in Hokkaido In winter, hit the powdery slopes of Niseko or witness the enchanting Sapporo Snow Festival. Summer invites hikes through the flower-filled fields of Furano and the rugged landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park.

Savor fresh seafood at Hakodate’s morning market or soak in Noboribetsu’s steamy hot springs. Now, with the things to do in Hokkaido, explore the heritage-rich town of Otaru with its glassworks and scenic canals. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare cranes in Kushiro or brown bears in Shiretoko. Hokkaido is a haven for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable seasonal charm. It is becoming a hot tourist spot, especialy in the winter season.

Niseko Hokkaido, Japan [Image courtesy of Niseko Tourism]

Nature & Scenic Spots in Hokkaido

1. Niseko

• Why Visit: Known globally for its powder snow and world-class ski resorts, Niseko is a winter wonderland and offers year-round outdoor activities.
• Entry Fee: Varies by activity (ski lift tickets start at ¥4,500)
• Opening Hours: Winter ski season (Dec-Mar); other activities available year-round
• Nearest Station: Niseko Station (Hakodate Line)
• Tips: Ski and snowboard in winter, or enjoy hiking and hot springs in summer.

2. Shikotsu-Toya National Park

• Why Visit: Home to Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, this national park is known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and beautiful hiking trails.
• Entry Fee: Free for the park; lake boat cruises ¥1,500-¥2,000
• Opening Hours: Open year-round; boat cruises from April to November
• Nearest Station: Toya Station or Chitose Station
• Tips: Don’t miss the active volcano, Mt. Usu, and the Toyako Onsen hot spring area.

3. Furepe Waterfall

• Why Visit: A stunning waterfall that drops into the Sea of Okhotsk, perfect for a scenic hike.
• Entry Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: Open year-round (best visited in spring or summer)
• Nearest Station: Utoro Station (Shiretoko Line)
• Tips: The waterfall is particularly beautiful during the summer months when the surrounding nature is lush and green.

Historic & Cultural Landmarks

4. Hakodate Morning Market

• Why Visit: A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Japanese snacks, located right next to the Hakodate Station.
• Entry Fee: Free
• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Nearest Station: Hakodate Station
• Tips: Arrive early for the freshest seafood, including squid and uni (sea urchin).

5. Historic Village of Hokkaido (Kaitaku no Mura)

• Why Visit: An outdoor museum showcasing Hokkaido’s pioneering history with reconstructed buildings from the Meiji and Taisho eras.
• Entry Fee: ¥800 (adults), ¥400 (children)
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
• Nearest Station: Shin-Sapporo Station (JR Chitose Line)
• Tips: Visit during the winter for a magical snow-covered atmosphere.

6. Goryokaku Fort & Tower

• Why Visit: A star-shaped fort built in the 19th century with a stunning panoramic view of Hakodate from the observation tower.
• Entry Fee: ¥500 (fort); ¥900 (tower)
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (tower)
• Nearest Station: Goryokaku-Koen-Mae Station (Hakodate City Tram)
• Tips: The fort is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season (April) and autumn (October).

Shopping & Local Markets

7. Sapporo Tanukikoji Shopping Street

• Why Visit: A lively shopping street filled with a mix of fashion boutiques, restaurants, souvenir shops, and arcades.
• Entry Fee: Free (pay per item purchased)
• Opening Hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (individual store hours may vary)
• Nearest Station: Odori Station (Subway Namboku Line)
• Tips: Great for picking up souvenirs like Hokkaido cheese and famous Shiroi Koibito cookies.

8. Nijukken Road

• Why Visit: This shopping street in Otaru offers beautiful glassware, antiques, and sweets unique to Hokkaido.
• Entry Fee: Free (pay per item purchased)
• Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by store)
• Nearest Station: Otaru Station (JR Hakodate Line)
• Tips: Don’t miss out on Otaru’s famous glasswork and music boxes.

Sapporo Snow Festival [image courtesy of snowfes.com]

Winter & Snow Activities in Hokkaido

9. Sapporo Snow Festival

• Why Visit: A world-renowned winter festival in February, known for its massive snow sculptures and lively events.
• Entry Fee: Free (for outdoor exhibits)
• When: February (dates vary)
• Tips: Make sure to dress warmly; book accommodations in advance as it’s a peak season.

10. Asahiyama Zoo

• Why Visit: Known for its unique “penguin parade” and innovative animal enclosures that bring visitors up close to wildlife.
• Entry Fee: ¥800 (adults), ¥400 (children)
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on 3rd Wednesday of November)
• Nearest Station: Asahikawa Station (JR Hakodate Line)
• Tips: The penguin parade is a must-see during winter; check the schedule before visiting.

Natural Hot Springs & Onsen

11. Noboribetsu Onsen

• Why Visit: Famous for its “hell valley” (Jigokudani), an active volcanic area with sulfurous hot springs.
• Entry Fee: Varies (Onsen bath fee from ¥500–¥2,000)
• Opening Hours: Onsen hours vary by facility, typically 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Nearest Station: Noboribetsu Station (JR Muroran Line)
• Tips: Explore the geothermal areas and enjoy the wide range of public baths.

Things to do in Hokkaido – Travel Tips for Hokkaido Tourists

• Best Time to Visit: Winter (Dec – Feb) for snow activities and festivals, Summer (June – August) for pleasant weather and hiking.
• Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Hokkaido, as many attractions are spread out across the island.
• Weather: Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are mild. Be sure to pack according to the season.
• Language: Many areas have English signage, but learning a few Japanese phrases can be helpful.
• Currency: Hokkaido is very cash-friendly, so ensure you carry enough yen, especially in rural areas.