How to Plan a Trip to Hokkaido
How to Get Started
Hokkaido is vast, with considerable distances between its regions. Before planning, decide on your must-see attractions or must-do activities. If you’re visiting for a specific experience, like skiing in Niseko or flower viewing in Furano, focus on that area and consider adding a few day trips. For those with more time to explore, flying into one airport and out of another (e.g., New Chitose Airport and Hakodate Airport) can maximize your itinerary without backtracking.
How to Get to Hokkaido
By Plane
Hokkaido has several airports that make it accessible from anywhere in Japan and beyond. New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) is the largest and most popular entry point, ideal for exploring central Hokkaido. Hakodate Airport serves southern regions, while Asahikawa Airport caters to northern areas like Furano and Biei. Kushiro and Memanbetsu Airports are perfect for eastern Hokkaido destinations like Shiretoko and Kushiro Wetlands.
By Train
The Hokkaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Hakodate via the undersea Seikan Tunnel. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and is an excellent option for those using the Japan Rail Pass.
By Ferry
Several ferry routes connect Hokkaido to Honshu. Aomori to Hakodate is a common route, taking about 3-4 hours. Longer routes like Niigata to Otaru or Sendai to Tomakomai take 15-18 hours and allow for transporting vehicles.
By Car
Driving to Hokkaido involves using the Seikan Tunnel from Honshu, often combined with a ferry crossing. This method offers flexibility but requires careful planning, especially during winter.
By Plane
Hokkaido has several airports that make it accessible from anywhere in Japan and beyond. New Chitose Airport (Sapporo) is the largest and most popular entry point, ideal for exploring central Hokkaido. Hakodate Airport serves southern regions, while Asahikawa Airport caters to northern areas like Furano and Biei. Kushiro and Memanbetsu Airports are perfect for eastern Hokkaido destinations like Shiretoko and Kushiro Wetlands.
By Train
The Hokkaido Shinkansen connects Tokyo to Hakodate via the undersea Seikan Tunnel. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and is an excellent option for those using the Japan Rail Pass.
By Ferry
Several ferry routes connect Hokkaido to Honshu. Aomori to Hakodate is a common route, taking about 3-4 hours. Longer routes like Niigata to Otaru or Sendai to Tomakomai take 15-18 hours and allow for transporting vehicles.
By Car
Driving to Hokkaido involves using the Seikan Tunnel from Honshu, often combined with a ferry crossing. This method offers flexibility but requires careful planning, especially during winter.
How to Get Around Hokkaido
Trains and Buses
The JR Hokkaido rail network is efficient for connecting major cities and towns, while buses serve areas not covered by trains.
Car Rentals
For rural areas like Biei, Furano, and Shiretoko, renting a car offers flexibility and ease. Winter driving requires caution due to icy roads.
Passes
Consider the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass for cost-effective train travel or regional bus passes for specific areas.
Best Time to Go
Each season in Hokkaido offers unique experiences, making it a year-round destination for travelers. Winter (December to February) is ideal for those who love skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking winter landscapes. Events like the famous Sapporo Snow Festival draw visitors from all over the world, and the powder snow in ski resorts like Niseko is unparalleled. Spring (March to May) brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, making it a perfect time to explore cities and nature trails. Summer (June to August) is known for its lush greenery and vibrant flower fields, particularly the lavender in Furano, which is at its peak during this season. Finally, Autumn (September to November) offers spectacular foliage, cool temperatures, and the chance to enjoy hot springs amidst stunning natural scenery. Whether you prefer snow-covered peaks or colorful flower fields, Hokkaido has something to offer every season.
How Many Days to Stay
The ideal length of stay in Hokkaido depends on the type of experience you want and the areas you plan to visit. For a quick overview, 5 to 7 days is sufficient to explore one main region, such as Sapporo and its surroundings, with a few day trips to nearby attractions like Otaru or Lake Toya. If you wish to explore multiple regions, such as Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa in addition to Sapporo, consider staying for 10 to 14 days to fully appreciate the diverse landscapes and activities. Winter travelers aiming for a ski trip in Niseko might focus on a shorter 3 to 5-day stay, while summer visitors hoping to enjoy flower fields and national parks can benefit from a more extended itinerary. Regardless of the season, planning your stay based on your must-visit destinations and allowing extra time for relaxation will ensure a more enjoyable experience.
