Hokkaido Must-See! Popular Attractions, Classic Itineraries, and Food Recommendations (Part 1)

1. Sapporo – Urban and Cultural Center 📍 Hokkaido's capital, with convenient transportation, is a major starting point for tourism. ✨ Must-See Attractions: • Sapporo Clock Tower: Built in 1878, this wooden building is a Sapporo landmark. • Odori Park: A green avenue in the heart of Sapporo, hosting the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival every February. • Susukino: Hokkaido's largest entertainment district, home to a variety of restaurants, izakayas, and ramen streets. • Former Hokkaido Government Office (Red Brick): A beautiful building brimming with historical charm. 🍜 Recommended Food: Sapporo Miso Ramen and Genghis Khan Grilled Lamb. ⸻ 2. Otaru – Romantic Canal City 📍 Just a 30-minute drive from Sapporo. ✨ Must-See Attractions: • Otaru Canal: The vintage warehouse buildings and gas lamps create a charming contrast, especially romantic at night. • Otaru Music Box Museum: Sells a variety of music boxes and offers DIY crafting opportunities. • Kitaichi Glass: A renowned glass craft shop. • Otaru Aquarium: Perfect for a family trip. 🍣 Food Recommendations: Fresh sushi and desserts (such as Rokkatei and LeTAO cheesecake). ⸻ 3. Furano & Biei – Flower Fields and Rural Scenery 📍 Central Hokkaido is famous for its lavender fields and hilly landscapes. ✨ Must-See Attractions: • Farm Tomita: World-renowned lavender fields (best viewed in July). • Biei Blue Pond: The waters are as dreamy as sapphires, making it a perfect photography destination. • Patchwork Road: Biei's hilly landscape changes color with each season. 🍦 Specialties: Lavender ice cream, Hokkaido dairy products. ⸻ 4. Noboribetsu & Lake Toya – Hot Springs and Volcanic Landscapes 📍 Noboribetsu is Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resort. ✨ Must-See Attractions: • Noboribetsu Jigokudani: Spectacular fumaroles and hot spring pools. • Noboribetsu Onsen Town: Stay in a Japanese-style hot spring ryokan. • Lake Toya: Enjoy scenic views around the lake, including a boat tour or a visit to Mount Yotei. • Usuyama Ropeway: Enjoy stunning views of the volcanic crater and the Pacific Ocean. ♨️ Recommended Experiences: Hot spring accommodations and the lakeside fireworks display (summer only).