20+ must-see places & top attractions in Hokkaido

Check out these popular Hokkaido tourist attractions to help you plan your trip to Japan. What to do in Hokkaido? Let’s find out with 20+ must see places in Hokkaido & top attractions in Hokkaido!

Hokkaido is a prominent name on the Japanese travel map located quite close to the Russian Far East, famous for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, volcanoes and ski slopes. A trip to Hokkaido will give you the opportunity to enjoy nature, see wildlife, learn more about Northern Japanese culture and taste some great local dishes.

What are you waiting for? We will give you the reasons why you should visit Hokkaido when you have the opportunity to travel to Japan next time, and the best Hokkaido tourist attractions you can visit.

Top attractions in Hokkaido: Daisetsuzan National Park – The Roof of Hokkaido

Daisetsuzan National Park, located in the center of Hokkaido Island, Japan, is the largest national park in Hokkaido. With a vast area of ​​up to 2,267.64 km², Daisetsuzan possesses a majestic and diverse natural landscape, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hiking, climbing, skiing and camping. Daisetsuzan is also home to many rare wildlife species, such as brown bears, giraffes and snow foxes.

• Address: Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido

Noboribetsu Hot Springs – Onsen Paradise

Noboribetsu, located in southwestern Hokkaido, is known for its abundant and diverse natural hot springs, originating from the “Hell Valley” Jigokudani, an active volcanic crater. You can go to Dai-ichi Takimotokan, a hot spring resort with a large onsen complex, with many different types of baths, using natural hot water from the surrounding hot springs.

• Address: Noboribetsuonsen-cho, Noboribetsu-shi, Hokkaido

Jigokudani Valley – Hell Valley in Hokkaido

From Noboribetsu, you can cross the wooded hills to reach Jigokudani Valley. If you go early in the morning, you will feel like you are lost in another planet. The color of the bleached rocks, the steaming river, the bubbling sound coming from the nearby pond, and the smell of sulfur rising from the lake make the scene here eerie. Soak your feet in the hot water to relax after a long walk.

• Address: Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano-ken

Biei Village – Check-in Spot With Summer Flower Fields

Biei Village, located in the center of Hokkaido Island, is famous for its peaceful and poetic natural beauty with brilliant flower fields, covered with lavender, sunflowers and many other flowers. In particular, the emerald green Shirogane Blue Pond is one of the must-see attractions when coming to Biei. In addition, you can also participate in activities such as cycling, hiking and enjoying fresh local cuisine.

• Address: Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido

Otaru Port City – Venice of Japan

Just half an hour by train from Sapporo, Otaru is a charming port city surrounded by canals, old warehouses, sushi restaurants and sake distilleries. Otaru has a romantic, peaceful, and somewhat nostalgic beauty, giving you an insight into Japan in the past. You can also enjoy fresh seafood, especially the famous sushi, and explore the bustling shopping streets.

• Address: Otaru-shi, Hokkaido

Sapporo Snow Festival – The World’s Largest Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is a world-famous winter event, held annually in February at Odori Park, Susukino and Tsudome in Sapporo, Hokkaido. The festival attracts millions of visitors to admire the giant, elaborate snow sculptures. In addition, #teamKlook can also participate in fun activities such as skiing, making snow statues, enjoying local cuisine and attending concerts and art performances.

• Address: 7 Chome, Odorinishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido

Nijo Fish Market – Fresh Seafood Paradise

Nijo Fish Market, located in the heart of Sapporo City, Hokkaido, is known as “Sapporo’s kitchen”. This market has a history of more than 100 years, starting from when fishermen caught seafood in Ishikari Bay and brought it back to sell here. Today, Nijo Fish Market is home to hundreds of stalls selling all kinds of fresh seafood. In addition, the market also has many shops selling agricultural products, dried goods and souvenirs.

• Address: Japan, 〒060-0052 Hokkaido, Sapporo, Chuo Ward, Minami 2 Johigashi, 1 Chome, 南3条東1丁目〜2丁目
• Opening hours: 7am – 5pm

Mount Hakodate – Great Hokkaido Sightseeing Spot

Mount Hakodate, 334 meters high, is a beautiful sightseeing spot in Japan. From the top of the mountain, you can admire the whole view of Hakodate city sparkling with lights, shaped like a fan spreading out on both sides of the strait. The night view from Mount Hakodate is known as “million dollar”, comparable to the night view from Mount Inasa in Nagasaki and Mount Rokko in Kobe. To get to the top of the mountain, you can take the cable car, bus or hike.

• Address: Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido

Moerenuma Park – Open Air Art Museum

Moerenuma Park, located in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is a giant public art piece designed by renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi. The highlight of the park is the Glass Pyramid, a giant glass structure that reflects sunlight, creating an impressive visual effect. In addition, the park also features Mount Moere, an artificial hill with a 360-degree view, and the Sea Playground, a play area with geometric sculptures.

• Address: 1-1 Moerenumakoen, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 11am – 6pm

Sapporo Beer Museum – Learn the History of Japanese Beer

Located on the grounds of the Sapporo Beer Garden, the Sapporo Beer Museum was built in an old brewery that dates back to the Meiji period. Here, you will discover the process of making Sapporo beer, visit the gallery of valuable artifacts, including antique beer brewing equipment, beer bottles from different periods and unique beer advertisements. After visiting the museum, you can enjoy some fresh beer at the restaurant or bar on the premises.

• Address: 9-1-1 Kita 7 Johigashi, Higashi-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido

Niseko Ski Resort – Winter Playground in Hokkaido

Niseko is famous for its famous “powder snow”, the softest and fluffiest snow in the world, turning this place into a “giant snow carpet” ideal for all kinds of snow activities. As you glide down the slopes, you will be rewarded with a majestic view of the snow-capped Yotei Mountain, 1,900 meters high, towering against the deep blue sky, creating a wonderful natural picture that seems to have come straight out of a frozen land.

• Address: Niseko-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido

Shakotan Peninsula – Hokkaido Blue

Near the city of Otaru, the Shakotan Peninsula is a majestic mountainous coastline with breathtaking views of the Sea of ​​Japan (East Sea). Shakotan will give you the opportunity to traverse hiking trails, and immerse yourself in local legends. Night diving trips here are also popular in the summer; you can spot bioluminescent marine life in the caves around the coast.

• Address: Shakotan-cho, Shakotan-gun, Hokkaido

Shiretoko National Park – World Natural Heritage in Hokkaido

Tucked away on a northeastern peninsula, Shiretoko National Park is all about forests, waterfalls, and pristine coastlines. What makes Shiretoko special is the harmonious combination of mountains and sea. It offers activities such as hiking, sightseeing from a cruise, kayaking, scuba diving, and bird watching. In winter, Shiretoko becomes magical with ice drifting ashore, creating a breathtaking scene.

• Address: Menashi-gun, Hokkaido

Unkai Terrace Sea of ​​Clouds – The Ideal Cloud Hunting Spot in Hokkaido

For a stunning, surreal experience, take the ropeway from the foot of Mount Tomamu to Unkai Terrace at dawn to hunt for clouds. Here, you will see a sea of ​​clouds like a waterfall pouring down the mountains below. This cloud hunting area is located at an altitude of 1,088m above sea level, giving you a beautiful view above the clouds, with a full range of entertainment services such as, from Cloud Bar to Cloud Bed and Cloud Pool.

• Address: Nakatomamu, Shimukappu, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido

Akan Mashu National Park – The Jade of Hokkaido

Akan Mashu National Park is where crystal clear lakes blend with volcanic craters and primeval forests. Lake Akan, nestled in the heart of the Akan crater, is a highlight of the national park. In addition, Akan is also a place to preserve the culture of Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. You will have the opportunity to explore traditional villages to the Ikor theater, where sacred bear and animal spirit worship ceremonies take place.

• Address: Kushiro-gun, Hokkaido

Asahiyama Zoo – Hokkaido’s Arctic Animal World

Asahiyama Zoo, located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, is famous for its enclosure design, which allows you to observe animals from various angles and see their natural behavior. Asahiyama Zoo is famous for displaying animals that live in the polar region. In winter, you can watch penguins marching on the snow. This is a popular event and attracts many visitors.

• Address: Kuranuma, Higashiasahikawa-cho, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 10:30 – 15:30

Toya-Usu Global Geopark – Hokkaido Living Volcano Museum

About 25 miles from Noboribetsu is the UNESCO-designated Toya-Usu Global Geopark, with the 10km-wide Lake Toya at its heart. Climb to the observation deck at the top of Mount Usu, a 73m-high active volcano, for a panoramic view of the area, a breathtaking backdrop of rolling mountains and azure lakes. You can also try cycling, kayaking, and spot sika deer living on an island in the middle of the lake.

• Address: Iburi-shi, Hokkaido

JR Tower Observation Deck T38 – Sapporo in Your Sight

Located at an altitude of 160m, the Hokkaido JR Tower Observation Deck on the 38th floor promises to bring you a spectacular view of Sapporo, day or night. At night, the city is sparkling with lights, while during the day, under the sunlight, you can fully admire the brilliant colors of Sapporo. Further away, you can even see the majestic Yubaridake and Ashibetsudake mountains.

• Address: Kita 5 Nishi 2-5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 10am – 10pm

Arte Piazza Sculpture Park – Hokkaido Open-Air Sculpture Museum

From mid-October, you can enjoy Hokkaido’s wonderful autumn colors and one of the best places to do so is Arte Piazza, a sculpture park in Bibai. Surrounded by wooded hillsides, the park becomes brilliant when autumn comes, bringing with it red and yellow leaves. Besides, you can admire about 40 marble sculptures scattered throughout the park, and you can even sign up for a sculpture class if you like.

• Address: Ochiaicho Sakaemachi, Bibai-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (Closed on Tuesdays)

Makomanai Takino Cemetery – Where Art Meets Spirituality in Hokkaido

More than just a cemetery, you will be surprised to find a giant Buddha statue in Makomanai Takino as well as 33 replicas of the world-famous Moai statues on Easter Island and a replica of Stonehenge. This attraction is surrounded by giant lavender fields to help visitors feel as peaceful as possible, a rather strange but extremely impressive experience.

• Address: 2-3 Takino, Minami-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening hours: 9am – 4pm

What is the best season to visit Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is probably the best summer in Japan: not too hot, not too humid, no rain, and plenty of outdoor activities! So for those who are looking for adventure, summer might be the best time to visit Hokkaido. The mild sunny days and cool nights will give you plenty of time to enjoy every day.

Besides, July is famous for the blooming of countless flowers, and August is the best time to get out and enjoy the whole lush landscape of Hokkaido. All you need during the day is comfortable clothes and sunscreen, although you should wear a light jacket in the evening!

How to Travel to Hokkaido Japan on Your Own from Vietnam

To fully explore the beauty of Hokkaido on your own from Vietnam, you need to carefully prepare for transportation, means of transport and costs.

Stage 1: Travel from Vietnam to Tokyo

Currently, there are no direct flights from Vietnam to Hokkaido. You need to fly to major Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Osaka or Nagoya, then transfer to New Chitose Airport (Sapporo), Hokkaido’s main airport. Located about 60km from the center of Tokyo, Narita International Airport (NRT) is Tokyo’s main international airport, serving many international flights from Vietnam.

• Airlines operating direct flights: Vietnam Airlines, Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan, departing from Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat or Da Nang International Airport.
• Flight time: Average about 4 hours 30 minutes – 5 hours 5 minutes, depending on the departure point and airline.

Round-trip ticket prices can range from about 8,000,000 VND to 18,000,000 VND or more, depending on the time of booking and the airline. Ticket prices are usually higher during peak tourist seasons (March-May and September-November) and holidays, so you should book tickets early (a few months in advance) to get a better price.

Part 2: Traveling from Tokyo to Hokkaido

Traveling from Tokyo to Hokkaido by plane

Airplanes are the fastest and most convenient means of transportation from Tokyo to Hokkaido. Every day, there are many direct flights from Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita Airport (NRT) in Tokyo to New Chitose Airport (CTS) in Sapporo, Hokkaido, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours.

Popular airlines operating this route include Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA) and low-cost airlines such as Peach Aviation and Jetstar Japan. To get the best price, you should book early, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Airfare ranges from 8,000 – 38,000 Yen, depending on the time of booking and the airline.

Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido by Shinkansen bullet train

The Hokkaido Shinkansen bullet train offers a comfortable travel experience. The train travel time will be about 4 hours from Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in Hokkaido. From Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, you need to transfer to a local train to reach other cities on the island. If you plan to travel a lot by train, buying a Japan Rail Pass will help save money significantly.

Shinkansen bullet train fare will be around 31,000 Yen.

Travel from Tokyo to Hokkaido by renting a car with a driver

Renting a private car with a driver is a great option for groups of friends, families, or those with a lot of luggage. With a private car rental service, you will be picked up and dropped off at your own pace, allowing you to relax, sightsee, or work during your trip. On Klook, you can easily search and compare car types, prices, and services from different providers.

The cost of renting a private car from Tokyo to Hokkaido starts from 60,000 yen, depending on the car type, rental period, and travel distance.

How to Get Around Hokkaido

In Hokkaido, buses are a flexible means of transportation, helping you access the inner city attractions and suburbs outside the railway lines. Although the travel time by bus may be longer than by train, in return, you will have the opportunity to admire the Hokkaido landscape more slowly and in greater detail.

Local bus fares in Hokkaido are around 200 – 500 yen.

In addition, renting a bicycle or a car with a driver is also a good choice. If you are not familiar with the roads in Hokkaido, renting a car with a driver will help you easily travel to your desired locations, and at the same time get more interesting directions from the locals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hokkaido Travel

When is the best time to travel to Hokkaido?

Hokkaido has four distinct seasons, each with its own beauty. Summer (June-August) is ideal for viewing lavender and participating in outdoor activities. Winter (December-February) is a great time for skiing and participating in ice and snow festivals.

What is the most convenient means of transportation in Hokkaido?

JR Hokkaido trains are the main means of transportation, connecting most major cities. Renting a car is a good choice if you want to explore the countryside.

What are some must-see places in Hokkaido?

Some famous places include:

• Sapporo: The capital city with many attractions and unique cuisine.
• Furano and Biei: Famous for lavender fields and beautiful natural scenery.
• Otaru: A romantic port city with canals and ancient architecture.
• Shiretoko National Park: A World Natural Heritage with pristine landscapes and biodiversity.

What is special about Hokkaido cuisine?

Hokkaido is famous for its fresh seafood, especially king crab and sea urchin. You should also try Sapporo ramen, Jingisukan grilled lamb and dairy products.

How much does it cost to travel to Hokkaido?

The cost of traveling to Hokkaido depends on many factors such as time, means of transportation, accommodation and food. On average, you should prepare about 30,000-50,000 yen/day.

There will never be enough time and space to describe all the wonderful things about Hokkaido, but hopefully through this article, Klook has somewhat introduced the most wonderful places in this gem located in the North of Japan. We are always ready to support and help your Hokkaido trip go smoothly through fun services, sightseeing, entertainment, delicious food in Hokkaido, even flights, train passes or accommodation.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Sapporo & Hokkaido you can refer to

• Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo, Shirogane Blue Pond, and More
• Sapporo Highland Sightseeing Bus Tour with Meals
• Sapporo Private Day Tour with Local Licensed Guide
• Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo, Shirogane Blue Pond, and More
• Hokkaido Enjoy Pass
• Furano and Tomita Farm Day Tour from Sapporo
• Sapporo Afternoon Bus Tour
• Hokkaido Spring and Summer Limited Depart from Sapporo
• JR Hokkaido Sapporo-Furano Area Pass
• Sapporo TV Tower Ticket
• JR Hokkaido Rail Pass
• Mt Tengu Ropeway Round-trip Ticket
• Asahikawa Zoo & Shikisai-no-Oka Day Tour
• Mt. Moiwa Ropeway Ticket in Sapporo
• JR Tower Observation Deck T38 Ticket in Hokkaido
• Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Biei, and Blue Pond Day Tour
• JR Tohoku-South Hokkaido Rail Pass
• Kani Honke in Sapporo Station – Popular Crab Specialty
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
• 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
• JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more Hokkaido travel guide and top things to do in Hokkaido: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Hokkaido travel blog — The fullest guide for a budget trip to Hokkaido, Japan.