10 Best Things to do in Hokkaido: Top Activities & Attractions

Read this Hokkaido guide for top attractions, travel preparation tips, and how to choose the best travel insurance. 

Hokkaido may be known as a stunning winter paradise, but Japan’s northernmost island offers captivating attractions in every season. 

Come winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival takes centrestage and snaking queues form at popular ski resorts in Niseko and Furano. But when the snow retreats, spring and summer bring colourful flower fields amidst spectacular natural landscapes, especially in Furano and Biei, making it a perfect time for hiking and sightseeing. 

Not to be outdone, Autumn offers breathtaking foliage and comfortable weather – the ideal backdrop for exploring national parks and outdoor activities. Before you pack your bags, remember that travel insurance is essential for Hokkaido's winter sports and rugged terrain. See our travel tips section below for more information.  

Table of Contents

• Top 10 things to do in Hokkaido
• Travel insurance for Hokkaido
• Things to prepare and pack before your trip
• How much should you bring to Hokkaido?

Top 10 Activities in Hokkaido for All Travellers 

1. Explore the Shakotan Peninsula

The Shakotan Peninsula is one of Hokkaido's hidden gems, known for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. During summer, this area becomes a haven for snorkelling, diving, and hiking. Cape Kamui and Cape Shakotan offer stunning panoramic views and picturesque hiking trails. The vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes make snorkelling and diving particularly rewarding experiences.

Best time to visit: Summer

Address: Kamoenai, Furu District, Hokkaido 045-0301, Japan

Price: Free of charge

Opening Hours: 24-hours, daily

How to Get There: You can take a Chuo bus from the Sapporo Station bus terminal to Cape Kamui, passing through Otaru. If you prefer driving to Shakotan, take National Road 229, which offers a scenic route and takes approximately two hours from Sapporo. Rental cars are also available at Yoichi Station, located at the base of the peninsula.

See Google Maps

2. Enjoy picturesque views at the Panorama Road (Summer)

The Panorama Road in Biei offers some of the most scenic views in Hokkaido. This route takes you through rolling hills, flower fields, and charming rural landscapes. It's a perfect drive or cycling route, especially during the summer when the fields are in full bloom. Highlights along the way include Patchwork Road, famous for its quilt-like patchwork of crops and the iconic Ken and Mary Tree, as well as Shikisai no Oka (pictured), a vast flower park known for its spectacular seasonal displays.

Best time to visit: Spring, Summer and Autumn

Address: Nishi 3 Senkita, Kamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0503, Japan

Price: Free of charge

Opening Hours: 24-hours, daily

How to Get There: Panorama Road is a 2 hour 10 minute drive away from Central Hokkaido via 北海道ガーデン街道/国道38号. 

See Google Maps

3. Visit the Asahiyama Zoo 

Asahiyama Zoo, located in Asahikawa, is one of Hokkaido’s most popular family attractions. The zoo is known for its unique and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to observe animals up close. Kids will love the penguin parade, where penguins waddle through the snow, and the glass tunnels that let you see polar bears and seals swimming overhead. The zoo’s engaging and educational displays make it a fun and informative outing for the entire family.

Tip: Travelling with family? A family travel insurance plan ensures everyone is protected, from young children to the elderly.

Best time to visit: All-year round

Address: Kuranuma Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8205, Japan

Price: Adult’s tickets cost around SGD 9 while children below 16 can enter for free 

Opening Hours: 9:30am to 5:15pm daily

How to Get There: You can reach Asahiyama Zoo from either Asahikawa Station or Asahikawa Airport. From the station, buses to the zoo take about 45 minutes, while a taxi takes around 30 minutes. From the airport, a bus ride to the zoo takes approximately 35 minutes.

See Google Maps

4. Explore Farm Tomita's iconic lavender fields 

Located in Furano, Farm Tomita is the birthplace of the region's lavender cultivation industry. Here you'll find sprawling flower fields stretching as far as the eye can see, arranged in tidy, colourful rows. The most popular of these are the iconic lavender fields with their breathtaking hues of deep purple and enchanting scent.

While you're in the area, don't forget to check out Lavender East, one of the largest lavender fields in Japan. Located 4km east from Farm Tomita, in the heart of the charming Furano valley, Lavender East commands views of the Tokachi Mountains to the east and the diverse Mt. Furanonishi, Mt. Ashibetsu and other mountains in the Yubari range to the South, making for unforgettable views. 

Best time to visit: Summer

Address: Kisen Kita 15-go, Nakafurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan

Price: Admission is free. There are cafes and shops on-site.

Opening Hours: 8.30am - 5.30pm daily

How to Get There:

• By car: From downtown Sapporo, take the Doo Expressway and exit at the Mikasa IC.
• By rail: On the JR Furano Line, alight at the Lavender Farm Station, and take a 7-min walk.
• By bus: Board Furano Bus (Kaisoku Lavender-go) and alight at Nakafurano. Then walk 25 mins or transfer to a taxi. 

See Google Maps

5. Take a dip in thermal waters at Noboribetsu Onsen 

Because no trip to Japan is complete without a trip to an onsen, make time in your itinerary for a day (or overnight) trip to Noboribetsu, Hokkaido's most famous onsen town. Take your pick of several ryokans and hotels, between them serving up 11 different types of thermal waters renowned for their rejuvenating and healing properties. Prefer to mingle with the locals? Head over to Sagiriyu Public Bath, the sole public bath house in Noboribetsu.

Top off your visit with a kaiseki meal, a traditional accompaniment during onsen visits. This is a multi-course meal showcasing the chef's pick of fresh local ingredients and seasonal specialities.

Best time to visit: All year round

Address: Japan, 〒059-0551, Hokkaidō, Noboribetsu-shi, Noboribetsuonsen-chō

Price: 

• Onsen admission: 500 yen to 2,500 yen
• Overnight stay: From 20,000 yen per person (includes 2 meals) 

Opening Hours: Varies according to ryokan or hotel

How to Get There: 

• By car: About 10 minutes from Noboribetsu Higashi IC of Hokkaido Expwy via Route 2 and 350
• By bus: About 15 minutes from JR Noboribetsu Station by Donan Bus bound for Noboribetsu Onsen. Alight at Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal.

See Google Maps

6. Explore the scenic Otaru Canal

The Otaru Canal is a picturesque waterway that runs through the historic port town of Otaru. Lined with charming old warehouses and beautifully restored buildings, the canal is particularly stunning at night when illuminated by gas lamps. A stroll along the canal offers a glimpse into Otaru’s maritime past and is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The nearby streets are filled with quaint shops, cafes, and museums, making it a delightful place to explore at your own pace.

Address: Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan

Price: Free of charge

Opening Hours: 24-hours, daily

How to Get There: The canal is a 10-minute walk or a 2-minute bus ride along the main road from Otaru Station.

See Google Maps

7. Visit the Shiroi Koibito Park in Sapporo

Shiroi Koibito Park is the home of, yep -- that Shiroi Koibito white chocolate cookie from Sapporo that took the world by storm. At this chocolate theme park, you can get a close-up look at how the famous confectionary is made, pick up souvenirs and gifts, buy exclusive snacks, treats and desserts, and take photos with colourful and cute displays.

With entertaining workshops where you can learn how to make cookies and chocolate, and a number of cafes, restaurants and food kiosks scattered throughout the park, it's easy to spend the day here lost in a sweet fantasy land.    

Best time to visit: All year round

Address: 11-36 Miyanosawa 2-jo 2-chome, Nishi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido

Price: Admission to the park is free, with some paid attractions and shops.

Opening Hours: 10am - 5pm daily

How to Get There: 

• By car: From New Chitose Airport, toll-road section, Chitose IC to Arakawa IC (approximately 60 mins).
• By rail: On Tozai line, Shin Sapporo Station to Miyanosawa Station, then walk approximately 7 mins.
• By bus: Via Churo rapid bus "Otaru", board at Sapporo Station No. 1 and alight at Nishimachi Kita 20-chome, then walk approximately 7 mins.  

See Google Maps

8. Take in the Hakodate Night View from Mount Hakodate

Widely regarded as one of the top 3 night views in the world, the night view of Hakodate is a must-see, especially for first-time visitors to Hokkaido. By night, the sprawling city transforms into a dazzling jewellery box when viewed the 334m-high summit of Mount Hakodate, beautifully framed by the calm darkness of the sea.

In summer and autumn, squid fishing boats add to the spectacle, their fishing lights like so much fairy dust scattered across the scene. While this iconic view is best enjoyed by night, daytime visits are also worthwhile for the unfettered views of the bustling port city.

Tip: Hokkaido's weather can be unpredictable. A travel insurance plan with trip cancellation benefits can help if plans change suddenly.   

Best time to visit: All year round  

Address: Mt Hakodate Ropeway Station, 19-7 Motomachi, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0054, Japan

Price: Round-trip ropeway tickets cost approx. S$16 per adult, S$8 per child 

Opening Hours: 10am - 9pm daily

How to Get There: 

• By car: About 60 minutes from Hokkaido Expressway Onuma Park IC
• By city tram: On Hakodateshiden Line 2, Hakodate Ekimae Station, get off at Jujigai Station, and walk about 10 minutes

See Google Maps

9. Enjoy skiing & snowboarding at Niseko Ski Resort

Niseko Ski Resort is Japan's No. 1 snow resort, attracting a steady stream of winter sports enthusiasts from around the world each season. Comprised of four linked ski resorts, the region receives an average of 15m+ of snow during the winter months, creating a dazzling winter playground. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding through powder-fine snow, with vistas framed by stunning views of Mount Yotei.

Don't know how to ski, or don't have your own equipment? Fret not. You can book private lessons that will have you dashing down the slopes in no time, or rent everything you need for a sloshing good time.

Tip: Travel insurance can cover lost or damaged rental equipment for extra peace of mind.  

Best time to visit: Winter

Address: 5-31, 1Chome, 2Jo, Niseko Hirafu, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 044-0089 Japan

Price: Lift passes from approx. S$90 per adult

Opening Hours: varies according to weather conditions

How to Get There: 

• By rail: From Sapporo Station, transfer to JR Hakodate Main Line train to Kutchan or Niseko Station. 
• By private transfer: From New Chitose, transfer to Niseko via private car shuttle service. 

See Google Maps

10. Attend the famous Sapporo Snow Festival

The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Hokkaido's most iconic events and a must-do in Sapporo, attracting millions of visitors each year. Held annually in February, the festival features spectacular snow and ice sculptures created by artists from around the world. These massive sculptures, often depicting famous landmarks, characters, and intricate designs, transform Sapporo into a winter wonderland. The festival also includes various snow activities, ice slides, and food stalls offering local delicacies. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning displays make it a must-go in Hokkaido during the winter season.

How to Get There: There are three primary ways to reach Sapporo: by air via New Chitose Airport followed by a limited express train to Sapporo, by rail through the Seikan Undersea Tunnel, or by JR Seikan Ferry to Hakodate and then a limited express train to Sapporo.

See Google Maps

Travel insurance for Hokkaido: Tips and Considerations

While a popular holiday destination, Hokkaido is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and typhoons, highlighting the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance for your trip.

Travel insurance not only covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage, some plans can even help you recover lost frequent flyer miles. Follow these tips to choose the ideal travel insurance plan for a worry-free trip.

Do you want high overseas medical and COVID-19 coverage? 

One of the most important functions of travel insurance is overseas medical coverage, which will help you pay for the cost of medical treatment in Hokkaido. As a general rule, you'll want to have more coverage than less in this area; running out of coverage means you'll be stuck with a costly hospital bill while sick or injured in a foreign country. Yeah, that's not exactly a good time. 

One travel insurance plan with among the highest overseas medical coverage on the market is HLAS' Travel Protect 360. The plan offers up to S$250,000 to S$750,000 coverage, providing a generous margin to cover hospitalisation and treatment costs. As a further buffer, you will also receive hospitalisation cash benefits (S$200 per 24 hours), up to S$25,000 when warded overseas.

Travel Protect360 offers good COVID-19 coverage too, with up to S$200,000 overseas medical coverage, overseas hospital cash benefit (S$100 per 24 hours, up to S$3,000) and overseas quarantine allowance (S$150 per 24 hours, up to S$1,500).

Do you want overseas emergency assistance?  

Japan may be known for its high customer service standards, but language barriers can pose difficulties when seeking medical treatment. While there are English-speaking hospitals and clinics in Hokkaido, many such clinics do not accept credit cards. 

Having a travel insurance plan with emergency overseas assistance will help you overcome these barriers. When necessary, HLAS Travel Protect360 policyholders can call the 24-hour hotline (65) 6922 6009 for help with hospital admission, medical facilities, lost travel document, evacuation services and more. 

What if your travel plans get cancelled?  

Trip cancellations and travel disruptions can happen unexpectedly, so its worth choosing a travel insurance plan with coverage sufficient to recoup unused flights, bookings and attractions tickets.

HLSA Travel Protect360 provides up to S$15,000 for trip cancellation, and up to S$10,000 for trip curtailment (that's when your holiday is cut short unexpectedly). There are also benefits for flight disruptions, delays and missed connections; these are useful when travelling to Hokkaido, due to the risk of airport closure due to heavy snowfall.

Pro-tip: Booked your flight using your air miles? Protect your hard-earned miles with HLAS Travel Protect360's optional add-on for loss of frequent flyer air miles.

Do you or your travel partner have pre-existing conditions? 

Travellers with chronic health conditions such as psoriasis, hypertension, diabetes, etc. may encounter a flare-up while holidaying in Hokkaido, requiring medical attention or forcing the trip to be cut short.

Pre-existing conditions are not covered under basic travel insurance plans. But with HLAS Travel Protect360, you can purchase the Pre-existing Medical Condition Coverage add-on to close the gap in your coverage. This will give you up to S$100,000 for overseas medical expenses, and up to S$50,000 for emergency medical evacuation.  

Things to Prepare and Pack Before Your Trip

Packing for Hokkaido requires careful consideration of the seasons and what you plan to do. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your trip, whether you’re going as a group or embarking on solo travel (you can also check out our comprehensive list of things to bring overseas for more thorough preparation):

Clothes

Hokkaido experiences distinct seasons, each with its unique climate. Here’s what you need to pack for each season:

• Winter (December to February): Winter in Hokkaido is cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -12°C to -4°C. Pack thermal layers, heavy coats, insulated gloves, scarves, and hats. Waterproof boots with good grip are essential for navigating icy streets.
• Spring (March to May): Spring starts cold, with temperatures gradually rising from 0°C to 10°C. Pack layers, including long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket. A waterproof jacket or umbrella is also advisable, as spring can be rainy.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, including t-shirts, shorts, and sundresses. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings.
• Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Pack layers, including long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket. Autumn in Hokkaido is also rainy, so a waterproof jacket is recommended.

Portable Wi-Fi

Staying connected while exploring Hokkaido is crucial for navigation, communication, and sharing your experiences. Portable Wi-Fi devices are widely available and can be rented from the airport or ordered online for delivery to your hotel. These devices offer unlimited internet access and are more convenient than relying on public Wi-Fi hotspots. They also ensure you can easily access maps, make reservations, and stay in touch with friends and family during your trip.

Travel Credit Cards

Make the most of your money while travelling in Hokkaido – travel credit cards offer numerous benefits, such as earning points, cashback, and travel-related perks like complimentary travel insurance and airport lounge access. Using a travel credit card can help you extract maximum value from every cent spent, making your trip more economical and enjoyable.

Choosing the right travel credit card involves looking for features like rewards on overseas spending, minimal foreign transaction fees, and travel insurance coverage. These cards can help you save money while providing added convenience while you’re holidaying in Hokkaido.

Any Additional Travel Documents

Travelling to Hokkaido may require certain documents beyond your passport. For Singaporeans, no visa is needed for short stays up to 90 days. However, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Due to the ongoing global health situation, it is wise to carry health certificates, especially related to COVID-19 vaccinations. An International Driving Permit is also recommended if you plan on renting a car. For activities like skiing, some providers may require you to sign liability waivers or provide proof of insurance.

How Much Should You Bring to Hokkaido?

Planning a budget for your trip to Hokkaido depends on various factors, including the length of stay, type of accommodation, dining preferences, and activities. Here’s a rough estimate of expenses for different lengths of stay:

• 5 days: Approximately SGD 1,200 – SGD 1,500
• 1 week: Approximately SGD 1,600 – SGD 2,000
• 10 days: Approximately SGD 2,200 – SGD 2,700

Breakdown of Costs

• Lodging: Budget hotels or hostels cost around SGD 80 – SGD 120 per night, while mid-range hotels range from SGD 150 – SGD 250 per night.
• Food: Enjoying local cuisine in affordable eateries will cost about SGD 30 – SGD 50 per day. Dining at higher-end restaurants can push this to SGD 60 – SGD 100 per day.
• Transport: Public transportation is efficient and affordable, with daily travel expenses around SGD 15 – SGD 30.
• Tours and Activities: Entry fees to attractions and guided tours can vary, averaging about SGD 40 – SGD 70 per day.

Considering these factors will help you plan a comfortable budget for your holiday in Hokkaido, ensuring you enjoy all the best things to do without any financial stress.