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.
Get Covered & Go
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.
Get Covered & Go
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Planning Your Hokkaido Adventure: Seasonal Highlights
- 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
- By car: From Sapporo, take Doo Expressway & exit at Mikasa IC.
- By rail: On the JR Furano Line, alight at Lavender Farm Station (7-min walk).
- By bus: Board Furano Bus (Kaisoku Lavender-go)and alight at Nakafurano. Then walk 25 mins or transfer to a taxi.
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.
- By car: 10 mins from Noboribetsu Higashi IC (Hokkaido Expwy via Route 2 & 350).
- By bus: 15 mins from JR Noboribetsu Station by Donan Bus; alight at Noboribetsu Onsen Bus Terminal.
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.
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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.
- By car: ~60 mins from New Chitose Airport (Chitose IC to Arakawa IC)
- By rail: Tozai line to Miyanosawa Station, walk ~7 mins
- By bus: Rapid bus “Otaru” from Sapporo Station, alight at Nishimachi Kita 20-chome, walk ~7 mins
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.
- By car: ~60 mins from Hokkaido Expressway Onuma Park IC
- By city tram: Hakodateshiden Line 2, get off at Jujigai Station, walk 10 mins
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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.
- By rail: Sapporo Station to Kutchan or Niseko Station (JR Hakodate Main Line)
- By private transfer: New Chitose to Niseko by shuttle/car
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.
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 helps pay for the cost of medical treatment in Hokkaido. As a general rule, you'll want more coverage rather than less; running out of coverage could leave you stuck with a costly hospital bill while sick or injured in a foreign country.
Example: HL Assurance offers one of the market’s best travel insurance plans for medical coverage. With Travel Protect360 you can get up to S$250,000–S$750,000 for medical expenses, along with hospital cash benefits (S$200 per 24 hours, up to S$25,000).
COVID-19 protection is also included: up to S$200,000 overseas medical coverage, S$100 hospital cash benefit per 24 hours (up to S$3,000), and S$150 per day for quarantine allowance (up to S$1,500).
Do you want overseas emergency assistance?
Japan is known for high customer service standards, but language barriers can make it difficult when seeking medical treatment. Some clinics in Hokkaido don’t accept credit cards, even if they cater to international visitors.
Having travel insurance with emergency overseas assistance helps overcome these challenges. When necessary, HL Assurance customers with Travel Protect360 can call a 24-hour hotline at (65) 6922 6009 for help with hospital admissions, medical facilities, lost travel documents, evacuation services, and more.
What if your travel plans get cancelled?
Trip cancellations and travel disruptions can happen unexpectedly. It’s important to choose a travel insurance plan with enough coverage to recover non-refundable costs like flights, bookings, and attraction tickets.
Travel Protect360 from HL Assurance provides up to S$15,000 for trip cancellation and up to S$10,000 for trip curtailment. Additional benefits include compensation for flight delays, disruptions, and missed connections—a key advantage when traveling to Hokkaido, where weather-related airport closures are common in winter.
Pro-tip: Booked your flight using your air miles? Travel Protect360 offers an optional add-on to protect your lost frequent flyer miles.
Do you or your travel partner have pre-existing conditions?
Travellers with chronic health conditions such as psoriasis, hypertension, or diabetes may face unexpected flare-ups while in Hokkaido, requiring treatment or even forcing an early return home.
Most basic plans exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions. However, HL Assurance offers a Pre-existing Medical Condition Coverage add-on through Travel Protect360 that includesS$100,000 for overseas medical treatment and S$50,000 for emergency evacuation.
Are you a frequent traveller?
If you traveler often, Travel Protect 360 offers flexible annual travel insurance plans under HL Assurance, available in Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers. These plans provide coverage for regional and worldwide travel.
Plus, with HL Assurance’s No Claim Discount, you can enjoy up to 10% off your next plan if you haven’t made any claims on your previous trip.
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Get up to 50% off your travel insurance!
Travel with confidence with HL Assurance. Enjoy up to 50% off your Travel Protect360 plan and receive up to S$50 worth of vouchers.
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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 make sure you’re fully prepared—whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or in a group.
Tip: Check out our full overseas travel checklist or our guide for solo travellers for more tips!
Clothes
Hokkaido experiences distinct seasons, each with its unique climate. Here’s what you need to pack for each season:
- Winter (Dec–Feb): -12°C to -4°C. Pack thermal layers, heavy coats, insulated gloves, scarves, beanies, and waterproof boots with good grip.
- Spring (Mar–May): 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 (Jun–Aug): 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 (Sep–Nov): 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.
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: SGD 1,200 – SGD 1,500
- 1 week: SGD 1,600 – SGD 2,000
- 10 days: SGD 2,200 – SGD 2,700
- Lodging: Budget hotels or hostels: SGD 80 – SGD 120/night. Mid-range hotels: SGD 150 – SGD 250/night.
- Food: Affordable local eats: SGD 30 – SGD 50/day. Upscale restaurants: SGD 60 – SGD 100/day.
- Transport: Public transport: SGD 15 – SGD 30/day.
- Tours & Activities: Entrance fees and guided tours: SGD 40 – SGD 70/day.
When choosing a plan, consider medical coverage, emergency support, trip protection, and optional add-ons. Travel Protect360 by HL Assurance offers flexible, comprehensive coverage options ideal for your next adventure.
🕵️ Overview of Travel Requirements:
When visiting foreign countries, there are general requirements that all travellers should follow, and travelling to Hokkaido, Japan is no different. Here are some travel requirements to observe when planning a trip.
Passport
Valid at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
Visa
Not required for Singaporeans for stays up to 90 days.
Hotel documents
Carry COVID-19 vaccination records, if required.
International Driving Permit
If planning to drive or rent a car.
Activity documents
For skiing or tours, be ready to show insurance or sign waivers.
Travel Credit cards
Look for features like rewards on overseas spending, minimal foreign transaction fees, and travel insurance coverage.
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“With Travel Protect360, you can be ready for all your adventures and travel with peace of mind. Enjoy hassle-free post journey medical claims”
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“..It’s worth considering HLAS travel insurance. Reason is simple. Pricing plus it's easy to purchase and often gives out huge discount (sometimes up to 55%-60%).”
Need help understanding travel insurance for your trip?
We know navigating travel insurance can feel confusing—that’s why we’ve answered your most common questions and broken down each key term and benefit, so you can explore the world with clarity and peace of mind.
✈️ Glossary of Travel Insurance Terms
| Term | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Premium | The amount you pay for your travel insurance plan. |
| Coverage | What your travel insurance plan protects you against—like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more. Each plan has different types and amounts of coverage. |
| Excess | This is the fixed amount you pay out of your pocket before we cover the rest of the claim. |
| Overseas Medical Expenses | Coverage for the hospital and medical bills if you fall sick or get injured while overseas. |
| Emergency Medical Evacuation | In a serious emergency, we’ll arrange and pay for you to be evacuated to the nearest suitable hospital or flown back home. |
| Trip Cancellation | If you have to call off your trip before it starts due to serious reasons—like falling ill or a family emergency —we’ll help cover the non-refundable costs. |
| Trip Interruption | If something serious forces you to cut your trip short after it’s started, we’ll cover the costs of returning home early and any unused bookings. |
| Repatriation | In the event of death while overseas, we’ll cover the cost of returning your remains back home to Singapore with dignity and care. |
| Travel Delay | Flight delayed for a certain number of hours? We’ll give you a cash benefit to help with the inconvenience. |
| Baggage Loss | Lost your luggage? We’ll reimburse you for your belongings, up to the coverage limit. |
| Baggage Delay | Luggage didn’t arrive on time? We’ll cover the cost of essential items like clothes and toiletries while you wait. |
| Personal Accident | In the event of accidental injury, disability, or death while travelling, we’ll provide a lump-sum payout to support you or your loved ones. |
| Personal Liability |
If you accidentally cause damage to property or injure someone overseas, we’ll cover the legal costs and compensation. |
| Pre-existing Medical Condition | Health issues you already had before your trip. |
| COVID-19 Cover | Protection for travel changes, cancellations, or medical expenses due to COVID-19. |
| Rental Vehicle Excess | Renting a car on your trip? We’ll reimburse the excess (the amount you’d have to pay) if your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen. |
| Policyholder | The person who bought the travel insurance policy and is covered under it. |
| Beneficiary | The person you name to receive the insurance payout in case of death or certain serious events. |
| Insurer | The company providing the travel insurance coverage—like HL Assurance. |
| Exclusions | Specific situations or events your travel insurance doesn’t cover—like travelling against medical advice or losses from risky activities. |
| Claim | What you submit when something covered under your policy happens—like lost bags or a cancelled flight. |
| Policy Schedule | A document you receive after buying your plan. It shows key details like who’s covered, your travel dates, benefits, limits, and your premium. |
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