Compared to Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, Japan’s island of Hokkaido sticks out like a gorgeous green thumb. While the others are known for their cultural offerings, with an abundance of temples to tick off, Hokkaido draws visitors with its splendid scenery – think world-class ski slopes and bubbling hot springs – as well as its succulent seafood and opportunities to learn about the indigenous Ainu people who call the island home. It’s not like you ever need an excuse to travel, but read on for our five reasons to visit Hokkaido…
Perfect powder
With Europe’s ski seasons slowly becoming six-months of slushy slopes, all eyes are turning to Japan for the yearly shredding fix. Thanks to Siberian snowstorms, Hokkaido’s mountainous terrain is blanketed in a light and powdery snow – affectionately known as ‘Japow’ – from late November to early April. The fluffy slopes are known to be deep, not steep, so skiers of all levels, from beginners to pros, can confidently plant their poles in the pow. To top it off, Hokkaido even has après-ski down to a science. Skip the Western table dancing for evenings spent soaking in an outdoor onsen (hot springs), Sapporo lager in hand, and you won’t need any other reason to visit Hokkaido.
Heavenly hikes
If hurtling down a mountain at 20 mph is your idea of holiday hell, fear not – Hokkaido slows life down a notch when the sun turns temperatures up. Summer sees the mountains flourishing with Japan's highest number of natural forests, teeming with trails trodden on by fewer feet than those in the Japanese Alps. While winding through woods, over volcanic peaks and around caldera lakes, keep an eye out for wildlife. Baring a stronger resemblance to that of Siberia than Japan, Hokkaido’s animals span from brown bears and giant eagles to tiny airborne squirrels.
Outstanding onsens
Hokkaido knows how to have fun, but it also knows how to kick back and relax (and soothe skiing induced aches). Studded with over 250 steaming onsen areas, to visit Hokkaido is to indulge in true Japanese style. If you're craving a retreat while in Sapporo, take a trip to the nearby Jozankei Onsen within Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Established in 1866 by a monk who wanted to use the water’s healing properties, today, locals will be happy to point you to the place that best suits your needs. In autumn, the waters are enjoyed against a tapestry of pumpkin-coloured leaves. In winter, there’s no better feeling than escaping the cold air for a soothing soak.
Captivating culture
Immersing yourself in a country’s culture is the heart and soul of any holiday. And as the home of the Ainu, one of Japan’s few indigenous groups, Hokkaido is an island rich in cultural heritage. Discover their centuries of history and participate in one of the 1,200 yearly festivals celebrating their religious beliefs, language and traditional dances. Or visit the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, the only site in Japan dedicated to preserving Ainu culture that's filled with authentic weapons, outfits and more.
Flawless food
You can’t visit Hokkaido without treating your tastebuds to the island’s soul-nourishing cuisine. Seafood sits number one on most menus, as the cool climate means it’s preserved and prepared quickly, landing on plates as fresh as you can get. Lake Saroma’s mineral-rich salt waters also help produce succulent scallops, served chargrilled, buttered or raw. Perhaps more surprisingly, Hokkaido is also lauded for its dairy products, with the soft-serve ice cream standing as a creamy crowd-pleaser. Flavours include lavender, melon, matcha and grape – something to satisfy every craving.
