Hokkaido, known for its abundant nature and delicious food, has many must-see tourist spots. In this article, we'll introduce 30 must-see places in Hokkaido, categorized by area. We hope this information will be useful when planning your trip to Hokkaido.

■Recommended spots in Sapporo and Otaru area

Sapporo is the gateway to Hokkaido, while Otaru has a nostalgic atmosphere. In this area, you can enjoy shopping, retro townscapes, and fresh seafood. Here, we will introduce recommended spots in Sapporo and Otaru area.

■ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO

"ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO" is a stadium known as the home of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. It can be enjoyed not only on game days but also on non-game days.
​Hokkaido Ballpark F VILLAGE, where Escon Field is located, is a vast 32-hectare site with a variety of facilities. Not only can you watch the games, but you can also enjoy gourmet food and shopping.

▼Basic information about Escon Field

address

1 F VILLAGE Village, Kitahiroshima City, Hokkaido

Opening times

Opening hours: Varies depending on the day (regularly updated on the official website)

Closed Day

Irregular holidays

Official website

Esconfield

■Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

The Former Hokkaido Government Office Building is a historic structure also known as the Red Brick Building. Inside, valuable materials tracing the history of Hokkaido are on display.

The beautiful garden surrounding the building also offers spectacular views throughout the seasons, making it one of the city's attractions. In the spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and lilacs, in the summer lush greenery and roses, and in the fall, autumn leaves.

▼Basic information about the former Hokkaido Government Office Building

address

North 3-jo Nishi 6-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo Hokkaido

Opening times

8:45〜18:00

Closed Day

New year holiday season

Official website

Former Hokkaido Government Office Building

■Odori Park

Odori Park is a park located in the center of Sapporo, and the grounds are divided into the following themes: Flowers, Gathering, Frontier, Oasis, and Exchange.

In winter, it becomes the main venue for the Sapporo Snow Festival, and is bustling with tourists. The Sapporo TV Tower is also located on the premises, so be sure to check it out as well.

▼Odori Park

address

Odori Nishi 1-12, Chuo Ward, Sapporo City, Hokkaido

Opening times

all day

Closed Day

none

Official website

Odori Park

■Susukino

Susukino is a bustling downtown area in the center of Sapporo, said to have more than 4,000 restaurants and entertainment facilities.

At night, the neon lights shine, creating a lively atmosphere. Various events are also held here, such as the Susukino Festival in August and the Susukino Ice World in February, attracting many tourists and locals alike.

▼Basic information about Susukino

address

Chuo Ward, Sapporo City

Official website

Susukino

■Otaru Canal

Otaru Canal is a spot known as a symbol of Otaru. The scenery along the canal is beautiful and nostalgic, and you can enjoy strolling or a cruise.

Another great thing about this area is that there are plenty of cafes and shops nearby. After sunset, the gas lamps come on, creating a magical view.

▼Basic information about the Otaru Canal

address

Minatomachi, Otaru City, Hokkaido

Official website

Otaru Canal

■Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery

Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery is a whiskey distillery founded by Masataka Taketsuru, known as the father of Japanese whiskey. It is a must-see spot for whiskey lovers, where you can enjoy factory tours and tastings.

At the shop, you can also purchase whiskey that can only be bought here, making it the perfect souvenir for yourself or someone who loves alcohol.

▼Basic information about the Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery

address

7-6 Kurokawacho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido

Opening times

9:00～16:15

Closed Day

December 23rd to January 7th of the following year and June 11th

Official website

Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery

■Recommended spots in the Hakodate area

Hakodate has many attractions that can be enjoyed no matter how many times you visit, such as its exotic cityscape, beautiful night views, and fresh seafood. Here we will introduce recommended tourist spots where you can enjoy the unique charms of the Hakodate area.

■Mount Hakodate Ropeway

The Mount Hakodate Ropeway is a popular tourist spot that offers a spectacular view of Hakodate city. The night view from Mount Hakodate in particular is known as one of the "Three Great Night Views in the World."

During the day, you can see Hakodate Port, the Tsugaru Strait, and even the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori Prefecture. There is also an observation deck and restaurant at the top of the mountain, so you can enjoy a meal while admiring the view.

▼Basic information about Mount Hakodate Ropeway

address

19-7 Motomachi, Hakodate City, Hokkaido

Opening times

[April 20th - September 30th] 10:00 - 22:00 (last outbound flight 21:50)
[October 1st - April 19th] 10:00 - 21:00 (last outbound flight 20:50)

Closed Day

none

Official website

Mount Hakodate Ropeway

■Goryokaku Tower

From Goryokaku Tower, you can get a panoramic view of the star-shaped castle, Goryokaku. There are also exhibits that teach you about the history of the end of the Edo period, making it a recommended spot for history buffs.

From the observation deck, you can see not only Goryokaku, but also Hakodate city, the Tsugaru Strait, and, on clear days, even the Shimokita Peninsula. There are also exhibition corners about the history of Goryokaku and the Hakodate War, so you'll never get bored.

▼Basic information about Goryokaku Tower

address

43-9 Goryokakucho, Hakodate City, Hokkaido

Opening times

9:00～18:00

Closed Day

none

Official website

Goryokaku Tower

■Recommended spots in the Noboribetsu and Toya area

Noboribetsu is one of Hokkaido's most famous hot spring areas. Surrounding it is the Lake Toya area, with its beautiful lakeside scenery. It's easily accessible from Sapporo and Otaru, so be sure to check it out. Here, we'll introduce some recommended spots in the Noboribetsu/Toya area.

■Lake Toya

Lake Toya is a caldera lake with beautiful scenery. There are also hot springs on the lakeside, making it a popular place for relaxation.

Not only can you enjoy the lake scenery, but there are also many other ways to enjoy the lake, such as taking a sightseeing boat around the lake or participating in activities such as canoeing and SUP. The Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Festival is held for about half a year from April to October.

▼Basic information about Lake Toya

address

Toyako Town, Abuta District, Hokkaido

Official website

Lake Toya

■Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu Onsen is one of Hokkaido's most famous hot spring areas. Among them, Jigokudani is named after the bubbling hot springs.

Additionally, demon sculptures are installed throughout the area, creating a unique atmosphere. Furthermore, the Noboribetsu Hell Festival is held every year, where impressive demons parade through the area, creating a lively atmosphere.

▼Basic information about Noboribetsu Onsen

address

Noboribetsu Onsen Town, Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido

Official website

Noboribetsu Onsen

■Recommended spots in the Tokachi and Obihiro area

The vast Tokachi/Obihiro area is full of gourmet food and spectacular views nurtured by the region's abundant nature. This is a recommended area for those who want to enjoy local sweets, agricultural products, and fantastic scenery. Here we will introduce recommended spots in the Tokachi/Obihiro area.

■Taushubetsu River Bridge

The Taushubetsu River Bridge is 130m (※It is a concrete arch bridge that boasts a length of 1,000 meters. It is also known as the Phantom Bridge because the water level changes with the seasons, causing it to appear and disappear under the lake.

To see the bridge up close, join a tour led by a local guide. It is only visible between January and May, so choose the best time to see it.

※See "Kamishihoro Town Official Website"​

▼Basic information about the Taushubetsu River Bridge

address

Nukabira Hot Springs, Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido

Official website

Taushubetsu River Bridge

■Lake Nukabira

Lake Nukabira is a man-made lake surrounded by rich nature. In winter, the lake surface freezes over, allowing you to enjoy ice fishing for smelt.

You can also enjoy activities like hiking and bird watching along the lakeside, and there is also the nearby Nukabira Onsenkyo, where you can relax in the hot springs.

▼Basic information about Lake Nukabira

address

Nukabira Hot Springs, Kamishihoro Town, Hokkaido

Official website

Lake Nukabira

■Rokkatei Main Store

Rokkatei Main Store is a famous confectionery shop that originated in Obihiro. In addition to famous sweets such as Marusei butter sandwiches and strawberry chocolate, they also have a selection of sweets that can only be tasted here.

You can also enjoy freshly made sweets and light meals at the Rokkatei cafe on the second floor, making this a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy both sweets and shopping.

▼Basic information about Rokkatei Main Store

address

6 Nishi 2-jo Minami 9-chome, Obihiro City, Hokkaido

Opening times

10:00～18:00

Closed Day

Wednesday

Official website

Rokkatei Main Store

■Recommended spots in the Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa areas

The Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa areas are dotted with numerous spots where you can enjoy Hokkaido's vast landscapes and natural beauty.

There are many spots you can visit while driving, making it perfect for a trip out of town. Here we will introduce some recommended spots in the Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa areas.

■Furano Ski Resort

Furano Ski Resort is a ski resort where you can enjoy high-quality powder snow. There are many courses, and skiers and snowboarders of all levels can enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Another great thing about this mountain is that in the summer you can take a gondola ride to enjoy the spectacular view from the top. You can enjoy the scenery and activities of all four seasons in the vast natural surroundings.

▼Basic information about Furano Ski Resort

address

Nakagoryo, Furano City, Hokkaido

Opening times

8:00～16:00

Closed Day

none

Official website

Furano Ski Resort

■Farm Tomita

Farm Tomita is a popular tourist spot known for its colorful lavender fields. In the summer, the spectacular purple scenery spreads all over the place, overwhelming visitors.

In addition to lavender, seasonal flowers are also planted, so you can enjoy beautiful scenery all year round. There is also a shop and cafe on-site, and souvenirs and sweets made with lavender are popular.

▼Basic information about Farm Tomita

address

15 Baseline North, Nakafurano-cho, Sorachi-gun, Hokkaido

Opening times

10:00～16:30

Closed Day

none

Official website

Farm Tomita

■Mount Tokachi Bogakudai

Tokachidake Bogakudai is an observation deck that offers a close-up view of the majestic Tokachidake mountain range. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Daisetsu mountain range and Furano Basin.

Another attraction is the fact that you can enjoy mountain climbing and hiking. Nearby is Shirogane Onsen, where you can soothe your tired body after activities.

▼Basic information about Tokachidake Bogakudai

address

Shirokane, Biei, Hokkaido

Official website

Mount Tokachi Bogakudai

■Shikisai no Oka

Shikisai no Oka is a photogenic spot with colorful flower fields. You can enjoy different scenery with each season, including marigolds and salvia.

The period from summer to autumn is especially great for seeing the colorful flower fields. You can ride a tractor bus or cart around the fields, and you can also purchase fresh vegetables, flower seeds, and original goods.

▼Basic information about Shikisai no Oka

address

Shinsei Daisan, Biei Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido

Opening times

January to April: 9:10 to 17:00
May and October: 8:40-17:00
June to September: 8:40 to 17:30
November to December 9:10 to 16:30

Closed Day

none

Official website

Shikisai no Oka

■Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo is a zoo that uses "behavioral exhibits" that allow visitors to observe the natural behavior and ecology of animals up close. There are many unique exhibits, such as an underwater penguin tunnel and a polar bear diving show, that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.

No matter how many times you visit, you'll always find something new to discover, whether it's feeding the staff or walking the penguins. The park also has a wide selection of restaurants and shops, making it a spot you can enjoy all day long.

▼Basic information about Asahiyama Zoo

address

Kuranuma, Higashiasahikawa-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido

Opening times

January 2nd - April 7th 10:30am - 3:30pm
April 26th - October 15th 9:30am - 5:15pm
October 16th - November 3rd 9:30am - 4:30pm
November 11th to December 29th 10:30am to 3:30pm

Closed Day

Irregular holidays

Official website

Asahiyama Zoo

■Recommended spots in the Kushiro and Lake Akan area

The Kushiro-Lake Akan area is an attractive area with abundant nature, including Lake Akan and the Kushiro Wetlands. It is an irresistible area for those who love the outdoors and nature. Here we will introduce recommended spots in the Kushiro-Lake Akan area.

■Lake Akan

Lake Akan is home to the Marimo, a special natural monument. You can enjoy a variety of activities here, such as taking a sightseeing boat to enjoy the scenery from the lake, or ice fishing for smelt in the winter.

The surrounding area is also home to Akan National Park, where you can refresh yourself in a rich natural environment. There is also a hot spring town on the lakeside, lined with accommodations and souvenir shops.

▼Basic information about Lake Akan

address

Shirokane, Biei, Hokkaido

Official website

Lake Akan

■Kushiro Wetlands

The Kushiro Wetlands is a vast marshland with untouched nature remaining. Its area is approximately 22,070 hectares (※) and boasts the largest area in Japan.

It is known for being home to rare plants and animals, including the red-crowned crane, a special natural monument, and you can enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons. There are also several observation decks where you can fully enjoy the magnificent scenery.

※See "Hokkaido Official Tourism Site Official Website"

▼Basic information about Kushiro Marsh

address

Kushiro City, Kushiro Town, Kushiro District, Tsurui Village, Akan District, Shibecha Town, Kawakami District, Hokkaido

Official website

Kushiro Wetlands

■Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train

If you visit the Kushiro Wetlands, you'll want to take the Kushiro Wetlands Norokko Train. The Kushiro Wetlands Norokko Train is a tourist train that runs through the Kushiro Wetlands, allowing you to view the marshes from the train window.

At scenic spots, announcements are made and the train slows down, allowing you to enjoy the scenery. The service will end in 2025, so if you're interested, be sure to check it out.

▼Basic information about the Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train

address

14-1 Kitaodori, Kushiro City, Hokkaido

Official website

Kushiro Marsh Norokko Train

■Recommended spots in the Shiretoko and Abashiri areas

The Shiretoko and Abashiri area is known for its untouched nature and rich ecosystem. This area is home to a variety of attractions, including drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk, waterfalls with hot springs, and facilities where you can learn about the history of Hokkaido's development. Here we introduce recommended spots in the Shiretoko and Abashiri area.

■Abashiri Prison Museum

The Abashiri Prison Museum is an open-air historical museum that recreates the Abashiri Prison from the Meiji era. The buildings and facilities from that time have been relocated and restored, allowing visitors to experience what it was like back then.

There are also plenty of guided tours and video exhibits, where you can learn about the history of Hokkaido's development, and even have the rare experience of eating prison food.

▼Basic information about the Abashiri Prison Museum

address

1-1 Yobito, Abashiri City, Hokkaido

Opening times

9:00〜17:00

Closed Day

December 31st, January 1st

Official website

Abashiri Prison Museum

■Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum

The Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum is an experiential facility themed around drift ice and the nature of the Arctic. Inside the museum, there is a drift ice experience room where you can touch actual drift ice, as well as exhibits on Clione, making it a fun place for people of all ages to enjoy.

You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Sea of Okhotsk and the Shiretoko Mountain Range from the observation deck. You can also enjoy sweets made with salt from the Sea of Okhotsk and freshly baked pizza.

▼Basic information about the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum

address

244-3 Tentoyama, Abashiri City, Hokkaido

Opening times

May to October 8:30 to 18:00
November to April: 9:00 to 16:30
December 29th - January 5th 10:00-15:00

Closed Day

none

Official website

Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum

■Oshinkoshin Falls

"Oshinkoshin Falls" has a drop of about 30m (※It is a powerful waterfall with a steep slope. It is also affectionately known as the "Twin Beauties Waterfall" because the water splits into two parts midway down.

A walking path is built up close to the waterfall, allowing you to enjoy its power up close. Its impressive power has led to it being selected as one of Japan's 100 best waterfalls.

※ See the official website of the Shiretoko Shari Town Tourism Association​

▼Basic information about Oshinkoshin Falls

address

Utoro West, Shari Town, Hokkaido

Official website

Oshinkoshin Falls

■Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora

The Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora is a ship that operates only in winter. It is popular for its ability to allow visitors to experience the drift ice that spreads across the Sea of Okhotsk up close.

The sight of the boat breaking through the drift ice as it moves forward is truly impressive, and if you're lucky, you might even spot wildlife such as seals and Steller's sea eagles.

▼Basic information about the Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora

address

5-1 Minami 3-jo Higashi 4-chome, Abashiri City, Hokkaido

Opening times

Please inquire

Closed Day

Please inquire

Official website

Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora

■Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Waterfall

Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Falls is a rare waterfall where hot springs gush forth. The basin beneath the falls is like a natural open-air bath.

The water temperature is 30℃ (※) The water is a little chilly before and after the bath, so it's best to bathe in midsummer. Also, don't forget to apply and pay online in advance.

※See the "Hokkaido Official Tourism Site Official Website"​

▼Basic information about Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Falls

address

Iwaobetsu Shiretoko National Park, Shari Town, Hokkaido

Official website

Kamuiwakka Hot Spring Waterfall

■Recommended spots in the Wakkanai and Cape Soya area

The Wakkanai/Cape Soya area is located at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido. Facing the Sea of Okhotsk and the Sea of Japan, you can enjoy a unique landscape. Here we will introduce recommended spots in the Wakkanai/Cape Soya area.

■Monument at the northernmost point of Japan

The "Monument of the Northernmost Point of Japan" is a monument marking the northernmost point of the mainland at Cape Soya. There is also a statue of explorer Mamiya Rinzo, and you can take photos here.

There are souvenir shops and restaurants around the monument, so you can spend your time relaxing while gazing out at the Sea of Okhotsk as far as the eye can see.

▼Basic information about the monument at Japan's northernmost point

address

Cape Soya, Wakkanai City, Hokkaido

Official website

Monument at the northernmost point of Japan

■Cape Noshappu

Cape Noshappu, which means "the place where the cape juts out like a jaw" in the Ainu language, is a cape located on the western edge of Wakkanai City. On clear days, you can see Rishiri Fuji and Rebun Island, and the beauty of the sunset is particularly impressive.

There are other facilities in the area, such as the Wakkanai Noshappu Cold Current Aquarium and the Wakkanai Lighthouse, so you can spend the whole day here without getting bored.

▼Basic information about Cape Noshappu

address

Noshappu 2, Wakkanai City, Hokkaido

Official website

Cape Noshappu

■Wakkanai Hot Springs

Wakkanai Onsen is a spot where you can soak in hot springs while looking out at the Sea of Okhotsk. There are various hot spring facilities, such as Dome Onsen and Wakkanai Onsen Minato no Yu, so you can enjoy bathing in different hot springs.

Another attraction is the mysterious sight of drifting ice in winter. In addition to staying overnight at the hot spring inn, you can also take a day trip to enjoy the hot springs.

▼Basic information about Wakkanai Onsen

address

Noshappu 2, Wakkanai City, Hokkaido

Opening times

Varies depending on the facility

Closed Day

Varies depending on the facility

■Let's check out the must-visit places in Hokkaido

Hokkaido, with its vast expanses of land and breathtaking scenery throughout the seasons, has many must-see tourist spots. Each area has its own unique charm, so you're sure to enjoy the unique charms of Hokkaido. Use this article as a reference and enjoy your trip to Hokkaido.