Well known for its olympic-standards slopes and powder-like snow during winter, Hokkaido's summer days are similarly captivating. Summer, unlike Tokyo, can get a little chilly with temperatures hitting an average of 16 to 18 degrees celsius at night. Despite a smaller city than compared to Tokyo, the nature and the seafood is unbeatable. I share with you a guide for a 4 to 5 days worth of trip to this charming old city.TO EAT
Market
Seafood in Hokkaido is arguably the best bargain that you can get throughout the country. If you're a big fan of seafood, then this is a place that is not to be missed. Indulge in a variety of sea urchins and have a look at Hokkaido's best produce.
Gotsubo
Restaurant Izakaya
A hole-in-the-wall establisment that is popular amongst locals. Gotsubo serves up fresh market seafood and is extremely value for money. It's a small establishment so be prepared to wait.
Museum & Restaurant
Sapporo is the signature beer of Hokkaido and is one of the most exported beer of Japan. Being the only beer museum in Japan maintains its credit and attracts even non-beer fans. If you're a fan, have a go at their beer tasting at the end of the tour.
Ramen Alley
Restaurant
An alleyway filled with the best of the best in town. Our favorite is to hit up one ramen store after another. Look for interesting flavours of ramen distinct to Hokkaido's flavours.
TO SEE
Top by Saba
Biei Flower FieldsLandmark
In early June to late August, tourists flock to Biei to catch their majestic flower hills. Known for the distinctive colours of the four seasons, it is no wonder that Biei remains to be one of the most visited tourist attractions of Hokkaido. The full blooms are sights that you'll not want to miss.
Furano Flower Fields
Landmark
Lavender season in Hokkaido is one of the most beautiful sights you shouldn't miss out on. In between early July to late August, lavender is in full bloom. The most visited location around Furano is probably Farm Tomita (which most tourists get brought to). To get the ultimate experience of vieweing these blooms, drop by the flower fields at Kamifurano. The lavender ice-cream during this season is also not to be missed.
Skirt by Suki The Label
Landmark
A popular lavender farm frequented by many tourists, Farm Tomita is the stopover for all-things lavender. Here, you can view the lavender fields and also shop all things lavender. A perfect destination that many day-tours stop at.
Shiroi Koibito Park
Landmark
One of the most popular sweets to have come out of Hokkaido are the Shiroi Koibito cookies. Visit their factories to catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes production of these famous chocolate and cookies. To finish off your tour, grab a chance to devour their afternoon tea selections consisting of chocolate and ice-cream.
Maruyama Park
Landmark
Maruyama Park is the iconic park of Sapporo, that also houses the Hokkaido shrine and Maruyama zoo. One of the best locations to view cherry blossoms, the park is a natural treasure for the Japanese. Take an afternoon stroll and marvell at its lush scenery.
Pants by R-y-e
Hokkaido Shrine
Landmark
Built in 1869, the Hokkaido shrine is considered to be the oldest shrine in Sapporo, Hokkaido. Surrounded by mountains and the forest, it is a nature-rich shrine where you can catch wild squirrels. Enjoy the tranquil surrounding of the shrine while you're here.
Otaru Canal
Landmark
Otaru is the port city of Hokkaido, marked by its distinctive popularity for sake distilleries, music boxes and glassworks. The iconic destination when visiting Otaku is the Otaku Canal — which was constructed in 1928. A modernized and westernized structure, the canal and the Asakusa bridge signifies the western modernization of Japan.
TO STAY
JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo
Hotel
Centrally situated in Sapporo downtown, this 5-star luxurious hotel is the answer for a relaxing getaway in Hokkaido. One of the classic hotel in downtown Sapporo, they serve one of the best Hokkaido seafood-filled breakfast buffets.
There's not a need for a car around Hokkaido. I personally recommend JapanIcan for their day tours which covers a variety of activities to Otaru, Furano and Biei. You can view my guide easily by exporting the CATHHALIM.COM: Hokkaido map into your Google Maps application. Mobile and web friendly. Enjoy!
Follow my blog with Bloglovin
No comments
Post a Comment