The ultimate route guide for foreigners traveling in Hokkaido in 10 days

Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, fascinating attractions, and delectable cuisine. In this article, we’ve put together the ultimate 10-day itinerary for foreign travelers to explore and savor the best that Hokkaido has to offer. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

H2: Trip Start: New Chitose Airport

Travel to Hokkaido begins at New Chitose Airport. From the airport, access to Sapporo and Otaru cities is convenient.

H3: Day 1: Sapporo City

H4: Sightseeing Places in Sapporo

Begin your Hokkaido adventure in Sapporo, the region’s bustling capital. Visit must-see attractions such as Odori Park, the Sapporo Clock Tower, and the Former Hokkaido Government Office Building. Don’t forget to unwind at the picturesque Jozankei Onsen.

H4: Sapporo Gourmet

Sapporo is famous for its mouthwatering dishes, including Genghis Khan, ramen, and soup curry. Indulge in the city’s freshest seafood and seasonal vegetables to complete your gastronomic experience.

H3: Day 2: Otaru City

H4: Sightseeing spots in Otaru

Explore the charming Otaru Canal and marvel at the beautiful glassworks of Otaru Music Box Museum. The city’s preserved historical buildings and romantic atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.

H4: Otaru Gourmet

Treat yourself to Otaru’s delectable sushi, seafood rice bowls, and sweets at the renowned “Otaru Sweets Street.”

H3: Day 3: Hakodate

H4: Sightseeing attractions in Hakodate

The nighttime view from Mount Hakodate is considered one of Japan’s top three nightscapes. Also, don’t miss out on the city’s churches, the Hakodate Morning Market, and the stunning Goryokaku Park.

H4: Hakodate Gourmet

Hakodate is a seafood lover’s paradise, with fresh sushi and seafood rice bowls topping the list of must-try dishes. Don’t leave without trying the local specialty, Lucky Pierrot’s hamburgers.

H3: Day 4: Asahikawa City

H4: Asahikawa Sightseeing Spots

Asahikawa is home to Asahiyama Zoo, the northernmost zoo in Japan. The city also boasts the beautiful Asahikawa Sculpture Forest Art Museum, which is definitely worth a visit.

H4: Asahikawa Gourmet

Warm up with a steaming bowl of Asahikawa ramen, or savor the city’s succulent grilled meats like yakiniku and Genghis Khan.

H3: Day 5: Furano City and Biei Town

H4: Sightseeing spots in Furano and Biei

Furano and Biei are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, such as the Blue Pond and Patchwork Road. Be sure to snap some photos at these picturesque locations.

H4: Furano and Biei Gourmet

Sample local specialties like melons, corn, and Hokkaido wine as you explore the beautiful countryside.

H3: Day 6: Kushiro City

H4: Sightseeing spots in Kushiro

In Kushiro, cruise through the Kushiro Marshlands or spot the rare red-crowned cranes in Tsurui Village. The city’s retro architecture adds to its charm.

H4: Kushiro Gourmet

Enjoy Kushiro’s fresh sushi, seafood rice bowls, and the local specialty, Hanamaru Yakitori.

H3: Day 7: Obihiro City

H4: Sightseeing Spot in Obihiro

Take in the serene views along the Tokachi River or enjoy the panorama from Tokachi-Obihiro Airport’s observation deck. The Japanese garden, “Obihiro no Mori Teien,” is another must-see attraction.

H4: Obihiro Gourmet

Savor the city’s famous pork rice bowl and Genghis Khan, or try the beloved local “Obihiro Burger.”

H3: Day 8: Abashiri City

H4: Sightseeing spots in Abashiri

Learn about the beauty and ecosystem of drift ice at the Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum or delve into the fascinating history at the Abashiri Prison Museum.

H4: Abashiri Gourmet

Indulge in Abashiri’s fresh sushi, seafood rice bowls, and the city’s famous “Haskap Soft Cream.”

H3: Day 9: Wakkanai City

H4: Wakkanai Sightseeing Spots

Visit Cape Soya, Japan’s northernmost point, and explore the lush “Soya Hills Natural Park” and “Himawari no Sato” sunflower fields.

H4: Wakkanai Gourmet

Sample the freshest sushi, seafood rice bowls, and the popular “Wakkanai Ramen.”

H3: Day 10: Shiretoko Peninsula

H4: Shiretoko Sightseeing Spots

The Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts stunning attractions such as the Shiretoko Five Lakes, Utoro Onsen, and Shiretoko Pass.

H4: Shiretoko Gourmet

Feast on Shiretoko’s fresh sushi, seafood rice bowls, and the popular local “Shiretoko Venison Cuisine.”

H2: Summary

This article presented a 10-day itinerary for foreign travelers to explore the wonders of Hokkaido. With its magnificent natural scenery, captivating tourist destinations, and scrumptious culinary offerings, Hokkaido promises an unforgettable journey for all who visit.

H2: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: What’s the best season to visit Hokkaido? A: Hokkaido offers unique charms throughout the year, with cool summers and beautiful snowy winters.
2. Q: What’s the best mode of transportation in Hokkaido? A: Shinkansen, limited express trains, buses, and rental cars are available for travel within Hokkaido. Some areas may also be conveniently accessed by plane.
3. Q: What are some popular Hokkaido souvenirs? A: Popular Hokkaido souvenirs include Shiroi Koibito cookies, Royce chocolates, Tamba-ya wakasagi, and Hokkaido wine.
4. Q: What are the recommended hot spring areas in Hokkaido? A: Hokkaido features numerous hot spring areas, with Noboribetsu Onsen, Lake Toya Onsen, and Wakoto Onsen being particularly noteworthy.
5. Q: What activities can foreign tourists enjoy in Hokkaido during the winter season? A: During the winter season, foreign tourists can enjoy various activities in Hokkaido, such as skiing and snowboarding at popular ski resorts, attending the Sapporo Snow Festival, and experiencing drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk.