Hokkaido

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Introduction

Hokkaido is Japan's second largest and northernmost island. It is known for its dramatic peaks, gorges and lakes.

Geography

Cities

• Abashiri
• Asahikawa is (literally) the coldest city in Japan.
• Hakodate
• Otaru is the island's largest port
• Sapporo is the region's capital and largest city.
• Obihiro
• Furano
• Kitami
• Wakkanai

Sights and Activities

Skiing

Due to being far north and lots of snow Hokkaido has some of the best skiing in Japan. This means if your planning a ski vacation to Japan a stop in at one of Hokkaido's ski resorts is a must.

• Niseko - Is made up of 5 different ski resorts, Annupuri, Higashiyama, Hirafu, Hanazono and Moiwa, on the island of Hokkaido. These resorts have some of the best snow in the country and a more relaxed attitude to out of bounds skiing.
• Rusutsu - Is located about 90 minutes away from Sapporo's Chitose International Airport. It has some of the best tree skiing in Japan.

Events and Festivals

Weather

Getting There

By Plane

New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the main gateway arriving by plane. Most major Japanese cities are served, as well as international destinations like Seoul, Hong Kong, Busan, Taipei, Guam, Beijing and Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

By Train

Honshu can be reached by train from both Hokkaido and Kyushu. There are many connections from cities like Sapporo and Fukuoka to cities on Honshu, including Kobe, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Tokyo. Check the Japan Rail website for more details about schedules and prices.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

There are numerous trains operating on Honshu and the main gateways include Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kobe, Osaka and Kyoto. Check the Japan Rail website for more information about lines, schedules and prices.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Eat

Drink

Sleep