Why do people love Hokkaido?

Hokkaido's mild summers provide relief from Japan's humidity, and the perfect conditions for hiking and exploring the many National Parks. Much of Hokkaido is wild and unspoiled, with natural hot springs, volcanic lakes and unforgettable experiences.



Hokkaido is beloved in 2026 for its "Wild Frontier" spirit, offering a stark contrast to the neon-lit density of Tokyo. People flock to Japan's northernmost island for its world-class "Japow" (Japan Powder) snow, which makes Niseko and Rusutsu global meccas for skiing and snowboarding from December to March. In the summer, the appeal shifts to the stunning lavender fields of Furano and the cool, low-humidity climate that provides an escape from the sweltering heat of the mainland. Foodies adore Hokkaido for its legendary seafood, particularly its king crab, scallops, and uni, as well as its rich dairy products (the soft-serve ice cream is a "must-try"). With over 250 hot springs and vast national parks like Shiretoko (a UNESCO site), Hokkaido offers a sense of untouched natural beauty and "slow travel" that resonates deeply with 2026 travelers looking to reconnect with nature and indigenous Ainu culture.

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Hokkaido has had a different history from that of the rest of Japan. In sharp contrast to Japan's mainland, where a farming-based culture thrived from early on, Hokkaido maintained Jomon culture characterized by hunting and fishing until about 2,000 years ago, which was then followed by Ainu culture.

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The relaxed, cool and spacious vibe of Hokkaido contrasts so differently to the hustle and bustle of Japan's megacity capital. Hokkaido frequently tops the charts for the most attractive prefecture in Japan — scoring 73.4 in 2021 on the Regional Brand Survey — in comparison, Tokyo scored fourth, with 47.5.

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Hokkaido province comprises about one-fifth of Japan's total land area. It is characterized by a cool climate and geologically recent mountains and volcanoes along a central north-south spine. Sapporo is the province's industrial, commercial, and tourist centre. Hokkaido University, founded in 1876, is located there.

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Hokkaido accounts for over 20% of the country's total land area but only 4% of its population, making it the least densely populated of Japan's 47 prefectures. Its large land area, cold, snowy winters, and widely scattered communities are features that make it unique in Japan.

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Hokkaido is perfect for people who prefer the cold and/or winter activities as the winter season lasts longer than the others. Nonetheless, for people who want to enjoy summer activities such as the Furano lavender flowers or outdoor summer adventures.

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Hokkaido is home to some of the most peaceful and luxurious onsen (hot spring) locations in Japan. Traditionally thought to be a cure for just about every type of injury or sickness, locals and visitors alike go to the onsen to rest, recharge, and relax.

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The Hokkaido Shinkansen route connects Honshu (the main island of Japan) to Hokkaido, allowing direct access from Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate Hokuto Station. The bullet train journey takes approximately four hours and costs 22,690 yen.

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