Lake Shikotsu is a crater lake known for its excellent water quality and for remaining unfrozen even in winter. It takes only about an hour by bus from New Chitose Airport. In summer, you can ride an underwater sightseeing boat or paddle a clear canoe to admire the crystal-clear water known as “Lake Shikotsu Blue”; in winter, the magical Ice Festival features spectacular ice sculptures. This guide covers transportation, must-see attractions, seasonal highlights, and other practical information to help you enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Shikotsu with ease!
Hokkaido
This guide to independent travel in Hokkaido includes information on attractions, itineraries, accommodation and local cuisine.
Wakkanai Travel Guide: Japan’s Northernmost Scenic Town — Must-Try Food and Must-Visit Attractions
If you're planning an independent trip to Hokkaido, Japan, Wakkanai in the far north is highly recommended! Here you can visit the iconic Cape Soya and the “White Path” of the Soya Hills, while also tasting rich and flavorful Wakkanai milk, large and sweet scallops, and luxurious seafood rice bowls. Below is a complete guide to the must-try food, must-visit attractions, and best ways to explore Wakkanai. If you want to experience Japan's ultimate northern journey, keep reading!
Goryokaku Park Guide: Goryokaku Tower, Tickets, Transportation, Seasonal Highlights, Souvenirs, and Food
Goryokaku Park is a must-visit attraction on any Hakodate independent trip. Its star-shaped fort is designated a Special Historic Site of Japan, and from Goryokaku Tower you can look down over the entire geometric layout. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy spring cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and the winter-only Goryo Hoshi no Yume illumination. This guide covers Goryokaku’s must-see highlights, ticket prices, transportation, nearby food recommendations, and an efficient one-day itinerary combining other Hakodate attractions.
2026 Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Guide: 20 Best Fall Color Spots and Peak Viewing Times
Hokkaido's autumn foliage season usually begins nearly a month earlier than in other parts of Japan. From Asahikawa and Sapporo all the way to Hakodate, an autumn trip can let you chase fall colors for as long as a month and a half. This guide selects 20 of the best autumn foliage spots in Hokkaido for 2026, with peak viewing times, transportation information, and the 2026 foliage forecast to help you plan your Hokkaido autumn trip.
Hokkaido University Complete Guide: Ginkgo Avenue, Campus Dining, Top Attractions, and Transportation
Hokkaido University is one of the most popular must-visit attractions on a trip to Sapporo. In autumn, its dreamy Ginkgo Avenue becomes one of Hokkaido's most iconic fall foliage spots. The campus is within walking distance of JR Sapporo Station, making it easy to reach and ideal for a half-day stroll. This guide covers transportation to Hokkaido University, the best time to see the ginkgo trees, must-see campus attractions, dining halls, and seasonal scenery—everything you need to plan your visit.
Noboribetsu Travel Guide: Jigokudani, the Hot Spring Town, Attractions, and Transportation
Noboribetsu, located near Sapporo, is one of Hokkaido's premier hot spring destinations. This guide covers the opening hours and parking information for the must-visit Jigokudani, eight nearby attractions including the Bear Park, three recommended hot spring hotels, and transportation options to Noboribetsu—everything you need for an independent trip in one place!
Otaru Canal Guide: Night Cruise, Illumination Times, and the Best Riverside Walking Spots
Did you know that the Otaru Canal is one of Hokkaido's most iconic landmarks? Along its banks, century-old stone warehouses are beautifully complemented by 63 vintage gas lamps, creating a distinctive port-city atmosphere. During the day, you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy local food, while at night you can board a sightseeing cruise to admire the enchanting night views. Using a one-day itinerary as an example, this guide will take you through the classic charms of the Otaru Canal.
[Hokkaido Subway Map]Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku, Tozai, and Toho Lines, Fares, and Airport Transportation
Planning a Sapporo trip and feeling confused by the city's many transportation options? The only subway system in all of Hokkaido is the Sapporo Municipal Subway, which consists of the Namboku, Tozai, and Toho lines. This guide covers the latest official route map, major attractions and transfer points on each line, the differences between the subway, JR, and the streetcar (tram), how to use one-day passes, and transportation between New Chitose Airport and central Sapporo—making Hokkaido (Sapporo) transportation easy to understand!
Shiroi Koibito Park Complete Guide: Tickets, Transportation, DIY Experiences, and Best Photo Spots
When visiting Shiroi Koibito Park in Sapporo, you can do much more than tour the factory that makes the famous souvenir “Shiroi Koibito.” The entire park feels like a miniature theme park, with surprises and fun experiences everywhere! This guide covers transportation, photo spots, and must-buy limited-edition items—read on to see how to enjoy Shiroi Koibito Park!
[2026 Hokkaido Food Guide]Must-Try Hokkaido Foods: Best Eats in Sapporo, Hakodate, and Otaru
When traveling in Hokkaido, there is much more to enjoy than its breathtaking natural scenery. The region is also packed with endless local delicacies. We even made special trips to highly rated popular restaurants and small local eateries. In this guide, I will share our recommended Hokkaido foods, including our genuine impressions and practical information from places we personally visited.