The Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido, is an artificial pond created to help prevent disasters following a volcanic eruption. It is famous for its mystical blue water and standing dead trees, creating a dreamlike landscape. The pond transforms beautifully throughout the seasons: turquoise blue in spring, deep sapphire blue in summer, accompanied by autumn foliage in fall, and illuminated during the winter light-up event (approximately from October to April), each season offering its own unique charm.
Hokkaido
This guide to independent travel in Hokkaido includes information on attractions, itineraries, accommodation and local cuisine.
[Recommended Car Hire in Hokkaido] A Comprehensive Comparison of Features, Prices and Reviews for Six Major Car Hire Companies, Including Toyota, Nippon and Orix
Hokkaido is vast and home to cities with distinct charm such as Sapporo, Hakodate, Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa, along with many remote natural attractions. Relying only on public transportation may limit your itinerary or require complicated transfers. Therefore, many travelers choose to rent a car when doing a Hokkaido free-and-easy trip to increase flexibility and enjoyment. However, first-time drivers in Japan should note that Japan drives on the left, and the steering wheel is on the right, which is the opposite of Taiwan, so extra caution is needed while driving.
[Tomita Farm Guide] A comprehensive guide to flower-viewing spots, transport options and must-buy souvenirs in Furano, Hokkaido!
Every summer, waves of travelers flock to Hokkaido for its vibrant flower fields, and Farm Tomita in Furano is the most iconic and breathtaking destination for flower viewing in Hokkaido. From stunning lavender fields and endless colorful flower gardens to its famous lavender soft serve ice cream, this is where every dream of a Hokkaido summer comes to life. It is not only a paradise for photographers but also a perfect destination for families, couples, and independent travelers planning a relaxing half-day trip. Best of all, Farm Tomita offers free admission and excellent facilities, making it one of Hokkaido's must-visit attractions where you can both admire unforgettable scenery and take home lasting memories.
[Recommended Accommodation at Lake Toya Onsen for 2026] Prime lake views in Hokkaido! A curated selection of 8 popular onsen hotels
Lake Toya Onsen is one of the few areas in southern Hokkaido that combines natural scenery, hot spring relaxation, and highly functional accommodation options.
This area faces an active volcano and beautiful lake and mountain scenery. Transportation is straightforward—whether you rent a car from New Chitose Airport or take a limited express train, you can easily get here. If you're looking for a hotel where you can watch fireworks, soak in an open-air bath, or even enjoy a lake view right from your window, Lake Toya offers more variety and flexibility in hotel selection than you might expect. This accommodation guide summarizes recommended stays and selection tips, perfect for efficiency-oriented travelers to use directly.
Hakodate Onsen Hotels Guide: 12 Honest Hotel Reviews! Hakodate Station Breakfast Battle vs. Yunokawa's Oceanfront Hot Spring Retreat—Which Should You Choose?
Winter in Hakodate brings biting sea winds, yet this is exactly why soaking in local hot springs feels incredibly refreshing. Accommodation options in Hakodate fall into two extreme categories. On one side lie Hakodate Station and the bay area, where hotels compete fiercely for the title of "Japan’s Best Breakfast". These establishments don’t just boast comfortable beds—they vie to pile salmon roe higher on their seafood rice bowls. On the other side is Yunokawa Onsen, a 350-year-old hot spring district right beside the Tsugaru Strait, specializing in traditional ryokans where you fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves.
[2026 Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Guide] Everything you need to know: must-see star animals, the penguin walk and transport information!
Located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is widely regarded as one of Hokkaido's top family-friendly attractions and a must-visit destination for independent travelers exploring Asahikawa.
[2026 Hokkaido Hot Spring Accommodation Guide]Handpicked & Reviewed: 15 Hotels Put to the Test! Where Should You Stay? A Full Breakdown of Pros and Cons
Hokkaido in winter is truly cold, but the thrill of jumping into an open-air hot spring at -10°C is equally addictive. Hokkaido is enormous, with countless hot spring areas to choose from. So which one should you visit? Should you head to Noboribetsu for its strong sulfur scent? Visit Lake Toya to enjoy fireworks over the water? Or retreat deep into the mountains of Lake Akan and disconnect from the world?
[Accommodation near Sapporo Station in 2026] Direct access to the airport! 8 recommended hotels near Sapporo Station & a guide to avoiding pitfalls in winter
The 2026 Sapporo Station hotel guide is here! Looking for the best hotels near Sapporo Station? Whether you want direct station access, family-friendly facilities, or complimentary breakfast, we've rounded up the top choices all in one place.
[2026 Hokkaido Free & Easy Travel Guide]The Ultimate 5–9 Day Hokkaido Itinerary: Must-See Attractions, Local Cuisine, Driving Routes & Transportation Tips
6 Hokkaido Free Travel Guide is here! Hokkaido is so big, how should you plan the route? How many days is just right? What are the must-visit attractions?
Don’t worry. Bibi has condensed the Hokkaido attractions, must-eat foods, must-buy souvenirs, self-driving transportation, flight tickets, and accommodation that beginners are most curious about into this article. In addition to a carefully made “Hokkaido Attractions Map,” there is also a “9 Days 8 Nights Itinerary” that you can follow without getting stuck (with seasonal alternatives for spring, summer, autumn, and winter).