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Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Hokkaido This Summer

Top Destinations to Explore in Hokkaido This Summer: Your Ultimate Guide to the Island’s Must-See Attractions

Hokkaido offers a refreshing escape during the summer months, when most of Japan experiences hot, humid weather. This northern island offers cooler temperatures and a wealth of natural attractions, making it ideal for outdoor exploration. From flower fields to national parks, the region becomes a destination renowned for scenic beauty and cultural experiences.

Summer in Hokkaido gives you access to stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and local festivals that showcase the best of Japan’s northern region. You can explore everything from coastal areas to mountain ranges while enjoying comfortable weather. Whether you’re interested in nature, food, or cultural events, this guide covers the essential destinations and practical information you need to plan your summer trip to Hokkaido.

1) Furano Lavender Fields

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Furano becomes a purple paradise each summer when its famous lavender fields reach full bloom. The lavender season typically runs from late June through early August, with peak blooming around mid-July.

Farm Tomita stands out as the most well-known destination among the flower farms. You can walk through rows of vibrant purple lavender and explore other colorful flower fields at no cost.

The area attracts visitors from across Hokkaido and beyond, with many making day trips from Sapporo or Asahikawa. You’ll find the countryside setting peaceful and photogenic.

Beyond the lavender, Furano offers fresh local food and a relaxed rural atmosphere. The flower fields are well-suited to a larger trip that includes nearby Biei’s rolling hills and scenic landscapes.

Plan your visit during the peak season if you want to see the most impressive blooms. The farms provide easy access and clear viewing areas for photography.

2) Biei Rolling Hills

The small town of Biei offers some of Hokkaido’s most beautiful countryside views. Rolling hills stretch across the landscape, covered with colorful flower fields and farmland that look like a patchwork quilt.

Summer is the best time to visit. You can see vibrant flower fields in full bloom across the hills. Lavender peaks in early July, while other flowers create rainbow-colored patches throughout the season.

The area is perfect for cycling or driving. You’ll find scenic roads that wind through the gentle hills, giving you different views at every turn. Popular spots include flower gardens where you can walk through the blooms and take photos.

From viewing points around town, you can see mountain ranges in the distance. The west side offers great sunset views, while the east shows the Tokachi Mountains and red-roofed farmhouses below.

3) Daisetsuzan National Park

Daisetsuzan National Park covers 2,267 square kilometers in central Hokkaido, making it Japan’s largest national park. The name means “Great Snowy Mountains.”

Summer brings wildflowers and comfortable hiking conditions to the park’s volcanic peaks and alpine trails. You can explore various trails that wind through mountain wilderness and volcanic landscapes.

The park offers something for every skill level. Beginner-friendly paths let you experience the scenery without technical climbing. More challenging routes take you deeper into the backcountry.

Hot springs dot the area around the park. After a day of hiking, you can relax in these natural onsen towns.

Before you visit, check the visitor centers for current trail conditions and weather updates. They provide maps and safety information to help you plan your trip. The park stays accessible throughout the summer, with many areas reachable by public transportation from major Hokkaido cities.

4) Shiretoko National Park

Shiretoko National Park sits on Hokkaido’s northeastern tip and offers some of Japan’s most unspoiled wilderness. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rugged coastal scenery and diverse wildlife.

You can base yourself in Utoro, a small port town just south of the park. This area has hotels, hot springs, and campsites that make exploring easier.

The Shiretoko Five Lakes trail is a popular hiking option during summer. You’ll find steep trails with views of mountains and forests. Wildlife watching is a major draw here, with brown bears, sea eagles, and various bird species living in the park.

Sightseeing boats leave from Utoro and travel along the western coast. These tours show you waterfalls cascading down cliffs and seabirds nesting on rock faces.

Getting to Shiretoko takes more effort than other Hokkaido destinations. Public buses run less frequently, so plan your transportation carefully. Book your accommodations early since summer is the busy season.

5) Lake Toya

Lake Toya sits about two hours from Sapporo in the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This volcanic caldera lake offers calm waters that reflect the sky and surrounding mountains.

You can explore the area by renting a bicycle to ride around the shoreline or taking a kayak out on the water. The region features several hot spring resorts where you can relax after your activities. Mount Usu, an active volcano that last erupted in 2000, provides hiking opportunities with views of the lake below.

From late April through late October, the Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Festival lights up the sky each evening. You’ll find the Volcano Science Museum if you want to learn about the area’s geological history.

The lake also offers fishing, camping, and swimming during the summer months. Several trails lead through the national park, catering to different skill levels.

6) Hakodate Morning Market

You’ll find one of Hokkaido’s best food experiences at Hakodate Morning Market. This busy market opens early in the morning and offers fresh seafood caught from local waters.

The market has several areas to explore. You can walk through the fresh produce section, browse local goods, or head to the food court for breakfast. Donburi Yokocho Market is a popular spot where you can try seafood rice bowls made with ingredients from that morning’s catch.

One unique activity lets you catch your own squid from large tanks. After you fish out a squid, vendors will cook it for you right away. You can eat it fresh at one of the nearby food stalls.

The market is close to Hakodate’s other attractions, making it easy to visit during your trip. Plan to arrive early to secure the best selection of seafood and avoid crowds.

7) Mount Hakodate Night View

Mount Hakodate offers one of Japan’s most famous night views from its 334-meter summit. You can see the city lights spread out between the Tsugaru Strait and Hakodate Bay, creating a beautiful scene.

The view is ranked among Japan’s Three Great Night Views, alongside Mount Rokko in Kobe and Mount Inasa in Nagasaki. In 2015, it was also recognized as one of the New Three Great Night Views of the World.

You can reach the summit by ropeway, which takes you up the mountain for sweeping views of the city below. During your visit, you’ll see the star-shaped Goryokaku fortress and the Motomachi district from above.

The observation deck has shops and restaurants where you can relax while enjoying the scenery. Although it’s called a night view spot, the daytime views are worth seeing if you visit during summer hours.

8) Sapporo Summer Festival

The Sapporo Summer Festival brings the city to life from late July through August. You can experience traditional Japanese culture and modern entertainment all in one place.

The festival started in 1954 at Nakajima Park. Today, it spans multiple locations across Sapporo. You’ll find beer gardens set up throughout the city where you can sample local brews and food.

The festival features traditional bon odori dancing and fireworks displays. You can also enjoy live music performances and street food vendors offering local specialties.

Odori Park serves as a main venue during the festival. The park transforms into an outdoor gathering space where locals and visitors come together. Evening events are particularly popular when temperatures cool down.

The festival runs for several weeks, giving you plenty of time to visit. You don’t need tickets for most activities, making it an accessible way to experience Sapporo’s summer culture.

9) Otaru Canal Area

The Otaru Canal stretches 1,140 meters along a gentle curve through the city. Stone warehouses and historic buildings line both sides of the water, creating one of Hokkaido’s most photographed spots.

You can walk the entire length of the canal on wide pedestrian paths. The route takes about 20 minutes at a relaxed pace. Summer brings long daylight hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and take photos.

The preserved warehouses now house shops, cafes, and museums. Many feature locally made glassware and music boxes for which Otaru is known. Fresh seafood restaurants are nearby, offering crab and other catches from local waters.

This area sits just a short walk from Otaru Station. You don’t need a car to visit. The compact layout makes it easy to see the main attractions in a few hours or spend a full day browsing shops and eating.

10) Shakotan Peninsula

The Shakotan Peninsula stretches into the Sea of Japan on Hokkaido’s western coast, near Otaru. You’ll find crystal-clear waters known as “Shakotan Blue” that make this destination special.

Cape Kamui stands out as the main attraction here. You can walk along scenic trails and take in views of the coastline. The area is part of Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru National Park and includes Hokkaido’s only marine park.

Summer brings perfect conditions for water activities. You can dive, snorkel, or explore by sea kayak in the transparent blue waters. Guided tours offer chances to spot dolphins and whales.

The peninsula is known for fresh seafood, especially sea urchin. Local restaurants serve catches straight from these clean waters. Shimamu Beach provides another spot to enjoy the coast.

You can reach Shakotan on a half-day drive from Sapporo, making it an easy addition to your summer travel plans.

Weather and Climate Considerations

Hokkaido’s summer climate differs from the rest of Japan, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. You’ll find comfortable conditions that make outdoor activities and sightseeing more enjoyable than the hot, sticky weather common in other Japanese regions.

Typical Summer Temperatures and Conditions

Summer temperatures in Hokkaido range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This is significantly cooler than Tokyo or Osaka, where temperatures often exceed 30°C and humidity is high.

The region experiences low humidity throughout the summer. You won’t face the oppressive heat waves that affect most of Japan during this season.

Hokkaido largely escapes Japan’s rainy season. Sunny days are common, giving you reliable weather for your travel plans. Rain does occur occasionally, but extended rainy periods are rare.

The northern location means longer daylight hours in summer. You’ll have more time each day to explore attractions and enjoy outdoor activities.

Evenings and early mornings can feel cool, especially in elevated areas or near the coast. Temperatures may drop to 15°C or below during these times.

What to Pack for Summer in Hokkaido

Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime activities. T-shirts, shorts, and comfortable walking shoes work well for most summer days.

Essential items to bring:

• Light jacket or sweater for evenings
• Long pants for cooler moments
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days
• Light rain jacket or umbrella

You’ll need layers since temperatures vary throughout the day. A cardigan or light jacket becomes necessary once the sun sets.

Bring both short and long-sleeved shirts. This gives you flexibility as temperatures change between locations and times of day. If you plan to visit mountain areas or take early morning trips, pack an extra warm layer.

Local Festivals and Cultural Events

Hokkaido’s summer brings energetic street performances and outdoor food markets that showcase the island’s distinct culture. You’ll find celebrations that blend traditional Japanese customs with Hokkaido’s northern character.

Yosakoi Soran Festival

The Yosakoi Soran Festival takes place in Sapporo each June, typically during the second week of the month. You’ll see around 30,000 dancers perform in teams across multiple stages throughout the city center.

Each dance team creates its own choreography that mixes traditional yosakoi moves with modern music and costumes. The performances happen on main streets like Odori Park and the shopping district, where you can watch for free from the sidewalks.

The festival runs for about five days. Teams compete in different categories, and the energy peaks during evening performances when the largest crowds gather. You can walk between stages to see different styles, from traditional to contemporary hip-hop-influenced routines.

Seasonal Food and Outdoor Markets

Summer markets across Hokkaido feature the region’s agricultural products. You’ll find fresh corn, melons, potatoes, and dairy products at roadside stands and organized market events.

The Sapporo Summer Festival includes beer gardens in Odori Park from late July through August. You can try local seafood, such as grilled scallops and crab, alongside Sapporo draft beer. Food stalls serve regional dishes made with ingredients harvested that season.

Smaller towns host weekend farmers’ markets where local growers sell directly to visitors. Furano’s markets focus on lavender products and fresh vegetables, while coastal areas offer seafood markets with sea urchin and salmon. These markets typically operatefrom morning through early afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top summer attractions in Hokkaido for nature enthusiasts?

The Furano Lavender Fields offer stunning purple blooms in mid-July. You can walk through rows of lavender and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Biei’s Rolling Hills provide picture-perfect farmland scenery. The patchwork of colorful crops creates a natural canvas across the landscape.

Daisetsuzan National Park features mountain trails and alpine flowers. You can hike through Japan’s largest national park and see unique wildlife.

Shiretoko National Park gives you access to untouched wilderness. The park includes coastal cliffs, waterfalls, and chances to spot rare animals.

Lake Toya offers calm waters surrounded by volcanic mountains. You can kayak, take boat tours, or walk the shoreline paths.

Can you provide a guide to Hokkaido’s best summer festivals?

Summer festivals in Hokkaido celebrate local culture and seasonal traditions. Many cities host outdoor events with food stalls, music, and fireworks.

The Sapporo Summer Festival runs through late July and August. You can try local beer and food while enjoying outdoor entertainment.

Furano holds events during the lavender season in July. These festivals combine flower viewing with regional food and crafts.

Hakodate hosts port festivals with evening fireworks displays. The celebrations take advantage of the city’s harbor setting and mild summer weather.

Which national parks in Hokkaido are must-visit during the summer season?

Daisetsuzan National Park ranks as Hokkaido’s premier mountain destination. The park’s hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs through alpine terrain.

Shiretoko National Park sits on the northeastern peninsula. You can access only certain areas by boat, which enhances the wilderness experience.

Both parks maintain comfortable temperatures during summer. The cooler climate makes hiking more enjoyable than in other parts of Japan.

What are the highly recommended food experiences in Hokkaido during the warmer months?

Fresh seafood dominates Hokkaido’s summer food scene. Hakodate’s morning markets sell uni (sea urchin), crab, and salmon caught the same day.

Dairy products from Hokkaido farms taste especially fresh in summer. You can try local ice cream, cheese, and milk at farm shops and roadside stands.

Furano melons and Yubari melons reach peak sweetness in the summer months. These premium fruits make popular gifts and special treats.

Soup curry, a Sapporo specialty, is well-suited to warm weather. The spiced vegetable broth offers a taste of local cuisine year-round.

Could you suggest family-friendly activities in Hokkaido for the summer holidays?

Farm visits let children interact with animals and learn about agriculture. Many farms near Furano and Biei welcome families for hands-on experiences.

Lake Toya provides safe swimming areas and boat rides. The calm water and surrounding parks make it suitable for young children.

Wildlife watching tours operate in Shiretoko during the summer. Your family can spot brown bears, deer, and seabirds from boats or observation points.

Flower gardens throughout Hokkaido welcome families with walking paths and photo opportunities. The mild summer weather makes outdoor exploration comfortable for all ages.

Where can I find the best spots for summer wildlife viewing in Hokkaido?

Shiretoko National Park offers the most reliable wildlife encounters. Brown bears feed along the coastline, and you can watch them safely from tour boats.

Daisetsuzan National Park is home to wildlife such as pikas and foxes. Early morning hikes give you the best chances to spot wildlife on the trails.

The wetlands in eastern Hokkaido attract red-crowned cranes year-round. Summer provides easier access to viewing areas than the winter months.

Coastal areas near Hakodate and other ports let you observe seabirds and marine life. Dolphins and whales sometimes appear in the waters around the peninsula.

Hokkaido Travel Tour Packages You Should Try

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Read:

• Top 15 Best Things to Do in Sapporo, Japan
• Hokkaido Summer Travel Guide: Activities & Famous Places to Visit
• Top 15 Best Things to Do in Hakodate, Japan
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• Top 22 Best Things to Do in Hokkaido: Tourist Spots + Places to Visit

Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Hokkaido This Summer

Melo Villareal

Out of Town Blog

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