When is the best season to visit Hokkaido?

The most recommended times are *summer (July–August)* and *winter (February)*—both offer iconic Hokkaido experiences.Spring (April–May)Cherry blossoms and moss phlox bloom around Golden Week. Enjoy snowmelt rafting and spring delicacies like asparagus and hairy crab.Summer (June–August)Lavender fields in Furano and Biei are breathtaking. Cool and comfortable weather makes water sports and BBQs popular. Seasonal treats include melon and Hanasaki crab.Autumn (September–November)Early autumn foliage (September–October) is stunning. Trekking and hot-air ballooning let you enjoy nature. Seasonal flavors like salmon roe and potatoes, plus food festivals, are highlights.Winter (December–March)Powder snow makes it ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Snow festivals and illuminations are held across the region. Try smelt fishing and winter-only seafood.

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Hokkaido

Central Hokkaido (Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu)Sapporo’s classic spots: Sapporo Clock Tower, Odori Park, Sapporo TV Tower, Shiroi Koibito Park, Otaru Canal, Noboribetsu JigokudaniSouthern Hokkaido (Hakodate)Night view from Mount Hakodate / Goryokaku Park / Hakodate Morning Market / Ōnuma Quasi-National ParkCentral Region (Asahikawa, Furano, Biei)Asahiyama Zoo / Farm Tomita (Nakafurano) / Blue Pond (Biei) / Scenic driving routes in BieiEastern Hokkaido (Shiretoko, Lake Mashū)Shiretoko Five Lakes (World Natural Heritage Site) / Kushiro Marsh / Drift ice in Abashiri (winter) / Lake Mashū, Lake Kussharo, Lake Akan

Recommended scenic spots in Hokkaido:

Blue Pond (Biei) : Spring to autumn; illuminated in winterKamuiwakka Pond (Kiyosato) : Spring to autumn (snowshoe tours in winter)Sea of clouds at Tsubetsu Pass (Tsubetsu) : Early mornings from summer to autumnShikisai-no-Oka (Biei) : Flowers in summer, snow in winter; Snowland in winterNight view from Mount Hakodate (Hakodate) : Year-roundCape Kamui (Shakotan) : Summer (Ezo-kanzo flowers bloom)There are many more breathtaking spots to discover.

Seasons and clothing in Hokkaido

Spring (April–June)Mornings and evenings in April are still chilly. From May, it finally starts to feel like spring. / Temperature & clothing→Summer (July–August)Low humidity and refreshing air. Comfortable in short sleeves during the day, but mornings and evenings can be cool. / Temperature & clothing→Autumn (September–November)September is cool, and the cold intensifies from October. Some areas begin to see snow in November. / Temperature & clothing→ Winter (December–March)Sub-zero temperatures are common, with heavy snowfall. Strong winds make it feel even colder. / Temperature & clothing→

Winter events in Sapporo

Sapporo Snow Festival : Early February every year (e.g., scheduled for February in 2026)Sapporo White Illumination : Late November to mid-March of the following yearMunich Christmas Market in Sapporo : Late November to December 25Jozankei Onsen Snow Candle Way : Late JanuaryLake Shikotsu Ice Festival : Early to late February

Access from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo

Airport Shuttle BusTravel time: approx. 1 to 1.5 hours (depends on traffic) / Fare: approx. ¥1,000–¥1,100 / Stops at major areas like Sapporo Station, Odori, and Susukino. Some routes stop in front of hotels. New Chitose Airport Shuttle Bus Timetable (No Reservation Required, 9 Routes) Hokkaido Chuo Bus→JR Rapid Airport TrainTravel time: approx. 37 minutes / Fare: approx. ¥1,150 / Fastest and direct to Sapporo Station. Operates every 12 minutes during the day.Taxiapprox. 50 minutes / Fare: approx. ¥13,000–¥15,000 (including expressway tolls)* Delays may occur in winter, so allow extra time.