Best things to do in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Essentials

This collection highlights Hokkaido’s geographical and cultural landmarks, from the northernmost tip at Cape Soya to the volcanic landscapes of Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Explore the star-shaped Goryōkaku fort in Hakodate and the vast lavender fields of Farm Tomita in Furano. The selection includes urban highlights like Sapporo’s Nijo Ichiba seafood market and the Isamu Noguchi-designed Moerenuma Park, alongside natural wonders like Lake Akan, known for its rare marimo algae and indigenous Ainu heritage.

Hokkaido Essentials — Map

京浜にけ / CC BY-SA 3.0

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Goryōkaku

Goryōkaku is a star fort in the Japanese city of Hakodate on the island of Hokkaido. The fortress was completed in 1866.

J o / CC-BY-SA-3.0

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Mount Hakodate Ropeway

The Mt. Hakodate Ropeway is the name of an aerial lift, as well as its operator. The line climbs Mount Hakodate in Hakodate, Japan.

利用者:マガちゃん / CC-BY-SA-3.0

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Farm Tomita

Located in Furano, this farm features expansive lavender fields that bloom from late June to early August. The grounds include several seasonal flower gardens, a lavender oil distillery, and cafes.

Douglas Perkins / CC BY 2.0

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Asahiyama Zoo

The Asahiyama Zoo is a municipal zoo that opened in July 1967 in Asahikawa, Hokkaidō, Japan, and is the northernmost zoo in the country.

Route275 / CC BY-SA 3.0

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Mt. Moiwa Ropeway

The Mt. Moiwa Ropeway is Japanese aerial lift line in Sapporo, Hokkaidō.

Que Lay Peng / CC-BY-SA

F

Nijo Ichiba

Choose from a wide range of seafood on this lively fish market. Many species of crabs and fish available!

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Shikotsu Toya National Park

Shikotsu-Tōya National Park is a national park in the western part of the island of Hokkaidō, Japan.

100yen / CC-BY-SA-3.0

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Cape Soya

Cape Sōya is the northernmost point of the island of Hokkaidō, Japan. It is situated in Wakkanai, Sōya Subprefecture.

Batholith / Public domain

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Lake Akan

Lake Akan is a lake in Kushiro, Hokkaidō, Japan. It is located in Akan National Park and is a Ramsar Site.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

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Hachiman-zaka Slope

Come here for wonderful views of the harbour and the whole city! Stroll down the pavement and take some great photographs.

もんもん / Public domain

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Moerenuma Park

Moerenuma Park is a municipal park in Sapporo, Japan. It has playground equipment, outdoor sports fields, and objects that are designed by…

yoppy / CC BY 2.0

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Shikisai Hill

A panoramic flower garden in Biei covering 15 hectares. It features seasonal blooms from spring through autumn, including tulips, lupines, and sunflowers arranged in vibrant stripes across the rolling hills.

hosomall / CC BY-SA 3.0

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Goryokaku Tower

A 107-meter observation tower providing a bird's-eye view of the star-shaped Goryōkaku fort. The deck offers 360-degree views of Hakodate city, Mount Hakodate, and the Tsugaru Strait.

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Oshinkoshinno falls

A 50-meter-high waterfall on the Shiretoko Peninsula known as the 'Twin Beauties' because the stream splits into two. It is located directly along the coastal road toward Utoro.

lienyuan lee / CC BY 3.0

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Hakodate Asaichi (Morning Market)

A bustling morning market near Hakodate Station featuring over 250 stores. It specializes in fresh seafood, including Hokkaido crabs, salmon roe, and sea urchins, and features a popular squid fishing pond.

Other Lists

Scenic Peaks and Viewpoints Historical & Cultural Sites Sacred Sites of Hokkaido Hokkaido's Best Hot Springs Hokkaido's Nature & Parks Theme & Amusement Parks Top Hokkaido Campsites Japan's Volcanic Wonders