Sapporo to Hokkaido Winter Itinerary for First-timers

As winter approaches, I find myself eagerly planning our family vacation. While searching for an affordable destination that caters to the diverse preferences of my family, I stumbled upon Hokkaido, especially Hokkaido Winter. It’s a place where we can enjoy warm hot springs, adorable animals, thrilling outdoor activities, and a seafood feast—all during the winter months.

Each family member is excited for a different reason: my mom looks forward to relaxing in the hot springs, my husband is thrilled to get close to the animals, and I can’t wait to hit the snowy slopes for skiing. But what we all anticipate the most is indulging in Hokkaido’s mouthwatering seafood. This incredible destination has quickly become our top pick for a winter getaway.

Winter in Hokkaido is magical—a season that transforms the region into a fairytale wonderland. Its unique charm draws visitors from across the globe. Here’s why you should experience Hokkaido during winter:

1. Breathtaking Snow Scenes
   Hokkaido receives abundant snowfall, turning its cities and countryside into a pristine winter paradise. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in a true winter atmosphere.
2. Hot Spring Bliss
   Famous for its hot springs, Hokkaido offers rejuvenating experiences in areas like Noboribetsu and Toyako, where you can soak in natural thermal waters amidst volcanic landscapes.
3. Wildlife Encounters
   Asahikawa’s winter zoo is a must-visit for families, offering close interactions with animals like penguins—a delightful experience for kids and adults alike.
4. Outdoor Adventures
   With world-class ski resorts, Hokkaido is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, there’s a slope for everyone.
5. Delectable Seafood
   Renowned for its fresh seafood, Hokkaido’s culinary delights will satisfy your taste buds. From crabs to sashimi, every dish is a treat.
6. Family-Friendly Activities
   Hokkaido’s wide range of indoor and outdoor winter activities makes it perfect for creating cherished family memories.

Hokkaido’s snow season runs from mid-December to late March, offering unique experiences at every stage:

• November: Early snowfall and ski resorts start opening—ideal for beginners or travelers looking to experience a snowy world. The advantage of this period is that it is off-peak, which means overall budgets can be reduced, there are fewer tourists, yet one can still enjoy the vibrant winter offerings of Hokkaido..
• December: Perfect for skiing and capturing spectacular snowy landscapes, with the added charm of the Sapporo Snow Festival. It is also a time to experience the Christmas atmosphere.
• January to February: Peak ski season with the best snow quality for advanced skiers and powder enthusiasts, seeking a powder snow experience.

• Sapporo (2+ days): The region’s gateway and cultural hub.
• Otaru (1 day): A romantic canal town with traditional Japanese charm.
• Asahikawa (1 day): Perfect for animal lovers and families.
• Noboribetsu (1 day): Known for its hot springs and the striking Jigokudani (Hell Valley).
• Lake Toya (1 day): A tranquil retreat with stunning lake views.
• Hakodate (1-2 days): Famous for its night views and hot spring-soaking monkeys.

Travel Adjustments:

• Skip Furano in winter as it mainly offers snowy fields and limited accessibility.
• Combine Noboribetsu and Lake Toya for a balanced itinerary.
• If you don’t have children and aren’t fond of animals, then Asahikawa might not be on your must-visit list.

Hokkaido’s winter temperatures range from -5°C to -20°C. Prepare with:

1. Layered Clothing: Thermal wear, sweaters, and windproof down jackets. Opting for the “onion-style” method, which allows you to easily add or remove clothing according to the temperature differences between indoors and outdoors.
2. Accessories: Gloves, beanies, earmuffs, and scarves for frostbite protection.
3. Footwear: Waterproof, non-slip boots and thick socks.
4. Skin Care: Lip balm and moisturizers for dry weather.

February is Hokkaido’s peak season, so book accommodations 2-3 months in advance. Opt for off-peak travel to save costs or secure better deals.

Transportation Tips

• Use New Chitose Airport or Hakodate Airport for inbound and outbound to save time. A generally time-saving travel itinerary is to Arriving in Hakodate and departing from Sapporo; the following travel suggestions are based on this approach.
• Stick to the railway system, as winter road conditions can be unpredictable. The itinerary for Hokkaido differs from the Central Japan Shoryudo route.
• Regarding transportation within Hokkaido, if your itinerary requires backtracking, you might consider purchasing a transportation pass; otherwise, it may not be necessary.

• Shiroi Koibito Park: A charming chocolate factory resembling an English castle.
• Otaru: The scenic location of the iconic film Love Letter.
• Noboribetsu Jigokudani: A fascinating volcanic landscape known as Hell Valley.
• Noboribetsu Onsen: Renowned as Japan’s No. 1 hot spring with nine different types of baths that help relieve fatigue.
• Lake Toya: A beautiful volcanic lake that remains unfrozen even in winter.
• Mt. Hakodate: Famous for its stunning night views, one of Hokkaido’s top three.
• Tanuki Koji Shopping Street: A lively area that blends shopping and local cuisine.

Morning: Upon arrival in Hakodate, drop off your luggage at the hotel and visit Goryokaku Park. Marvel at the star-shaped panorama of this historic site from the Goryokaku Tower. In winter, the illuminated “Dream of Pentagonal Stars” creates a magical atmosphere.

Afternoon: Explore Motomachi, known for its European-style architecture and historical charm. Stroll the cobblestone streets and enjoy the views at Hachimanzaka slope.

Evening: Take a cable car to the summit of Mt. Hakodate and enjoy the breathtaking city lights, one of the world’s three best night views.

Experience the vibrant Hakodate Asaichi Market, famous for fresh seafood and local specialties in the early morning. Then, travel via JR Limited Express to Lake Toya. Enjoy a cruise for 40 mins around the crater lake, stopping at Nakajima Island, which was formed by volcanic eruptions to explore walking trails and wildlife. There are options for 45-minute, 2-hour, or 3-hour routes of trails, requiring registration for entry. There is a wildlife sanctuary on the island, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some wild sika deer.

Backing to the hot spring town takes about 30 minutes. In the Lake Toya hot spring area, you can browse local specialties such as Lake Toya milk candies and volcanic-boiled eggs. You can also enjoy a free foot bath, soaking your feet while appreciating the lake view and relaxing. Stay overnight at a lakeview hotel to end this day.

Morning: Visit the Bear Ranch, Japan’s largest brown bear park, where you can observe and feed the bears.

Afternoon: Explore Noboribetsu’s Kekuraku-dori Shopping Street and enjoy signature dishes like curry ramen and hot spring steamed buns. Then, visit Jigokudani (Hell Valley), a geothermal wonder surrounded by sulfuric steam.

Evening: Indulge in a relaxing hot spring bath at your onsen hotel, followed by a traditional kaiseki dinner.

Morning: Arrive in Sapporo and visit Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate lover’s paradise. Participate in hands-on activities like biscuit-making and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Afternoon: Visit Hokkaido Jingu Shrine to capture beautiful snow scenes and buy traditional omamori charms.

Evening: Explore Tanuki Koji Shopping Street and savor a luxurious king crab dinner. Conclude the day with views from the Sapporo TV Tower.

Morning: Take a cable car to Mt. Tengu for panoramic views of Otaru’s snow-covered cityscape.

Afternoon: Walk along Funamisaka Street and Otaru Canal, famed for its historic charm and scenic beauty. Visit the Otaru Music Box Hall and browse the unique crafts in the retro streets of Hiying-dori and Kaimachi-dori.

Evening: Relish fresh sushi on Otaru’s Sushi Street, including the local specialty, grilled sushi.

Morning: Take the JR Furano Kyuko Line to Asahikawa Zoo. Don’t miss the adorable penguin walk and other exhibits featuring Hokkaido’s wildlife. It is better to catch the bus at 8 o’clock in the morning, since the whole journey takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. Then, take Line 41/47 to Asahikawa Zoo on platform 6, depart at 9:40.

Afternoon: Continue to Biei’s Shirahige Waterfall. Take the regular Furano Line from Asahikawa Station to Biei Station, and then catch the bus number 42 from Biei Station to Shirogane Onsen Station. After getting off, you’ll be right at the famous Shirogane Waterfall in Biei! The entire journey takes about 45 minutes. Marvel at the breathtaking natural scenery before heading back to Sapporo.

For skiing enthusiasts, visit Kamui Ski Resort in Asahikawa is a worthwhile experience!.

Located in Kamui Town, just 22km from Asahikawa City, Kamui Ski Resort is a hidden gem for skiing enthusiasts. It’s a 40-minute bus ride from the city and offers a laid-back, local vibe compared to the more commercialized resorts in Sapporo. Renowned for its excellent snow quality, it’s an ideal spot for skiers looking to refine their skills on powdery slopes.

• Address: 112 Nishigaoka, Kamii-cho, Asahikawa-shi, Hokkaido
• Opening Hours: Early December to late April

Course Information

🏔️ Total Trails: 25

• Beginner: 9 trails (Nos. 1–9)
• Intermediate: 8 trails (Nos. 10–17)
• Advanced: 8 trails (Nos. 18–25)
• Gondola: Reaches the summit in 8–10 minutes

Longest Trail: 4km Steepest Slope: 35 degrees

✅ Features include 3 FIS (International Ski Federation) certified routes and a vast forest skiing area. The untouched snow in the forest is perfect for wild snow enthusiasts and beginners honing their skills.

Pricing

Lift Tickets:
🎫 JP¥1400 per day for adults (super affordable!) Options include half-day tickets starting at noon or four-hour passes.

Ski Equipment Rentals:
Full gear (including skis, snowboards, snowshoes, snow suits, helmets, and goggles) costs about JP¥9000 per day for adults.

Access

1. Asahikawa Airport: 60 minutes (40km) by bus
2. Asahikawa City: 40 minutes (20km) by bus
3. Sapporo City: 90 minutes (120km) by car
4. Furano: 75 minutes (60km) by JR
5. From Biei: 50 minutes (40km) by JR

🚌 For bus services from Asahikawa Airport, register on the official resort website by 5:00 PM the day prior.
🚌 From Asahikawa City, take the partnered resort bus or Route 455 directly to Kamii Ski Resort (JP¥700). Return trips leave at 4:30 PM.

Facilities

• Dining Options: The second floor of the service center houses a restaurant, café, and ramen shop.
• Accommodation: While there are no hotels directly at the resort, staying in Asahikawa City is convenient, with easy access to the ski bus.

Spend your final day shopping and exploring Sapporo:

• Sapporo Factory: A haven for outdoor brands offering great discounts.
• Drugstores: Don Quijote and others offer unique finds and local products.

After shopping, head to Sapporo Station and take the JR train to New Chitose Airport for your flight home.

• Sapporo Snow Festival: A must-visit winter event showcasing dazzling ice and snow sculptures while offering an immersive cultural experience.

• Penguin Walks at Asahikawa Zoo: A delight for kids.
• Ski Resorts: Family-friendly facilities offer lessons and beginner slopes.
• Noboribetsu Bear Ranch: Get up close with Hokkaido’s native brown bears.

1. Kamui Ski Resort (Santa Present Park): Budget-friendly and perfect for locals.
2. Furano Ski Resort: Ideal for families with expansive facilities.
3. Hoshino Resort Tomamu: Luxurious and family-oriented.
4. Rusutsu Resort & Sapporo International Ski Resort: Known for their unique features and high-quality snow.

• Genghis Khan Barbecue: Grilled lamb and vegetables on an iron plate. Recommended: Genghis Khan Damo
• Soup Curry: Spicy, rich soup with vegetables. Recommended: Suage+
• King Crab: Seasonal delicacy of Hokkaido. Recommended: Crab House
• Sapporo Ramen: The birthplace of miso ramen with full-bodied flavors. Recommended: A Phantom Ramen

• Otaru Sushi: Fresh seafood served at quality sushi restaurants. Recommended: Isesu
• Triangle Market Seafood: Customizable seafood meals in Otaru’s seafood hub. Recommended: Takiba Cafeteria
• Otaru Sweets: Must-try pastries from iconic brands like LeTAO and Rokkatei.

• Curry Ramen: The signature dish is the “Hell Ramen 0 Chome,” themed around Noboribetsu’s iconic red ogre. You can adjust the spiciness according to your preference.
• Grilled Meat: Offers Kobe beef, Hokkaido’s Shiraoi beef, and select Wagyu, allowing you to enjoy three different types of Wagyu in one meal. Recommended: Hokkaido BBQ NOBOJIN.

• Izakaya: A beloved local establishment where you can savor fresh seasonal vegetables and seafood. The menu changes with the seasons. Recommended: Shokudo Matsumae-ya.
• Western Cuisine: A long-established restaurant since 1946, conveniently located. Their hamburger steak, omelet rice, and thick-cut pork in tomato sauce are very popular. Recommended: Moyoutei.

• Seafood at Hakodate Asaichi Market: Fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
• Sea Urchin Rice: Sweet and fresh uni paired with salmon roe. Recommended: Urchin Rice Village
• Clown Burger: A Hakodate-exclusive burger joint offering unique dishes. Recommended: Hakodate Clown Burger Joint

Sapporo:

• Convenient: Sapporo Yuen Onsen Ryokan, Hotel Keikyu EX Sapporo
• Commercial Area: Conas Hotel Sapporo Odori Park Royal Garden, 41PIECES Sapporo

Hakodate:

• Comfortable: Hotel Jutsuikaku, La Vista Hakodate Bay
• Budget-Friendly: JR Ryokan Hakodate, Tokyu Stay Hakodate

Noboribetsu:

• Noboribetsu Onsen Dai-ichi Takimotokan, Hotel Yumoto Noboribetsu

Lake Toya:

• The Windsor Hotel Toya Resort & Spa, Toyako Manseikaku Hotel Lakeside Terrace

Otaru:

• Comfortable: OM05 Otaru by Hoshino Resorts, Otaru Furukawa Hotel
• Economical: Hotel Tamiying Premium Otaru, UNWIND HOTEL & BAR

This comprehensive guide ensures you make the most of your Hokkaido adventure!