For people living in countries near the equator like Singapore, most of us will choose to spend our vacation in countries with winter season where you can experience snow. Well, Hokkaido, Japan is definitely one of the most popular destinations that Singaporeans want to visit to experience winter first hand. When winter drapes Hokkaido, Japan’s northern jewel, in a soft, snowy embrace, the island becomes an enchanting canvas for travelers seeking a winter wonderland. So we finally visited Hokkaido this year!! In this post, let me share our 6 day Hokkaido itinerary for winter and the things we do in Hokkaido. Hope you enjoy.
- Day 1: Chitose > Noboribetsu > Tōyako
- Day 2: Hakodate – Niseko
- Day 3: Niseko > Otaru > Sapporo
- Day 4: Sapporo
- Day 5: Sapporo > Sounkyo
- Day 6: Sounkyo > Asahikawa
- Recommended Photo Spots in Hokkaido
- FAQ for Planning Your 6 Day Hokkaido Itinerary Winter
- When’s the best time to experience Hokkaido in its wintery glory for a 6-day trip?
- How can I reach Hokkaido for my 6-day winter adventure?
- What are the absolute must-visit spots in Hokkaido during winter?
- What kind of winter activities can I indulge in during my 6-day Hokkaido getaway?
- What should I pack for my Hokkaido winter journey?
- Are there any special winter festivals or events in Hokkaido?
- Is it convenient to get around Hokkaido during the winter months?
- What are some Hokkaido delicacies I must savor on my trip?
- Can I catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Hokkaido during winter?
- Do I need to book accommodations in advance for my winter Hokkaido adventure?
Day 1: Chitose > Noboribetsu > Tōyako
Chitose
When visiting Hokkaido, you most probably will start your trip arriving in Chitose airport. Your Hokkaido winter adventure begins as you step off the plane at Chitose Airport, greeted by a refreshing wintry breeze.
Noboribetsu
Noboribetsu is a city which is famous for natural hot spring. When you visit Hokkaido, you can’t definitely can’t leave the city without dipping yourself in onsen.
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimaru
A theme park with a collection of Edo period style buildings and related interesting activities including but not limited to live performance about history/stories of Samurai, cosplay and Oiran dance. Wearing a kimono, visitors do feel like time traveled to the past.
Hell Valley
Hell Valley is noted for its hot steam vents, sulphurous streams and other volcano activities. If you have enough time, enjoy the natural Onsen in one of the Onsen hotels.
Tōyako
Lake Tōya
The picturesque lake has a lot of Onsen hotels where you can enjoy the lake view while in the hot spring. The scenery is pretty much like Hangzhou West Lake. It has 8 well-known scenes so try find out them all!
Day 2: Hakodate – Niseko
Hakodate
Hakodate is one of the main cities on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island.
Mount Hakodate
After a 3 mins cable car ride, you will be amazed at the specular city view of Hakodate by which the left side is Japan sea and the right side is Pacific Ocean on the top of the Mount Hakodate. If you got time, we highly recommend you to stay until the night falls because the night view is among the world’s top 3 (the other two are Hong Kong and Italy) best night views.
Fort Goyokaku
This is Japan’s first western style stronghold. The star-shaped fort was built in 1864 for the defence of Hokkaido against invasion. Taking a photo is not easy as there are just too many tourists!
Onuma Quasi-National Park
This national park is one of the most beautiful and breathtaking parks in Hokkaido. Each season it offers tourists a different view. In winter, it just turns into a pure white world. Do spend at least 2 hours here!
Hakodate Tropical Botanic Garden
Although tropical plantation is not that attractive for people like us living in tropical areas, the park is more famous for the Japanese macaques which bathed in hot spring during winter just like human do. Just look at their satisfied faces, very adorable indeed!
Niseko
For snow sports enthusiasts, spend your morning on the slopes of Niseko. With its powder-soft snow and well-maintained trails, Niseko offers some of the finest skiing and snowboarding in Japan. Beginners can take advantage of rentals and lessons. Niseko is one of the most popular skiing resorts in Asia. There are many good hotels where you can enjoy the hot spring also although the price is not cheap during winter time. Skiing is not cheap either and if your time is a bit tight, you can play other winter activities (e.g. snow mobile) like we did. It does not require too much skills and should be safe for most people.
Day 3: Niseko > Otaru > Sapporo
Otaru
Otaru is a really beautiful town with lots of nostalgic streets. Otaru Canal, Music Box Museum and the Kitaichi Glass Shop are the most recommended places where you will feel like standing in the fairy tale itself. Do spend at least half day here! I bet you won’t regret.
Day 4: Sapporo
As the fifth biggest city in Japan, Sapporo is more recommended for shopping. There will be special festivals from mid-November to late December. A hotel near CBD are averaged around 150USD.
Hokkaido Shrine
The traditional worship place for the Japanese ‘Shindo’ and the oldest shrine in Hokkaido.
Ishiya Chocolate Museum
You may know about the place by the name ‘While Lover Chocolate’ factory. There you can see how the white chocolate products are being produced in his European style building. There are many snack stores in the playground. BBQ marshmallow is my favourite.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This looks quite similar to the one in Kyoto and it is an ideal location for for photo taking. If you are wearing Kimono, this is one of the best place for photoshoot in Sapporo
Day 5: Sapporo > Sounkyo
Sounkyo
Sounkyo might not be as well-known as the cities mentioned previously but it’s great fun as well. It’s most famous for its natural landscape.
Daisetsuzan Kurodake Ropeway
With an altitude of 1,984m, the place is a Frozen World in reality. You can enjoy the great outdoors, such as alpine plants, foliage and alpine skiing. You should spend at least half day there!
Day 6: Sounkyo > Asahikawa
Asahikawa
Asahiyama Zoo
The zoo is municipal zoo opened in July 1967 in Asahikawa. It’s famous for the special way to treat the animals so that most of animals live very healthy life inside the zoo. During winter, there will be Penguin March dependent on the weather.
Catch our best moments in our Hokkaido trip following our 6D Hokkaido Itinerary Winter video
Recommended Photo Spots in Hokkaido
Onuma Quasi-National Park
Website: https://www.hakodate.travel/en/top7/onuma-park
Transportation: 30 mins JR travel
Recommended play time: 2 hours
Why Visit Onuma Quasi-National Park?
- Grand quasi-national park surrounded by mountains, lakes and forests.
- Variety of activities – camping, boating and cycling
- Snow world during winter time
- Not many tourists – great to take photos without background crowds
- More activities when the lake is frozen!
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura
Website: http://edo-trip.jp/en/
Transportation: 8-10 mins drive from Noboribetsu JR station
Recommended play time: 4 hours
Why Visit Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura?
- Very historical and exotic experience for travellers
- Variety of activities: shows, games, dress up etc.
- Variety of food
- Not many tourists
- A good place for cosplay fans
Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake
Website: https://www.snowjapan.com/japan-ski-resorts/hokkaido/kamikawa/daisetsuzan-sounkyo-kurodake
Transportation: 30 mins bus time from JR Kamikawa Station + 5 mins walk
Recommended play time: 4 hours
Why Visit Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake
- Must-visit place in winter
- Turned into a frozen world like a fairy tale
- Perfect for skiing
- Not many tourists
- Great natural landscape
Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine
Website: https://good-hokkaido.info/en/sapporo-fushimi-inari-shrine/
Transportation: 15 mins taxi from CBD
Recommended play time: 2 hours
Why Visit Sapporo Fushimi Inari Shrine?
- Easy access
- Very Japanese style
- The red torri is perfect for photo taking with kimono
- Best when its snowing – but remember to keep warm!
FAQ for Planning Your 6 Day Hokkaido Itinerary Winter
When’s the best time to experience Hokkaido in its wintery glory for a 6-day trip?
You’ll want to plan your visit between December and February when Hokkaido is blanketed in snow, creating a magical winter wonderland.
How can I reach Hokkaido for my 6-day winter adventure?
Getting to Hokkaido is easy. Simply fly into New Chitose Airport, the region’s largest airport, and you’ll be well-connected to places like Sapporo.
What are the absolute must-visit spots in Hokkaido during winter?
Hokkaido offers a wealth of options, but you definitely shouldn’t miss Sapporo, Otaru, Niseko for skiing, and the picturesque Furano.
What kind of winter activities can I indulge in during my 6-day Hokkaido getaway?
You’ll have a blast skiing or snowboarding in Niseko, taking in the mesmerizing snow festivals, ice skating, embarking on snowshoeing escapades, and even trying your hand at dog sledding.
What should I pack for my Hokkaido winter journey?
Remember to pack your warmest gear, including cozy insulated jackets, waterproof boots, thermal layers, and, of course, gloves and hats.
Are there any special winter festivals or events in Hokkaido?
Absolutely! The Sapporo Snow Festival is a highlight with its stunning snow sculptures. You can also revel in various local winter festivals sprinkled across Hokkaido.
Is it convenient to get around Hokkaido during the winter months?
Getting around Hokkaido is fairly straightforward. Trains, buses, and taxis are readily available. Just keep in mind that snowfall might cause occasional delays.
What are some Hokkaido delicacies I must savor on my trip?
Foodies rejoice! Be sure to savor Hokkaido’s delectable seafood, such as fresh sushi and hearty seafood soups. Don’t forget to try their renowned dairy products like Hokkaido milk and cheese.
Can I catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Hokkaido during winter?
Yes, you can! Head to the less populated areas of Hokkaido for your best shot. Check the aurora forecast and pick a clear, dark night for the optimal experience.
Do I need to book accommodations in advance for my winter Hokkaido adventure?
It’s a smart move to secure your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the busy winter season. The popular ski resorts and city hotels tend to fill up quickly.
