☀ 10 things to do in Hokkaido this summer ☀
Hokkaido is well-known for its cold climate, and snow that can last for 3 to 5 months. But that does not limit Hokkaido’s natural beauty; a beauty that can captivate your heart and urge you to visit in every season, especially summer!
The following are the things that can be done/ you can enjoy in Hokkaido this summer:
1. Sightseeing and restaurant hopping in Furano
Want to go sightseeing with your friends or family? Do you love lavenders and tulips? Well, Furano is the place to be! It is located at the central part of Hokkaido, and there are many flower farms that can surely please your eyes. There is also a lot of souvenir shops and restaurants that serve lavender drinks for a cheap price! Nothing can beat a cold lavender drink with lavender sightseeing activity this summer in Furano!
If you consider yourself as an outdoorsy person who loves nature, then Mt. Moiwa is the best place for you! You can try the ropeway for only 1,200 yen and get a discount if you are a resident of Sapporo (around 1000 yen only), or, you can to climb it on your own to appreciate nature at its finest. The sunset is also one of the things that tourists look forward to because at night you can see the spectacular view of Sapporo with your loved ones. Souvenir shops, restaurants and other stores can also be found on top of Mt. Moiwa.
3. Visit the Blue pond in Biei
Want to try something new? Blue pond offers you a unique sightseeing experience that you cannot forget. With its blue water that comes from natural minerals, many tourists are interested to see the wonderful blue pond with other concrete structures of erosion control system. There is also a hot spring town nearby which is also a must try.
4. Mountain climbing at Mt. Maruyama
There are many things that you can do at Maruyama Park this summer. If you are an adventurous type of person, you can climb Mt. Murayama and enjoy the scenery at its peak. Wild animals such as squirrels can also be seen at the peak of the mountain. This has got to be one of the perfect activities that you can enjoy this summer if you are a nature lover!
5. Hokkaido University’s cultural festival
In June, Hokkaido University celebrates a cultural festival where international students gather and set up booths to sell their native dishes from their home countries. This is a chance for tourists and Japanese people to know more about each other’s culture as they enjoy the booths prepared by international students and performances from students of Hokkaido University as well.
6. Shopping at Sapporo Factory
Traveling Hokkaido will never be complete without…shopping! A lot of tax-free shops and other souvenir shops can be found at Sapporo Factory. Eating ice cream is also a favorite activity in this area!
Make the most out of your stay by visiting Hokkaido shrine! Many weddings and other famous occasions are held here,making it the most famous shrine in Hokkaido. In early summer, the Hokkaido shrine festival is also held here and you can experience seeing the parade of the portable shrines.
8. Ride a bike to Ishikari
The oldest lighthouse and one of the most beautiful green landscapes can be found in Ishikari. Aside from that, dairy products such as cheese, milk and other types of ice cream can also be bought here. Riding a bike to Ishikari is highly recommended to those who wish to witness the beautiful landscapes surrounding it. Beaches can also be found in Ishikari - perfect for your summer getaway!
9. Attend Fireworks Festival at Makomanai Park
Attending summer festivals in Japan with someone you love is one of the best experiences ever. Local and foreign visitors of Makomanai park often bring their lovers or friends to enjoy the firework tournaments and festival while wearing yukata and eating Japanese food.
Visiting Hokkaido won’t be complete without Wakkanai. The northernmost part of Japan does not only have a nice view full of historical sculptures and landmarks, wild deer and foxes can also be seen here roaming freely and living in peace.
~~~~
Illustration by: Little Miss Paintbrush / @chichilittle
Article researched/submitted by: JLM contributor John Aquino
~~~~
romaincrisis
stormborns
baratheonpilled
snowghoul
2087
jbbartram-illu
titsay
annaxmalina
