Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and foodies alike. Known for its stunning seasonal beauty, Hokkaido offers vast flower fields in Furano during summer, fiery foliage in autumn, and world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter at resorts like Niseko. The island’s capital, Sapporo, is famous for its annual Snow Festival, showcasing incredible ice sculptures, as well as its delicious miso ramen and locally brewed beer. Hokkaido’s natural wonders include Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and scenic spots like Lake Toya and the blue pond of Biei. Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh crab, scallops, and sea urchin from its coastal waters. This is my favorite region of Japan as it reminds me of Normandy, with its wide-open spaces, soothing hot springs, and relaxed atmosphere providing a perfect escape for travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, and unique flavors. Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
Picris hieracioides is one of those quiet summer signatures of Hokkaido’s meadows. It rises above the grass on thin, wiry stems, each topped with a delicate burst of narrow yellow petals. At a distance, the flowers look like tiny lanterns scattered across the field; up close, they reveal the fine structure of a true composite…
Sankaku Market in Otaru is the kind of “authentic” seafood alley that’s now mostly authentic in how efficiently it extracts money from tourists. The lantern-lit corridor and stacked crab displays make for great photos, and that’s precisely where the charm ends. We even tried a salmon‑ikura‑don, lured in by the glossy menu photo showing a…
Night in Hakodate transforms the city into a scene of quiet charm and beauty. The historic brick warehouses by the bay, softly illuminated, reflect elegantly on the canals, creating a serene and timeless atmosphere. These old warehouses, a reminder of Hakodate’s maritime past, now house boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries, making the area lively yet…
Hakodate, located in southern Hokkaido, is a city full of charm and history. Its unique blend of Japanese and Western influences stems from being one of the first ports in Japan to open to international trade. This mix is especially evident in the Motomachi district, where brick houses and Western-style buildings sit alongside traditional Japanese…
Club Med Tomamu isn’t just a winter paradise; it’s also an incredible summer destination in Hokkaido. Surrounded by lush greenery, the resort offers activities like hiking, mountain biking, and canoeing to explore the breathtaking landscapes. The nearby Unkai Terrace is a must-visit, especially in summer, where you can witness the mesmerizing “Sea of Clouds” at…
Noboribetsu Bear Park, located atop “Bear Mountain” near Noboribetsu Onsen in Hokkaido, Japan, offers visitors the unique experience of feeding Ezo brown bears, the largest land animals in Hokkaido. Accessible via a scenic seven-minute gondola ride from Noboribetsu Onsen, the park is home to over 60 bears. Visitors can purchase special bear snacks, such as…
Noboribetsu Bear Park, located in Hokkaido, Japan, is known for its promise of a close-up wildlife experience with Ezo brown bears. However, while it’s a popular tourist attraction, there are aspects of the park that can leave visitors with mixed feelings. The park, set on a hillside with views of the surrounding landscape and Lake…
Pointing my new bazooka towards some details of Jigokudani : some lovely sulfur constructs! Jigokudani, often known as Hell Valley, is a dramatic and unique geothermal area located in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, Japan. This landscape is famous for its rugged, rocky terrain and active steam vents that create an otherworldly atmosphere. The name “Jigokudani,” meaning “Hell…
Jigokudani Hot Spring in Hokkaido is a geothermal area renowned for its striking landscape of steaming vents, bubbling hot springs, and vibrant mineral-streaked rock formations. Located in Noboribetsu, part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, this area is sometimes known as Hell Valley due to its intense geothermal activity and otherworldly appearance. Despite the ominous name, Jigokudani…
The trails and paths around Jigokudani Hot Spring in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido are carefully constructed to guide visitors through the dramatic landscape of this geothermal wonder. These paths provide access to the most striking features of the area while allowing visitors to safely explore the unique natural environment. Composition and Structure The trails are typically well-maintained…
