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!
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…
Jigokudani (Hell Valley) in Noboribetsu, Hokkaido, is a striking volcanic valley that lives up to its evocative name. The valley is renowned for its dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape, shaped by intense geothermal activity. It is a place where the raw power of nature is on full display, drawing visitors from around the world who come…
The ferry journey from Aomori to Hakodate offers a serene and scenic way to traverse the Tsugaru Strait, a historic route connecting Japan’s main island of Honshu to the northern island of Hokkaido. Departing from Aomori Port in the early hours, travelers can experience the quiet ambiance of the sea, often accompanied by the gentle…
The Blue Pond in Hokkaido is a fascinating mix of nature and human engineering, created to manage erosion from Mount Tokachidake. Its striking color comes from minerals like aluminum in the water from Shirahige Falls, but as you’ve pointed out, it’s not always the vibrant blue seen in advertisements. Weather, seasons, and lighting all play…
On the way back from Furano, grabbing some melons turned into an unexpected moment of magic. The sun teasing the clouds, casting soft shadows over the rolling hills, sounds like a scene straight out of a painting. Moments like these are what make Hokkaido’s landscapes unforgettable—simple yet breathtaking.
Tanukikoji Shopping Street in Sapporo is a vibrant slice of history and modern convenience. Stretching 1km with around 200 shops, it’s a feast for the eyes and perfect for any weather—especially during Hokkaido’s chilly winters. Its origins dating back to the 1870s add a nostalgic charm to the bustling arcade, making it a lively blend…
Uni-don, a Hokkaido specialty, is a must-try for seafood lovers. Fresh sea urchin atop perfectly steamed rice is a true ocean-to-table delight. Pro-tip is spot on: the best uni is firm and has a creamy texture, not mushy or overly jam-like. A bite of Hokkaido’s finest, straight from the sea! 🥢🍚
After the nice panorama from the tower, the Sapporo TV Tower itself.
The jewel of Hokkaido cuisine, Ikuradon, hits differently in its homeland. This one from Otaru gleams with vibrant orange salmon roe, piled generously atop fluffy white rice. Each bite bursts with salty-sweet freshness, like the ocean decided to spoil you for the day. Simple, local, and absolutely unforgettable.
Twenty months is a long time to be grounded. A short hop to Hokkaido sounds like the perfect way to ease back into flying. No work meetings this time—just fresh air, stunning scenery, and maybe a bowl of Ikuradon to celebrate freedom. Cheers to travel again!
Cape Kamui, perched on the Shakotan Peninsula, is a two-hour coastal adventure from Sapporo that rewards you with jaw-dropping views. The drive alone sets the mood, with winding roads and cliffs teasing what’s to come. At the cape, you’ll find the essentials—parking, a restaurant, vending machines (because Japan never skips them), and restrooms. The 15-minute…
This Hokkaido cow looks like it could be a long-lost cousin from Normandy—calm, curious, and probably loving the lush fields. Hokkaido’s pastoral vibe really does echo Normandy, doesn’t it? Seeing your kids react to the smell is a classic city-kid moment—time for them to embrace the countryside and make friends with the locals, four-legged or…
The Japanese countryside tells stories of time standing still, and Hokkaido is no exception. Among its stunning landscapes are quiet villages that feel frozen in another era—charming but undeniably fading. Weathered houses, empty streets, and a lingering sense of nostalgia paint a bittersweet picture. It’s beautiful, but also a reminder of the slow retreat of…