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In Hokkaido, Japan’s most northern island, you’ll find serene, soaring vistas unparalleled anywhere else in this beautiful nation. Think infinite fertile land, volcanoes, natural hot springs, sprawling national parks, ancient forests and gorgeous ocean views.
Besides basking in its scenery and serene hiking trails, travellers can also indulge in the freshest and most palatable cuisine in Japan, as Hokkaido is also considered the centre of Japanese agriculture and aquaculture.
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And while travellers may associate it with winter bonanza and first-rate skiing, this visually-breathtaking island with its treasure trove of summer fun definitely does justice to any warmest-months vacation! Take a peek at some of the best summer experiences.
1. Get adventurous in Niseko
Niseko may conjure up images of a white wonderland and a playground for skiing and winter sports, but this lovely resort-town has lots of secrets up its sleeve in summer to entice you.
When the weather warms up, from April through October, travellers can experience a slew of activities such as white-water rafting, horseback riding, canyoning, fishing, hot air balloon rides and mountain biking and hiking. Plus, the volcanic hot springs are open year-round!
2. Try canoeing at Lake Toya
With majestic views of dominant, active volcanoes such as Mt. Usu, Mt. Showa Shinzan and Mt. Komagatake, and dotted with pristine patches of forest, Lake Toya is a visual delight in summer, when the scenery bursts with colour. Part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, this glittering lake offers superb access to hidden scenic spots. Hop on a canoe to bask in the tranquility of the area and catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset for Instagram-worthy photo ops.
3. Experience Jigoku Matsuri festival in Noboribetsu
At this lively festival, a red ogre and a blue ogre come to town, creating a vibrant atmosphere for travellers and locals alike. Floats of Yama (King of Hell) and humongous ogre-shaped portable shrines parade around town as ogres dance in groups and local folk groups perform for the crowds.
The event occurs on the last weekend of August each year. In 2020, you’ll be able to catch the Jigoku Matsuri on 29th and 30th August.
4. Go cherry-picking at Ohashi Cherry Farms
Hokkaido is famous for its agricultural bounty, and locals swear that the best way to experience it is by literally getting your hands on the fruits.
At Ohashi Cherry Farms, located about 30 minutes from Furano, the orchards teem with delicious cherries during the season (mid-July to August). Pop by with your family and little ones to enjoy a session of cherry picking from more than 1,500 trees, which boast 30 different varieties of fully-ripe cherries.
5. Spot elusive wildlife in Shireteko National Park
Known as the “waterfall kingdom” for its myriad beautiful waterfalls – Kamuiwakkayu gives off steam; Furepe waterfall is known as the “maiden’s tears”; Oshinkoshin flows alongside a road and drops magnificently towards the sea – Shireteko is considered one of the last unexplored regions of Japan. Picture rugged peaks carpeted with pristine forests and an impressive variety of wildlife!
In the summer season, go on a boat cruise to experience the peninsula’s dramatic coastline. It’s the easiest way to take in the scenery as well as spot deer, wild foxes and Higuma bears and their cubs. Whales, dolphins and sea lions can also be seen from the boat.