Hokkaido

Hokkaido is Japan’s northern prefecture and home to a snowy paradise with brilliant natural features and welcoming cities and towns available in equal measure. Winter holidays are especially popular here, given all the snow and opportunities for skiing among resorts like Furano and Niseko. Additionally, you can embrace the season in the city of Sapporo thanks to the Sapporo Snow Festival held every year, though the city’s signature beer and ramen are available all year long.

If you plan on visiting during the summer, Hokkaido welcomes you to mildly warm weather that offers a satisfying reprieve from southern Japan’s humidity. These conditions make it suitable for hiking and exploring the various national parks in the region, such as Daisetsuzan National Park and Rishiri Rebun Sarobetsu. If you find yourself near one of the coastal regions of Hokkaido, expect some of the best seafood in the country, including freshly caught crab and salmon.