Quick answer

Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island—famous for winter skiing, summer outdoors, seafood, and wide open landscapes. Plan for seasonal weather, regional transport times, and reservation-heavy peak periods.

Visa & entry requirements

• Citizens of many countries (USA, EU, Australia, Canada, etc.) can enter Japan visa-free for short stays (usually 90 days). Check the Japanese embassy/consulate website for your nationality and current COVID or entry advisories.
• Passport must be valid for the duration of stay; some nationalities need a visa—apply well in advance.
• Carry a return/onward ticket and proof of accommodation if requested.

Best time to visit

• Winter (December–March): Prime season for skiing, snow festivals (Sapporo Snow Festival in February), powder snow in Niseko. Very cold, heavy snow in many places.
• Spring (late April–May): Cool, fewer tourists, cherry blossoms in late April–May in some coastal/lower areas.
• Summer (June–August): Pleasant and cooler than mainland Japan—excellent for hiking, flower fields (Furano lavender in July), cycling. July–August can be busy.
• Autumn (September–November): Beautiful fall colors, cooler weather, harvest-season seafood and produce.

Safety tips

• Hokkaido is very safe—violent crime is rare. Standard precautions apply: watch belongings in tourist hubs and train stations.
• Weather hazards: heavy snow, strong winds, and occasional freezing conditions—dress in layers and be cautious on icy surfaces.
• If driving in winter, use proper winter tires or studded tires and be prepared for snow/ice. Check road conditions and plan extra travel time.

Local customs & etiquette

• Politeness matters: bowing, removing shoes where asked, and quiet behavior on public transport are standard.
• Tipping is not customary; excellent service is expected without extra tip.
• Learn a few phrases: "Arigatou/gozaimasu" (thank you) and "Sumimasen" (excuse me/sorry) go a long way.

Currency & money matters

• Currency: Japanese yen (JPY). Cash is widely used, especially in smaller towns, markets, ryokans and rural areas.
• ATMs: 7-Eleven and post office ATMs accept most foreign cards. Major cities have more card acceptance; remote areas may be cash-only.
• Credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and shops in Sapporo and tourist hubs but carry cash for rural travel and small eateries.

Transportation

• Fly into New Chitose Airport (CTS) for Sapporo; there are also regional airports (Asahikawa, Hakodate, Kushiro).
• Rail: JR Hokkaido rail network connects major cities but services can be infrequent; check schedules. Consider the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass or regional passes if planning extensive rail travel.
• Road: Renting a car gives flexibility for rural areas, flower fields, national parks. In winter, ensure winter tires and driving experience on snow.
• Buses: Long-distance express buses connect towns that trains don’t; useful and often cheaper but slower.
• Local transit in Sapporo: subway, streetcars and buses—IC cards (like Kitaca, Suica/Pasmo) are convenient.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Regional diversity: Hokkaido is large—travel times are long. Plan realistic itineraries (don’t try to see it all in a few days).
• Food highlights: fresh seafood (sushi, crab, uni), soup curry, jingisukan (grilled mutton), dairy products and sweets. Visit local markets (e.g., Sapporo’s Nijo Market) and seafood towns like Hakodate.
• Hot springs (onsen): abundant—enjoy but follow onsen etiquette (wash before entering, tattoos may be restricted in some baths).
• Accommodation: book early for winter ski season, summer flower season, and major festivals.
• Weather packing: layers, waterproof outerwear, warm insulated coat for winter, good walking/hiking shoes. Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright snow days.
• Connectivity: buy or rent a pocket Wi‑Fi or SIM card for navigation and train/bus schedule lookups.
• Wildlife & nature: respect wildlife and stay on trails in national parks. In northern/rural areas be aware of bears—follow local guidance.

Practical sample itineraries (brief)

• Winter 4–7 days: Sapporo (snow festival if timing), day trips to Otaru, 2–3 days Niseko/Hakodate for skiing.
• Summer 5–7 days: Sapporo → Furano/Biei (flowers) → Asahikawa/ Daisetsuzan for hiking.

Enjoy Hokkaido’s nature and food—plan by season, allow travel time between regions, carry cash, and respect local customs for a smooth trip.