Hokkaido’s Geography
Hokkaido is the most northern and second largest island of the four main islands in the Japanese archipelago. Because it is so far north, temperatures are a bit colder than the rest of Japan. The annual mean temperature is around 10ºC (50ºF). Comparing it to the United States, its climate is similar to that of Chicago, Illinois. Beautiful mountains, lakes, rivers, forests, and wetlands cover the island. There are also several active and inactive volcanoes which lends to the development of natural onsens (hot springs) throughout the region for people to enjoy.
Cities
There are 35 cities and close to 150 towns and villages scattered throughout Hokkaido. 5.4 million people spread across 83.4K km2 populate these towns and cities. The population density is 67 persons/km2, which is one-fifth the population density of the national average for the rest of Japan. By far, the biggest city is Sapporo; home to almost 2 million people. The next biggest, Asahikawa, has only 350,000 people by comparison.
Famous Foods!
Hokkaido is known for its fresh seafood brought in locally from the costal towns; however, even more famous are their dairy products. The fertile inland plains and mild summer climate provide fantastic pastures for Hokkaido cows to make high quality milk products. The chilly climate means it’s always a good time to eat a hot bowl of ramen. Hokkaido Ramen Santouka is a chain that first opened in Asahikawa on 10 March, 1988. The chain has since expanded, and can now be found across Japan, North America, and Southeast Asia. Sapporo is specifically famous for their miso ramen and Hakodate is known for their shio (salt) ramen. Finally, if seafood, dairy, or pasta aren’t your thing, you have to know about their world-famous fruit—the Yubari King Melons. Although they might break the bank, according to Business Insider, a set of two sold at auction for $45,000 in 2019!
Where to go and what to see?
Sapporo is a wonderful city to explore and has tons to do and see. They are well known for their Sapporo beer; so much so that they even have a museum for it. If you’re in town in February, make sure to attend the Sapporo Snow Festival. It’s a massive winter festival held every year for an entire week. There are several ski resorts, like Niseko, that have perfect fine-powered snow. In contrast, if you want to stay warm you can relax in an onsen. There are hundreds around the island. One popular onsen is found in Noboribetsu, southwestern Hokkaido. Hokkaido’s natural beauty is easy to see everywhere, even in the cities; however, if you want to see nature without the buildings, then check out Daisetuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park.
The Road less Traveled…
Unfortunately, the northern parts of Japan tend to be less traveled when compared to places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Hokkaido in particular doesn’t get a lot of tourists because it is separate from the main island despite its multitude of attractions and offerings. If you’re looking for somewhere that’s off-the-beaten-path, Hokkaido’s natural beauty, awesome cities, and great attractions make it a wonderful place to visit.
