By Judy McEuen, Travel Writer
SAPPORO, Japan,
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a profusion of color, thriving wildlife and remarkable natural attractions. Unlike the buzzing metropolitan cities of Japan, Hokkaido is a tranquil refuge of rugged natural beauty and a perfect setting for outdoor adventures.
The island is an ideal destination all year round, offering a variation of exciting activities and striking vistas for every season of the year. Whether it is spring, summer, autumn or winter, something special await at in this magical land.
Snow-capped mountains
Although winter on the island can be harsh and bitter, tourists still flock here from December through April to catch a glimpse of Hokkaido’s snow capped mountains.
While there are many ski area and resorts in Hokkaido,
Niseko Hirafu is, perhaps, the most popular of the bunch. Its 57 runs and 38 lifts make it an extensive skiing destination. It offers both beginner and veteran skiers skill-appropriate challenges and difficulties. It is also a haven for the serious skier because skiing at Niseko Hirafu does not end at sunset. Its floodlit slopes allow for skiing right into the late hours of the evening.
The Snow festival in Sapporo, known as Yuki Matsuri, is another of Hokkaido’s winter attractions. It is far more than a local event, attracting millions of people annually from around the world.
Teams of snow sculptors gather every February and, armed with chainsaws, knives, ice picks and shovels, attack gigantic blocks of ice with passion, ferocity and precision until they are transformed into delicate and beautifully designed structures.
Hot springs are the main attraction for the spring and summer seasons. Millions of Japanese visit the volcanic baths and resort spas in Hokkaido for their mineral-rich and therapeutic waters.
Only in Hokkaido will you see people eagerly lining up to enter Hell! Hell Valley is a 12 hectare area of steaming water and the almost painful smell of sulphur. But despite the smell, the therapeutic effects of its waters is considered too valuable for anyone to pass up.
Just be careful not to dip yourself directly into the Hell Valley pools because they are boiling hot. It is much better to use the public baths provided in the surrounding hotels and spas because while they are fed with the waters from Hell Valley you won’t have to put up with the boiling temperature or the overwhelming smell of sulphur.
While you’re in Sapporo, take the aerial tramway to Bear Mountain, where you will find the Bear Park and the living museum, the Yukara Village of the indigenous Ainu tribe. Feast your eyes on the hundreds of bears walking through the park and experience the local culture and the Anuis way of life.
Learn glass-blowing techniques
Take a day trip to Otaru to explore the canals of Otaru and the stone-made warehouses at the Otaru Museum. You can also learn the techniques of glass blowing at the Kitaichi Glass Emporium.
Hokkaido is justly famous for its abundance of wonderful parks and gardens. The 19th Century Botanical Gardens, which should not be missed, is of historical significance as it was the first modern botanical garden in Japan. There is also the Odori Park, known for its many fountains and sculptures. It is also the venue for the popular Sapporo Snow Festival.
Finally, don’t miss out on the fresh seafood and delicate Sushi available at Hokkaido. You will not regret a visit to the Nijo Fish Market where you can partake of all the fish you want!
