I still remember it vividly!
When it comes to places you must visit at least once in your life, Hokkaido is definitely on the list! This trip starts from Kushiro, visiting Kitami City, Abashiri, Asahikawa, and Onsara Town. Not only will you enjoy breathtaking snowscapes and hot springs, but you'll also experience the winter romance of Lake Akan, the poetic atmosphere of Otaru, and the therapeutic time of getting close to adorable animals. Every stop is full of surprises, perfect for a trip with your best friends or family, encompassing both natural and cultural beauty in one go! 😌❄️
🌟Highlights Sneak Peek: A super-soothing snow-white world, paired with Lake Akan's hot springs, will leave you feeling incredibly relaxed. Salt-sprinkling romance | The old-world atmosphere of Otaru and Ainu villages. Meet the northern foxes and enjoy the northern countryside. Don't miss Hokkaido-style milk desserts and delicious sake breweries.
【Itinerary Summary】
1. Kushiro—Lake Akan How can you come to Hokkaido without visiting Lake Akan! The winter snowscape is like a fairytale world. Combined with the KiKi Shiretoko Onsen Hotel, a must-try is the open-air hot spring where you can watch the snowflakes fall – you won't want to leave for a second. We recommend bathing in the evening; the sunset and snowscape will instantly cool you down.
📍Lake Akan Address: Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0000
🕒Opening Hours: All year round
Tip: Try dog sledding/snowmobiling – thrilling and perfect for photos!
2. Kitami City – Kitakyu Ranch
Want to get up close and personal with adorable Kitakyu foxes? Kitakyu Ranch is the place to be! The ranch is only open for a short time, so make the most of it. The ranch isn't large, but it's incredibly fun. Watching the little foxes lazily stroll around is truly therapeutic.
📍Address: 52-1 Rubeshibecho Hanaoka, Kitami, Hokkaido 091-0157
🕒Opening Hours: 09:00-16:00 year-round
3. Kushiro—Akan Lake Ainu Village
Recommended for learning about the Ainu culture, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. Here you can buy unique handicrafts, and the nighttime lighting is incredibly charming and romantic. The village also offers traditional dance experiences and local cuisine.
📍Address: 4Chome-7-19 Akankoonsen, Akancho, Kushiro, Hokkaido 085-0467
🕒Opening Hours: 10:00-22:00 year-round
4. Abashiri—Tofutsu Lake
Lake Tofutsu is breathtakingly beautiful when frozen in winter. An afternoon stroll or relaxing in a lakeside cafe is very pleasant. Birdwatching is also a major highlight, especially suitable for photography enthusiasts.
📍Address: 099-3600 Koshimizu-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido
🕒Business Hours: 09:00 - 17:00 (Tue-Fri, Sun) / 09:00 - 17:30 (Sat)
5. Asahikawa - Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum
Asahikawa is more than just a zoo; it also boasts the fascinating Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum! Here, you can sample authentic sake and learn more about the brewing process, making it a truly cultural experience. Be sure to set aside time for a visit and some souvenirs.
📍Address: 7Chome-1-33 Nagayama 2 Jo, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 079-8412
🕒Opening Hours: 09:00-17:00 year-round
6. Ongencho—Tokachi Ranch White Birch Trees
Finally, in Ongencho, we recommend visiting Tokachi Ranch to see the white birch forest. Strolling through the silvery-white forest will create unforgettable winter memories. The air is fresh, and the scenery is incredibly picturesque—a must-visit natural spot.
🚗Transportation Tips:
- Driving is recommended for more freedom. If you're not comfortable driving, you can take the JR train or bus, but you'll need to arrange transfers for some locations.
- Roads can be slippery during the snow season, so please be careful.
- Make good use of your Hokkaido JR Pass; snowmobiles can be rented at certain stations.
🍽️Food Recommendations:
- The hot spring hotels around Lake Akan offer a wide variety of local specialties and buffets, a must-try!
- Asahikawa ramen and Tokachi dairy ice cream are must-tries!
- Fresh crab meat and salmon roe from specialty shops or supermarkets are a must-try!
🛁Practical Tips (Personal Experience):
- Lake Akan and Shiretoko offer a wide selection of hot springs: bring quick-drying clothing.
- Daily itineraries involve a lot of outdoor time, so bring snow boots, gloves, hand warmers, and moisturizer.
- Phone batteries drain quickly in sub-zero temperatures, so bring a power bank.
- Some attractions have limited opening hours, so plan your visits accordingly.
A must-see in Hokkaido: snowy scenery, tribal culture, hot spring towns, and adorable, healing animals—experience it all in one trip!
#HokkaidoItinerary #LakeAkanHotSprings #ShiretokoMustVisit #Kitakyu Ranch #WinterTravel