Looking for the perfect Hokkaido summer itinerary without a car? Escape Japan’s sweltering heat and experience Hokkaido’s cool summer weather, stunning landscapes, and vibrant city life. We visited in July 2024 and found it to be an ideal summer destination — rolling lavender fields, fresh seafood, relaxing onsen soak, exciting summer festivals, and more! Hokkaido in summer is unlike anywhere else in Japan!
This first-timer’s guide is designed for travelers using Sapporo as a base, making it easy to explore Hokkaido’s top attractions via public transport. We’ve crafted an ultimate 6-day, 5-night itinerary, packed with must-visit destinations, transportation tips, and the best summer experiences—all without the need for a car!
With that, now let’s dive into the best way to explore Hokkaido this summer!
Table of Contents
- Why Visit Hokkaido in Summer?
- Quick Facts About Hokkaido
- Can You Travel in Hokkaido Without a Car?
- Top 10 Summer Attractions and Experiences
- Our Recommended 6D5N Hokkaido Summer Itinerary (no car needed!)
Why Visit Hokkaido in Summer?
Hokkaido is a dream summer destination, offering a refreshing escape from Japan’s intense heat while showcasing stunning natural landscapes, vibrant festivals, and delicious seasonal foods.
Here’s why summer is one of the best times to visit Hokkaido:
1. Cool and Comfortable Weather ☁️🌿
Unlike the humid and sweltering summers in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, Hokkaido enjoys mild temperatures ranging from 14°C to 26°C (57°F to 79°F). This makes it the perfect place for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and long nature walks without the discomfort of extreme heat.
- June: Highs around 21°C (70°F); lows around 14°C (57°F)
- July: Highs around 25°C (77°F); lows around 19°C (66°F)
- August: Highs around 26°C (79°F); lows around 20°C (68°F)
2. Stunning Lavender Fields 💜💐
One of Hokkaido’s most famous summer attractions is its gorgeous lavender fields. Each year between early July and early August, Hokkaido’s Furano and Biei regions transform into a lavender paradise, with Farm Tomita and Shikisai no Oka offering some of the most picturesque landscapes in Japan. Mid to late July is typically the peak bloom period, when the fields are at their most vibrant, making it the perfect time to visit.
3. Lively Summer Festivals 🎉🍻
Visiting Hokkaido in summer means experiencing some of Japan’s best seasonal festivals, filled with fireworks, cultural performances, and local flavors:
- Hokkaido Shrine Festival (June 14–16) ⛩️ – Also known as the Sapporo Festival, this festival features a grand mikoshi (portable shrine) procession through Sapporo city, traditional performances, festival stalls, and celebrations.
- Sapporo Beer Festival (Mid July – Mid August) 🍺 – Japan’s largest outdoor beer festival, held in Odori Park, Sapporo. Enjoy a variety of brews from Japan’s top breweries (Sapporo, Asahi, Kirin, Suntory) as well as international brands in a lively beer garden setting.
- Otaru Ushio Festival (Late July) 🎶 – A vibrant coastal festival in Otaru, featuring parades, fireworks, and food stalls serving local delicacies.
- Hakodate Port Festival (Early August) 🎆 – One of the biggest summer events in Hakodate, Hokkaido. It features a massive fireworks display and lively Yosakoi dance performances.
- Tōyako (Lake Tōya) Long-Run Fireworks Festival (Late April – October) 🎇 – A unique summer fireworks show that happens every night over Lake Tōya. Unlike other festivals with a single-day event, this lakeside fireworks display runs for nearly six months, with stunning reflections over the water creating a magical atmosphere.
4. Fresh Seasonal Seafood 🦀🐟
Hokkaido is renowned for its world-class seafood, and summer is the best time to enjoy some of its finest delicacies:
- Uni (Sea Urchin) – Peak season in July & August! The rich, buttery texture of fresh uni is at its absolute best during these months.
- Crab, Scallops & Salmon Roe – Available year-round but extra fresh in summer. Hokkaido’s cold waters ensure premium quality, making these a must-try.
Sapporo Nijo Market or Otaru Triangle Market are some of the best places in Hokkaido for the ultimate seafood experience. Start your day with a luxurious kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) packed with the freshest local ingredients—a true feast for seafood lovers!
5. A Unique & Refreshing Onsen Experience 🌿♨️
Hokkaido’s onsen (hot spring) resorts are open year-round, but summer offers a truly unique experience—soaking in natural geothermal baths while surrounded by lush green mountains. The warmer air, fresh breeze, and vibrant nature create a refreshing contrast to the steamy, mineral-rich waters, making it an incredibly rejuvenating retreat. Jozankei Onsen, just outside Sapporo, is the perfect half-day getaway to relax and unwind in Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
Quick Facts About Hokkaido
Before diving into Hokkaido’s top summer attractions and itinerary, here are some essential facts to help you understand this unique region better:
- Location: Northernmost island of Japan
- Capital City: Sapporo
- Population: Approximately 5.1 million (as of July 2023)
- Language: Japanese (English is limited but available in tourist areas)
- Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)
- Best Time to Visit in Summer: Mid-July to early August for lavender blooms and summer festivals
- Safety: Hokkaido is one of the safest regions in Japan, with low crime rates.
Can You Travel in Hokkaido Without a Car?
Yes, but with some limitations. While Hokkaido is best explored by car due to its vast size and scenic countryside routes, public transportation in Sapporo, Otaru, and other major towns is reliable and efficient. For those who prefer not to drive, trains, buses, and guided tours offer great alternatives to reach the region’s top summer destinations.
Best Transport Options for Non-Drivers
- 🚆 JR Hokkaido Train – Ideal for intercity travel, covering Sapporo, Otaru, Furano, Hakodate, and more. You can book individual tickets, but if you plan to travel between multiple cities within a short period, the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass can offer significant savings.
- 🚌 Local Buses/Subway/Streetcar – Convenient for short distances, especially within Sapporo, Otaru, or Asahikawa. However, bus frequency may be limited in rural areas, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.
- 🚍 Guided Tours & Tourist Buses – Guided tours are the easiest way to visit nature spots like Furano and the Blue Pond without the hassle of multiple transfers. Many day tours from Sapporo cover multiple attractions in one trip, making them a time-efficient option. For Jozankei Onsen, tourist buses like the Kappa Liner and Jotetsu Bus offer direct routes from Sapporo Station, with some packages including onsen admission.
Top 10 Summer Attractions & Experiences
Here are our favorite places to visit and most memorable experiences in Hokkaido during our summer trip, all of which are included in the sample itinerary in this guide.
10. Take a Day Trip to Jozankei Onsen 🌿♨️
Just an hour outside Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is a peaceful hot spring town surrounded by lush mountains and flowing rivers. Known for its mineral-rich waters, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind in nature.
Jozankei is also famous for its connection to the legend of Kappa, mythical water creatures from Japanese folklore. According to local legend, Kappa inhabit the rivers of Jozankei, and they are believed to bring good fortune. Today, you’ll find Kappa statues around town, adding a touch of charm to your visit.
What to do in Jozankei Onsen
- Take a short but scenic walk through some of the best nature spots in Jozankei:
- Jozankeifutami Park – A quiet riverside park, perfect for soaking in the fresh mountain air.
- Kappa Buchi – A small, mystical pool said to be the home of Kappa. See if you can spot a statue of one nearby
- Futamitsuri Bridge – A red suspension bridge offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding forest.
- Visit Jozankei Shrine for a spiritual retreat – Built in 1911, Jozankei Shrine is believed to bring success in business and love. Surrounded by seasonal beauty and located near the Yūhidake hiking trail, it’s a peaceful place for reflection and also a popular resting spot for hikers.
- Enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath at Yunohana Jozankeiden – A traditional day-use onsen where you can soak in steaming natural hot spring waters and relax in an open-air bath with stunning mountain views.
- Savor local Jozankei cuisine:
- ラーメンこんの (Shokudo Konno) – A cozy ramen shop run by an elderly couple, known for its simple yet flavorful soy sauce-based ramen and warm hospitality. We ate here during our visit, and the grandma’s cheerful energy instantly lifted our spirits—reminding us to appreciate the little joys in life.
- Onsen Manju (Steamed Buns) – A local hot spring specialty, these sweet red bean-filled buns are a must-try.
How to Get to Jozankei Onsen from Sapporo
- Take the Kappa Liner Bus – A direct tourist bus from Sapporo Station (about 60 minutes). Note that all seats on the Kappa Liner are reserved. If there are open seats, you can ride without a reservation. Yet we highly recommend to reserve seats in advance to ensure availability. Reservations are accepted from 1 month in advance until 5:00 PM the day before your intended travel date and can be made here: 🔗Jotetsu Bus Reservation System.
- Alternatively, take the Jotetsu Bus (Route 7) – Another convenient option, running from Sapporo Station or Makomanai Station (about 75 minutes).
- For a hassle-free trip to Jozankei Onsen, we recommend purchasing a Day Trip Pack Ticket, which includes round-trip bus transportation and onsen admission from selected facilities. This convenient package allows you to relax and enjoy the hot springs without worrying about transportation logistics. (🔗 Book Your Day Trip Pack Ticket Here)
9. Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Jingu Shrine 🌿⛩️
Maruyama Park is a peaceful green space just outside the Sapporo city, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Inside the park, you’ll find Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, one of the most important shrines in Hokkaido.
Built in 1869, this shrine is dedicated to four deities, including Emperor Meiji. It’s a place where locals come to pray for good fortune, success, and safe travels. In summer, the shrine is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a calm and refreshing atmosphere.
If you’re visiting in mid-June, don’t miss the Hokkaido Shrine Festival, also known as the Sapporo Festival. This is the most important annual event at Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, held from June 14 to 16. It features a traditional mikoshi (portable shrine) procession, where over 1,000 participants in Heian-period costumes parade through the city, carrying four mikoshi and eight floats. The parade starts at Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, passes through central Sapporo, and reaches Odori Park in the afternoon. In addition to the procession, the festival includes cultural performances, shrine dedication ceremonies, and lively festival stalls. It’s a fantastic way to experience local culture and celebrations if you’re visiting in June!
How to Get to Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
- 🚇 By Subway: Take the Tozai Line from Odori Station to Maruyama Koen Station (5 minutes). Then walk 10 minutes through the park to reach the shrine.
- 🚍 By Bus: Several local buses run from Sapporo Station to Maruyama Koen Bus Stop. The ride takes about 15 minutes, followed by a short walk.
8. Experience Sapporo’s Lively City Scene 🍜🛍️
Sapporo is a vibrant city full of great food, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you’re after local cuisine, unique souvenirs, or its hidden underground city, here are our top three spots to explore!
Susukino: Sapporo’s Entertainment & Food Hub 🍻🍜
Susukino is Sapporo’s lively nightlife district, filled with ramen shops, izakayas, and seafood restaurants. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Ganso Ramen Alley, a narrow street lined with small ramen shops, each serving its own version of rich, flavorful miso ramen. It’s the perfect spot for a late-night meal after exploring the city!
Tanukikoji Shopping Street: A Shopper’s Paradise 🛍️
For a fun shopping experience, head to Tanukikoji Shopping Street, a covered arcade stretching over seven blocks. You’ll find souvenirs, cosmetics, trendy fashion, vintage clothes, and Hokkaido’s famous snacks all in one place. Whether you’re looking for last-minute gifts or just want to wander, it’s a great place to explore, especially in the late afternoon or evening.
Sapporo’s Underground City: A Hidden World Below 🚇🏙️
When we first arrived in Sapporo, we wondered why the streets felt so quiet—until we discovered the massive underground city bustling with life beneath our feet!
Originally built to help people navigate Sapporo’s harsh winters, this 1.9-kilometer network now serves as a year-round shopping and dining hub. It connects Sapporo Station, Odori, and Susukino, and is one of Japan’s largest underground shopping districts. Whether you’re escaping the summer heat or winter snow, it’s a fun and convenient way to explore the city.
As locals say, there are two Sapporos—one above ground and one below!
7. Visit Odori Park & Sapporo TV Tower 🌳🗼
Located in the heart of Sapporo, Odori Park is a long, green oasis perfect for a relaxing stroll. Initially built in 1871 as a firebreak to prevent fires from spreading, it later became a beloved gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
At the park’s eastern end, you’ll find the Sapporo TV Tower, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From its observation deck, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Sapporo’s skyline —a must-do, especially at sunset or at night!
In July and August, Odori Park comes alive with the Sapporo Beer Festival, Japan’s largest outdoor beer festival. Here, you can relax under the summer sky and sample some of Japan’s best brews from top breweries (Sapporo, Asahi, Kirin, Suntory).
6. Have a Feast at Nijo Market 🦀🍣
Hokkaido is famous for its world-class seafood, and Nijo Market in central Sapporo is one of the best places to experience it firsthand. Established in the early Meiji Period, this historic market has been a culinary hub for over a century, attracting both locals and visitors looking for the freshest seafood.
Indulge in a Luxurious Seafood Breakfast 🍚🐟
Start your morning with a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) at one of the market’s eateries.
- We had an amazing meal at Nijo Market Sapporo Seafood Donbei (丼兵衛), known for its generous portions of fresh sashimi.
- Another great option is Ohiso 大磯, a popular spot offering a wide variety of sashimi and grilled seafood dishes.
Explore the Market Stalls & Find the Perfect Souvenirs 🛍️
After breakfast, take your time wandering through the many vendors selling Hokkaido’s finest seafood. Look out for:
- Fresh seafood like crabs, scallops, and hokke (Okhotsk atka mackerel).
- Dried seafood products, such as dried scallops and kelp, which make excellent souvenirs to bring home.
5. Enjoy Hokkaido Soft-Serve Ice Creams 🍦🐄
Hokkaido is renowned for its soft-serve ice cream — incredibly creamy, rich, and full of pure, fresh milk flavor. The secret lies in Hokkaido’s high-quality dairy, known for its smooth, fragrant taste without the overly strong dairy notes some might find overwhelming.
I typically shy away from milk-based products, but Hokkaido’s soft-serve is simply irresistible. Every bite is pure joy, melting in your mouth like liquid happiness straight from the happiest cows on earth. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience, found only in Hokkaido, and unlike any soft-serve you’ll taste elsewhere in Japan—or even the world.
Where to Find the Best Soft-Serve in Hokkaido
- 🍦 Kinotoya Bake (Sapporo Pole Town Branch) – Famous for its “Gokujo Milk Soft”, a rich, creamy, and ultra-smooth soft-serve that melts beautifully in your mouth. Beyond ice cream, their cheese tarts and custard apple pie are also must-tries!
- 🍦Komichi コミチ (Sapporo) – Tucked away in Sapporo’s bustling Nijo Market, Komichi serves incredibly creamy and flavorful soft-serve ice cream made from high-quality Hokkaido milk. One of their signature treats is soft-serve swirled on top of fresh melons—a perfectly balanced combination of juicy sweetness and rich, velvety ice cream. A must-try for a refreshing summer treat!
- 🍦 Yamanaka Dairy Farm Otaru Shop 山中牧場 (Otaru) – A must-visit for soft-serve lovers in Otaru! Their ice cream is made from fresh milk produced at their own dairy farm, giving it an exceptionally smooth and milky flavor. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a sweet break while exploring Otaru’s charming streets.
- 🍦 Farm Tomita (Furano) – If you’re visiting Hokkaido’s famous lavender fields, don’t miss Farm Tomita’s lavender soft-serve ice cream! The delicate floral notes and creamy texture make it a refreshing summer treat, perfect for enjoying while strolling through the vibrant purple fields.
- 🍦 Niseko Milk Kobo Takahashi Farm (Niseko) – Made from fresh raw milk from Takahashi Farm, this soft-serve is luxuriously thick and flavorful. Enjoy it with a scenic view of Mt. Yotei on clear days.
- 🍨 Sorriso dell’Orso (Sapporo) – While not soft-serve, this hidden gem in Sapporo serves some of the best gelato we’ve ever tasted! Their creamy, handcrafted flavors are made from high-quality Hokkaido ingredients, making it a must-visit spot for gelato lovers.
4. Explore Horomitoge Lavender Garden 💜🌿
Horomitoge Lavender Garden is a lesser-known but breathtaking lavender spot in Sapporo. It also offers stunning city views, especially at sunset. When we visited in mid July last year, the fields were in full bloom, displaying two beautiful shades of purple. Since it was lightly drizzling, we almost had the entire garden to ourselves—a rare and peaceful experience! This place truly feels like a hidden gem, perfect for those looking to enjoy lavender fields away from the crowds.
How to Get to Horomitoge Lavender Garden
- 🚇/🚕 By Subway & Taxi: Take the Tozai Line from Odori Station to Maruyama Koen Station. From there, take a 10-15 minute taxi ride (approx. 1,550 yen).
- 🚌/🥾By Bus & Walking: Alternatively, at the Maruyama Koen Bus Terminal, board the Bankei Bus and get off at the Horomitoge Iriguchi bus stop. From there, it’s approximately a 30-minute uphill hike to the garden. The path is scenic but steep, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the hike.
- 🚏 Important Note: Bus services to this area are limited, so it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance. Google Map is a reliable tool for checking real-time routes and bus timings.
3. See Japan’s Top Night View at Mt. Moiwa 🌃✨
For a breathtaking view of Sapporo at night, Mt. Moiwa is the place to go! It’s known as one of Japan’s top three night views, offering a stunning 360-degree panorama of the city lights stretching to the horizon.
To reach the summit, take the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway, followed by a short ride on the Morris Car, a mini cable car that brings you to the top. The experience is scenic, making the journey just as enjoyable as the view itself.
At the summit, don’t miss the 💫 Bell of Happiness, a popular spot where couples ring the bell together for good luck in love. Whether you’re visiting with a loved one or solo, the stunning night view from Mount Moiwa is an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Mt. Moiwa from Sapporo Center
- 🚋 By Streetcar & Walking/ Free Shuttle Bus (Easiest Option): Take the Sapporo Streetcar to Ropeway Iriguchi stop. From there, walk about 10 minutes to Moiwa Sanroku Station (Mt. Moiwa Ropeway base). Alternatively, walk 1 minute from the street car stop and take the free Mt. Moiwa shuttle bus (runs every 15 minutes, 2-minute ride).
- 🚇 By Subway & Bus: Take the Tozai Line to Maruyama Koen Station (Exit 2). From the station, take the JR Hokkaido Bus Ropeway Line (Junkan Maru 11) to the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway stop (about 15 minutes).
- ⏳ Plan Ahead: Evenings are peak hours, so expect a minimum 3-4 hour visit due to wait times. Try to time your arrival just before sunset to see the sky change colors before the city lights up at night. This way, you might also avoid long lines.
2. Explore Otaru on a Day Trip
Otaru is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque canal and rich history. It’s an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip from Sapporo, offering a blend of cultural sites, shopping, and culinary delights.
Our Favorite Otaru Experiences:
- Have a feast at Otaru Triangle Market (Sankaku Ichiba): Begin your day with fresh seafood at this vibrant market near Otaru Station. We dined at Fresh Fish Diner KAWASHIMA (鮮魚食堂かわしま) and found it amazing!
- Stroll along Otaru Canal: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic canal, lined with old warehouses and charming street lamps. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the town’s atmosphere.
- Wander around Sakaimachi Street: Sakaimachi Street is a beautiful historical street lined with charming old buildings, artisan shops, and cozy cafes. It’s perfect for a leisure stroll, shopping for one-of-a kind souvenirs, or just browsing. You’ll find unique local crafts like handmade glassware, pottery, clay items, and even bonsai (Japanese art of cultivating miniature trees in containers). We discovered beautiful ceramic coasters and loved the quaint, peaceful ambiance. If you need a break, stop by one of the many charming cafes along the street and enjoy a delicious drink with a view of Otaru’s historic charm.
- Otaru Music Box Museum: The museum has two buildings:
- The Antique Museum in Hall Number 2: Features displays of antique music boxes, which are fascinating to see. There’s also a mini antique music box concert held three times in the morning and three times in the afternoon.
- The Otaru Orgel Doh Main Building: Offers a Disneyland-like experience with a vast array of music boxes for sale.
- Visit Otaru Clock Tower: Located on the third floor of the LeTAO shop, the clock tower offers a nice view of Otaru. Don’t miss trying LeTAO’s famous Double Fromage cheesecake—it’s a treat!
How to Get to Otaru from Sapporo:
- By Train: Take the JR Hakodate Main Line from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station.
The one way trip costs 750 yen and takes about 30 minutes by rapid train or 50 minutes by local train. - By Bus: Hokkaido Chuo Bus operates services between Sapporo and Otaru. The journey takes approximately 65-70 minutes, depending on the route, and costs 680 yen one way.
1. Take a Full-Day Lavender & Nature Tour 🌿💜
Take a full-day summer trip from Sapporo to see Hokkaido’s most beautiful seasonal spots. Visit Shirogane Blue Pond, where the water shines a deep blue, walk through the colorful flower fields of Shikisai no Oka, and enjoy the fragrant lavender at Farm Tomita. Summer is the best time to see these landscapes at their most vibrant, making this a must-do trip for nature lovers! 🌿💜🌸
🌊 Shirogane Blue Pond: A Magical Blue Oasis
Start your day with a visit to the Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, a place that looks like a scene from a painting. The pond’s bright blue water comes from natural minerals, creating a stunning reflection that changes with the light. Surrounded by lush trees, this spot feels peaceful and almost surreal. The submerged tree trunks rising from the water add to its unique and dreamy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photos.
🌸 Shikisai no Oka: Rolling Hills of Flowers
Next, head to Shikisai no Oka, a beautiful hillside garden with endless rows of colorful flowers. When we visited, we saw snapdragons, salvia, marigolds, alyssum, lavender, and more, creating a breathtaking rainbow-like display across the rolling hills. It truly felt like stepping into a painting of flowers!
For a fun and relaxing way to explore, hop on the tractor bus, which takes you on a scenic ride through the vibrant fields. Or, if you prefer, take a leisurely walk and soak in the stunning views at your own pace. 🌺 🌸
💜 Farm Tomita: The Ultimate Lavender Experience
End your day trip at Farm Tomita, home to Hokkaido’s most famous lavender fields. Walk through vibrant purple blooms, breathe in the sweet lavender scent, and visit the distillery to see how lavender oil is made. Before you leave, remember to try the lavender soft-serve ice cream—a unique and delicious treat!
🚍 How to Get There from Sapporo
The best way to visit these places in one day is to join a guided day tour. We booked this tour on Klook (🔗 Shikisai-no-Oka & Furano Day Tour) and had an enjoyable experience. The tour included comfortable bus transportation and a full itinerary. It is the most convenient and stress-free way to see all three spots in one day.
Sample 6D5N Hokkaido Summer Itinerary Without a Car
In this 6-day summer itinerary, we’ll show you how to see the best of Hokkaido while staying in Sapporo and without renting a car. Designed for a balanced and mid-paced trip, this itinerary balances nature, culture, and great food, making it perfect for first-time visitors who want a hassle-free summer trip in Hokkaido! 💜🚆✨
Day 1: Arrival & Sapporo City Exploration
- Arrival & Check in Hotel
- Stroll along Odori Park. Then wander around Tanukikoji Shopping Street
- Dinner at Hokkaido Seafood Izakaya Saburo Sapporo Susukino branch
- Visit Sapporo TV Tower and enjoy the night view. Then get delicious Gelato at Sorriso dell’ Orso
Day 2: Full-Day Lavender & Nature Tour
- Enjoy nature at Shirogane Blue Pond
- Experience the rainbow-display of flowers at Shikisai no Oka
- Visit Farm Tomita for its vibrant lavender fields. Remember to try their lavender flavored soft-serve ice cream, freshly cut melon, and Hokkaido sweet corns!
- Dinner at Soup Curry Yellow or Soup Curry King once back to Sapporo
Day 3: Seafood, Shrines & Lavender
- Start the morning wandering around Sapporo Nijo Market. Enjoy a luxurious kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) at one of the market’s eateries (we recommend Nijo Market Sapporo Seafood Donbei)
- Visit Maruyama Park & Hokkaido Jingu Shrine. Enjoy tea & snack, and relax at Jingu Tea Room within the park
- Visit Horomitoge Lavender Garden
- Enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen at one of the shops in Ganso Ramen Valley (we recommend Sapporo Ramen Haruka)
- Experience Sapporo Beer Festival (if in season)
Day 4: Day Trip to Otaru
- Head to Otaru. Stop by Yamanaka Dairy Farm Otaru Shop on your way to Otaru Triangle Market and enjoy their amazingly milky soft-serve ice cream. Wander around Otaru Triangle Market and have a fresh seafood lunch at one of the market’s eateries (we recommend Fresh Fish Diner KAWASHIMA)
- Stroll along Otaru Canal. Then souvenir shopping or cafe hopping on Sakaimachi Street
- Visit Otaru Music Box Museum (we recommend spending time in both
the Otaru Orgel Doh Main Building, the Antique Museum in Hall Number 2) - Visit Otaru Clock Tower for a nice Otaru city view. Then enjoy double fromage cheese cake at the LeTAO Cafe
- Back to Sapporo and have a shabu-shabu dinner in the Susukino neighborhood or near your hotel
Day 5: Onsen & Night Views
- Head to Jozankei Onsen. Visit Jozankei Shrine. Take a leisure walk and immerse in nature: Jozankeifutami Park -> Kappa Buchi -> Futamitsuri Bridge
- Lunch at ラーメンこんの. Then head to Yunohana Jozankeiden and enjoy a relaxing natural hot spring soak
- Head back to Sapporo and have dinner. Then take the ropeway up to Mt. Moiwa summit for an amazing night views of Sapporo.
Day 6: Departure
- Breakfast, checkout hotel, and wave goodbye to Sapporo
Final Thoughts
Hokkaido in summer is a dream destination filled with comfortable weather, stunning landscapes, and lively festivals. By staying in Sapporo and using public transport and guided day trips, you can easily explore Hokkaido’s top attractions without the need for a rental car. Whether you’re here for nature, food, or culture, this summer trip will leave you with unforgettable memories.
So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and experience the best of Hokkaido in summer! 🌸🚞💜
The End. Happy Traveling!
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