A Guide to Recommended Activities in Hokkaido | A Season-by-Season Activity Guide to Making the Most of Hokkaido’s Four Seasons

What are some popular activities in Hokkaido?

Popular activities in Hokkaido include:Clear-bottom kayaking on Lake Shikotsu, rafting and hot air balloon rides in Niseko, and sightseeing boat cruises in Shiretoko, If it's winter,Skiing, Ice Fishing for Wakasagi, SnowshoeingIt is.

Since the kinds of activities available in Hokkaido change drastically depending on the season,"When, Where, and What to Do"The key to enjoying your trip is to decide on that in advance.

In this article, we’ll introduce 18 recommended activities in HokkaidoBy Season · For Families with Children · For AdultsI'll introduce them in the following sections.

There’s also a quick reference chart that shows the area, season, travel time, and estimated cost at a glance, so please use it to help plan your trip.

＼Check out the most popular activities in Hokkaido right now!／

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2 hours] (Spring & Summer) Experience the beauty of a lake and river with one of the highest water quality in Japan by clear kayak with a transparent bottom! Free tour photo (No.6)開始時間9:00-11:00 / 11:00-13:00 / 13:30-15:30 / 15:30-17:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours10,000 yen

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2.5 hours] No need to bring anything and photos are included! (Summer) Experience the lake and river, which boasts the highest water quality in Japan for 11 consecutive years, by clear SUP, the first of its kind in Hokkaido! Various amenities are free! Beginners and couples are welcome.開始時間9:00-11:30 / 12:00-14:30 / 15:00-17:30所要時間Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes10,500 yen

Eniwa/1.5 hours] Limited to May-November "60-minute Trek Course" Aerial walk through the forest! Aerial athletic activities to play in the great outdoors 《Free cancellation until the last minute》(No.1)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 所要時間Approx. 1.5 hours3,500 yen

Click here for the ranking of recommended tours in Hokkaido

Quick Reference Guide to Activities in Hokkaido

We've compiled a list of the main activities you can enjoy in Hokkaido, organized by area and season.

Narrow down your search by travel dates and areaThat way, it becomes easier to find an experience that suits you.

Activities [Spring–Fall]

Activities in the “Winter & Other” Category

*Please check the description for each activity for pricing, duration, and age requirements.

Popular Activities in Hokkaido from Spring to Fall

From spring, when the snow melts, through fall, when the leaves change color,Lakes, Rivers, Forests, and the SkyIt's the season to enjoy a whole range of activities set in this location.

One of Hokkaido's charms is that it doesn't have the same kind of muggy heat as Honshu, so you can enjoy playing outdoors comfortably even in the summer.

Here, we'll introduce some popular activities that are in high demand from spring through fall.

Click here for a ranking of tours recommended for summer.

1. Clear Kayaking on Lake Shikotsu

Paddling across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Shikotsu in a kayak with a transparent bottomThis is one of our most popular experiences.

It gives you a strange sensation, as if you were floating on the water, and the view all the way to the bottom of the lake makes for a stunning photo.

There are also plans that let you join without bringing anything and get free photos from the tour.

▼Lake Shikotsu Clear KayakRecommended Plans▼

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2 hours] (Spring & Summer) Experience the beauty of a lake and river with one of the highest water quality in Japan by clear kayak with a transparent bottom! Free tour photo (No.6)開始時間9:00-11:00 / 11:00-13:00 / 13:30-15:30 / 15:30-17:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours10,000 yen

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2 hours] (Summer) Experience the beauty of a lake and river with Japan's top class water quality by clear kayak with a transparent bottom! Free tour photo (No.8)開始時間9:00-11:00 / 11:00-13:00 / 13:30-15:30 / 15:30-17:30所要時間Approx. 2 hours10,500 yen

2. Clear SUP on Lake Shikotsu

Moving across the water's surface while standingClear SUPFrom here, you're higher up than when you're in a kayak, so you can enjoy a view that looks down over the lake.

Many beginners and couples participate, and if you choose a plan that includes free amenities and photos, you can come empty-handed.

Some packages include discount coupons for hot springs, so you can warm up after your experience before heading home.

▼Lake Shikotsu Clear SUPRecommended Plans▼

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2.5hrs] No need to bring anything! (Spring) Experience the lake and river, which boasts the highest water quality in Japan for 11 consecutive years, by clear SUP, the first of its kind in Hokkaido! Various amenities are free! Beginners and couples are welcome.開始時間9:00-11:30 / 12:00-14:30 / 15:00-17:30所要時間Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes10,500 yen

Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido / 2.5 hours] No need to bring anything and photos are included! (Summer) Experience the lake and river, which boasts the highest water quality in Japan for 11 consecutive years, by clear SUP, the first of its kind in Hokkaido! Various amenities are free! Beginners and couples are welcome.開始時間9:00-11:30 / 12:00-14:30 / 15:00-17:30所要時間Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes10,500 yen

3. Rafting in Niseko

Niseko'sShiribetsu RiverRafting down the river in an inflatable boat is one of Hokkaido’s signature summer activities.

The sense of unity that comes from paddling together to navigate the rapids makes this the perfect activity for family and group trips.

Since children as young as 4 can participate, it's a fun experience even for families with kids.

▼Rafting Tours in NisekoClick here ▼

Niseko/Half Day] Dynamic rafting tour on the Shiribetsu River☆Let's experience rafting in the clearest river in Japan! April to October〉（v-14)開始時間:所要時間:

4. Canoeing on Lake Toya

Lake ToyaHere, you can enjoy a leisurely canoe tour as you glide across the calm lake.

It's not as intense as rafting, so it's recommended for first-time paddlers and families with young children.

If you choose the early morning plan, you might even get to see the lake shrouded in a magical morning mist.

Lake Toya/2.5 hours] Canoe touring on Lake Toya, the third largest lake in Japan (from April to October).開始時間:所要時間:

5. Hot Air Balloons in Niseko

Viewing the Niseko Mountain Range and Mount Yotei from the airHot Air Balloon Ridewill make for a special memory unique to Hokkaido.

These events take place on calm, early mornings or in the evening, and even young children are welcome to participate.

Since this is a summer-only experience, we recommend making a reservation as soon as possible once you've set your dates.

Niseko/Early morning or late afternoon]Hot-air ballooning with a spectacular view of the Niseko mountain range in Hokkaido (June - September) (v-13)開始時間:所要時間:

6. Eniwa Forest Aerial Adventure Course

Crossing ropes and zip lines strung between treesHigh Ropes CourseIt's a forest playground where even adults can get seriously involved.

You can choose from 60-minute, 90-minute, or 120-minute courses based on your fitness level, and there’s also a kids’ course for children 90 cm and taller.

Since it's close to New Chitose Airport, it's an experience that's easy to fit into the first or last day of your trip.

▼High Ropes CourseList of Courses▼

Eniwa/1.5 hours] Limited to May-November "60-minute Trek Course" Aerial walk through the forest! Aerial athletic activities to play in the great outdoors 《Free cancellation until the last minute》(No.1)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 所要時間Approx. 1.5 hours3,500 yen

Eniwa/2 hours] "90-minute Trek Course" limited from May to November: Aerial walk through the forest! Aerial athletic activities to play in the great outdoors 《Free cancellation until the last minute》（No.2）.開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 所要時間Approx. 2 hours4,600 yen

Eniwa/2.5 hours] "120-minute Trek Course" limited from May to November: Aerial walk through the forest! Aerial athletic activities to enjoy the great outdoors 《Free cancellation until the last minute》（No.3）.開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours5,800 yen

Eniwa/1 hour] May-November only "Kids Course": A forest becomes a huge playground!開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00 / 16:00 所要時間Approx. 1 hour2,000 yen

7. Segway Tours in Hakodate Onuma and Sapporo

Moving Forward Just by Shifting Your WeightSegwayThat way, you can easily explore a wider area than you could on foot.

In Hakodate’s Onuma area, we’ve prepared a course that winds through grasslands and forests with views of Mt. Komagatake, and in Sapporo, a course that runs through Takino Suzuran Hillside Park.

You can join with as few as one person, and it’s also great that photo data is included.

[Hokkaido, Hakodate Onuma / 2.5 hours] Race through grasslands and forests with views of Mt. Komagatake ☆ Off-road Segway Experience! Includes photo data. 《Open to 1 person or more · Beginners welcome》 (No. 20)開始時間: 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 1:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours9,600 yen

[Hokkaido, Sapporo / 2.5 hours] Enjoy the Magnificent Nature ☆ Segway Tour of Takino Suzuran Hillside Park! Includes Digital Photos 《Open to 1 or more participants · Beginners Welcome》 (No. 21)開始時間: 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / 1:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2.5 hours9,600 yen

8. Horseback Riding in Noboribetsu

Traveling across the vast land, rocked by the movement of the horse’s backHorseback Riding ExperienceIt's also one of the activities that epitomize Hokkaido.

The horseback riding courses in Noboribetsu include instruction, so even first-time riders can feel at ease.

In the hot spring town of Noboribetsu, you can relax in the hot springs after a horseback ride.

Noboribetsu/1 hour～] From 1 person, you can participate in this course!開始時間:所要時間:

9. Sightseeing Boat Cruises in Shiretoko

World Natural Heritage SiteShiretoko PeninsulaA classic way to enjoy the experience is to view the cliffs and waterfalls—which are inaccessible from land—from a boat.

If you choose a large ship with an observation deck, even those who are sensitive to motion can have a relatively comfortable trip.

If you're lucky, you might even spot wildlife such as brown bears or deer along the coast.

Shiretoko Utoro Port (Departure/4 hours): Free of charge for children up to 5 years old! Shiretoko Sightseeing Boat World Heritage Site☆《Advance booking possible》Senjoy the great nature of Hokkaido on a large boat with an observation deck〈June-Oct〉（v-17)開始時間:所要時間:

10. Hiking in the Shiretoko Forests

Take a Walk Through the World Heritage Forest with a GuideHiking Touris recommended for those who want to gain a deeper understanding of Shiretoko’s natural environment.

Since you walk while listening to explanations about plant and animal traces, you’ll discover many times more than if you were exploring on your own.

This plan includes transportation from the Utoro area and allows for same-day reservations.

Shiretoko/Morning】Spectacular Shiretoko Forest Hiking Tour☆《Reservations can be made on the day of the tour, pickup and drop-off in Utoro area》Learn about the World Heritage forest with a local guide (v-21)開始時間:所要時間:

11. Tour of the Flower Fields in Furano and Biei

In Furano and Biei during the summer, lavender and other flowers—Flower FieldIt spreads across the entire hill.

Since popular spots like Farm Tomita, Shikisai-no-Oka, and the Blue Pond are spread out, a bus tour is the most convenient way to see them all efficiently.

Another appealing feature is that you don't have to worry about driving, and you can join even if you're traveling alone.

▼Furano and BieiBus Tour of ▼

One-day bus tour to visit Farm Tomita, Shikisaino-Oka, and Aoi Ike (with lunch and multilingual audio guidance system) (v-3)開始時間:所要時間:

Winter Activities in Hokkaido

Winter in Hokkaido is,Snow and IceThe season when everything becomes a playground.

In addition to skiing, there are plenty of experiences unique to snowy regions, such as smelt fishing and snowshoeing.

There are many plans that are kid-friendly, so it's highly recommended for family vacations.

Click here to see the ranking of tours recommended for winter.

12. Skiing and Snowboarding in Niseko and Rusutsu

Light and fluffypowder snowNiseko and Rusutsu, where skiers from all over the world gather.

If you're a beginner, taking lessons with a professional instructor will help you improve your skiing skills significantly, even in a short amount of time.

You can choose from a variety of options, ranging from a roughly 2.5-hour course for beginners to full-day lessons and night lessons.

▼Ski and Snowboard LessonsRecommended Plans▼

[Niseko / Approx. 3 hours] Perfect for your first time on the slopes! Thorough instruction starting with the basics. Choose between skiing or snowboarding (No. 12)開始時間: Morning: Between 8:30 and 10:00 (to be arranged) / Afternoon: 1:30 p.m.所要時間: About 3 hours60,000 yen

[Niseko / 1 Day] Improve at your own pace! A full 6-hour lesson taught by a pro☆ (Choose Skiing or Snowboarding) (No. 11)開始時間Approximately 6 hours between 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.所要時間: About 6 hours110,000 yen

[Niseko / Approx. 2 hours] Night Lessons: Enjoy the Slopes After Dark☆ 2 Hours of Intensive Practice (Choose Skiing or Snowboarding) (No. 13)開始時間: 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2 hours45,000 yen

[Hokkaido / 1 hour or more] One-on-one lessons available! Private ski lessons taught by a pro ☆ Suitable for all levels from beginners to advanced 《Up to 4 hours · Equipment rentals available with advance reservation》 (No. 18)開始時間: Between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
*You can select a time slot in 30-minute increments.所要時間Approx. 1 hour15,000 yen

Sapporo City 1 day】Round-trip ski bus ticket & 6-hour Kirolo Snow World lift ticket set plan with first track privileges before the gondola opens〈December-March〉（v-2)開始時間:所要時間:

13. Ice Fishing for Wakasagi

Fishing by drilling holes in the ice of frozen lakes and riversIce fishingis a popular winter activity in Hokkaido.

With a plan that's open to children ages 3 and up, you can enjoy both fishing and playing in the snow as part of the same package.

There is a shuttle service from downtown Sapporo, so you can participate even if you don't have a car.

★ Tours Exclusive [Hokkaido/1 Day] Suitable for families with members aged 3 to 85! Ice-Fishing for Wakasagi & Your Choice of Snow Activities (Includes Pickup and Drop-off in Sapporo) (No. 27)開始時間: 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間: About 7.5 hours11,000 yen

★ Tours Exclusive [Hokkaido/1 Day] Open to participants ages 6 and up! Enjoy a fully chartered fishing trip at the Sunagawa Retention Basin—the mecca of wakasagi fishing—《Limited to one group》 (No. 28)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間: About 9 hours16,500 yen

14. Snowshoes

Walking across a snowfield in Western-style snowshoesSnowshoesis a winter activity that you can enjoy even if you don't know how to ski.

Moere Numa Park in Sapporo offers a private rental plan limited to one group, while Noboribetsu offers a tour to see the ice-covered trees.

Children as young as 3 can participate in both activities, so the whole family can enjoy the snowy world together.

★ Tours Exclusive [Hokkaido/Half-Day] Limited to One Group—Exclusive Private Tour! Snowshoeing & Snow Play Experience at Moerenuma Park—Fun for the Whole Family, Ages 3–80 《Transportation Included》 (No. 29)開始時間: 9:30 / 1:30 PM所要時間: About 3 hours7,700 yen

Noboribetsu/3 hours】Snowshoeing experience to see the ice on the trees☆《Transportation to and from Noboribetsu Onsen Hot Spring Resort, full equipment rental available》Let's go for a walk at Olofure Pass where you can see the hidden ice on the trees〈Jan-Feb〉（v-16)開始時間:所要時間:

15. Drift Ice Sightseeing in Abashiri and Shiretoko

Along the coast of the Sea of Okhotsk in winter, the sea is filled withdrift icecan be seen.

In Abashiri and Shiretoko, you can “walk on the ice in a special suit”ice floe walkand others are also popular.

Since this area is dotted with attractions, the most efficient way to explore it is by taking a chartered sightseeing taxi from Memanbetsu Airport or downtown Abashiri.

Shiretoko, Abashiri / 3-8 hours / Charter] Maximum 4 passengers! Charter sightseeing cab with a choice of sightseeing plans 《Arrival/Departure/Arrival/Departure: Memanbetsu Airport or Abashiri City》, to your desired destination such as Lake Akan, Bihoro Pass, Abashiri Prison, drift ice in the Sea of Okhotsk, etc. (v-18)開始時間:所要時間:

Recommended Activities for Families with Children and Adults Traveling Together

Here, we’ll introduce some experiences you’ll want to include in your family vacations or leisurely getaways for adults.

If you're traveling with children, check out the options mentioned aboveKids' Course at the High Ropes Adventure Park, Lake Toya Canoeing, and Smelt FishingIt also has a low age requirement, so I recommend it.

16. Asahiyama Zoo

See animals move naturally up closeAsahiyama Zoois a classic destination for family trips.

Walking through the snow in winterPenguin Walking...can be seen there, and it's popular with adults, too.

Since it's a bit of a drive from Sapporo, a day-trip bus tour that combines this destination with the Blue Pond or other attractions, or a chartered taxi, is a convenient option.

Check out popular plans for Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo × Aoi Ike × Shirohige no Taki Waterfall ☆Including choice of Hokkaido's local gourmet lunch ☆《Late April - End of November / Japanese & Chinese》（v-36）開始時間:所要時間:

Asahiyama Zoo × Aoi Ike × Shirohige no Taki Waterfall ☆All-you-can-eat local gourmet buffet and melon ☆《English/Chinese speaking / from 1 person～（v-37)開始時間:所要時間:

Sapporo departure / chartered sightseeing taxi】Asahiyama Zoo & scenic tours☆Aoi Ike Pond, Shirohige Falls, Ningle Terrace (v-38)開始時間:所要時間:

17. Shiretoko Starry Night Tour

The night sky over Shiretoko, with its minimal city lights, is,A Sky Full of Starswill spread.

The highlight is that a local guide provides commentary on the constellations, so you can enjoy it even if you don't know much about the stars.

Transportation is provided from downtown Utoro, so you can participate with peace of mind even at night.

Shiretoko / 2 hours】World Heritage Shiretoko Starry Sky Night Tour☆《No pickup and drop-off service in downtown Utoro》with commentary by a local guide (v-23)開始時間:所要時間:

18. In-Home Massage Services in Niseko

For bodies tired from skiing and other activities, you can enjoyoutpatient massageis recommended.

We cover the main areas of Niseko, and since same-day reservations are accepted until 1:00 a.m., you won’t have to go out on a cold night.

You can choose from options such as oil treatments, dry massages that can be received fully clothed, and treatments for couples.

Hokkaido Niseko] Top-class Organic Oil ★ Superb Onsite Massage "Vimutti Signature" Arrives in 15 minutes minimum 《Only until 1:00 am on the same day, simultaneous treatment OK》(No.m-1)開始時間3:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (last admission at 1:00 p.m.)所要時間60 / 90 / 120 minutes29,000 yen

Hokkaido Niseko] You can leave your clothes on♪ Dry massage without oil (Shiatsu style)》No need to go out, therapist arrives in as little as 15 minutes《On the same day until 1:00 midnight, simultaneous treatment OK》(No.m-5)開始時間3:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. (last admission at 1:00 p.m.)所要時間60 / 90 / 120 minutes18,000 yen

Tips for Choosing Activities in Hokkaido

Since Hokkaido is so large, when choosing activities,Area and Time of YearThe key is to decide that first.

If you'd like to visit more tourist attractions, be sure to check out our article that compiles both the must-see and hidden gems of Hokkaido tourism.

Click here for recommended tourist spots in Hokkaido

About Activities in Hokkaido
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Activities in Hokkaido include:Spring through fall: lakes, rivers, and the sky; winter: snow and iceSo, the way you enjoy it changes significantly depending on the season.

First, use the quick reference chart to choose an experience that fits the time of year and area you’d like to visit, and be sure to book any plans that catch your eye as soon as possible.

Find the perfect activity for your trip and create memories that are unique to Hokkaido.

Click here for the ranking of recommended tours in Hokkaido

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.

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