Hokkaido Golden Week (GW) Travel Guide! Recommended Spots, Temperatures, and Crowd Levels
Let's enjoy sightseeing in Hokkaido during Golden Week!
Golden Week (GW) is the time to travel to HokkaidoPopular SeasonsOne of the
As the snow melts and cherry blossoms begin to bloom in some areas, visitors can enjoy the unique charm of the mixture of spring and early summer.
In this article, we’ll provide a detailed overview of Hokkaido during Golden Week, covering everything from temperatures and what to wear to recommended sightseeing spots, crowd levels, and average prices for flights and hotels.
◆For those who want to know about the crowds in Hokkaido during Golden Week
◆For those who want to know about temperatures in Hokkaido during Golden Week and how to stay warm
◆For those who want to know the average prices for flights and hotels during Golden Week
◆For those looking for recommended tourist spots to enjoy with a partner or family
Hokkaido Recommendations
Click here for tour ranking
What Are the Temperatures Like in Hokkaido During Golden Week?
The most common question about GW travel in Hokkaido is whether it is cold or not.
If you choose the same clothing as in Honshu, you may feel colder than expected.
First.average temperatureand understand regional differences.
You can still have fun even if it's a little cold
↓Click here for recommended activities↓
Average Temperatures in Hokkaido During Golden Week and Regional Characteristics
Average temperatures during the GW period (late April to early May) are estimated to be as follows
◆Hakodate: High around 15-16°C / Low around 7-8°C
◆Furano: maximum temperature around 14 degrees Celsius / minimum temperature around 5 degrees Celsius
East Hokkaido (Shiretoko/Kushiro area): Highs around 12-14°C / lows around 3-6°C
The East Hokkaido area is particularly prone to cold temperatures, sometimes reaching single digits in the morning and evening.
Sapporo and Hakodate are relatively calm, but still5 to 8 degrees Celsius lower than TokyoIt is best to think of it as a
Is it cold in Hokkaido during Golden Week? Be aware of the temperature difference compared to Honshu
The reason why people say "Hokkaido GW is cold" is more than just the temperature numbers.wind-chill index (factor)is in the point where it is easy to feel low.
On days with strong sea breezes or on cloudy days, the sensory temperature drops even further.
The wind can be chilly, especially in coastal tourist areas such as Otaru, Hakodate Bay Area, and Shiretoko.
Even on days when short sleeves are just right in Honshu, in HokkaidoLight outerwearIn many cases, it is necessary to
What to Wear and What to Pack for a Hokkaido Trip During Golden Week
During Golden Week in Hokkaido, while daytime temperatures warm up to around 15°C,Temperatures can drop to around 5°C in the mornings and evenings.Therefore, clothing that allows you to adjust your temperature by layeringis recommended.
Pair long-sleeve shirts or lightweight knitwear with light outerwear, such as a mountain parka, and if you’re worried about the cold, be sure to bring a down vest or a thick cardigan as well.
Especially for those planning early morning or nighttime sightseeing in Eastern Hokkaido, Furano, Mount Hakodate, and other areas, orWhen traveling with children, be sure to pack warm clothes that are easy to put on and take offIt's a good idea to do this just to be on the safe side.
Sightseeing in Hokkaido During Golden Week
Summary of recommended spots
What are the attractions of GW tourism in Hokkaido?Completely different landscapes in each areaThe most important thing is to be able to enjoy the
Here, we'll introduce recommended tourist spots by popular area!
Things I Definitely Want to Enjoy During Golden Week!
↓Click here for recommended tours↓
Recommended Spots in the Sapporo and Otaru Area
In Sapporo, spring scenery can be enjoyed in Odori Park and Maruyama Park.
Strolling along the canal and visiting glass studios are popular in Otaru,Couple TravelAlso recommended for
It is easily accessible, only 30-40 minutes by train from Sapporo, making it ideal for beginners to GW travel.
About an hour's drive from Sapporo
↓“Lake Shikotsu” is also a great choice!↓
Odori Park
Located in the center of SapporoA classic tourist attraction.
During the GW season, fresh greenery is beautiful and you can enjoy a walk around the TV tower.
◆Access: 5 minutes from Sapporo Station by car
Maruyama Park
Cherry blossom viewing spotIt is known as a popular spot for many years when it is at its best during the GW season.
You can enjoy the typical Hokkaido scenery of spring.
◆Access: 15 minutes by car from Sapporo Station
Otaru Canal, Sakai-cho Street
Retro streets and stone warehousesis attractive.
You can also enjoy visiting sweets stores and glass studios.
◆Access: 46 minutes from Sapporo Station by car
↓Click here for recommended tours in Sapporo and Otaru area.
Recommended Spots in the Hakodate Area
In Hakodate, cherry blossoms are often at their best around GW, and Goryokaku Park is particularly popular.
From Mt. Hakodatenight viewcannot be removed.
It is a royal area for Golden Week trips to Hokkaido, with a wide variety of gourmet seafood.
Goryokaku Park
It is a star-shaped castle ruins and a famous spot where cherry blossoms are often at their best in GW.
View from the observatoryis also popular.
◆Access: 12 minutes by car from Hakodate Station
Hakodate Morning Market
The Hakodate morning market takes place at Hakodate Asaichi Hiroba,Fresh seafood bowls and squid dishesA gourmet spot where you can enjoy the
Visiting in the morning hours is recommended.
◆Access: 2 minutes walk from Hakodate Station
Spectacular Scenic Spots in Furano and Biei Area
Although the lavender season is in full swing in summer, GW in Furano and Biei is a time of beautiful fresh greenery.
Visitors can relax and enjoy the spectacular natural scenery, such as the patchwork hills and the blue pond.
road tripIt is also perfect for
Furano and Biei Area
↓Click here for recommended one-day bus tours.
Shirogane Blue Pond
Fantastic blue water surfaceis a popular attraction.
This is the time of year when the contrast with the fresh greenery is beautiful.
◆Access: 23 minutes by car from Biei Station
We will also visit the Blue Pond!
↓Click here for popular scenic tours in Furano and Biei area.
The Road of Patchwork
Spread over rolling hillsScenery of fieldsfeatures.
It is also popular as a driving course.
◆Access: 14 minutes by car from Biei Station
Furano Cheese Factory
Cheese and ice cream making experienceA tourist facility where you can
It is also recommended for family trips.
◆Access: 49 minutes by car from Biei Station
↓Click here for more information about tours in Furano and Biei.
Enjoy the great nature of Shiretoko and East Hokkaido area
East Hokkaido isHokkaido's typical wildernessarea where visitors can experience the
A walk around the Shiretoko Goko lakes and the vast Kushiro Marshlands are breathtaking.
Crowding is relatively moderate, and it is recommended for those who are looking for a hole in the ground.
the Five Lakes of Shiretoko
Spectacular views of virgin forests and lakesWorld Natural Heritage Area.
A walking trail is maintained.
Access: 1 hour and 50 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport
↓Click here for tours that allow you to fully enjoy Shiretoko's natural beauty.
Kushiro Marsh
Kushiro Marshland is,Japan's largest marshlandIt is known as the
The expansive view from the observatory is on a scale unique to Hokkaido.
Access: 2 hours 13 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport
Lake Mashu
High transparencyThe lake boasts a spectacular view on a clear day.
It is also an ideal stopover during a drive.
Access: 1 hour and 11 minutes by car from Memanbetsu Airport
About Shiretoko and East Hokkaido Area Tours
↓Click here for more information.
Flower and nature spots that are at their best during GW
depending on the regionCherry blossoms and tulipswill be at its best.
Especially in the southern Hokkaido area, there is a high possibility of enjoying cherry blossoms in GW, which makes hanami trips different from those in Honshu.
Matsumae Park
Approx. 250 speciesThe area is famous for its cherry blossoms, and is planted with cherry trees of
This spot is often at its best during the GW season.
Access: 1 hr. 49 min. by car from Hakodate Airport
Nijuma Road Cherry Blossom Lined Trees
Approx. 7 kmThe rows of cherry blossom trees stretching over a distance of about 2.5 kilometers are one of Hokkaido's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots.
It is a great place to enjoy cherry blossom viewing while driving.
◆Access: 46 minutes from Sapporo Station by car
Recommended for Couples! Romantic Tourist Spots
The Otaru Canal, the night view of Mt. Hakodate, and a walk along the shores of Lake Toya are popular for couples traveling together.
Hokkaido GW is not as hot and humid as Honshu,Fresh climateYou can enjoy a date at
↓Click here for tours recommended for couples↓
Mount Hakodate
One of the best in JapanNight view spot.
It makes for a special time.
◆Access: Approximately 31 minutes by car from Hakodate Airport
↓Click here for recommended tours where you can enjoy the night view from Mt. Hakodate↓
Lake Toya
Take a walk along the lakeside or stay overnight in a hot spring,Calm and mature timeYou can enjoy the
Access: 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport
Enjoy the luxury of Lake Toya
↓Click here for popular sightseeing tours and activities.
Is Hokkaido crowded during Golden Week?
Crowding at popular tourist destinations
Golden Week Hokkaido is certainly a busy season, but not as busy as the major tourist destinations in Honshu.Less likely to be extremely crowded.Tendency.
When is the peak of the Golden Week crowds?
Peak crowds areAround May 3-5.Travel demand is particularly high in years with long consecutive holidays.
The first half of the day and the last day of the holiday can be relatively calm.
Sapporo, Hakodate, Otaru Congestion Tendency
The central Sapporo area, Otaru Canal area and Mt. Hakodate ropeway areCrowded spotsIt is.
Restaurants may also have a waiting list.
Rental cars, highways, and airport congestion
In Hokkaido GW tripRental Car Demandis greatly enhanced.
Since the parking lot often fills up with last-minute reservations, it’s essential to reserve a spot early. New Chitose Airport also gets crowded with people returning home for the holidays and tourists.
A great way to enjoy Hokkaido
↓Click here for recommended car rental plans↓
How to schedule a trip to avoid congestion
Itineraries involving early morning departures and weekdaysis recommended.
Also, visiting famous tourist attractions in the morning will help avoid crowds.
The option of hole-in-the-wall tourist attractions
East Hokkaido area and inlandtend to offer relatively relaxed sightseeing.
By expanding the area a little bit as well as the main road, a comfortable GW trip to Hokkaido can be realized.
↓Click here to learn more about Hokkaido's hidden gems.
Average Prices for a Golden Week Trip to Hokkaido
Hokkaido GW prices are higher than in the normal season, though,advance preparationThe results will vary greatly depending on the
A great way to enjoy Hokkaido
↓Click here for recommended activities↓
Estimated Airfare for a Golden Week Trip to Hokkaido
Round-trip tickets from Tokyo to Shin-Chitose have skyrocketed in price compared to normal periods, and depending on the scheduleAround 40,000-60,000 yenIt can also be a
It may be possible to suppress it by using the early bird discount.
Rates for hotels and inns
A business hotel may cost around 15,000 to 20,000 yen per night, while a hot spring hotel in a popular tourist destination may cost 20,000 to 40,000 yen or more.
Golden Week Hokkaido isEarly bookingis the key.
Estimated car rental and local transportation costs
In a compact carAround 10,000-15,000 yen per dayis the standard.
Plan your budget well in advance, including fuel and highway costs.
A great way to enjoy Hokkaido
↓Click here for recommended car rental plans↓
How do prices change with early-bird and last-minute reservations?
Early bird rates tend to be cheaper for both airplanes and hotels.
Last minute reservations have few options,Prices tend to go up.It is.
Tips for a cheap trip to Hokkaido even during GW
Costs can be reduced by departing on weekdays, using local airports, and utilizing package tours.
Compare multiple sitesis also important.
Recommended Itineraries for a Hokkaido Trip During Golden Week
Hokkaido GW trip, considering the wide travel distance.Narrowing down the areais the key to success.
By choosing a course that allows you to tour efficiently even in a short period of time, you can enjoy a good balance of sightseeing, dining, and nature while avoiding crowds.
Sapporo and Otaru Plan for 1 night and 2 days
On the second day, we strolled along the Otaru Canal and Sakai-machi Street and enjoyed a seafood lunch.
Easy to get around by public transportation,Recommended for your first GW trip to HokkaidoIt is.
For more information about ↓Sapporo Tour, click here↓.
About an hour's drive from Sapporo
↓“Lake Shikotsu” is also a great choice!↓
3 Days 2 Nights Plan for Hakodate and Lake Toya
On the second day, we will move to Lake Toya to relax and enjoy the hot springs and lakeside scenery.
A well-balanced experience of history, nature, and hot springsSatisfaction PlansIt is.
For more information about the Toyako tour, click here↓↓.
A relaxing and spectacular course recommended for couples
Enjoy the great nature typical of Hokkaido, including blue ponds and hilly landscapes.
While avoiding urban congestion,Romantic TimeYou can spend a
Efficient way to get around assuming you are flying.
New Chitose AirportThe key is to focus on an area starting from
The key to success is not to be greedy about travel distance.
Beginner-friendly mobile planning.
Public Transportation and Car RentalYou can sightsee efficiently by combining
Thoroughly check the route in advance.
Zero moving stress!
↓Click here for recommended sightseeing cabs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Traveling in Hokkaido During Golden Week
During the daytime, the temperature often rises to around 15°C (59°F), but in the morning and evening it drops to around 5°C (41°F) in some areas. It is especially cold in the East Hokkaido and Furano areas, so it is a good idea to prepare a warm jacket or inner down jacket to protect against the cold.
Crowds tend to peak between May 3 and 5, with the central Sapporo area, Mt. Hakodate, and the Otaru Canal area drawing large crowds. However, the crowds tend not to be as large as those at popular tourist destinations in Honshu. You can avoid the crowds by taking early morning action or scheduling your visit for a weekday.
Round-trip airfare from Tokyo may be around 40,000-60,000 yen, depending on the itinerary. Hotels should cost around 15,000 to 30,000 yen per night. By taking advantage of early-bird discounts and package tours, the overall price may be reduced.
summary
Satisfaction with GW sightseeing in Hokkaido will vary greatly if you know the temperature, cold measures, crowds, and price quotes in advance.
Hokkaido during Golden Week is certainly a busy season, but it depends on your plans.Comfortable travel is possibleIt is.
While keeping the recommended spots in mind, make your ideal GW trip to Hokkaido by booking flights and hotels early.
↓Click here to read the article.
