Editor's Special Recommendation: A 4-Day, 5-Night Trip to Hokkaido - An In-Depth Guide!

Hokkaido is a land brimming with delightful surprises. You can savor fresh seafood at the Sapporo Market, stroll along the romantic canals of Otaru, or indulge in Hokkaido's renowned white-robed beef. This time, our editor recommends a four-night, five-day journey through Hokkaido, including some hidden culinary gems. Let's take a look at our editor's suggested itinerary!

Upon arriving in Japan, your first stop could be Biei Town (美瑛町), a captivating region within Hokkaido. Biei Town boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and picturesque farmlands, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Here are some highlights of Biei Town: Blue Pond: A renowned attraction in Biei, the Blue Pond is famous for its striking azure lake waters. Nestled amidst forests, the lake's color derives from mineral content, creating an otherworldly hue, particularly on clear days, where reflections enhance its beauty. Shirahige Falls: Shirahige Falls (青池) offers a captivating experience with cascading water tumbling over cliffs to form a refreshing waterfall. The pool below provides a tranquil spot for visitors to rest. Ningenko Bridge: This quaint bridge spans a crystal-clear stream, surrounded by lush greenery. Ningenko Bridge is a favorite among photographers seeking picturesque scenes. Shikisai-no-Oka: This expansive flower field bursts with vibrant blooms throughout the year. Spring brings dazzling tulips and daffodils, while summer showcases an array of colorful flowers. Autumn paints the landscape with fiery hues of maple leaves.

The flower fields of Furano are one of the most captivating features of this city. Throughout the year, the changing seasons bring different colors and moods to this land. In summer, endless lavender fields bathe in sunlight, releasing a captivating fragrance that immerses you in a sea of purple. In autumn, the changing leaves paint the entire region in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, creating a picturesque and moving scene. No matter when you visit, the flower fields will treat you to a unique visual feast, leaving you in awe of nature's wondrous beauty.

Otaru is a city brimming with romantic ambiance and rich history. Its unique scenery, elegant architecture, and distinctive specialties create an enchanting atmosphere as if stepping into a world of fairytales, allowing visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of reality. Otaru Canal is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Its former port status imbues it with a fascinating history. The well-preserved historic buildings lining the canal stand as testaments to its past prosperity and vibrant energy. Especially at night, the canal lights reflecting on the water create a romantic ambiance, making visitors feel like they are immersed in beautiful paintings.

Otaru Glass Art is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs. You can visit local workshops to observe glass artisans at work and purchase beautiful glass products as souvenirs. Additionally, Otaru's music boxes are a significant feature of the city, playing enchanting melodies and captivating with their intricate exterior designs. The following attractions:

Otaru Canal: One of Otaru's most iconic landmarks, it was once an important port and now serves as a romantic tourist destination. Historic buildings line the canal, creating a tranquil ambiance when illuminated at night.
Otaru Canal Promenade: A pathway alongside the canal where you can stroll, admire the scenery, shop, and savor local cafes and restaurants.
Otaru Canal Square: A spacious plaza perfect for walking, cycling, or taking boat tours. Nearby shops offer various Otaru specialties and handcrafted goods.
Otaru Warehouse District: These historical warehouses have been transformed into diverse shops, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can indulge in local cuisine and discover unique products.

Reaching the end of our journey, we arrive in the modern city of Sapporo. To fully immerse you in the adventure, we head first to Susukino, the most bustling district in Sapporo. This shopping paradise seems designed for you to go wild with retail therapy! It offers a variety of fashionable items, souvenirs, and delicious snacks. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or a food lover, you'll find something to satisfy you here. Sapporo is best known for its ramen. On this day, we visited "Japanese Ramen Noodle Lab Q" to experience the unique charm of this local delicacy; meanwhile, the Sapporo Beer Museum offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. This museum is not only a haven for beer lovers but also attracts visitors seeking new experiences. The building itself retains the architectural features of German style, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time to the golden age of beer. In the exhibition area, you can learn about the origins and development of Sapporo Beer, from its initial brewing methods to modern processes. Each display provides a deeper understanding of the beer-making process. You can even participate in a brewing workshop and experience the process firsthand, transforming you into a temporary brewmaster. At the beer tasting area, you can savor various flavors of Sapporo Beer, from refreshing light beers to rich dark beers. Each one offers a distinct taste experience.

For dinner, our editor arrived at De Shou Bai Lao Niu Dian, savoring Hokkaido's oldest breed of Wagyu beef. The tender and flavorful meat is a must-try for any visitor to Sapporo!

On your last day in Japan, why not head to a fruit-picking farm before heading to the airport? You can arrive 2 hours before your flight departs, enjoy a relaxing experience, and be transported to the airport by shuttle. Take home beautiful memories of Hokkaido!