The Spectacular Hokkaido
Hokkaido is the largest and most beautiful island among the four main islands of Japan. Being the northernmost island the region does not receive any rain fall and it consists of large areas of National Parks, forests, hot springs and snow-covered landscapes. The summer time is very pleasant and ideal for camping, hiking and hitch-hiking, as there is low humidity. During winter, it is a popular destination to enjoy various winter sports like skiing and snow-boarding.
The Daisetsu-zan National Park is known as the roof of the island, whereas the Shikotsu-Toya National Park is the place for numerous volcanoes and lakes. The isolated Shiretoko-hanto Peninsula is the place for Shiretoko National Park having abundance of natural treasures. Hot springs like Noboribetsu-onsen, Jozan_kei-onsen and Soun-kyo-onsen are the natural spas to pamper you in the warm water having sulpher and iron. Throughout the year, the island remains busy in celebrating more than 1200 festivals and events.
Sapporo is the capital city of this island. It is also the main city for tourists from where they can arrange different tours. The Sapporo TV Tower is built in the pattern of Eiffel Tower having an observation deck. The Clock Tower is probably the oldest building of the city built in 1878. The Beer Museum is another place of interest within the city, exhibiting facts and figures on history of beer in Japan. However, the city is most famous for the Snow Festival held in February, where artists from different parts of the world join to participate in sculpting of art pieces with ice and snow.
Hakodate is the southernmost entry point of Hokkaido through world’s longest Seikan Tunnel, connected with Honshu. Mount Hakodate is a green mountain beside the city. The top can be easily accessed by hiking, trekking or car, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings, particularly after sunset. The European-style Goryokaku Fort is another important tourist destination in the city. Built in 1866, this fort is now used as a public park, which gets beautiful cherry blossoms in the springtime.
Niseko is the best ski destination of Japan, having beautiful weather for skiing during the months of November till April. It is also best with the size and infrastructure.
