Cover Hokkaido offers a quieter, more scenic rhythm—ideal for those craving nature, solitude and a slower pace. (Photo: DeAgostini / Getty Images)
Hokkaido offers a quieter, more scenic rhythm—ideal for those craving nature, solitude and a slower pace. (Photo: DeAgostini / Getty Images)
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Hokkaido isn’t just for ski season—discover its cool, crowd-free summer side with these seven standout experiences
Hokkaido may be best known for its snow-covered landscapes and world-class ski resorts, but those in the know head north in summer too. When the powder melts, Japan’s northernmost island transforms into a refreshingly different kind of destination. Think: crisp mountain air, flower fields, cool temperatures and wide-open spaces largely untouched by crowds. While Tokyo and Kyoto simmer under the heat, Hokkaido offers a quieter, more scenic rhythm—ideal for those craving nature, solitude and a slower pace. Whether you’re there for the food, the forests or the smell of summer lavender, Hokkaido delivers a side of Japan few ever get to see.
Read more: Review: Summer revelry at Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido, an all-exclusive family-friendly resort
1. Wander through lavender fields in Furano
From late June to early August, Furano becomes a palette of purples as lavender fields come into bloom. Farm Tomita is the most popular spot, but smaller farms in the area offer a quieter experience. While lavender is the main attraction, you’ll also find poppies, marigolds and salvia. For something different, try lavender-flavoured ice cream—surprisingly subtle and refreshing.
2. Hike in Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan is Hokkaido’s largest national park, offering alpine trails, active volcanoes and natural hot springs. The hiking here is varied—choose between full-day treks or short scenic walks. Mount Asahidake, the island’s highest peak, is accessible via ropeway and rewards climbers with panoramic views and smoking fumaroles. Summer hikers will appreciate the cooler temperatures and relative solitude.
3. Cycle through the hills of Biei
Biei’s undulating fields and patchwork farmland are best explored by bike. Rental shops make it easy to tour the countryside at your own pace. Highlights include the iconic “Blue Pond”, known for its unusual turquoise hue, and scenic viewpoints like Panorama Road and Patchwork Road. This is slow travel at its most photogenic, with every turn revealing postcard-worthy vistas.
4. Feast on fresh summer produce
Hokkaido is known for its agricultural output, and summer is peak season for local fruit and vegetables. Try the region’s famously sweet Yubari melons, often given as luxury gifts, or stop by a roadside farm shop for fresh corn and tomatoes. Markets like Sapporo’s Nijo Market or Hakodate Morning Market serve sashimi and grilled seafood caught hours earlier.
5. Soak in an onsen with a view
While onsen culture is often associated with winter, summer visits come with their own charm. Outdoor baths (rotenburo) offer sweeping views of mountains, forests or lakes, and the contrast between warm water and cool air is especially soothing. Noboribetsu and Jozankei remain favourites, but more secluded spots can be found throughout the island.
6. Explore the Shiretoko Peninsula
For nature lovers, the Shiretoko Peninsula on Hokkaido’s eastern edge is one of the wildest places in Japan. A Unesco World Heritage site, the area is home to brown bears, foxes and rare birds. Trails vary from gentle boardwalks to more rugged coastal hikes, and summer is ideal for wildlife watching. Boat tours also run during the season, offering a different perspective of the coastline.
7. Join the Sapporo Summer Festival
Running from mid-July to mid-August, the Sapporo Summer Festival brings beer gardens, local delicacies and street performances to Odori Park. It’s more laid-back than the city’s famous Snow Festival, with a fun atmosphere through long summer evenings. While the festival draws crowds, it’s still possible to enjoy it at your own pace, particularly if you visit on a weekday.
