Hello,
I’m currently planning a trip for two to Hokkaido and wanted to get some planning advice. We’ll be there from April 21-25th 2026 (I know this is considered one of the worst times of year to visit Hokkaido, but unfortunately, it’s the only time we can make it there). This will be our first trip to Hokkaido, but we’ve been to Japan numerous times.
I’d like to add more activities since I feel it’s a little sparse right now (please see the notes at the bottom for more details).
Currently I have two itineraries I’m working on.
Apr 21st -Start in Hakodate (we’ll be in Aomori the day before). Explore Hakodate and make sure to see the night view from Mt. Hakodate.
Apr 22nd – Drive to Otaru (4 hour drive please see notes below). Explore canals, music box museum, maybe Kitaichi Hall, and wander local shopping areas while looking at architecture. Drive to and check into Hotel in Sapporo.
Apr 23rd– Explore Sapporo, Shiroi Koibito Park, eat Miso Ramen in the ramen alley, Saturday’s Chocolate factory.
Apr 24th– Furano cheese factory, scenic drive in the Ashikawa area like Roller Coaster Road, Nigle Terrace.
Apr 25th: Drive back return to Sapporo and fly back to Tokyo.
Alternate Plan:
Apr 21st: Fly to Sapporo from Aomori airport. Explore Sapporo, Shiroi Koibito Park, eat Miso Ramen in the ramen alley, visit Saturday’s Chocolate factory.
Apr 22rd: Spend the day in Otaru and return to hotel in Sapporo.
Apr 23nd – Furano cheese factory, scenic drive in the Ashikawa area like Roller Coaster Road, Ningle Terrace, maybe Shikisai no oka if tulips are in bloom in late April.
Apr 24th – Somewhat open. Maybe go to an Asahidake Onsen? Open to suggestions (that aren’t Blue Pond).
Apr 25th– Return rental car and fly back to Tokyo
Notes: For the drive from Hakodate to Otaru I’ve been trying to find interesting areas to stop in or at least figure out the most scenic route from Hakkodate to Otaru, but I’m not having any luck. We actually really love driving and doing road trips because of the freedom it offers. So I don’t want to pass by something unique and not know it.
What we love: Crazy specific local things, like foods, regional mascots, that one man who’s been baking the same bread for a 100 years, art festivals, weird buildings, things that look haunted or cursed, and stores that sell random knick knacks that only Japan could think of. We also really enjoy driving through beautiful country side while listening to our favorite tunes. We love driving!
What we’re not really into: Skiing, Hiking, being in direct sunlight for too long, looking at large bodies of water for more than 10 min, drinking acholic drinks.
Does anyone have any recommendations for restaurants with delicious scallops? I’d love to try Hokkaido scallops cooked all sorts of different ways, but can’t seem to find any places listed. Right now I’m looking at Gotsubo Oyster Bar in Sapporo.
by OmegaRainicorn