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North Japan 

Why Travel to Northern Japan?

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Northern Japan is a breathtaking destination year-round, with each season offering its own magic. In winter, the region becomes a snow-covered wonderland—perfect for world-class skiing in Hokkaido, ice festivals in Sapporo and Otaru, and peaceful soaks in outdoor onsen surrounded by snowy forests. It's a dream for both adventure seekers and those who simply want to experience Japan’s serene, frozen beauty.

But the appeal doesn’t end when the snow melts. Spring brings late-blooming cherry blossoms, especially around Hirosaki Castle, creating stunning floral landscapes long after the blooms have faded in the south. Summer is lush and vibrant, ideal for hiking through national parks, exploring volcanic lakes, or attending colourful festivals like Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori. Autumn sets the mountains ablaze with fiery red and gold foliage, offering some of the most dramatic seasonal views in the country. Whether you’re chasing powder, petals, or peaceful countryside moments, Northern Japan delivers a rich, authentic travel experience every season.

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Sapporo – Japan’s Winter Wonderland

Powder Snow, Steamy Bowls of Ramen & Northern Soul

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Welcome to Sapporo, the dynamic capital of Hokkaido and Japan’s ultimate snow city. With its dramatic winters, fresh seafood, laid-back charm, and a love for good food and festivals, Sapporo offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. It’s the kind of place where you can hit the slopes in the morning, soak in an onsen by afternoon, and feast on Hokkaido crab and miso ramen by night.

In winter, Sapporo becomes a dazzling playground, most famously during the Sapporo Snow Festival held every February. Over 2 million visitors flock here to marvel at colossal snow and ice sculptures that line Odori Park, creating a dreamlike landscape glowing with lights. Nearby ski resorts like Teine, Kiroro, and the world-renowned Niseko offer some of the best powder snow on the planet.

Outside the snowy season, summer in Sapporo is a breath of fresh air — literally. While much of Japan swelters, Hokkaido enjoys cool, breezy days perfect for exploring Moerenuma Park, hiking Mt. Moiwa, or sipping craft brews at an open-air beer garden. Lavender season in nearby Furano is another summer treat worth the side trip.

This city’s soul lies in its culinary culture — from steaming bowls of miso ramen and grilled jingisukan (lamb BBQ), to buttery seafood rice bowls at Nijo Market. Pair your meals with Sapporo’s signature beer or locally brewed sake for the full northern experience.

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🌸Travel Tips – Sapporo

Best Time to Visit:

  • December–February: For skiing, snowboarding, and the spectacular Snow Festival

  • June–August: To escape the humidity and enjoy flower fields, hiking, and beer gardens

  • Late September–October: For vivid autumn foliage and fewer crowds

Don’t Miss:

  • Sapporo Snow Festival: Ice sculptures, slides, snow art, and night illuminations

  • Sapporo Beer Museum & Biergarten: Sip Japan’s iconic brew and try jingisukan (grilled lamb)

  • Mt. Moiwa: Ride the ropeway for epic views of the city, especially beautiful after dark

  • Clock Tower & Former Hokkaido Government Office: Snap-worthy heritage buildings in the heart of town

Hidden Gems:

  • Nijo Market: An early morning gem for fresh seafood, uni, and local eats

  • Moerenuma Park: A massive, artistic green space designed by Isamu Noguchi

  • Jozankei Onsen: A tranquil hot spring town tucked in the mountains, perfect for a day trip or overnight stay

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Suggested Areas to Stay

  • Odori: Central and ideal for sightseeing, especially during festival season–

  • Susukino: Sapporo’s buzzing entertainment hub — perfect for nightlife and local eats

  • JR Sapporo Station Area: Great for easy transport, shopping, and convenience

  • Jozankei Onsen: For a quiet escape with natural hot springs and mountain views

  • Sapporo is more than just a winter destination — it’s a year-round city where you can savor the beauty of the seasons, discover Hokkaido’s rich flavors, and immerse yourself in a slower, scenic pace of life.

Aomori – Where Mountains Meet Myth and Apple Orchards

Tucked into Japan’s northernmost main island tip, Aomori is a destination rich in natural beauty, folklore, and fresh produce — especially its iconic apples. With dramatic coastlines, deep forests, and snow-covered winters, Aomori feels both remote and refreshingly authentic. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping Nebuta Museum WA RASSE, which showcases the colorful floats from the region’s famous summer festival year-round.

Aomori is also a gateway to the mystical Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada, especially breathtaking in autumn. In winter, soak in a steaming onsen while snow drifts outside at places like Sukayu Onsen, known for its atmospheric wooden bathhouse. Seafood lovers should dive into the local furukawa fish market, where you can build your own rice bowl with the freshest sashimi.

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🌸 Travel Tips – Aomori

Best time to visit:

  • August for the Nebuta Festival

  • October for stunning autumn foliage

  • December–February for snow and hot springs

Don’t miss:

  • Nebuta Museum WA RASSE and the summertime Aomori Nebuta Matsuri

  • A soak in Sukayu Onsen’s massive “Senjin-buro” bath

  • Apple-themed treats like cider and pies, straight from the source

Hidden gem:

  • Hirosaki Castle in spring, surrounded by cherry blossoms and moats filled with pink petals

Suggested Areas to Stay:

  • Aomori City: Central, great for museums and access to ferries and trains

  • Hirosaki: A charming castle town with seasonal festivals and a local vibe

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Hakodate – Port Charm with a Twist of Romance

Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s most atmospheric cities — known for its historic port, European influences, and sparkling night views. Wander the sloped streets of Motomachi, where old Western-style buildings tell stories of foreign trade and diplomacy. Ride the Hakodate Ropeway up Mount Hakodate for what’s considered one of Japan’s most beautiful nightscapes.

By day, explore the Hakodate Morning Market for fresh uni, squid, and melt-in-your-mouth seafood rice bowls. The iconic red brick warehouses have been transformed into shopping and dining havens with harbor views. In spring, Goryokaku Fort — shaped like a five-pointed star — becomes a sea of cherry blossoms, perfect for picnics.

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🌸 Travel Tips – Hakodate

Best time to visit:

  • April–May for cherry blossoms

  • Summer for festivals and bay cruises

  • Winter for illuminated city views and seafood feasts

Don’t miss:

  • Night view from Mount Hakodate — absolutely breathtaking

  • Fresh squid sashimi at Hakodate Morning Market

  • Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view of the star-shaped fort

Hidden gem:

  • Yunokawa Onsen: A seaside hot spring area where you can watch snow monkeys bathe in winter

Suggested Areas to Stay:

  • Bay Area: Close to shopping, red brick warehouses, and restaurants

  • Motomachi: For quaint charm and hillside city views

  • Yunokawa Onsen: For a hot spring escape by the sea

Sendai – The City of Trees and Tastes

Sendai, the capital of Miyagi Prefecture, is known as the “City of Trees” — a green, modern city with deep samurai roots and a laid-back atmosphere. Founded by the powerful warlord Date Masamune, you’ll spot his influence at Sendai Castle and local shrines. The city balances urban energy with access to lush mountains, onsens, and the scenic Matsushima Bay, dotted with over 200 pine-covered islets.

Sendai is a foodie destination, famous for gyutan (grilled beef tongue), zunda mochi (sweet soybean paste), and regional sake. It’s also home to vibrant seasonal festivals, especially Tanabata in August, when the streets bloom with massive, colorful streamers.

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🌸 Travel Tips – Sendai

Best time to visit:

  • August for the Tanabata Festival

  • Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and seasonal beauty

  • Winter for skiing in nearby Zao and warm onsen stays

Don’t miss:

  • Matsushima Bay cruise — one of Japan’s three most scenic views

  • Zuihoden Mausoleum — the ornate resting place of Date Masamune

  • A tasting tour of local sake and gyutan

Hidden gem:

  • Akiu Onsen: A tranquil hot spring village just 30 minutes from central Sendai

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Suggested Areas to Stay:

  • – Sendai Station Area: Great for first-time visitors, with easy access to shops and transport

  • – Aoba-dori: Close to nightlife, dining, and Sendai’s lively covered arcades

  • – Akiu Onsen: For a relaxing nature retreat just outside the city​

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