If you're looking for a distinctive experience, Hokkaido is certainly a place for you in the north of Japan. It is home to some of the most popular natural attractions in Japan and provides something unique to travellers in each season. Winter carries highlights such as the Sapporo Snow Festival, and the focus of the spring season is cherry blossoms. The gentle climate makes it the ideal escape from the heat and humidity of Japan in summer, while the many national parks in the region are the ideal place to take in those crunchy autumn leaves.
Spring is a moment of natural beauty in Hokkaido as the snow melts and cherry blossoms fill the parks. The evident highlight of the season are the cherry blossoms themselves, which bloom in Japan later than anywhere else. Look for hotels within walking distance of a cherry blossom site to really enjoy the show. During the spring, there is plenty to admire in the Hokkaido National Parks, which also transforms after the winter into colour and charm. In spring, much of the island becomes available and tourists are spread across the various areas of Hokkaido.
Hokkaido's summer provides contrasting experiences. This is an adventure island with rolling fields, untouched wilderness, and many natural hot springs to soothe the legs from June to August. In Hokkaido, it is milder and less humid than most other Japanese resorts, offering heat respite and an optimal temperature for exploring wild national parks on the island. The Sapporo Summer Festival takes place in the capital city of the region for four weeks and many visitors spend a couple of days here before venturing off across the island in different directions. Centrally located hotels in Sapporo are perfect during the summer because they are within simple reach of the festival and can connect to all locations.