Whether you fancy yourself a thrill-seeker or just a chill guy, you’ll love these winter activities in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido!
1. See the sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival is an annual event that typically runs for about a week from early to mid-February during the coldest days of Hokkaido’s winter season. Stunning snow and ice sculptures are laid out all along Odori Park and Susukino Street as crowds from all over the world flock in to admire these creative exhibitions.
2. Keep warm with Soup Curry!
Nothing beats a hot bowl of soup curry from one of Sapporo’s local eateries. This authentic Hokkaido dish consists of a flavorful savory curry soup base with whole vegetables such as broccoli, pumpkin, and potato and a choice of protein typically roast chicken or seafood (vegetarian options also available).
3. Eat chocolate at Shiroi Koibito Park
T’is always the season to be jolly at Shiroi Koibito Park, Sapporo’s very own chocolate wonderland! For those with a sweet tooth, this may well be one of the best winter activities you can do when you visit Hokkaido. See the amazing decorations and Christmas festivities while indulging in delicious chocolate desserts at Butlers Wharf Cafe!
4. Grab your skis and hit the slopes!
Every year, thousands of people from all over the world come to Hokkaido for the sole purpose of skiing or snowboarding on the endless snow slopes that encompass the northern island. Being the mountainous country that it is, it’s no surprise that the coldest part of Japan is home to an abundance of ski resorts and winter sports activity centers.
5. Unwind in a hot public bath
This one is for the chill guys out there. After a day of freezing your knickers off in the snow, wind down at one of Hokkaido’s many public baths and get the full-body experience of utter relaxation and bliss. I recommend staying at the Centurion Sauna Rest & Stay in Sapporo, offering access to hot baths, saunas, and cozy accommodation pods.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!