Planning a family trip to Japan with kids? Hokkaido, the country’s northernmost island, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and kid-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable adventure. Discover Hokkaido with kids! Explore things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and plan your perfect family itinerary to Japan’s winter wonderland.
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Why Visit Hokkaido With Kids
- Winter wonderland: Hokkaido boasts stunning winter landscapes with powdery snow, perfect for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
- Unique culture: Immerse yourselves in Hokkaido’s distinct Ainu culture, known for its rich history, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine.
- Outdoor adventures: From exploring national parks and volcanic landscapes to participating in wildlife watching tours, Hokkaido offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
- Theme parks and amusement centers: Keep the kids entertained with exciting theme parks like Huis Ten Bosch and exhilarating amusement centers in major cities.
- Relaxing experiences: Unwind in natural hot springs, called “onsen,” a quintessential Japanese experience enjoyed by all ages.
Things to Do in Hokkaido With Kids
- Visit Shiretoko National Park: Embark on a wildlife watching tour and spot bears, foxes, and other animals in their natural habitat, either by boat or on a guided hike.
- Ski and snowboard at Niseko United: Renowned for its powdery snow, Niseko offers various slopes and lessons catering to all skill levels, making it a perfect winter playground for families. Younger children can take introductory lessons, while older kids can enjoy the thrill of carving down the slopes.
- Explore the Jozankei Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in numerous hot springs resorts, some offering open-air pools with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Many resorts also feature family-friendly amenities like game rooms and kid-friendly meals, making them ideal for families with children.
- Go ice fishing on Lake Toya: Experience the thrill of catching trout through a hole in the ice, followed by a warm meal at a lakeside restaurant. This unique activity is a fun and educational experience for kids, teaching them about patience and the local fishing culture.
- Discover the world of anime at the Furano Furano Character Trail: Take a scenic walk through the countryside and encounter life-sized sculptures of popular anime characters. This interactive experience is sure to delight anime fans of all ages and create lasting memories.
Best Places to Visit in Hokkaido With Kids
- Sapporo: Hokkaido’s capital city offers a vibrant cultural scene, delicious food options, and Susukino, a lively entertainment district.
- Otaru: Explore this charming port city, known for its historical canal district, delicious seafood, and the Otaru Music Box Museum.
- Lake Toya: Enjoy stunning lake views, soak in relaxing hot springs, and participate in winter activities like snowmobiling and ice skating.
- Furano: Immerse yourselves in the beauty of rolling lavender fields during summer, or experience the winter wonderland with skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
- ** Biei:** Discover the picturesque Biei Blue Pond, a popular photo spot known for its vibrant turquoise water, especially during winter.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Hokkaido
- Susukino, Sapporo: Lively and central, offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
- Niseko Hirafu: Perfect for ski enthusiasts, with ski-in/ski-out access and numerous hotels catering to families.
- Jozankei Hot Springs Area: Ideal for relaxation, with various hot spring resorts offering traditional ryokan (Japanese inns) and modern hotels.
- Otaru Canal District: Picturesque and charming, offering beautiful canal views and family-friendly hotels within walking distance of attractions.
- Furano or Biei: Ideal for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Hokkaido
- Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower: Ski-in/ski-out access, water park, kids club, and various family-friendly activities.
- Suzuran Fuji Rock Hotel: Located in Niseko, offering spacious rooms, hot springs, and a kids club with activities.
- JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo: Centrally located in Sapporo, with spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and a kids club.
- Canal View Hotel Otaru: Picturesque location in Otaru, offering family rooms, hot springs, and a game room.
- Furano Natulux Hotel: Located in Furano, surrounded by nature, with spacious rooms, hot springs, and a kids play area.
Best Time to Visit Hokkaido
- Winter (December to February): Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, Hokkaido offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and hot springs experiences.
- Spring (March to May): Witness cherry blossoms in bloom and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the springtime.
- Summer (June to August): Experience Hokkaido’s mild weather, perfect for outdoor adventures, and family-friendly festivals.
- Autumn (September to November): Enjoy Hokkaido’s beautiful fall foliage and participate in harvest festivals and outdoor activities.
How Long to Stay in Hokkaido
The ideal duration for your Hokkaido trip with kids depends on your desired activities and pace of travel. Here’s a general guide:
- Short trip (3-5 days): This allows you to experience the highlights of one or two major cities like Sapporo or Otaru, along with a few day trips to nearby attractions.
- Moderate trip (7-10 days): This provides enough time to explore several cities, participate in various activities like skiing or hiking, and delve deeper into the local culture.
- Extended trip (10+ days): This allows you to explore different regions of Hokkaido, experience a diverse range of activities, and truly immerse yourselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the island.
Hokkaido Family Itinerary – 7 Days
This sample itinerary highlights popular destinations and activities suitable for families:
- Day 1-2: Sapporo: Explore Odori Park, the Sapporo Beer Museum, and Sapporo Clock Tower.
- Day 3-4: Furano: Visit the Furano Cheese Factory, Tomita Farm, and experience outdoor activities like cycling and hiking.
- Day 5-6: Niseko: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing in Niseko’s world-famous powder snow.
- Day 7-8: Noboribetsu: Relax in natural hot springs and visit the Bear Park and Marine Park.
- Day 9-10: Otaru: Explore the Otaru Canal, Music Box Museum, and enjoy fresh seafood at the Otaru Fish Market.
Getting Around Hokkaido
- Train: The efficient JR Hokkaido railway network connects major cities and towns throughout the island. Consider purchasing a Hokkaido Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains for a specific period.
- Bus: Buses offer another convenient option for traveling between cities and towns, especially to reach more remote areas.
- Rental car: Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring at your own pace, particularly if you plan to visit several off-the-beaten-path locations. However, keep in mind winter driving conditions can be challenging.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in major cities and can be used for short trips or connecting to public transportation.
Hokkaido offers an unforgettable family vacation experience, combining stunning natural landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and exciting activities for all ages. With careful planning and this guide, you can create a memorable and enriching trip for your family in this incredible region of Japan.
