Hokkaido enjoys pleasantly mild summer temperatures, typically around 20°C (68°F), peaking at about 25°C (77°F) during July and August. This cooler climate makes it a favorite retreat from Japan's hotter regions.

However, Hokkaido is known for its significant day-to-night temperature drops. After sunset, temperatures can plunge by more than 10°C (18°F). In cities like Sapporo, while daytime temperatures might soar to 30°C (86°F) or above, nighttime can cool down to 10°C (50°F) or lower, marking a stark contrast.

In the northern and eastern areas like Shiretoko, Abashiri, and Kushiro, it's even cooler. Here, average summer temperatures stay around 20°C (68°F), with daytime highs barely reaching 24°C (75°F) and evening lows comfortably between 15°C and 19°C (59°F to 66°F).

With such cool evenings, air conditioning is rarely necessary, and many locals live comfortably without it. Just remember to layer up to avoid the evening chill while you explore these beautiful regions.

In Hokkaido, summer days call for short sleeves, but don’t be fooled by the warm temperatures—packing a jacket and a hat is crucial due to the notable drop in temperature at night and the strong sun during the day. If you're particularly cold-sensitive, consider bringing a scarf for added warmth, and always have sunscreen and sunglasses handy for sun protection.

The region enjoys a relatively dry summer, with brief spells of rain mainly in June. However, it’s wise to keep a compact umbrella close by, useful for both rain and sun.

As the season wanes past mid-August, the air cools daily, nudging towards autumn. You'll likely need thicker outerwear as you edge into September. For the warmest experiences, aim to visit between July and early August, making the most of Hokkaido’s brief but beautiful summer.

There are two main transportation options for exploring Hokkaido: trains and driving.

The most commonly used train service for Hokkaido sightseeing is JR Hokkaido, which provides convenient access to major tourist attractions throughout the region. They also offer the Hokkaido Rail Pass" specifically designed for foreign visitors, with different durations to choose from. By planning your itinerary well, this pass can help you save a significant amount of money on transportation expenses.

Summer is also the best time for tourists to explore Hokkaido by car. If you have confidence in your driving skills, it is undoubtedly the most comfortable and convenient mode of transportation.

Especially considering Hokkaido's vastness and abundance of hidden gems, popular summer destinations like Furano and Biei are located in the central region of the island. By driving on your own, you can easily plan a day trip from Sapporo, enjoy flexible scheduling, and even discover scenic driving routes. I highly recommend giving it a try.

Hokkaido's vast natural landscapes are home to a variety of wildlife, including male brown bears that can reach up to 2 meters in length and weigh between 150 to 400 kilograms.

These bears emerge from hibernation in the spring and remain active through autumn, increasing the chance of encounters during forest hikes, fishing expeditions, or visits to natural sites.

Before venturing into bear-inhabited areas, it’s crucial to check local wildlife information, which is often available at tourist centers or indicated through roadside signs. Heeding these warnings and following the guidelines provided is essential for safety.

If you do encounter a brown bear, stay calm. Evaluate your surroundings and the distance to the bear, then slowly retreat while keeping an eye on its movements. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements, as these can provoke the bear and escalate the situation.

When visiting mountain and forest areas in Hokkaido during summer, it is recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to avoid getting chilled and prevent mosquito bites.

It's also wise to bring a waterproof and insulated jacket, along with a hat, for sun protection and to be prepared for temperature drops or rain. Opt for white or bright colors to quickly notice any insects that may land on you.

Sapporo, Hokkaido's most popular city, comes alive in summer. Odori Park blooms with vibrant flowers, and in late June, the lively and grand traditional dance festival, YOSAKOI Soran Festival, takes place.

In July and August, the Sapporo Summer Festival is held, featuring the famous Sapporo Odori Beer Garden for enjoying drinks and merriment. The comfortable summer nights are perfect for savoring a beer and then <@heading up Mt. Moiwa to gaze at the stars|a=a1000007@> and enjoy the night view, which is exceptionally romantic.

During summer, parks within Sapporo or nearby natural attractions transform into flower fields. Highly recommended destinations include the Takino Suzuran Hillside Park and the enchanting scenery where lavender and a large Buddha coexist.

Take advantage of the brief summer season to explore these places. Additionally, many day trips depart from Sapporo to places like Furano and Biei, so it's highly recommended to base yourself in Sapporo and join different tours each day to explore the central Hokkaido region.

What to do in summer in Sapporo

Recommended Activities & Experiences in Sapporo in Summer

The harbor town of Otaru is a popular summer destination. Enjoy the relatively warm weather by taking an Otaru Canal Cruise and experiencing the town's charm from a different perspective. Along the way from Otaru Station to the Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi-dori Shopping Street, you'll encounter elegant Western historical monuments.

Sakaimachi-dori is home to many renowned souvenir stores like Rokkatei, Kitakaro, and LeTAO. If you need to cool down, stop by for an ice cream treat. These stores also offer glass crafts, waxworks, and a wide range of other products. Don't miss the Otaru craft stores featuring glass crafts, candles, and music boxes. You can shop, explore, and even participate in experiential courses. And since summer is the season for sea urchins, head to Otaru's Triangle Market or local sushi shops to savor the best sea urchins in town!

Recommended Otaru Summer Attractions

Otaru Summer Activities & Experiences

Jozankei is a well-known hot spring resort in Hokkaido, nestled amidst the lush forests. It is a popular summer retreat, perfect for day trips or overnight stays, allowing visitors to enjoy hot springs while immersing themselves in the forest atmosphere.

Located about an hour's drive from Jozankei, Lake Shikotsu is known for being the clearest and most transparent lake in Japan. Along the lakeside, there is a 13-kilometer walking trail that offers opportunities for leisurely walks and bike rides.

It's worth mentioning that both Jozankei and Lake Shikotsu have special activities during summer. Jozankei hosts the Jozankei Nature Illumination, a nature-inspired light art event held from June to October. On the other hand, Lake Shikotsu offers the unique experience of Transparent Kayaking, where you can paddle in a clear kayak and admire the scenery beneath you. It's an enjoyable activity suitable for both adults and children.

What to do in summer in Jozankei and Lake Shikotsu

Recommended Summer Activities and Experiences in Jozankei and Lake Shikotsu

Noboribetsu is one of Japan's famous hot spring resorts, attracting many visitors in the summer to witness the enchanting "Jigokudani" or Hell Valley, where taking a stroll amidst the mist creates a unique experience. Additionally, Noboribetsu offers various theme parks, such as Noboribetsu Bear Park, Noboribetsu Date Historic Village, and Noboribetsu Marine Park NIXE, where visitors can feed bears, transform into ninjas, and enjoy animal performances, making it a perfect destination for families. In August, Noboribetsu hosts the lively Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri, a festival featuring giant demon-themed floats and energetic performers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the annual procession of the Demon King!

Located just one hour away from Noboribetsu, Lake Toya is a popular summer tourist spot. Besides its hot springs and scenic lakeside views, the highlight is the spectacular Lake Toya Long-Run Fireworks Festival, held between late April and October. Visitors can admire the magnificent fireworks soaring over the night sky from hotels or open-air baths along the lakeside. There are even sightseeing boats available for a cruise around the lake. It is recommended to make reservations in advance for those interested.

What to do in summer in Noboribetsu and Lake Toya

Recommended Summer Activities & Experiences in Noboribetsu and Lake Toya

Niseko and Rusutsu showcase contrasting landscapes between the summer and winter seasons. The hills and plains come alive with vibrant greenery during summer, and one of the popular attractions is Mount Yotei, known as "Ezo Fuji," offering different scenic views.

In July, you can enjoy breathtaking fields of potato flowers, while August brings sunflower fields and the captivating sight of the "Red Fuji" painted by the evening glow. The cable cars in Niseko's Annupuri International Ski Area and Grand Hirafu Ski Resort also operate during the summer, providing a chance to ride up and admire the beautiful Mount Yotei.

Moreover, Niseko and Rusutsu are popular destinations for river rafting and water activities during the summer. There are forest adventure parks nestled in the mountains, as well as various farms and cheese factories offering hands-on experiences in cheese making, ice cream production, or milking cows. These activities are highly recommended for families looking to plan a one or two-day trip.

What to do in summer in Niseko and Rusutsu

Niseko & Rusutsu Summer Recommended Itinerary

Furano, Hokkaido's most popular summer destination, offers breathtaking rural landscapes that leave a lasting impression. Farm Tomita , with its picturesque fields resembling an oil painting, is a must-visit spot that attracts numerous tourists. Every photo taken there turns into a stunning masterpiece. Another highlight is the Cloud-Viewing 'Unkai Terrace' at Hoshino Tomamu Resort, which opens only during the summer and fall seasons and is immensely popular among visitors.

For thrill-seekers, Furano provides exciting water activities like rafting and canyon exploration during the summer. Those seeking a more tranquil experience can opt for a leisurely bike ride through the countryside. In Furano, you'll also find a cheese factory, wineries, and lavender gardens. These locations offer opportunities to observe the production process, savor delicious ice cream, and even participate in hands-on craft courses.

In late July, Furano City organizes various events, including the lively Hokkai Heso Matsuri (Hokkai Belly Button Festival), featuring entertaining belly dances. With so many summer activities to choose from, Furano is the perfect destination to fully enjoy Hokkaido's charms.

What to do in summer in Furano

Furano Summer Recommended Activities & Experiences

Biei, equally renowned as Furano, is another popular summer tourist destination in Hokkaido. It is famous for its patchwork flower fields at Shikisai-no-oka, which attract visitors from all directions. The vast countryside scenery along the Patchwork Road is truly captivating. Additionally, Biei town is home to numerous famous trees, such as the Ken & Merry Tree and the Parent & Child Tree. The Seven Stars Tree, which gained fame for its appearance on cigarette packages, is also a notable attraction. These majestic trees standing in the expansive plains create a breathtaking sight that entices many photographers.

Another must-visit spot in Biei is the famous Blue Pond, known as "Shirahige Blue Pond." The dried-up Japanese larch forest against the backdrop of the vivid blue pond creates a dreamlike and mesmerizing scene. It gained worldwide recognition when it was chosen as a desktop image for Mac OS X by Apple. A visit to Biei is incomplete without experiencing the beauty of this iconic location.

What to do in summer in Biei

Biei Summer Recommended Tour Experience

Asahikawa is a place abundant in attractions and countless culinary delights. It is home to the Asahiyama Zoo, where you can see a variety of northern animals such as polar bears, penguins, and foxes. Ueno Farm, a picturesque English-style farm garden, operates from April to October and offers a stunning experience. Takinoue Shibazakura Park showcases breathtaking patchwork flower fields comparable to those in Biei and Furano.

Located approximately one hour away from the city center, Sounkyo and Mt. Asahi are mountainous attractions within the Daisetsuzan National Park. You can take a cable car and enjoy the lush greenery of the Daisetsuzan Forest, perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the forest atmosphere.

In the city center of Asahikawa, you'll find the Daisetsu Beerkan (Daisetsu Beer Hall) and Asahikawa Ramen Village, as well as several sake breweries. Whether you want to taste the local beers of Hokkaido or savor a bowl of authentic Asahikawa ramen, these places have got you covered!

What to do in summer in Asahikawa

Asahikawa Summer Recommended Tour Experience

Tokachi is the largest administrative district in Hokkaido, and especially popular among tourists is the city of Obihiro. One must-visit attraction is Rokka no Mori, operated by the famous Hokkaido souvenir brand Rokkatei. During summer, the garden is adorned with various flowers and greenery, resembling the patterns on Rokkatei's packaging. It is a delightful sight to behold. Another notable attraction is the only Ban'ei Horse Racing track in Japan. And the "Start to Happiness" train station, symbolizing the journey from the land of love to happiness, is also located here.

The Kachimai Tokachi Fireworks Festival, held in mid-August along the Tokachi River, is famous for its spectacular display of 20,000 fireworks reflecting on the river's surface. It attracts a large number of locals and tourists alike.

Tokachi is also renowned for its delicious cuisine and dairy farming industry. The dessert industry thrives here, with Rokkatei and the popular layered cake brand "Sanporoku" having their flagship stores in the area. These are highly recommended stops for dessert lovers.

What to do in summer in Tokachi and Obihiro

Tokachi & Obihiro Summer Recommended Activities & Experiences

In Kushiro, there are several renowned must-visit attractions. First, there is the Kushiro Marsh, the largest wetland in Japan. It is a beautiful natural landscape that showcases the lush greenery of the marsh. During summer, there is a seasonal limited train that operates, providing a wonderful opportunity to explore the scenic beauty of the Kushiro Marsh by train. Another famous attraction is Lake Akan, known for its round and vibrant green marimo algae. And then there is Lake Mashu, which offers stunning views with its incredibly high transparency.

Within the city of Kushiro, there are also numerous food destinations worth exploring. You can visit Kushiro Washo Market and customize your own seafood rice bowl, or try the Hokkaido-style fried chicken called "Zangi," which originated in Kushiro. Kushiro ramen and Robatayaki (charcoal-grilled cuisine) are also highly recommended culinary experiences to add to your itinerary.

What to do in summer in Kushiro

Kushiro Summer Recommended Experiences

Shiretoko, located along the northern coast of Eastern Hokkaido, is an ideal destination for summer outings and seaside views. During the summer in Shiretoko, you can participate in activities like the Shiretoko Goko Lakes Guided Hike or take a whale-watching tour on the Orca sightseeing boat.

Famous attractions such as Shiretoko Goko Lakes, Shōtō Falls, and Furepe Waterfall are not frozen during the summer, showcasing a different appearance compared to their icy winter landscapes. Additionally, you can witness the influence of the famous "Nebuta Matsuri" festival from Aomori Prefecture, known as "Nebuta in Shiretoko." It is a lively festival and one of the highlights of Shiretoko's summer, providing an opportunity to join in the festive atmosphere.

What to do in summer in Shiretoko

Shiretoko Summer Recommended Activities & Experiences

In summer, Abashiri offers various floral attractions, such as the Abashiri Kotobuki Primeval Flower Garden, where you can enjoy both flowers and a view of the sea, the Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park, which is only open in spring and summer, and the Yubetsu Tulip Park, famous for its tulip season in May to June. For those who want to experience water activities, you can try canoeing at Lake Abashiri or take a steamboat ride at Lake Akan.

In addition, Abashiri has several unique museums that showcase the local culture. The Abashiri Prison Museum, once known as "the strictest prison in Japan," the Hokkaido Museum of Northern Peoples, which introduces Ainu culture, and the Okhotsk Ryu-hyo Museum, where you can learn about the winter ice floes, are just a few examples. Abashiri is not only a place to enjoy flowers and the sea but also a destination where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

What to do in summer in Abashiri

Hakodate offers a cool and pleasant climate during summer, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing and strolling. In the city center, you can visit the Michelin two-star attraction, Goryokaku; the famous Mount Hakodate, known as one of the three best night views in Hokkaido; the romantic European-style architecture of the Motomachi Roman Catholic Church; and the charming Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse, for great photography, shopping, and exploration.

For those seeking a closer connection with nature, there is the Onuma Quasi-National Park, perfect for hiking, canoeing, or taking a sightseeing boat.

Hakodate is also renowned for its squid and seafood, and a visit to the Hakodate Morning Market is a must, where you can enjoy a delicious seafood bowl and try your hand at squid fishing.

Every year in August, Hakodate hosts its grandest festival, the Hakodate Port Festival, featuring fireworks displays, float parades, ethnic dance processions, and more, creating a lively and festive atmosphere throughout the city.

What to do in summer in Hakodate

Hakodate Summer Recommended Itinerary & Events

*Article updated April 2024. Please refer to the official websites for the latest details.