Summer is the busiest season for tourism in Hokkaido, with two key periods to note: late July to August, when Japanese schools are on summer break, and mid-August, during the Obon holidays (August 13–16), when many locals travel. Another smaller surge occurs during Japan’s late-September holidays. According to the Hokkaido Tourism Department, visitor numbers in summer are about 1.5 times higher than in winter, making it the most crowded time of year.

With travel demand peaking during Obon, it can be extremely difficult to secure accommodations or rental cars last-minute—so advance booking is strongly recommended for summer visitors. Last year saw several new attractions launch in Sapporo, and nearby Kitahiroshima opened the HOKKAIDO BALLPARK F VILLAGE, a new leisure complex centered around a baseball stadium. These additions are expected to draw even more crowds to the Sapporo area in 2024.

Another rising trend is the popularity of day trips from Sapporo. Since the pandemic, flight services at airports outside New Chitose have remained limited or suspended, making Sapporo and its surrounding areas more convenient and attractive for travelers arriving through the region’s main gateway.

When planning a summer trip to Hokkaido, basing yourself in Sapporo—the region’s largest city and transport hub—is a strategic move. From New Chitose Airport, which handles most international flights, it’s just a 40-minute train ride to central Sapporo. The city also serves as the main departure and arrival point for trains and long-distance buses across Hokkaido.

Thanks to this accessibility, the Central Hokkaido area (which includes Sapporo and New Chitose) draws the highest number of visitors in the region. According to data from the Hokkaido Bureau of Economy, this area accounts for about 52% of all travelers in Hokkaido—and an even higher 69% of those arriving from outside the region.

The Central Hokkaido area is home to many famous tourist spots, including Otaru, Shakotan, Niseko, Lake Toya, Noboribetsu Onsen, and Lake Shikotsu. While destinations like Furano, Biei, and Asahikawa are located in Northern Hokkaido, they’re also popular day-trip options from Sapporo. Hakodate, in Southern Hokkaido, continues to attract many visitors thanks to its direct shinkansen link to Tokyo. With international travel to Japan now fully resumed, these scenic destinations are expected to welcome large crowds once again.

Hokkaido is filled with fantastic summer destinations, but the top picks are those easily accessed from Sapporo—especially flower fields, lakes and rivers for water activities, and farms where you can taste freshly harvested seasonal vegetables. July is peak lavender season, and the sweeping purple fields are truly breathtaking. Must-visits include Farm Tomita and Hinode Lavender Garden in Furano, as well as Shikisai-no-Oka in nearby Biei, known for its vibrant seasonal blooms from spring through autumn.

For outdoor fun on the water, try rafting in Niseko, clear-kayaking on Lake Shikotsu, or canoeing along the Chitose River. These activities are easily accessible from Sapporo or New Chitose Airport and often come with English-speaking guides—making them great for international visitors. As for local flavors, Hokkaido’s best summer vegetables come from areas like Lake Toya, Niseko, Furano, and Tokachi—perfect for food lovers seeking fresh, regional tastes.

Lake Shikotsu boasts some of the clearest waters in Japan, and you can glide across them in a transparent-bottom kayak for an unforgettable view of the underwater world. Ranked as the country’s most transparent lake for 11 consecutive years through 2018, Lake Shikotsu is just a 70-minute drive from Sapporo or about 40 minutes from New Chitose Airport. Public access is also possible by train to Chitose Station and a connecting bus ride to the lake.

Perfect for beginners, the kayaking experience includes safety gear like life jackets and guidance from start to finish. The launch point is at the calm confluence of Lake Shikotsu and the Chitose River—ideal for first-timers thanks to its gentler currents, even when the lake itself has choppy waves due to wind.

From the kayak, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and catch a glimpse of the lakeside onsen town in the distance. The transparent bottom offers a stunning view of swaying aquatic plants and rainbow trout swimming beneath you. This popular activity is fully booked through autumn, but some guided tours that include the kayak experience still have availability—definitely worth checking out!

● Languages available: Japanese, English

Hokkaido is a treasure trove of fresh ingredients—seafood, meat, vegetables, and dairy products are all renowned worldwide. While tasting these local delicacies at restaurants is great, why not try cooking them yourself?

Located about 15 minutes by car from Lake Toya Onsen and around 1 hour and 15 minutes from New Chitose Airport, HOKKAIDian Homestead offers a hands-on cooking experience using seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishers. Guests prepare a simple, delicious lunch and enjoy it on-site. With kid-friendly options available, it’s perfect for families or friends. Communication is easy too—owner Ian, originally from Hong Kong and raised in the U.S., and his partner Noriko speak Japanese, Cantonese, and English.

This hands-on activity goes beyond bread and desserts—you can also try your hand at preparing main dishes with fresh vegetables and meats, or even create a seafood rice bowl using seasonal catch. After enjoying your handmade meal, feel free to stroll around the area or chat with the hosts about ingredients and cooking. The experience is especially rewarding from summer to autumn, when local vegetables are at their peak.

● Languages available: Japanese, English, Cantonese

If you're looking to see the sights without the stress, a bus tour is your best bet—especially those that depart directly from Sapporo. This popular one-day tour covers top spots like Hokkaido Shrine, Shiroi Koibito Park, and Otaru, along with the breathtaking Cape Kamui on the remote Shakotan Peninsula—an area difficult to reach via public transport. Since seasonal buses to Cape Kamui were discontinued in 2023, this tour is a rare chance for non-drivers to visit with ease.

Hokkaido Shrine is a beloved local spot nestled in a peaceful forest setting, offering both spiritual and nature-filled experiences. At Shiroi Koibito Park, you can shop for the iconic sweets, enjoy the charming garden, and snap Insta-worthy photos among the whimsical buildings and rose courtyard.

Once a thriving port town, Otaru is rich in history and charm—start your visit at the famous Otaru Canal, lined with century-old warehouses and banks now transformed into shops, restaurants, and attractions like Kitaichi Glass. Seafood lovers will find plenty of sushi and seafood rice bowl spots, while sweet tooths can indulge at popular dessert shops like LeTAO.

This tour gives you about 110 minutes of free time after exploring the canal area—perfect for enjoying lunch, shopping for local souvenirs, or simply strolling through the quaint streets at your own pace.

The final stop on the tour is Cape Kamui on the Shakotan Peninsula, known for its dramatic cliffs and the strikingly clear blue sea known as “Shakotan Blue.” From the parking area, it’s just a 5-minute uphill walk to enjoy panoramic views—but for those up for the challenge, we highly recommend continuing along the winding path to the cape’s summit.

The scenic 20-minute trek offers breathtaking views along the way, and the sense of accomplishment when you reach the tip is truly unforgettable.

● Languages available: Japanese, English, Chinese

Alongside Otaru, the Furano and Biei regions are among the most popular destinations for day tours from Sapporo. These areas are famous not only for their sprawling lavender fields and colorful flower gardens, but also for fresh local produce and delicious regional cuisine.

This full-day bus tour takes you to iconic spots like Farm Tomita, renowned worldwide for its lavender fields, and Shikisai-no-Oka, a hilltop garden with vibrant flower fields. You’ll also visit scenic countryside locations in Biei, such as Patchwork Road and Hokusei Hill Observatory Park—perfect for stunning photos. Lunch features an all-you-can-eat buffet with Hokkaido specialties like Jingisukan (grilled lamb) and Furano’s famous melon, all included in the tour price. Come hungry!

The final stop is the Forest Fairy Terrace, a charming shopping area themed around woodland sprites. Scattered throughout the forest are small cabin-like shops offering handmade crafts and goods created with natural materials.

Stroll through this whimsical setting and discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs that capture the magic of Furano.

● Languages available: Japanese, English, Chinese

If group bus tours leave you feeling worn out, consider booking a private one-day charter instead. A driver will pick you up directly from a designated spot in Sapporo, and the itinerary covers not only popular sights in Furano and Biei but also the highly rated Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa—making this tour especially recommended.

At Asahiyama Zoo, watch penguins swim through an underwater tunnel or see seals glide vertically through a cylindrical tank. It’s one of Japan’s most beloved zoos thanks to its dynamic, up-close animal displays. While buses require a bit of walking to reach key spots, private tours let you hop off closer to the action—saving time and energy for exploring.

In addition to must-sees like Patchwork Road and Shikisai-no-Oka, the Furano and Biei area is home to two other photogenic highlights: the Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls. The Blue Pond is known for its surreal cobalt-blue water, best viewed through the surrounding birch trees. Just upstream, Shirahige Falls cascades through cracks in the rock, fed by natural underground springs—offering a striking view from the nearby bridge.

Since this is a private tour, you can even customize your route in advance with the operator. With lavender in full bloom in July, be sure to include Farm Tomita in your itinerary for the full seasonal experience.

● Languages available: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, and more

In 2024, tourist crowds have returned across Hokkaido, bringing back the lively energy of pre-pandemic seasons. Summer remains the busiest time to visit, so expect popular spots to be crowded and reservations to fill quickly. Be sure to book your tickets and tours early to make the most of your Hokkaido adventure!