Hokkaido Island: The Best Place for the Winter Holidays!

Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan and the most significant island after Honshu. It is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean. It is particularly busy during winter. Being so far north and surrounded by water, snowfall is guaranteed yearly. 

This island is famous for its high-quality snow, which attracts domestic and international snowsports enthusiasts. Besides its wild natural scenery, the island hosts many enjoyable seasonal festivities combining nature, tradition, art, and food. All these factors make Hokkaido Island a prime location for winter holiday getaways. Let’s explore what makes it an excellent destination for appreciating the best of Japan!

What can I do in Hokkaido this season?

This season, there is a beautiful collection of festivals all over Hokkaido island. Some of Japan’s most iconic celebrations can be found here. The world-renowned Sapporo Snow Festival is held every winter from February 4th to 11th. It includes the International Snow Sculpture Contest, where teams worldwide compete to create magnificent ice sculptures. At night, the sculptures are also illuminated, creating magical displays. Sapporo’s Odori Park, a key venue for the Snow Festival, is only a short walk from Odori Subway Station.

The Monbetsu Drift Ice Festival is also held in early February. This festival celebrates the natural phenomenon of drift ice along the coastlines of Okhotsk to the north. Visitors can observe this natural wonder from the Okhotsk Tower observation deck on the shore. The Sea Ice Museum offers further insights into this occurrence. But the best way to appreciate the sea ice is up close. Icebreaker ship cruises are also provided so participants can get an even better view.

What can I eat and drink on Hokkaido Island?

Hokkaido’s cuisine is a mix of regional specialties and snacks. And they are all readily available at local markets, shops, and restaurants. Sapporo and Hakodate are especially popular with those exploring the island’s food scene. Genmaicha is a green tea blended with roasted brown rice. It has a uniquely nutty aroma that perfectly matches cold winter evenings. You can also enjoy the drink chilled, and it has numerous health benefits, such as improved digestion and antioxidant properties. Its nutrition and affordability make it a popular tea option to this day.

Kaki no tane is a snack that consists of crescent-shaped rice crackers flavored with soy sauce and chili. It is often paired with roasted peanuts and beer. This snack is a delightful combination of savory and spicy. Edamame are immature soybeans harvested while still in their pods. These vibrant green legumes are boiled or steamed, producing tender beans and a satisfying crunch. They are commonly sprinkled with salt and served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

Are you looking for great snacks from Hokkaido? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco delivers traditional Japanese snacks, teas, and sweets from local Japanese makers directly to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!

What shrines can I visit in Hokkaido?

Hokkaido’s sacred sites are particularly scenic in winter. Their snow-covered torii gates create an even more tranquil setting than during other months. Most of these shrines are easily accessible by bus or train. Visitors often combine their trips with scenic walks to other nearby cultural landmarks.

Sumiyoshi Shrine is located in the port city of Otaru and stands out for its peaceful atmosphere and architectural style. As one of the city’s primary guardian deities, the shrine contains examples of beautiful Japanese design. Its gardens and picturesque pond are a chance for peaceful reflection. Its iconic “thousand red gates” leading up to the main shrine create a satisfying scene when blanketed with snow.

Hokkaido Shrine is located in the heart of Sapporo and is a popular destination for locals and tourists. This expansive shrine complex is surrounded by lush greenery and has excellent city views. Visitors can explore its gardens and pay respects at the main shrine. Afterward, some enjoy traditional Japanese tea and sweets at one of its many teahouses.

Is there any kind of art I can enjoy there?

Hokkaido has a long artistic tradition, particularly in pottery. The region’s unique ceramics are a renowned form known as shonzui. This pottery is popularized by its intricate patterns and striking blue-and-white designs. The simple color scheme is a hallmark of this art style. Shonzui originated in the Edo period and was influenced by Chinese porcelain.

Japanese artisans meticulously hand-paint the pieces with scenes from nature, mythological figures, or abstract patterns. The delicate brushwork and attention to detail make each piece a unique work of art. The more collectible pieces are highly prized and are often used in traditional tea ceremonies or displayed as decorative art pieces.

Hakodate and Sapporo yaki are the shonzui styles specific to the island. And they have returned to popularity in recent years. As a result, a growing number of workshops and studios offer hands-on pottery experiences to visitors. These workshops allow tourists to learn traditional techniques and create unique pieces. 

These venues are often located near major cities or towns, making them easy to visit using public transportation. There is also the Ebetsu City Ceramic Art Center, which showcases the works of various ceramic artists. One is Shinobu Komori, who significantly contributed to developing Hokkaido ceramics.

Why should I check out Hokkaido Island this winter?

People should check out Hokkaido Island this winter to have unique outdoor experiences despite the cold weather. Visiting the Sapporo Snow Festival is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, even for Japanese residents. For active visitors, the island’s snow makes its winter sports conditions second to none. Those seeking a quieter experience can appreciate the natural beauty of winter either locally at quiet shrines or further afield among crashing ice flows.

There are also options for avoiding cold weather altogether. Visitors can dine indoors on local cuisine or gain a deeper appreciation of the island’s rich artistic heritage while staying warm inside. Local museums and centers provide information on local potters’ diverse styles and techniques. Have you explored Hokkaido before? Do you have favorite festivals, foods, or experiences to recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments below and inspire others to discover this winter wonderland!