Vacation planning can be complicated when you’re going abroad and don’t know where to begin. When many people visit Japan, they stick to major cities, like Tokyo and Kyoto, but Hokkaido offers a more secluded, pastoral, and wholesome view just off the beaten path. Here are a few of the attractions to add to your itinerary.

7 Must-See Family Attractions in Hokkaido 

1. Shikabe Geyser Park  

Once every 20 minutes, this geyser unleashes a stream of water approximately 212° Fahrenheit (100° Celcius) and 55 feet (15 meters) high. Called “the Miracle Show,” Shikabe Geyser is heated by the geothermal vents from the Mount Komagatake volcano—every blast lasts about 45 seconds. 

2. Hakodate 

Located at the southern tip of the island, Hakodate is famous for delicious seafood, internationally influenced architecture, and bustling open-air markets. Mount Hakodate towers about 1,096 feet (334 meters) above the city and is accessible by aerial ropeway. The top of the mountain offers a gorgeous panoramic view of the harbor. 

3. Noboribetsu Onsen 

Unwind at this natural hot springs resort where you can dip into nine different pools and mineral waters. The hot springs release about 2,642 gallons (10,000 liters) of water every day. 

4. Noboribetsu Bear Park  

Witness up close Hokkaido’s largest land mammal, the brown bear. These bears are protected by the Lake Kuttara area and were once worshipped by the Ainu native people. The park offers the best opportunity for you to encounter these shy creatures safely.  

5. Tomita Farm 

Visit Tomita Farm to see stunning fields of flowers and manicured gardens. Bright marigolds bloom in October as well as 120 different types of plants in the Hanabito Garden. The Autumn Field features a breathtaking backdrop of the Tokachi Mountains capped with snow in the fall. Tomita Farm also has a greenhouse where you can see their hallmark lavender plants year-round. 

6. Biei Blue Pond 

This man-made pond shimmers with a dazzling aquamarine-blue because of the natural mineral sediments in the soil. Since its creation in 1988, Biei Blue Pond has become one of the most visited sites on the island and is an iconic setting for nature photographers.  

7. Asahikawa Snow Crystal Museum 

This enchanting castle is like a scene out of a fairytale with magnificent white, gothic-inspired arches, a spiral staircase, a Crystal Room with floor-to-ceiling snowflake photography, and the awesome Ice Corridor with massive ice columns and snow banks. Over 200 pictures are displayed of snowflakes throughout the museum, and the Music Hall features an ornate oil painting of the winter sky.

Vacation planning is easy when you work with a local who knows the language and culture. Japanese native Nadine K. Shimabukuro founded N & K Travel Service agency in Honolulu and has led international tours  throughout Japan since 1997. Learn more about the tours on their website, or call (808) 739-9010 to discuss vacation planning today. They’re currently booking for the Fall Hokkaido tour (October 1–11, 2020)—reserve your spot now to see all these attractions!