Hokkaido blends modern attractions with natural wonders, making it the perfect spot for mixing activities, fun and cultural education whilst your family share some amazing experiences.
This comprehensive itinerary will guide you through Japan’s northernmost island at a comfortable pace, with detailed travel distances and durations to help you plan effectively.
Day 1: Arrive in Sapporo – The Journey Begins
Getting there:
- From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo: 40-50 km (approximately 1 hour by airport express train or 1 hour 15 minutes by airport bus)
After arriving at New Chitose Airport, make your way to your hotel in Sapporo. Once settled, explore Odori Park, offering plenty of green space for children to burn off energy after the flight. Visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic city views—a perfect introduction to Hokkaido’s capital. End your evening with authentic Sapporo-style ramen to satisfy everyone after a day of travel.
Day 2: Sapporo & Otaru – A Day of Wonder and Craft
Travel distance:
- Sapporo to Otaru: 38 km (approximately 30-40 minutes by car or 30 minutes by JR train)
Begin your day at the Sapporo Science Center, where interactive exhibits will captivate curious minds of all ages. Then head to Otaru, a charming port city known for its picturesque canal and historical buildings. The Otaru Music Box Museum offers a delightful hands-on experience where family members can craft their own music boxes as memorable souvenirs.
Day 3: Asahikawa & Asahiyama Zoo – Up Close with Nature
Travel distance:
- Sapporo to Asahikawa: 137 km (approximately 2 hours by car or 1.5 hours by express train)
Take a scenic drive to Asahikawa, where families with kids can enjoy the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. The zoo’s unique enclosures bring you remarkably close to the animals, creating unforgettable experiences for children. Refuel at Asahikawa Ramen Village, where each shop offers its own distinctive take on this beloved dish.
Day 4: Furano & Biei – Fields of Flowers and Picturesque Vistas
Travel distance:
- Asahikawa to Furano: 55 km (approximately 1 hour by car)
- Furano to Biei: 25 km (approximately 30 minutes by car)
Today’s journey takes you through some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic landscapes. Visit Farm Tomita in Furano, famous for its lavender fields in summer. Continue to Biei with its rolling hills and patchwork fields perfect for family photos. This self-drive itinerary allows you to explore the best things to do in Hokkaido in summer at your own pace. Hokkaido is beautiful no matter which season you’re visiting. Every time visitors go to Hokkaido, there are two things to look forward to – food and nature. If this is your first time visiting Hokkaido, a road trip is the best way to visit must-see spots while traveling at a leisurely pace.
Day 5: Lake Toya – Nature’s Caldera
Travel distance:
- Furano to Lake Toya: 150 km (approximately 2.5-3 hours by car)
Head to the stunning Lake Toya, a caldera lake surrounded by volcanic mountains. It was the site of the 2008 G8 summit, and it’s easy to see why world leaders would want to meet in such a tranquil location. This is one of the must-visit places if you’re on a road trip around Hokkaido. If you’re looking to go camping in Hokkaido, you’ll be able to find several campgrounds here too. Enjoy a family boat ride on the lake for spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes. End your day with a relaxing soak in a traditional onsen to rejuvenate for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 6: Noboribetsu – The Land of Hot Springs
Travel distance:
- Lake Toya to Noboribetsu: 45 km (approximately 1 hour by car)
After arriving in Noboribetsu, drive straight to Jigokudani, one of the key attractions here. It’s known for its steaming vents and volcanic landscape that give you a glimpse into the region’s geothermal activity. It takes about 30 minutes to walk the trails and explore the area, maybe even see some wildlife. Follow this with a visit to Noboribetsu Bear Park, where children can observe these fascinating animals safely. Return to your onsen hotel for a traditional kaiseki dinner with the family.
Day 7: Hakodate – History Meets Heights
Travel distance:
- Noboribetsu to Hakodate: 148 km (approximately 2.5 hours by car or 3 hours by train with transfers)
Journey to Hakodate and explore Fort Goryokaku, a star-shaped fort that offers historical insights and beautiful grounds. The city has two major sightseeing spots worth visiting: Goryōkaku Park where the unique star-shaped fort lies, and the Hakodate Ropeway to get to the top of Mount Hakodate, where you can witness one of Japan’s top 3 night views. The view of the unique Goryōkaku from the Goryōkaku Tower is impressive. Take the Hakodate Ropeway to Mt. Hakodate for breathtaking panoramic views, especially magical at twilight. Enjoy browsing the lively Hakodate Morning Market.
Day 8: Hakodate to Sapporo – Botanical Bliss and Farewell
Travel distance:
- Hakodate to Sapporo: 310 km (approximately 4.5 hours by car or 3 hours 45 minutes by express train)
From Sapporo, the direct train to Hakodate takes 3 hours 44 minutes. Start your day with a visit to Hakodate’s Tropical Botanical Garden before beginning your journey back to Sapporo. The long drive provides a chance to see more of Hokkaido’s diverse landscape. Once back in Sapporo, spend some time souvenir shopping before enjoying a celebratory family dinner.
Day 9: Sapporo – Gardens and Zoos
Travel within Sapporo: Most attractions are within 5-10 km of the city center (10-20 minutes by car or 15-30 minutes by public transit)
Spend a relaxing day in Sapporo at the Hokkaido University Botanic Garden, a peaceful haven for nature lovers. Visit Maruyama Zoo, where children can enjoy seeing various wildlife species. For a cultural experience, tour the Sapporo Beer Museum, which offers engaging activities for all ages, including non-alcoholic options for children.
Day 10: Departure – Until Next Time
Travel distance:
- Sapporo to New Chitose Airport: 40-50 km (approximately 1 hour by car or airport express train)
One-way fare on the airport liner costs ¥1,100 per person, and is payable before you alight, either by cash or card. It’s advisable to board the bus at the first stop because at subsequent stops, some passengers might not be able to board the bus due to limited capacity. More details about the Airport Liner bus can be found on its official website. Enjoy your final morning in Hokkaido with a leisurely breakfast and last-minute souvenir shopping before heading to New Chitose Airport for your departure.
Key Planning Considerations for Families
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Car Rental: Many families find self-driving ideal for exploring Hokkaido. A typical itinerary might include: 3 nights in Sapporo, 1 night in Otaru, 2 nights in Niseko, 1 night in Noboribetsu via Lake Toya, and 1 night in Chitose.
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Best Time to Visit: The height of the tourist season is in July and August as most of the flowers are in full bloom, especially the very popular lavender. Different flower farms are also popular for different types of flowers, so which farms you visit will also depend on the timing. Some travelers choose to go in early September to avoid the crowds and heat while still being in time for late blooming lavender. Since summer heat might not be ideal for an enjoyable holiday, especially for families with children, timing is important.
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Public Transportation Option: Public transport can be your main travel mode if you’re not comfortable driving. It’s highly recommended to purchase a JR Hokkaido Rail Pass (5 or 7 days, and new 10-day pass from October 2023) before the trip. Getting the rail pass prior to your trip not only saves you money but is also more convenient than having to locate designated sales counters at selected stations to purchase the rail pass.
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Family-Friendly Accommodations: This itinerary is very suitable for families with older folks and/or young children as the pace is very relaxed with plenty of opportunities for breaks, toilet stops, and late starts, along with more family-oriented activities.
With this detailed itinerary, complete with travel distances and durations, your family is all set for an unforgettable adventure through the natural beauty, cultural richness, and welcoming atmosphere of Hokkaido. Happy travels!
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