Hokkaido is Japan’s largest region by area, and each season offers a different charm, making it a captivating destination year-round. In spring, flowers bloom in full glory; in summer, you can enjoy the cool weather and vast nature. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, and in winter, magical snowy landscapes spread out before you. In this article, we’ll introduce the highlights of Hokkaido across all four seasons.
Spring: Scenic Drives with Fresh Greenery and Cherry Blossoms
Spring in Hokkaido arrives a little later than on Japan’s main island. From late April to May, cherry blossoms reach full bloom, attracting many visitors to enjoy their beauty. In particular, the cherry blossom-lined paths at Goryokaku in Hakodate and Matsumae Castle are must-sees. With a rental car, you can explore cherry blossom spots at your own pace and fully appreciate Hokkaido’s vast natural scenery.
Also, May marks the arrival of fresh greenery, bringing with it a vibrant sense of life. In Biei and Furano, the fields and rolling hills spread endlessly, creating postcard-like landscapes. With a car, you can easily visit scenic spots like Patchwork Hill and Shikisai no Oka, where you can stop freely for photography and sightseeing.
Summer: Cool Escapes and Outdoor Adventures
Compared to the main island, Hokkaido’s summer is pleasantly cool, making it a popular summer retreat. In July, the lavender fields of Furano are a top attraction, with sweeping purple landscapes that captivate all who visit. In addition to lavender, sunflowers, poppies, and other colorful flowers bloom in full force, making it a joy to drive around and explore flower fields across the region.
Summer also offers a wealth of outdoor activities unique to Hokkaido. Camping and hiking in the great outdoors are popular, and at lakes such as Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya, water activities like kayaking and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) are a big draw. With a rental car, reaching these outdoor spots is easy, allowing you to enjoy an unforgettable summer trip with friends or family.
Autumn: A Season of Fall Foliage and Gourmet Delights
Autumn in Hokkaido is the perfect season to enjoy beautiful foliage and delicious local cuisine. From mid-September to October, the changing leaves in places like Daisetsuzan and the Shiretoko Peninsula are breathtaking. The dramatic cliffs of Sounkyo Gorge also burst with vivid autumn colors. A rental car lets you easily tour the top foliage spots and catch them at peak timing.
Autumn is also when Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients are at their best. It’s the ideal time for a gourmet journey featuring fresh seafood, potatoes, pumpkins, and other autumn flavors. Cities like Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate offer local specialties that let you taste the unique flavors of each region—one of the best parts of traveling in Hokkaido in autumn.
Winter: Snowy Landscapes and Winter Sports
Winter in Hokkaido is all about spectacular snowy scenery and world-class winter sports. From December through February, cities like Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano are blanketed in snow, creating a stunning winter wonderland. Seasonal events include the “Sapporo Snow Festival” and the “Penguin Parade” at Asahiyama Zoo, both beloved winter attractions.
Hokkaido is also a dream destination for skiing and snowboarding. World-famous resorts like Niseko, Rusutsu, and Tomamu offer excellent powder and facilities. A rental car makes accessing these ski areas simple, so you can fully enjoy winter sports. And after a day in the snow, nothing beats relaxing in a hot spring. Noboribetsu and Lake Toya are just two of Hokkaido’s many outstanding onsen resorts.
Rent a Car with GOGO Car Rental!
To enjoy Hokkaido’s vast and seasonal landscapes, renting a car is your best option. Tourist spots are spread out, so having the freedom of your vehicle allows you to make the most of your time. With GO!GO! Car Rental, which offers plentiful inventory daily, and extensive support for tourists, even first-time visitors, can travel with ease and confidence.
Spring flower tours, summer scenic drives, autumn foliage adventures, or winter ski trips—no matter the season, GOGO Car Rental lets you travel where you want, when you want. Make the most of Hokkaido’s beautiful seasons with the freedom of a rental car!
