Separated from Honshu by the Tsugaru Strait, Hokkaidō is Japan's second-largest island. Home to vast swathes of semi-explored wilderness on a dramatic volcanic bed, this is a landscape of bubbling natural hot springs, forested national parks and towering snow-capped mountains. Whether you’re dreaming of superb ski holidays, restful hot spring escapes or food-focused weekends in the island’s vibrant capital, Hokkaidō is a fabulous destination. Accommodation options include everything from charming ryokans to swish contemporary resorts, with the best places to stay in Hokkaidō promising marvellous views and terrific cuisine.
For great shopping and buzzy nightlife spots, look to the capital city, Sapporo, or to seaside Hakodate. The natural hot springs of Noboribetsu will appeal to keen spa-goers, whilst Niseko is one of Japan’s top ski destinations. With four interconnecting resorts and almost 18 metres of powder snow each season, this is a deservedly popular spot.
Wildlife enthusiasts, hikers and mountain bikers, on the other hand, should head straight for the island’s national parks. Daisetsuzan National Park stands out as the largest in Japan, a huge wilderness of soaring mountains, volcanoes and lakes. The Shiretoko National Park and Akan National Park are also spectacular. Visit in autumn to see forests turning from green to orange and gold, or travel during the summer months for the warmest weather. Expect the best places to stay in Hokkaidō to be popular year-round.