Hotels
Range from luxury to budget options. Prices: £80 - £300 per night.
Best Times to Visit
Hokkaido offers unique experiences year-round:
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Accommodation Options
Ryokan
Traditional inns with tatami mats. Prices: £60 - £150 per night.
Pensions
Family-run guesthouses. Prices: £40 - £100 per night.
Hostels
Affordable options for budget travelers. Prices: £15 - £30 per night.
Campsites
Available in national parks. Prices: £10 - £25 per night.
Transportation Options
Getting around Hokkaido is convenient and offers various options:
Air Travel
New Chitose Airport serves Hokkaido with domestic and international flights.
Prices: £150 - £500
Train
The Hokkaido Shinkansen connects major cities, offering a fast travel experience.
Prices: £30 - £100
Bus
Local and intercity buses provide access to remote areas and attractions.
Prices: £5 - £30
Car Rental
Renting a car is ideal for exploring Hokkaido’s countryside and national parks.
Prices: £30 - £80 per day
Bicycles
Bike rentals are available for exploring local attractions and beautiful landscapes.
Prices: £10 - £20 per day
Taxi Services
Taxis are convenient for short distances, especially when traveling with luggage.
Prices: Starting from £3 - £10
Visa Requirements
Check with your local Japanese embassy for visa requirements based on your nationality.
Health and Safety Tips
Here are some key health and safety tips to keep in mind during your trip to Hokkaido:
- Travel Insurance: Always get travel insurance to cover emergencies and unexpected issues.
- Vaccinations: Check with your doctor about any necessary vaccinations before your trip.
- Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers:
- Police: 110
- Fire/Ambulance: 119
- Food Safety: Enjoy street food from popular vendors for fresher and safer options.
- Weather Preparedness: Dress in layers and check the weather forecast for your activities.
- Outdoor Safety: Inform someone of your hiking plans and stay on marked trails.
With these simple tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a safe and fun adventure in Hokkaido!
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 110
- Fire and Ambulance: 119
- Local Hospital: Check local listings.
- Tourist Information Centers: Available in major cities.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- Always bow when greeting.
- Remove shoes when entering homes.
- Respect local customs, especially in rural areas.
- Use both hands when exchanging items.
Weather Information
Hokkaido has four distinct seasons:
- Spring: Mild and blooming (March to May).
- Summer: Warm, ideal for outdoor activities (June to August).
- Autumn: Cool with stunning colors (September to November).
- Winter: Cold and snowy, great for skiing (December to February).