Itineraries for Your Trip to Hokkaido
3 Days in Hokkaido for Families
Japan’s second largest island, Hokkaido, is known for its natural beauty, scenery, and fantastic food—none of which may seem to be obviously appealing to kids. However, dig a bit deeper and you will discover plenty to do for kids of all ages, from scenic parks and farms to unique theme parks and museums. And, of course, Hokkaido is a great place to introduce kids to snow sports.
Hokkaido also is known for its dairy products, including chocolate and ice cream, which kids will love. Here’s how to keep the entire family entertained over three days.
Bundle up, as Japan’s northernmost island is its coldest and can see significant snowfall in winter.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Shiroi Koibito Park.
Start the day at Sapporo TV Tower for great views from the observatory. Afterward, stroll around Odori Park, which has space for kids to run around and a playground and slides. In February, the park hosts the Sapporo Snow Festival.
In the afternoon head to Shiroi Koibito Park and Ishiya Chocolate Factory for a chocolate tour, cookie making, and a steam train ride. Animal lovers should visit Maruyama Zoo or the farm-themed Sapporo Satoland amusement park. Or, go to Nakajima Park to catch a show at the Children’s Puppet Theater. End the day by going up to the top of Mt. Moiwa for views over Sapporo.
Spend the day at the nearby coastal city of Otaru. Explore the historic canals or take a boat ride. Check out the glass blowing studios and music box shops, and spend some time visiting the penguins at the Otaru Aquarium. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the double cheesecake at LeTAO.
Alternatively, head to Noboribetsu Date Historic Village, with costumed ninja and samurai characters and kid-friendly attractions such as a Ninja Maze and House of Monsters. For animal-oriented attractions, go to Asahikawa and the Asahiyama Zoo, Snow Crystal Museum, and Asahikawa Ramen Village.
Spend your last day enjoying the outdoors. Takino Snow World is a great place to introduce little kids to snow experiences, while Kiroro also offers a winter kids park. Families with older kids can head to Sapporo Teine or Niseko, where lessons also are available. During other seasons, go hiking, biking, or horseback riding outside Sapporo.
Alternatively, head to Furano and Biei in the summer for lavender fields and to make your own ice cream or cheese at Farm Tomito or Furano Cheese Factory. Visit Lake Shigotsu for boat rides and other water activities.
