Complete Guide to Enjoying Summer in Hokkaido

As shown below, the average temperatures in summer are notably cooler and more comfortable compared to other regions.
Hokkaido is barely affected by the rainy season, and the low humidity means that the sunshine feels dry and not oppressively hot.
From June to August, the days are long, making the climate ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

During the daytime, you can stay comfortable in light clothing such as short-sleeved T-shirts, thin blouses, and shorts.
For outdoor activities, we recommend wearing comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothes along with well-worn sneakers.
In the mornings and evenings, as well as in the mountains, the temperature can drop due to chilly winds, so it's a good idea to bring a light cardigan or a thin stole.
A foldable raincoat will also come in handy in case of sudden changes in weather.
Although Hokkaido is relatively cool, the sunlight can be strong, so protect your skin with sun protection gear such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Natural Island is a skincare brand that makes cosmetics using plants grown in Hokkaido.
They carefully select herbs and flowers organically cultivated at their own farm to create products with specialized formulas.
For example, they offer skincare products made with calendula from their farm in Shiraoi Town and Japanese mint from Takinoue Town.
Known for their gentle touch and natural fragrance, the products are loved not only by locals but also by users across Japan.
The flagship store “home Sapporo” is a street-level shop located near Maruyama Park, making it a convenient stop during sightseeing around Maruyama Zoo and HOKKAIDO JINGU (Hokkaido Shrine).
The most popular souvenir is the refresh point emulsion containing essential oil from Japanese mint grown in Takinoue.

HAKKA’DO Sapporo is a brand shop operated by Kitami Hakka Tsusho, a long-established mint manufacturer founded in 1984.
Located about a 1-minute walk from Odori Station, the shop occupies the 1st and 2nd floors of the Sun-S Building on Niban-gai Street and is known for its charming mint-green exterior.
On the 1st floor, you’ll find sweets such as mint gelato and blended ice cream made with Hokkaido milk and Kitami-grown mint. You can enjoy them in the eat-in space on the 2nd floor.
Also on the 2nd floor is a showroom where you can browse the full range of Kitami Hakka products, including their signature peppermint oil spray, mint candies, and soaps—perfect for souvenirs. At the main store in Kitami, you can try limited-edition mint soft-serve ice cream and visit KITAMINTHALL, a free admission facility showcasing the history and materials related to Kitami mint. If you have a chance, it’s well worth a visit.

Sapporo, the heart of Hokkaido, is home to many famous tourist attractions such as the Sapporo Clock Tower, the Sapporo TV Tower, and Odori Park, where iconic events like the Sapporo Snow Festival and YOSAKOI Soran Festival are held.
Located near Odori Park is the Marui Imai Sapporo Main Store. Divided into three buildings—Odori Building, Ichijo Building, and the West Building (Louis Vuitton)—the store offers a wide range of shopping, fashion, and gourmet experiences.

Lake Shikotsu is renowned for its crystal-clear water, known as “Shikotsu Blue,” and is one of Japan’s most transparent lakes.
It has been ranked No.1 in water quality in Japan twenty times, proving its exceptional beauty. The lake also showcases different natural charms throughout the seasons, such as vibrant greens in summer and colorful autumn foliage.
In winter, the “Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival” features ice sculptures made by freezing the lake’s water, creating a fantastical scene.
Visitors can enjoy water activities such as kayaking and sightseeing cruises, or go hiking through the lakeside forest trails.
There are also beginner-friendly tours available, making it easy to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Around the lake, you’ll find hot springs with views of the water, as well as restaurants offering local cuisine—perfect for relaxing both body and mind.

With its vivid blue color, the Shirogane Blue Pond is one of Biei’s most famous tourist attractions.
Originally created as a man-made pond to control volcanic mudflows from Mt. Tokachi, it formed when water pooled behind a block dam built on the Biei River.
The surreal blue water, combined with surrounding nature and the standing dead larch trees, gives the area a mystical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

Cape Kamui is part of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park and stretches out into the Sea of Japan from the northwestern tip of the Shakotan Peninsula. It’s about a 770-meter walk from the parking lot to the cape’s tip, with an undulating trail that takes about 20 minutes.
The hike offers stunning views of natural landscapes and the famously clear “Shakotan Blue” sea.
At the cape’s point, you’ll find Kamui Rock and the Kamui Cape Lighthouse, where you can enjoy a panoramic 300-degree view of the horizon.

Nestled within Akan-Mashu National Park, Kaminoko Pond is a small body of water about 220 meters in circumference.
Its name means “Child of God Pond,” said to come from its origin as underground water flowing from Lake Mashu, also known as “Lake of the Gods.”
Approximately 12,000 tons of spring water flow into the pond daily, maintaining a steady water temperature of 8°C year-round.
The water surface shimmers in cobalt blue or emerald green, depending on the season and angle of the sunlight.
Its transparency is astonishing—you can clearly see the bottom even at depths of five meters.
On sunny days, the mirror-like surface reflects water plants and fallen trees, creating a breathtaking sight.

In the Blue Cave, sunlight filters through the sea and reaches the ocean floor, where all wavelengths of light except blue are absorbed, making the sea surface glow with a deep blue hue.
This natural spectacle is created by a unique combination of seawater transparency, underwater terrain, and the angle of sunlight. While world-famous examples exist, such as the Blue Grotto on Italy’s Capri Island, Japan is also home to several such caves. The one in the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park is a must-visit when sightseeing in Otaru.

Among the many lavender farms in the Furano area, FARM TOMITA stands out for its long history, high popularity, and strong name recognition.
It’s often listed as a must-see spot when sightseeing in Hokkaido.
The farm features 12 flower fields, with not only lavender but also seasonal flowers like cosmos, poppies, and baby’s breath.
Highlights include the “Traditional Lavender Field,” where you can see lavender-covered slopes against a rural backdrop with a panoramic view of the Tokachi Mountain Range, and the “Irodori Field,” where seven types of flowers bloom in a rainbow-colored display.
Not far from the main farm is “Lavender East,” one of the largest lavender fields in Japan, also operated by FARM TOMITA.

Located in Furano City, Flower Land Kamifurano offers colorful flower fields filled with lavender, salvia, lilies, and more, spread across a vast landscape.
You can tour the fields aboard a tractor bus, enjoy local gourmet foods like fresh Furano melon, corn, and lavender soft serve, or make your own pressed flower postcards and scented sachets to take home as souvenirs.
It’s a popular attraction for both adults and children alike.

This park is known for its lavender field that spans about 4.2 hectares. From late June to late July, the entire hillside is blanketed in swaying purple blooms and filled with a refreshing aroma.
The fields primarily feature the late-blooming “Okamurasaki” variety, which means you can still enjoy the flowers even toward the end of the season.
In addition to lavender, seasonal flowers like catmint and marigolds also add to the beauty of the landscape.

Located in the center of Hokkaido, Hokuryu Town’s Sunflower Village is a well-known spot where vast numbers of sunflowers bloom in summer.
Sunflower cultivation in Hokuryu began in 1979, inspired by a JA Hokuryu employee who was moved by sunflower oil fields in former Yugoslavia.
Today, the field boasts an incredible 2 million sunflowers, making it one of the largest in Japan and a popular cycling destination.

These tourist flower farms are located on hilltops along Route 237. With stunning views of natural landmarks such as Mt. Asahi and the Tokachi Mountain Range in the background, visitors can enjoy seasonal flower fields in full bloom.
Around 30 types of flowers bloom throughout the year, from spring to fall, including lavender, sunflowers, and poppies.
Visitors can explore the spacious grounds using buggies or carts—options include single- and double-rider buggies or carts that hold 4 to 5 people.

This park was developed on former farmland that once belonged to Abashiri Prison and reopened as a tourist flower farm in 2006.
Its main highlight is the sunflower fields that bloom from summer to autumn. From early to mid-July, about 750,000 sunflowers reach their first peak bloom.
Then, a second bloom of approximately 2.6 million sunflowers can be enjoyed from late September to early October. The entire area transforms into a sea of yellow, offering a breathtaking panorama.

This large-scale campsite lies in the northwestern part of Tomakomai City, at the base of Mt. Tarumae.
In addition to a wide range of camp sites, the facility offers deck houses, cottages, and bungalows.
You can rent all the camping essentials, including cooking gear, gas stoves, tents, and tarps.
Onsite amenities include a BBQ area where you can buy ingredient sets, a restaurant, a shop, and even a natural hot spring with open-air baths. It’s perfect for hands-free camping.
Spread across 45 hectares, the facility also offers activities like park golf and canoeing, allowing for a wide variety of outdoor fun.

Located on a sandy shore on the southeastern edge of Lake Shikotsu in Chitose City, this reservation-only campground accommodates around 150 tents.
Although the facilities and rentals are minimal, the “hands-free plan” provides everything needed for camping, including gear and ingredients for dinner and lunch—perfect for beginners.
The best feature of Morappu Campground is the view: from your tent, you can gaze out over the lake and majestic Mt. Eniwa rising in the distance.
The area also offers plenty of water activities, including swan boats, canoeing, and fishing for himemasu (kokanee salmon) from June to August, letting you enjoy untouched nature to the fullest.

Located within Takino Suzuran Hillside Park, this auto campground has received the top “five-star” rating from the Japan Auto Camping Federation.
It’s just about an hour’s drive from central Sapporo, offering easy access along with tranquil surroundings and well-maintained facilities.
Set in lush primeval forest on hilly terrain, the campground includes six zones featuring auto sites, log cabins, and free tent sites.
The most popular feature is the summer-only campfire area—perfect for creating memories with friends or family.
Other amenities include clean, free shower buildings, a Wi-Fi-equipped center house, a shop, and recreational facilities such as table tennis and a multipurpose hall.
The campsite also offers a wide selection of rental gear, including tents, tarps, and bedding, making it easy to enjoy camping without bringing your own equipment.

Ride a stable powerboat to the untouched sea caves located within the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park.
The cruise departs from Otaru Port (Ryugu Wharf) and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes round-trip, turning around at the Blue Cave.
The dramatic natural scenery viewed from the sea is spectacular and offers a perspective you can’t get from land.
In particular, the sight of sunlight illuminating the interior of the cave and dyeing the rock walls a brilliant blue is truly breathtaking.
Along the way, you'll also see dramatic cliffs, Todoroki Rock, and may even spot seabirds like gulls, black-tailed gulls, and cormorants.

Explore the calm waters of Lake Shikotsu aboard a clear-bottom kayak—an ideal summer activity.
The warm sunlight and refreshing breezes of summer make for a relaxing ride as you glide across the lake, observing submerged trees, aquatic plants, and fish.
The interplay of bright blue skies, shimmering water, and surrounding greenery creates a unique scene found only here.
Surrounded by colorful flowers and distant mountain peaks, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature.
With the “hands-free plan,” all necessary gear is provided, making it easy to join without prior preparation.

This stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour takes place in Shiraoi, Yoichi Town, and is available only during summer.
Paddle across the crystal-clear waters of the Shakotan coast—a sight so stunning that many participants are amazed such a place exists.
You’ll discover hidden coastlines and rocky coves inaccessible by land.
Whether you want to relax and soak up the summer sun on your board or dive into the cool sea, you’re free to enjoy it your way.
Tours are held in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Anyone can join as long as they prepare clothing that can get wet, swimwear (to wear under a wetsuit), sandals, a change of clothes, and a towel.

Located in the historic Sakaimachi Street shopping district in Otaru, Wagyu Kurosawa is a Japanese restaurant that specializes in meat dishes.
The interior features table seating in a modern, serene atmosphere that retains elements of traditional Japanese design.
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes made with top-quality domestic black wagyu beef, known for its fine marbling, rich flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
One summer-exclusive highlight is the “Uni Steak,” featuring sea urchin served atop steak.
Also popular is the “Unagi Wagyu Ju,” a luxurious dish combining eel and wagyu beef.
At the adjoining takeout stand, you can also try their famous deep-fried eel tempura.

This popular eatery is located inside the Otaru Sankaku Market, just a 1-minute walk from JR Otaru Station. Run by the neighboring Takeda Fish Shop, it serves fresh local seafood at reasonable prices.
Signature dishes include the “Uni & Ikura Bowl,” a luxurious seafood rice bowl topped with raw sea urchin and salmon roe, as well as the “Sanshoku-don” with uni, crab, and scallops, and the “Oyako-don” with salmon and ikura. With over 25 types of seafood bowls available, you can also customize your own with your favorite toppings.

Hakodate is famous for squid, with the Irifune Fishing Port even having a dedicated squid auction area.
Ikasei Daimon specializes in fresh squid sashimi and serves different varieties depending on the season.
From winter to spring, the restaurant offers live spear squid, while from summer to year’s end, they serve live Pacific flying squid. Each type has its own unique flavor and texture, but the Pacific flying squid is especially popular for being delicious even down to its liver.

Zaborin is a tranquil ryokan nestled in the foothills of Niseko.
Each of its 15 private villa-style rooms is a luxurious suite with both an indoor and open-air hot spring bath.
From the rooms, you can enjoy serene views of white birch forests and Mt. Yotei while unwinding in peace.
One of Zaborin’s defining features is its kaiseki cuisine made with seasonal Hokkaido ingredients.
Each beautifully presented dish allows you to savor the blessings of the region with all five senses.

Located on the shores of Lake Shikotsu in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, this resort hotel boasts some of the clearest waters in Japan.
With the concept of “healing and wellness” based on the power of water—life’s essential element—the hotel offers a holistic experience. From meals at the healthy buffet “Amamu” and Japanese restaurant “Ten-no-Uta,” to spa treatments and sleep support, the facility promotes beauty and health in all aspects of your stay.

This large-scale resort hotel stands on the scenic shores of Lake Toya. Guests can enjoy views of the lake from many locations throughout the hotel, including its glass-walled lobby, restaurants, and hot springs.
A highlight is the top-floor bathhouse “Hoshi-no-Yu,” which features an infinity open-air bath overlooking Lake Toya and Mt. Yotei, a spacious indoor bath that reflects the sky, and a stargazing bath for soaking while watching the night sky.

Held annually from mid-July to mid-August, this is one of the largest summer festivals in Hokkaido.
Centered around Odori Park in downtown Sapporo, it features a variety of events.
The biggest attraction is the massive beer garden that takes over six sections of the park. With famous domestic and international beer brands—including Japan’s four major brewers, Hokkaido craft beer, and German imports—you can enjoy drinks paired with dishes made from local ingredients.

Held every June, the YOSAKOI Soran Festival is a popular event born from the fusion of Kochi’s Yosakoi Festival and Hokkaido’s traditional “Soran Bushi” folk song.
The only rules are to carry “naruko” (clappers) and to include elements of Soran Bushi in the music—everything else is up to the performers. This freedom allows for unique costumes and performances that vary by team, making for a colorful and exciting festival.

The Noboribetsu Jigoku Matsuri is based on the legend that the lid to Hell’s cauldron opens and the King of Hell (Enma) and demons visit the Noboribetsu hot spring town.
Held on the last Saturday and Sunday of August each year, the event features a 6-meter-tall Enma float parading about 300 meters along Gokuraku Street.
The festival includes demon mikoshi (portable shrines), demon dances, and performances of Noboribetsu taiko drums, creating a vibrant and exciting atmosphere.
The event is spread across several areas—including Jigokudani (Hell Valley), Sengen Park, Gokuraku Street, and special stages—and features food stalls and souvenir stands. The finale is a stunning fireworks show known as “Oni Hanabi” (Demon Fireworks), which lights up the night sky.