How to Spend a Sublime Summer in Hokkaido

A Sweet Escape to the Mountains in Northern Japan

The weather in Malaysia may feel like summer all year long, but it’s still a different experience to enjoy the season in a different place — in Hokkaido to be exact.

Vast and mountainous, Hokkaido is home to some of the country’s finest natural landscapes, fantastic hiking, and superb ice cream because this is Japan’s centre of dairy production. Best of all, the weather in the summer is usually pleasantly warm, with a balmy breeze and temperatures averaging around 20°C, particularly in the mountains. 

One challenging aspect of travelling around Hokkaido for many people is that it has fewer public transportation options than other parts of mainland Japan. Many of the hotels are located in gorgeous but not easily accessible parts of the mountains. 

But don’t fret! Whether you like trekking or prefer lounging around with a cocktail in your hand and a face mask on, there’s an option for you this summer in Hokkaido. 

Fun fact: You might notice many lodgings around Hokkaido being referred to as ‘auberges.’ Derived from the French, it simply means an ‘inn’ or ‘tavern’ and is often used for such accommodations in villages or the countryside. The Japanese have many loanwords from other languages and this is just one of them! 

For an adventure in the great outdoors, visit Kamikawa

With rugged mountains and its location right on the doorstep of Daisetsuzan National Park, Kamikawa is a well-loved destination for nature escapes and hiking adventures in the summer.

One of the most accessible peaks in the area for beginners and experienced hikers alike is Mount Kurodake, which stands 1,984 metres tall. A ropeway and chair lift located in Sounkyo (層雲峡), a valley hot spring town in Kamikawa, takes you about 70% of the way up Mount Kurodake. This allows you to take your time hiking the rest of the way up (2km distance and 500m in elevation) and enjoy the vistas at the top. 

You can enjoy the natural surroundings here. Take a morning to visit the Sounkyo’s loveliest sceneries. Obako (大函) is a scenic spot with a beautiful combination of a river and sheer cliffs in Sounkyo. You can also check out Ginga Falls (Milky Way Falls) and Ryusei Falls (Shooting Star Falls) and spend your night stargazing in the mountains. 

For a low-key stay somewhere beautiful, try Makkari Village

Located at the southern foot of Mount Yōtei, Makkari is a small village that can be reached through a 30-minute bus ride from JR Niseko Station or a 16-minute taxi ride. Summer is a lovely time to visit. Outdoorsy types can climb Mt. Yōtei itself — the hiking season starts in early June, with many delightful alpine blossoms around the summit — it’s also a great base for low-key, relaxed activities. 

One of the area’s biggest draws is Makkari Onsen, whose outdoor bath (rotenburo) faces Mt. Yōtei.

Fukidashi Park is another reason to base yourself in Makkari for a day or two. This is a peaceful little park in the village — lush and green, with many little streams and waterfalls. Many Japanese people come here with empty bottles to fill up on the sweet and delicious crystal-clear spring water. You can do so too when you visit.

If you’re visiting in late July to mid-August, take a 10-minute taxi ride from JR Niseko Station to the Niseko Takahashi Dairy Farm, where you can get soft-serve ice cream made with fresh milk that’s truly unique. Afterwards, take a stroll in the sunflower fields nearby. The contrast between tall, golden yellow blossoms and blue skies is just glorious. 

Travellers seeking to stay for more than a day may check out an auberge in the area like Maccarina, a stylish French-style hotel and restaurant located a 20-minute taxi ride from JR Niseko Station. It has comfortable rooms, impeccably cooked French cuisine with a Hokkaido twist, and it’s only a 3-minute walk from Makkari Onsen. 

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For a full body and soul retreat in nature, head to Hidaka  

Commune with nature in Hidaka, a small town on the southern coast of Hokkaido prefecture. Known for its horse farms, forests and Ezo mountain cherry trees, Hidaka is an hour and a half by car away from Sapporo City. Natural Resort Hygeia is built on the slopes of the Hidaka Mountains, making it a wonderful refuge from hot summers in the city, and a great opportunity to enjoy its serene, verdant surroundings.

Natural Resort Hygeia is a 7-room luxury resort named after the Greek goddess of health and beauty. Watch horses amble around the lush meadows. Listen to the sound of the ocean and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

You may opt to indulge in French and Italian-influenced multi-course affairs featuring locally sourced ingredients and organic vegetables grown on the premises too. Enjoy dishes like rock oysters and summer vegetables and top-quality Hidaka kelp.

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While we think Hokkaido is beautiful in all seasons, there’s something special about this place in the summer. This is especially true if you love good food and being in nature without too much heat and humidity. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’re sure to find it during a summer vacation in Hokkaido. 

Discover more summer destinations in Japan!

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