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【せんりみち公式】The top 5 ultimate experience activities you definitely want to enjoy in Hokkaido in winter and their highlights
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【せんりみち公式】Top 5 Ultimate Experience Activities You Must Enjoy in Hokkaido in Winter and Their Best Parts/
Winter in Hokkaido is a fantastic season with a fantastic landscape covered in falling snow, and it is the perfect season to enjoy various activities while interacting with nature. In this article, we will introduce in detail the winter-only activities unique to Hokkaido in a ranking format. We will also explain the charm, how to enjoy, and value of each activity, so please use this as a reference for your winter travel plans. You will surely find new discoveries and memorable experiences.
Table of Contents
1st place: Skiing and snowboarding
Hokkaido is known as one of the top ski resorts in Japan. The reason for this is the existence of “powder snow” that attracts skiers from all over the world. This snow quality is light and smooth snow formed by dry cold air, and the sliding experience is truly exceptional.
Abundant ski resorts
Hokkaido is dotted with many world-famous ski resorts, including Niseko and Furano. Each ski resort has a wide range of courses, from gentle courses for beginners to steep slopes for advanced skiers. In addition, there are plenty of ski schools that even beginners can enjoy with peace of mind, so even first-time visitors will be able to experience the charm of skiing and snowboarding.
A sense of unity with nature
While enjoying skiing and snowboarding, you can feel a sense of unity with nature along with the magnificent scenery of the snowy mountains. The sound of the wind, the texture of the snow, and the clear winter air will give you an impression that you cannot experience in your daily life. Especially on sunny days, the feeling of skiing down while looking at the mountains that spread out in the distance is exceptional.
A skiing experience that families can enjoy
There are many facilities for families, and there are ski classes for children and safe play areas, so the whole family can enjoy it. This will allow you to spend a memorable time.
2nd place: Drift ice experience
The highlight of the winter Sea of Okhotsk is the spectacular sight of drift ice covering the sea surface. Experiences unique to this time of year include drift ice sightseeing boats and drift ice walks. It is a rare opportunity to experience the mystery of nature up close.
Ice drift sightseeing boat
If you board an ice drift sightseeing boat, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of drift ice up close. The boat trip between the drift ice floating on the sea surface is an extraordinary experience. From the deck of the sightseeing boat, you can enjoy the hugeness of the ice and how it moves through the gaps, and if you bring a camera, you will definitely be able to take great photos.
Ice drift walking
Ice drift walking is an activity where you actually walk on the drift ice equipped with special cold weather gear. In this experience, you can experience the thrill of walking directly on the sea and a precious moment of feeling nature in silence. Another attractive feature is that you can participate with peace of mind because of the solid safety measures.
How to enjoy after the experience
After the experience, we recommend warming up your cold body at the tourist spots in the drift ice area or at a local hot spring. In addition, enjoying fresh seafood at a local seafood restaurant will also be a good memory.
3rd place: Ice fishing
Ice fishing is a unique pleasure in the winter when the lakes of Hokkaido freeze over. In this activity, you can enjoy fishing by dropping a fishing line through a hole carved into the thick ice.
Smelt fishing
Smelt fishing is particularly popular. The best part of ice fishing is that you can fry the freshly caught smelt on the spot. Many tourists are attracted by the deliciousness that makes them forget the cold. Another attraction is that you can share the joy of catching fish by participating with family and friends.
New experience-based ice fishing
Recently, the latest fishing gear linked to smartphones has made it possible to find fish efficiently. This makes it easy for beginners to enjoy, and it is also recommended for families with children.
4th place: Hot springs
One of the essential pleasures in Hokkaido in winter is hot springs. In the harsh cold, a moment of warmth in both body and mind while surrounded by steam is a blissful experience. Hokkaido has many famous hot springs, each with its own unique charm.
Stargazing in an open-air bath
The luxurious time spent gazing at the stars spreading across the night sky while soaking in an open-air bath is a pleasure unique to Hokkaido. The stars look even more brilliant in winter, when the air is particularly clear. The starry sky seen from a hot spring nestled in a snowy landscape brings tranquility and excitement that cannot be found in everyday life.
Hot spring cuisine
One of the pleasures of hot spring resorts is the cuisine made with local specialties. In addition to fresh seafood dishes unique to Hokkaido, dishes made with vegetables and dairy products are also popular. Enjoying a heartwarming meal after refreshing in a hot spring will further increase the satisfaction of your trip.
Perfect for families and couples
Hot springs are perfect for family trips, as they can be enjoyed by everyone, from adults to children. In addition, if you are visiting as a couple, we recommend spending a special time in a private bath.
5th place: Viewing illuminated snow and ice sculptures
One of the most iconic winter events in Hokkaido is the festivals where snow and ice sculptures are lined up. Among them, the fantastically lit snow and ice sculptures attract visitors.
Sapporo Snow Festival
The Sapporo Snow Festival, a seasonal winter event in Hokkaido, features large-scale snow and ice sculptures, attracting many tourists from all over the world. At night, the festival is lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere that is different from the daytime. One of the highlights is the production that makes full use of the latest technology such as projection mapping.
Local winter festivals
Don’t miss the local winter festivals held all over Hokkaido. The snow and ice sculptures, which reflect the unique characteristics of each region, have a warmth that is different from large-scale events. The displays, which are full of the local handmade feel, and the events held under the winter night sky will be good memories of your trip.
Tips for enjoying festivals
By taking proper precautions against the cold and bringing along hot drinks and cold weather items, you can enjoy festivals more comfortably. Another highlight is tasting the hot food and drinks offered at local food stalls.
Summary
Winter in Hokkaido offers visitors a variety of experiences and unforgettable memories. The exhilaration of skiing and snowboarding, the mysterious scenery of drift ice, the fun of ice fishing, the healing power of hot springs, and the fantastic beauty of snow and ice sculptures. Each of these is a valuable experience that symbolizes winter in Hokkaido, and each one is worth experiencing at least once.
Enjoy the charm of winter in Hokkaido to the fullest through these activities. When planning, combining experiences that suit you will make your trip more fulfilling. We hope you will have a wonderful winter time in Hokkaido.
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