Snow has just begun to fall on Hokkaido, but the locals of Japan’s second largest island have had their Christmas preparations well underway for months. Every year, tourists from all over the globe gather in Hokkaido to partake in their unique winter experience.
If you’re planning to head there this holiday season, here are some activities you should not miss.
Take your family on a Hakodate Taxi Tour
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia
Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s biggest and most historical cities. During the Christmas season, its local taxi company has a promo that allows you to book a two-hour tour of the city.
With packages as low as ¥6,180 (P2,800), view some of Hakodate’s famous landmarks such as the Mount Hakodate cable car, Onuma Park, and the Kanamori Warehouse!
To make it extra special, you can even request the taxi company to provide music, flowers, and champagne!
Drop by the Toyako Onsen Illumination Street
From mid-November to late March, the Toyako Onsen Illumination Street comes to life with over 12,000 lights.
Check out the “Illumination Tunnel,” situated in the Nigiwai Plaza in front of the Toyako Kisen Cruise Line’s headquarters. This 70m-long tunnel is lit by more than 400,000 multicolored LED lights leading up to a 9m-wide dome; perfect for a photo shoot with your loved ones!
Strike a pose with Samurai Santa
The Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura is a historical theme park that recreates villages from the Edo Period (1603–1868).
During Christmas, the characters of the village dress up as eastern-style Santa Clauses (often dressed in samurai garb) to bring presents to the kids who visit!
Ski down Mt. Niseko Annupuri
Mt. Niseko Annupuri’s dry powder snow makes it a prime location for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports. Tourists and locals alike flock to Hokkaido to enjoy snowboarding down the mountainside or participating in the surrounding resorts’ annual Christmas events.
If you’re looking to stay overnight or longer, the Niseko Grand Hirafu Ski Resort houses an assortment of rooms, shops, and amenities.
Tip: To join in on Hokkaido’s festivities, be on the lookout for online flight sales and book with your Maya card!
