Hokkaido in summer is Japan's escape from the heat: cooler days, long light evenings, and flower fields that peak in July. Five days covers Sapporo, the canal town of Otaru, the lavender of Furano and the patchwork hills and Blue Pond of Biei. Fly into New Chitose Airport near Sapporo, and plan on trains for the first half and a car or private driver for the countryside.
Day 1: Sapporo
Take the train from New Chitose Airport to Sapporo, about forty minutes. Walk Odori Park and the old clock tower, then spend the evening in Susukino for ramen, Genghis Khan grilled lamb and Hokkaido seafood. The Sapporo Beer Museum makes a good late-afternoon stop.
Day 2: Otaru
Otaru is about forty minutes from Sapporo by train. Walk the canal and the old stone warehouses, the glass and music-box shops of Sakaimachi Street, and eat sushi at one of the town's many seafood counters before returning to Sapporo for the night.
Day 3: To Furano
Travel to Furano, around two hours by car or by train via Takikawa or Asahikawa. In July, the lavender and flower fields around Furano and Nakafurano are in bloom. Stay the night in Furano or in a hot-spring hotel in the hills.
Day 4: Biei and the Blue Pond
Drive north to Biei, known for its rolling patchwork fields and lone trees. Stop at the Blue Pond, coloured by minerals in the water, and the Shirahige Falls nearby. Continue to Asahikawa for the night, or return to Furano.
Day 5: Asahikawa and departure
Visit Asahiyama Zoo or a ramen shop in Asahikawa, then fly home from Asahikawa Airport or return to Sapporo by train, about an hour and a half, for a flight from New Chitose. Our guide to Furano and Biei and our Hokkaido guide go into more detail.
When to go
Lavender usually blooms from late June to late July, peaking in mid-July, which is also the busiest time to book. June and August are quieter, with other flowers in bloom. Summer days are generally warm rather than hot, and evenings can be cool, so pack a light jacket.
FAQ
When is lavender season in Furano? Usually from late June to late July, with the peak around mid-July. Bloom dates move a little with the weather each year.
Do you need a car in Hokkaido in summer? A car or private driver makes Furano and Biei much easier, since the sights are spread out. Sapporo and Otaru are easy by train.
Is five days enough for Hokkaido? Five days covers Sapporo, Otaru, Furano and Biei comfortably. Add days for Hakodate, the Shiretoko Peninsula or eastern Hokkaido.
Is Hokkaido hot in summer? Generally not. Summer days are warm and evenings cool, which is why many Japanese travellers visit to escape the heat.
Planning a Hokkaido summer trip for yourself, your family or your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp or message us on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090 with your dates and group size, and we will reply within 24 hours. Explera is a destination management company for Japan — IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
