If you’re dreaming of snow-dusted mountains, steaming hot springs, and cozy winter villages, Hokkaido is the perfect destination. As Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido transforms into a magical winter wonderland each year. Whether you’re chasing powder on the slopes, soaking in an onsen, or exploring charming towns blanketed in snow, this 1-week Hokkaido winter itinerary will guide you through the best the region has to offer.
From Sapporo’s festive city vibes to the serene landscapes of Furano and Noboribetsu, here’s how to make the most of a week in Hokkaido in winter.
Hokkaido Winter Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrive Sapporo
Day 2: Sapporo – Asahikawa
Day 3: Asahikawa – Furano – Ningle Terrace
Day 4: Asahikawa – Sapporo – Otaru
Day 5: Sapporo – Jozankei Onsen
Day 6: Sapporo – Ski Day
Day 7: Sapporo – Lake Toya – Showashinzan – Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley – Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival
Day 1: Arrive in Sapporo
Welcome to Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido! Whether you’re flying in or arriving via Shinkansen from a longer Japan Itinerary, Sapporo is a great place to start your adventure.
What to Do:
- Take a winter walk: Bundle up – Sapporo gets cold. My phone actually froze and shut down one night from the icy temps!
- Explore the Sapporo Underground Shopping Mall (Chikaho): Warm up and browse shops, cafes, and snack stands. Don’t miss the famous Japanese cheese tarts!
Where to Stay in Sapporo
Accommodation Recommendations:
Luxury: Tmark City Hotel Sapporo Odori
Mid-Range: Travelodge Sapporo Susukino
Budget: JR Inn Sapporo
Day 2: Sapporo → Asahikawa
Spend the morning seeing more of Sapporo before heading north.
Must-Sees:
- Odori Park: Especially magical if you’re visiting during the Sapporo Snow Festival.
- Sapporo TV Tower & Clock Tower: Great views and historical charm.
Moiwayama
Take a trip up to Moiwayama (Mount Moiwa), which offers some of the best views of Sapporo. You can reach the summit via a ropeway, and the view of the city and surrounding mountains is absolutely stunning.
Fushimi Inari-jinja Shrine
The Fushimi Inari-jinja Shrine in Sapporo is reminiscent of its famous counterpart in Kyoto, featuring thousands of vibrant red torii gates. It’s especially serene and less crowded during winter, with the snow adding to the peaceful atmosphere.
Evening: Take the train (~1.5 hours) to Asahikawa
After a day exploring Sapporo, hop on the train to Asahikawa.
Where to Stay in Asahikawa
Accommodation Recommendations:
Luxury: OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts
Mid-Range: Dormy Inn Asahikawa
Budget: JR Inn Asahikawa
Day 3: Day Trip to Furano & Ningle Terrace
Take a magical day trip to Furano, known for its flower fields in summer and snowy charm in winter.
Highlights:
- Ningle Terrace: A fairytale-like village of cabins selling handmade goods—cozy, festive, and photogenic.
- Furano Ski Resort: If you ski, hit the slopes!
🚍 Pro Tip: If short on time, consider a guided tour from Sapporo.
Day 4: Return to Sapporo + Explore Otaru
Catch the train back to Sapporo (1.5 hrs) and drop your bags at the hotel before visiting Otaru, a charming nearby port city.
What to Do in Otaru:
- Glassworks & Music Boxes: Great for browsing and souvenir shopping.
- Otaru Canal: Lit by antique lamps, framed by icicles and snow—total winter dream.
Day 5: Jozankei Onsen
In the morning, take a trip to Jozankei Onsen, a hot spring area just outside Sapporo. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak in one of the many onsen (hot springs) while surrounded by snow-covered mountains. I stumbled upon a picturesque red bridge dusted with snow during my visit—it was a sight to behold.
Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
In the afternoon, visit Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Jingu, a peaceful temple nestled within the park. You might even spot some snow tubes for visitors to enjoy—this was such a novelty for me, as had only experienced snow once before!
Maruyama Zoo
Near the park is Maruyama Zoo, home to a variety of animals. The snowy surroundings create a unique atmosphere, especially when seeing polar bears and tigers in the wintery setting.
Day 6: Ski Day in Sapporo
Time to hit the slopes! You don’t have to venture far for great skiing.
Bankei Ski Area
Just outside Sapporo. Bankei Ski Area is great for beginners and advanced skiers alike, with fewer crowds than Niseko.
Day 7: Lake Toya, Noboribetsu & Ice Festival Tour
Wrap up your trip with a guided tour of some of Hokkaido’s natural wonders.
Tour Highlights:
- Lake Toya & Showashinzan: Peaceful lake views and panoramic mountain scenery via the Usuzan Ropeway.
- Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley): A steaming, sulfuric geothermal valley—hauntingly beautiful in snow. I hit a whiteout snowstorm, but still a wild sensory experience!
- Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival: End your day with glowing ice sculptures and lights. Magical.
Ice Festival
End the trip with the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, where the illuminated ice sculptures create a magical atmosphere. This was a perfect way to close out an unforgettable winter adventure.
Day 8: Say Sayonara (or Keep Exploring!)
After a week of hot springs, snow adventures, and cozy cities, it’s time to fly home – or continue exploring the rest of Japan!
Hokkaido in winter is nothing short of magical. From steaming onsens and ski resorts to snow-covered temples and charming villages, it’s an experience that blends adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a skier, a foodie, or a photographer, Hokkaido has something to warm your soul – even in the middle of winter.
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Jess at Sea 
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