Enjoying Hokkaido’s Nature: A Drive Trip from Sapporo to Hakodate

Vast landscapes, rich nature, and delicious gourmet food… Hokkaido is the perfect destination for an irresistible drive trip. This guide introduces a 5-day driving course that allows you to fully immerse yourself in Hokkaido’s natural beauty, connecting two of the region’s major cities: Sapporo and Hakodate.

We cover not only classic tourist spots but also hidden gems known only to locals, along with breathtaking views and unique flavors found only in Hokkaido! Use this guide to plan your ultimate Hokkaido driving adventure.

Day 1: Sapporo City Sightseeing

Arriving in Sapporo (New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station)

The journey begins at the gateway to Hokkaido, Sapporo.

• From New Chitose Airport to Sapporo City:
  • JR Rapid Airport: Approx. 37 minutes, ¥1,150
  • Airport Limousine Bus: Approx. 80 minutes, ¥1,100
• From Sapporo Station to Hotel:
  • Utilize the subway, bus, or taxi.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in Sapporo City.

• Recommended Areas: Near Sapporo Station, Odori Park area, Susukino area

Odori Park

A lush green park stretching approximately 1.5 km across the center of Sapporo.

• Highlights: Sapporo TV Tower, Tokibi Wagon, flower beds, fountains, sculptures, etc.
• Events: Sapporo Snow Festival (February), YOSAKOI Soran Festival (June), Sapporo Summer Festival (July–August), Sapporo Autumn Festival (September), etc.

Sapporo Clock Tower

A retro Western-style building cherished as a symbol of Sapporo.

• Highlights: Interior viewing, exhibition rooms.
• Estimated Time: Approx. 30 minutes

Former Hokkaido Government Building (Red Brick Office)

A beautiful brick building constructed during the Meiji era.

• Highlights: Exterior viewing, interior tour (Free).
• Estimated Time: Approx. 30 minutes

Dinner: Sapporo Ramen or Genghis Khan

Let’s end the night in Sapporo with delicious local cuisine.

• Sapporo Ramen: Famous for its miso ramen.
  • Recommended Shops: “Sumire”, “Menya Samai”, “Ramen Kyokodo”, etc.
• Genghis Khan (Jingisukan): A Hokkaido specialty featuring fresh lamb served with a special sauce.
  • Recommended Shops: “Daruma”, “Sapporo Beer Garden”, “Matsuo Jingisukan”, etc.

(Optional) Sapporo Night View

If you have extra time, enjoying the night view of Sapporo is highly recommended.

• Mt. Moiwa: Take the ropeway and mini cable car to the summit. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Sapporo’s cityscape.
• JR Tower Observatory T38: An observatory directly connected to Sapporo Station.

Day 2: Otaru Canal and Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

From Sapporo to Otaru (Approx. 30–45 minutes by JR)

Otaru Canal

Stroll along the canal with its nostalgic atmosphere.

• Highlights: Otaru Canal Cruise, Canal Plaza, glass craft shops, music box stores, etc.
• Lunch: Seafood bowls (Kaisendon), sushi, etc.

From Otaru to Yoichi (Approx. 25 minutes by JR)

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

The distillery that served as the setting for NHK’s drama series “Massan”.

• Highlights: Free guided tour, whisky museum, tasting (paid).
• Estimated Time: Approx. 1–2 hours

From Yoichi to Shakotan Peninsula (Approx. 1–1.5 hours by car)

Kamui Misaki (God’s Cape)

A cape located at the tip of the Shakotan Peninsula. You can enjoy spectacular views created by dramatic cliffs and cobalt blue seas.

• Caution: The walking path may be closed during strong winds.

(Optional) Shimamui Kaigan (Shimamui Beach)

A beautiful beach selected among Japan’s 100 Scenic Beaches.

Overnight Stay on the Shakotan Peninsula

Enjoy fresh seafood at a traditional inn or guesthouse on the peninsula.

• Recommendation: Sea urchin bowl (Seasonal, summer only).

Day 3: Enjoying Niseko’s Great Nature

From Shakotan Peninsula to Niseko (Approx. 2–2.5 hours by car)

Niseko Area

A resort area with magnificent nature, offering views of Mt. Yotei (Ezo Fuji).

• Activities: Rafting, canoeing, trekking, cycling, hot air ballooning, etc. (Summer)
  Skiing, snowboarding (Winter)
• Hot Springs: Niseko offers various types of mineral springs.
  • Recommended Hot Springs: Niseko Annupuri Onsen, Niseko Kombu Onsen, Niseko Goshiki Onsen, etc.
• Michi-no-eki Niseko View Plaza: A place where you can purchase local specialties and fresh vegetables.
• Milk Workshop: Popular for soft serve ice cream and cheese made with fresh milk.

Overnight Stay in Niseko

Take your time relaxing at a hotel or cottage in Niseko.

Day 4: Lake Toya and Showa Shinzan

From Niseko to Lake Toya (Approx. 1–1.5 hours by car)

Lake Toya

The magnificent scenery created by the caldera lake, the central island floating on the water, and the volcanic group including Usuzan and Showa Shinzan.

• Activities: Lake Toya cruise boat, canoeing, fishing, etc.
• Toyako Onsen: A hot spring town spreads along the lake shore.
• Usuzan Ropeway: You can take a ropeway up to the summit of Mt. Usuzan.

Showa Shinzan

A lava dome formed by volcanic activity between 1943 and 1945.

• Showa Shinzan Bear Farm: You can observe brown bears up close.

Overnight Stay near Lake Toya

Enjoy the hot springs and view of the lake at a traditional inn or hotel in Toyako Onsen.

• Lake Toya Long-Running Fireworks Festival: A fireworks display held every evening from late April to late October.

Day 5: To Hakodate, and Departure

From Lake Toya to Hakodate (Approx. 2–2.5 hours by car)

Hakodate Sightseeing

• Mt. Hakodate: Take the ropeway to the summit. You can enjoy a panoramic view of Hakodate’s cityscape and the Tsugaru Strait. The “Million Dollar Night View” is a must-see!
• Goryokaku: A star-shaped fortress. You can see its beautiful shape from Goryokaku Tower.
• Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse: A cluster of retro warehouses. Perfect for shopping and dining.
• Hakodate Morning Market: Enjoy fresh seafood and seafood bowls (Kaisendon).
  • Recommendation: Squid fishing experience.
• Motomachi District: An area filled with foreign charm, featuring churches and Western-style houses.

Departure from Hakodate Airport or Sapporo Station

• From Hakodate Airport: To various airports across Japan.
• From Hakodate Station: Take the JR to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station, then board the Hokkaido Shinkansen bound for Honshu (mainland).

Tips for Driving in Hokkaido

• Driving: Hokkaido has wide, easy roads, but be careful not to speed. Also, watch out for wild animals (especially Ezo deer) crossing the road.
• Gas Stations: Outside of urban areas, gas stations can be scarce. Be sure to refuel early.
• Clothing: Even in summer, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings. It’s wise to bring something extra to layer up with.
• Weather: The weather changes frequently, so check the forecast often.
• Bear Precautions: When driving through mountainous areas, take measures such as carrying bear bells or playing radio music.
• Rental Car: It is convenient to rent a car equipped with an ETC card and GPS/navigation system.
• Long Distance Driving: Take frequent breaks and prioritize safe driving at all times.

Summary: Your Trip to Enjoy Hokkaido’s Great Nature

We have introduced a 5-day driving course from Sapporo to Hakodate.
This itinerary is merely an example. Please feel free to arrange it according to your interests and physical stamina.

Hokkaido has many wonderful places beyond those mentioned here.
Be sure to plan your own unforgettable Hokkaido adventure and create beautiful memories!