Winter Wonderland: A Guide to Hokkaido for Snow Lovers

The winter in Hokkaido is really beautiful! Southerners have a longing for snow, and they really wish they could spend the whole winter in Hokkaido! In late December of previous years, the snow in Hokkaido arrived as promised, making it like a paradise for powder snow. With the Ice and Snow Festival, the dazzling night view, and the warm yellow lights shining on the snow-covered streets, Hokkaido in winter is like a love letter.

In terms of accommodation, you need to book in advance, because winter is the peak season and the hotel  is on the higher side. A friend from the hotel recommended staying near Odori Station. Sapporo's three subway lines all pass there, so it's very convenient for subsequent Trips.

Use Google Maps for the subway to find detailed transportation guides. Station exits, departure times and trains are all marked. It is recommended to prepare transfer information.

In terms of itinerary, if you are visiting Otaru and Sapporo, it is very convenient to take JR or subway; if you want to go to Asahikawa Zoo, Biei Aoike, Furano and other places, it is recommended to charter a car. Although JR can get there, the round trip is more time-consuming, and the shuttle bus time is fixed .

In terms of skiing, Sapporo Ski Resort has a unique forest slide, where you can ski and soak in hot springs, and the transportation is very convenient. The scenery of Furano Ski Resort is also very beautiful. The Niseko Ski Resort is now open and is suitable for experienced skiers and families. The resort facilities are relatively complete, but the price is high.

In terms of clothing, hats, scarves, fleece thermal clothes and heating socks should be prepared. The cold of minus ten degrees is really biting, and there is heating indoors.

In terms of shoes, snow shoes should be waterproof, non-slip and warm. You can buy anti-slip mats at FamilyMart and Lawson Super Stores in Sapporo.

As for expenses, if you want to live well and have fun in Hokkaido, you have to be prepared to spend. Especially hotels in Niseko are not cheap, and public transportation is not very convenient.

Suggested itinerary: Day: Domestic - Sapporo. Day: Sapporo - Otaru - Tengu Mountain Ropeway - Otaru Aquarium or Otaru's Dream Blue Light Festival. Day: Otaru - Enjoy a full day at the powder snow paradise and Niseko Ski Park. Day: Ski Resort - Hakodate: Kanamori Warehouse - Goryokaku Park - Tropical Botanical Garden - Mount Hakodate. Day: Hakodate - Hakodate Morning Market - Noboribetsu Regional Valley - Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village. Day: Returning to China

Tips: During the peak winter season, will be more expensive. It is recommended that you get a few friends to Travel together and charter a car, which is more cost-effective!

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