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Hokkaido Japan is one of our favourite summer destinations; and for good reason.
Between the sweeping scenery, untouched nature, incredible fresh produce, and no shortage of things to keep the kids entertained from morning till night, it really ticks off every box that we could want in a family travel destination.
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We rolled into Sapporo well past dinner time after a long day of travel.
Our only plan for the night was simple. Check in, unwind, and get some rest before exploring properly the next day.
Stepping into the Hotel Sosei Sapporo - MGallery Collection was a lovely welcome.
It has a high-end boutique feel that is exactly the kind of space you want to land in after a long travel day.
The staff were absolutely wonderful too. Attentive in a warm way that doesn't feel overly formal, just people who clearly care about making sure you're taken care of.
Our Deluxe Room was everything we needed, two queen-sized beds and a chic design that felt both stylish and comfortable.
Location-wise, the hotel sits right in the downtown Sapporo area, in a neighbourhood known as Sosei East.
This area has a fascinating backstory, it was once the industrial engine of Sapporo, and you can still feel that heritage in the architecture and street layout.
These days though, it's evolved into something else entirely, with the old industrial bones now home to contemporary spaces and businesses.
The hotel is also right across from the popular Sapporo Factory, a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex built on the former site of the first beer brewery in Japan.
Address: Sapporo Factory West Hall, Kita 2-jo Higashi 3-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0032, Japan (View on Map)
Day Summary:
We started the day at Shiroi Koibito Park, a whimsical chocolate wonderland where you can get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Hokkaido's iconic treats, the White Lover cookie.
Inside the Chocotopia Factory, you can walk along a glass-walled observation deck to look down at the manufacturing floor. For a deeper dive into the world of sweets, the "Chocotopia House" offers a projection-mapping tour that tells the history of chocolate through interactive displays and "chocolate professors."
One of the highlights was signing up for the cookie-making workshop where decorated our own cookies using chocolate pens.
When it was time for a break, we stopped by the Chocolate Lounge to indulge in decadent parfaits and the signature Shiroi Koibito soft-serve ice cream, all while enjoying views of the park outside.
The English-style Rose Garden was next on our list, showcasing over 200 varieties of roses that bloom in spectacular fashion come summer. Every hour on the hour, the Sapporo Mechanical Clock Tower springs to life with the enchanting "Chocolate Carnival" - a whimsical parade of mechanical dolls and animals that dance to music .
Before heading out, we made a stop at Shop Piccadilly where you can pick up limited-edition tins or even have your own photo printed onto a custom cookie tin for a truly personalized souvenir.
Address: 2 Chome-11-36 Miyanosawa 2 Jo, Nishi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 063-0052, Japan (view on map)
Odori Park comes alive during the Yosakoi Soran Festival (typically early June), turning this usually relaxed green strip in central Sapporo into one big street party of dance, music, and food.
This isn't your typical quiet folk performance. Imagine thousands of dancers in vibrant, flowing costumes - ranging from traditional happi coats to flashy, modern ensembles, all moving in perfect synchronisation.
The park stretches for about 1.5 km through the city center, so you can stroll between stages, grab festival snacks, and still find pockets of lawn to sit and soak in the festivities with a view of Sapporo TV Tower in the background.
Even if you're not here during festival time, Odori Park is worth a leisurely stroll with many spots to grab a bento, people-watch, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Where: Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan (view on map)
Standing tall at the eastern edge of Odori Park, the Sapporo TV Tower is the city’s most recognizable landmark. Often compared to the Eiffel Tower (and designed by the same architect as the Tokyo Tower), this 147-meter crimson spire offers the absolute best seat in the house for a bird's-eye view of Sapporo.
From its observation deck about 90 meters up, you get panoramic views of the city, the ribbon of greenery that is Odori Park, and on clear days, the distant mountains.
Address: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan (view on map)
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Our next stop was Sapporo Factory, a sprawling shopping and entertainment complex with serious historical charm.
Built on the site of Japan's very first beer brewery, it blends sleek modern malls with beautifully preserved red-brick heritage buildings that transport you back in time.
The complex is made up of seven interconnected buildings housing around 160 shops, cafes, and restaurants, plus a small brewery where you can sip on beer crafted from Meiji-era recipes.
The centrepiece is the Atrium, a stunning, five-story glass-roofed courtyard topped with a glass roof that floods the space with natural light.
Be sure to snap a photo with the iconic black chimney bearing the signature Sapporo star.
It's become one of the city's most recognizable landmarks and makes for a fantastic backdrop.
After working up an appetite exploring the complex, we grabbed dinner before strolling back to our hotel.
Address: Kita 2-jo Higashi 4-chome, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0032, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
From Sapporo, we headed for the port town of Otaru.
While many visitors opt for a quick day trip to Otaru, we think this charming city deserves more of your time.
With its mix of family-friendly attractions, it's worth it to consider staying a night or two here.
Once in Otaru, heading up to Hotel Neuschloss Otaru feels like escaping to a little castle above the sea, perched about 80 meters on a coastal hill surrounded by ocean views and rugged nature.
This quickly became of one of our favourite hotels of the trip.
Our family room was spacious at 52 square meters, featuring two double beds and two Japanese futons.
The highlight of the room for everyone, however, is the private hot spring.
We could soak in the steaming, mineral-rich waters anytime we wanted, all while gazing out at the vast Sea of Japan.
We definitely made full use of the private hot spring, soaking in it every chance we got!
The view here was certainly something we were happy to wake up to everyday.
Stays here include both a Japanese-Western fusion breakfast and a French course dinner, and dining at the hotel restaurant as the sun sets into the sea is an experience unto itself.
And when you're ready to explore, a quick ten-minute scenic stroll downhill brings you straight to Otaru's best attractions: the Otaru Aquarium, Blue Grotto Glass Boat Cruise, and even a fun carnival.
Address: 3-282 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan (view on map)
Book stays at Hotel Neuscholoss Otaru:
We started our exploration of Otaru at the Otaru Canal, where the town's romantic reputation really shines.
This beautifully preserved waterway is lined with old stone warehouses from the town's trading heydays, making for a scenic stroll.
Address: Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0007, Japan (view on map)
From the canal, it's just a short walk to Sakaimachi Street, a nostalgic merchant lane lined with stone-built Western-style buildings now housing glass studios, music box shops, cafes, and souvenir stores.
Wandering aimlessly here is half the fun!
When in Otaru, you simply can't miss the numerous LeTao shops, Otaru's most famous patisserie whose legendary cheesecakes have earned a cult following.
We headed for LeTao Pathos, its largest shop in Otaru for some dessert indulgence and packaged treats to bring home.
After exploring the street further, it was time to head back to the hotel for yet another relaxing dip in the hot spring.
Then it was time for the perfect ending to our day, a lovely French course dinner at the hotel restaurant accompanied by the golden glow of the sunset.
Address: 6-11 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
We started the day with the Otaru Blue Grotto Glass Boat Tour which took us gliding through natural sea caverns where the water glows an otherworldly electric blue.
Your ride is a glass-bottomed boat which makes it easy to peer into the clear waters below.
The tour runs along the dramatic Shakotan coastline, so get ready for some spectacular scenery.
Along the way, we also got the chance to see some sunbathing seals and even feed the playful seagulls!
Address: 3 Chome-197 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan (view on map)
Perched right on the rocky shoreline, the Otaru Aquarium is one of the largest in Hokkaido.
Watch the resident penguins, seals, and walruses show off their personalities in the outdoor arenas, while indoor tanks brim with colourful fish, jellyfish and other marine creatures native to Hokkaido.
If you're looking to get a little closer to the action, grab some feed and deliver a snack to the sealions yourself!
The aquarium has a charmingly old-school feel that makes it feel like a local gem rather than a tourist trap.
Plus you get amazing sea views from the grounds.
Address: 3 Chome-303 Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan (view on map)
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Just next to the Otaru Aquarium is Shukutsu Marine Land, a retro amusement park.
With free admission and budget-friendly rides that kids will love, it’s a win-win for parents.
Enjoy a spin on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking coastal views, pedal along the cycle monorail, or get your adrenaline fix on the Viking ship.
Address: 3 Chome Shukutsu, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0047, Japan (view on map)
Who knew you could find a slice of Italy in the heart of Hokkaido?
This museum is modelled after a grand Venetian palace and houses a collection of 3,000 glass masterpieces, sparkling chandeliers, opulent period furniture, and even a real gondola that once carried Princess Diana!
The kids also got to do a dress up experience which involves dressing up in ornate Venetian costumes and masks for a professional photoshoot.
Address: 5-27 Sakaimachi, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0027, Japan (view on map)
No trip to Otaru is complete without a visit to the famous Music Box Museum, a beloved institution that has been enchanting visitors for decades.
The moment you step inside, you'll be surrounded by the delicate, tinkling melodies of thousands of music boxes in every shape and size imaginable, from tiny vintage trinkets to elaborate, room-sized mechanical masterpieces.
Outside, the famous Steam Clock whistles and puffs every 15 minutes. A perfect photo-op for the family!
Address: 4-1 Sumiyoshicho, Otaru, Hokkaido 047-0015, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
After the coastal charms of Otaru, we boarded the train for Asahikawa.
The first stretch of the journey hugs the coastline beautifully, so keep your cameras handy as you'll get sweeping views of the sea rolling past the window.
For our stay in Asahikawa, we called the Hotel WBF Grande Asahikawa home.
While it wasn't anything too fancy, it delivered exactly what we needed, a comfortable, fuss-free base to rest our feet after a day of exploring.
The kids, however, had their own highlight: the cosy tatami-style bedding, which they took to immediately!
Address: 10 Chome-3-3 Miyashitadori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0030, Japan (view on map)
With bags dropped, we made our way to Asahikawa Science Museum, a hands-on space packed with interactive stations that make science approachable and fun.
The Space Corner is a highlight. You can experience what it feels like to carry your body weight on the Moon, and try out equipment inspired by the zero-gravity training used by NASA astronauts. It's the closest most of us will ever get to floating through space.
Address: 3 Chome-3-32 Miyamae 1 Jo, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8329, Japan (view on map)
After our time inside the museum, we took a short walk to Miyamae Park.
The outdoor playground is located only a few minutes away and features various climbing structures and slides.
It's an excellent spot for the kids to stretch their legs and for parents to catch a breather and enjoy a slower pace before heading to dinner.
Address: Miyamae 2-jo 1–3 Chome, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8329, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
We kicked off the day at Asahiyama Zoo, one of Hokkaido's most well-known animal parks.
The penguin enclosure is a crowd favourite, especially during feeding time. You can get surprisingly close to these little guys, it's impossible not to smile watching them waddle about!
The polar bear exhibit is equally captivating. You can observe these large mammals from multiple angles, including underwater viewing areas.
Seeing a polar bear plunge into the pool and swim through the water really gives you a whole new appreciation for their power and agility.
Beyond the headliners, the zoo has plenty more to take in. Watch spotted Seals dart through a transparent cylindrical tank and look up to Red Pandas crossing suspension bridges over your head.
You'll also see animals like Hippos, Siberian Tigers, and snow leopards in habitats designed to offer views from multiple vantage points.
Address: Kuranuma Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8205, Japan (view on map)
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After our zoo visit, we took a stroll along Heiwa Shopping Street, which holds historical significance as Japan's first permanent pedestrian-only mall.
To be honest, it was fairly quiet when we visited, with quite a few shops closed.
You might find a few specialty shops or eateries open, but the atmosphere is pretty subdued, so temper your expectations before heading over.
Address: 3 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0033, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
We started the day at Kamui no Mori Park, located on the edge of Asahikawa.
This sprawling green space has both outdoor and indoor play areas, making it a great spot for kids to have some fun before the long day ahead.
Admission is completely free even for the indoor playground, which features a massive climbing net suspended high from the ceiling.
Address: Tomisawa Kamuicho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-8024, Japan (view on map)
From there, we headed into the scenic rolling hills of Biei.
First stop: Shikisai-no-Oka is a sweeping panoramic flower garden where colourful crop rows stretch across the hillside.
There's also an alpaca farm on site where you can hand-feed the alpacas, an unexpected little delight (admission charges apply).
We stopped to savour their fresh ice cream and the must try fried asparagus.
Just up the road, Zerubu Hill offers a similar floral experience but with a more relaxed vibe.
We visited in early June, so the flowers weren't yet at their peak (full blooms typically run from late June through August). But there was still plenty of colour to make it thoroughly picturesque.
The silver lining is that many of the flower parks offer free admission or discounted rates before full bloom or earlier in the season.
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Next up was Farms Chiyoda which offered a chance to get hands-on with the animals, a welcome change of pace from the scenery stops.
The kids had a blast with the animal feeding, and they even offer pony rides and cow milking experiences.
Pony rides are offered here and you can even experience milking the cows.
Before leaving, we stopped by the café for a taste of their fresh milk swirled with homemade jam. It’s a literal taste of Hokkaido!
Address: Kasugadai 4221, Mizusawa, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0242, Japan (view on map)
You've probably seen photos of this place. That surreal, almost electric blue water.
The stark white birch trees rising from the surface like something out of a dream.
But seeing it in person? It's a whole different story.
The colour actually shifts depending on the light, the season, and the angle you're standing at.
We took a leisurely stroll along the edge, just letting it sink in.
Some sights geniunely live up to the hype, and this is one of them.
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan (view on map)
A short drive away from Shirogane Blue Pond, Shirahige-no-Taki Falls cascades dramatically into the Biei River below, with the water taking on a similar blue tint thanks to the mineral-rich spring water feeding it.
The contrast of the white water against the deep green of the forest makes for yet another gorgeous Hokkaido view.
This was a quick stop but an absolutely worthwhile one.
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan (view on map)
As the day wound down, we made one final stop at Tokachidake Bogakudai Observatory which rewarded us with grand views of the Tokaichi mountain range.
It was a fittingly grand way to cap off a day filled with natural beauty.
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan (view on map)
Checking in: For the night, we settled into Fenix Furano, a modern, clean hotel with a stylish apartment-style feel that immediately made us feel at home.
Our two-bedroom suite offered generous space to stretch out, along with a fully equipped kitchen.
Dinner: We walked over to El Asado, a cosy local favorite. If you’re craving hearty grilled meats in a quaint setting, this is the spot!
Address: 19-10 Kitanominecho, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0034, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
We kicked off the morning in the hills of Kamifurano. Flower Land is quieter and more relaxed than the big name spots.
Address: 27 Go Nishi 5 Senkita, Kamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0505, Japan (view on map)
We then headed to the legendary Farm Tomita, probably the most famous lavender farm in all of Japan.
It's famous for a reason! You'll see rows and rows of lavender set against the backdrop of Hokkaido's snow-capped mountains.
We took a peek into the fascinating world of lavender perfume-making before grabbing the essential treats: lavender soft serve and sweet Hokkaido melon.
Enjoying them on a bench while looking out at the gorgeous views was honestly one of the simple pleasures of the trip.
Address: 15 Kisenkita, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0704, Japan (view on map)
Lunch took us to Hitsuji No Oka, and if you're a fan of Mongolian-style barbeque, this place is going to make your day.
You'll be grilling lamb from Suffolk sheep or milk lamb, a breed raised entirely on its mother's milk from birth which gives it a mild and tender flavour.
It was so good, we're still dreaming of this meal!
Next to the restaurant is a small animal farm where you can meet and feed sheep and rabbits, a lovely bonus for the kids.
Address: Nakafurano Beberui, Nakafurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido 071-0711, Japan (view on map)
After lunch, the rest of the afternoon was spent exploring at a leisurely pace.
The Anpanman Shop is a cheerful stop dedicated to Japan's beloved cartoon hero, and right next door, Furano Jam Garden stocks an almost overwhelming range of homemade jams.
We walked out with far more than we planned to, and we have zero regrets!
Address: 3 Higashirokugo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0162, Japan (view on map)
A quick detour to the Rokugo Viewing Platform gave us a wide look at the farm scenery below.
Address: 3 Higashirokugo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0162, Japan (view on map)
At the Furano Cheese Factory, you can watch local camembert-style cheese being made, pick up some to take home, and roll up your sleeves and join in workshops to make your own cheese or pizza.
A fun and flavourful stop.
Address: 2340-3 Naka5ku, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0013, Japan (view on map)
We popped into Chateau Furano for a relaxed stroll through the town's winery and vineyard plus sampling of some of the local pours.
Address: 1161 Nishigakuden2ku, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0047, Japan (view on map)
Our final snack haul for the day where we loaded up on local goods and treats.
Address: 13-1 Saiwaicho, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0024, Japan (view on map)
Tucked into a birch forest just behind the Furano Prince Hotel, Ningle Terrace is a cluster of small wooden log cabins connected by a network of wooden boardwalks that wind through the trees.
Lanterns light up the path and the whimsical and almost magical atmosphere here feels quite different from the open farm fields found elsewhere in the valley.
Each cabin serves as a tiny boutique or workshop for local artisans, selling handmade goods ranging from wood carvings and leather goods to glasswork, jewellery, and original artwork.
Even if you don't buy anything, the walk through the lit-up forest is a lovely way to end the day in Furano.
Address: Nakagoryo, Furano, Hokkaido 076-0016, Japan (view on map)
Day Summary:
About 40 minutes outside Sapporo, Royce Cacao & Chocolate Town is a must if you have even the slightest soft spot for chocolate.
Set aside about 2.5 hours here because there's so much to explore here.
The experience traces the full journey of chocolate, from a recreated cocoa farm in Colombia right through to the finished bar, and it's put together in a way that's engaging rather than feeling like just a glorified shop floor.
Come on a weekday if you can, as that's when the factory is in full operation and you can watch the whole manufacturing process unfold through the viewing windows.
We signed up for the chocolate making workshop where we got to create our custom chocolate bars with a choice of toppings.
And then there's the shop, stocking over 200 varieties of chocolates and baked goods, making it super hard for us to restrain ourselves here!
Address: 640-15 Bitoe, Tobetsu, Ishikari District, Hokkaido 061-3770, Japan (view on map)
Sapporo Satoland is a farm-themed park where we hopped on the tram for a gentle loop around the grounds.
We didn't linger too long here, as we were keen to save our energy for the next stop, Takino Suzuran Hillside Park.
Address: 584-2 Okadamacho, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 007-0880, Japan (view on map)
We'd heard that Takino Suzuran Hillside Park is one of the best outdoor parks for kids in Japan but nothing quite prepared us for the sheer scale of it.
The play areas are spread generously across the grounds, each with its own distinct theme, and featuring everything from long slides and treehouses, to bouncy play and cool splash fountains.
One of the unexpected hits was pushing a giant rubber ball up a hill and chasing it as it came barrelling back down. Simple, ridiculous fun.
There's also an indoor play area with colourful climbing nets.
This place is just brilliant for kids and could easily eat up half a day.
Address: 247 Takino, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 005-0862, Japan (view on map)
We made a brief stop at Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima, one of the largest outlet malls in Japan.
Honestly, we didn't find a great deal that caught our eye, so our take is this: it's worth a walk-through if you're after something specific, but there's no need to linger.
If you're short on time, it's perfectly fine to give this one a miss.
Address: 3 Chome-7-6 Omagarisaiwaicho, Kitahiroshima, Hokkaido 061-1278, Japan (view on map)
Our final hotel in Hokkaido was at Minn Chitose, a clean, no-fuss hotel conveniently situated a few minutes away from New Chitose Airport.
Nothing fancy, but exactly what we needed as we had a very early flight to Tokyo waiting for us the next morning.
Address: 2 Chome-1-1 Kashiwadaiminami, Chitose, Hokkaido 066-0009, Japan (view on map)
Departing from New Chitose Airport felt less like a standard transit and more like a final tour of Hokkaido.
The terminal is packed with stores selling Hokkaido specialties and Japanese snacks, from the famous Royce chocolates and Shiroi Koibito butter cookies to local dairy treats, seafood snacks, and beautifully packaged sweets.
It feels like every famous snack from the island is gathered in one place and this really is a shopping destination in its own right.
We found ourselves wishing we had budgeted an extra hour or two just for the terminal.
If you can arrange it, arriving early here isn't a chore at all.
Disclosure: This article contains some affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a commission at no extra costs to you. This helps keep us going and allows us to continue creating free content for you. As always, we only recommend things we would use ourselves.
Adrian is the Managing Editor of Sunny City Kids and father to 2 daughters. When he's not editing, you'll find him dragging his family to "hidden gems" that may or may not actually exist, all in the name of adventure. Adrian also writes about education, mostly to stay one step ahead of his daughters before they catch on to the fact that he's just winging it.
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