While Hokkaido is famed for its powdery snow and winter sports, we’re here to tell you that summer in Hokkaido is every bit as extraordinary.
Think rolling flower fields, cool alpine breezes, crystal-clear lakes, outdoor adventures, fresh seafood, and an escape from the heat of mainland Japan. Let us introduce you to Hokkaido’s green season — where nature flourishes, festivals bring communities to life, and travellers discover a different side to Japan’s northernmost island.
Why Hokkaido for green season?
With its cooler temperatures and lower humidity, Hokkaido offers a comfortable and refreshing summer holiday option for travellers of all types.
COUPLES & FIT: Romantic stays in flower- covered valleys, private onsen retreats, and gourmet journeys.
SMALL GROUP TOURS: Hiking, cycling, and photography tours are easily tailored to summer.
FAMILIES: Outdoor activities, wildlife parks, cultural experiences, and comfortable summer weather.
LUXURY TRAVELLER: Exclusive lodges, private chefs, and personalised cultural encounters.
Best green season regions
DAISETSUZAN NATIONAL PARK: Japan’s largest national park, Daisetsuzan is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Trails for all levels wind through alpine meadows, volcanic ridges, and hot spring valleys. In summer, the park blooms with wildflowers and offers cool refuge at higher altitudes.
EASTERN HOKKAIDO: The Shiretoko Pennisula (a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site) is a pristine wilderness of waterfalls, bears, and ocean cliffs. Lake Mashu and Lake Kussharo offer quiet summer getaways, while Kushiro’s marshlands are perfect for birdwatching.
NISEKO: Known globally for its world-class winter skiing, Niseko transforms into a lush green playground in summer. Adventure seekers can soar through the treetops on exhilarating zip lines or take in breathtaking views from a hot air balloon ride. From rafting and canyoning to golf and mountain biking, Niseko’s resorts offer year-round excitement and luxury. The summer season is also perfect for wellness travelers seeking onsen retreats, forest bathing, and farm visits.
What to do in green season
BIEI AND FURANO’S FLOWER FIELDS: From June to August, the famous lavender fields of Furano burst into bloom, while Biei’s patchwork flower fields create a breathtaking rainbow landscape. The panoramic views from the hills of Biei make it a favourite among photographers and nature lovers.
ROAD TRIPPING THROUGH WILD NATURE: Hokkaido is made for self-drive holidays. Its wide roads, minimal traffic, and spectacular natural attractions — including Shiretoko Peninsula, Lake Akan, and Daisetsuzan National Park — make it ideal for road trips. Multi-day itineraries can combine hot springs, wildlife encounters, and cultural sites with ease.
SUMMER FESTIVALS ACROSS THE ISLAND: Summer in Hokkaido is filled with vibrant festivals. One of Hokkaido’s oldest festivals, the Ubagami Daijingu Togyosai in Esashi town (Aug 9–11), features 13 vibrant floats and over 370 years of tradition. Rooted in prayers for safe seas, it offers a unique glimpse into Hokkaido’s cultural heritage.
COOL-CLIMATE GOURMET DELIGHTS: Summer in Hokkaido brings the best of land and sea, from fresh uni and scallops to sweet corn, melons, and tomatoes. Outdoor beer gardens in Sapporo and farm-to-table dining in the countryside offer delicious ways to savour the flavours of Hokkaido’s summer.
ACTIVE ADVENTURES IN NATURE: Adventure travellers can hike Mount Asahi, kayak across Lake Shikotsu, or cycle the routes around Lake Toya. National parks and alpine areas offer cooler conditions for treks and wildlife spotting, with chances to see native deer, foxes, and rare birds.
Travel tips for green season
- Embrace the flower fields and festivals: Summer in Hokkaido bursts into colour with vast flower fields. Visit from late June to August to see rolling hills of lavender, sunflowers, and poppies. Time your visit with local festivals like the Furano Lavender Festival or the Sapporo Summer Festival for a deeper cultural experience.
- Pack for mild days and cool nights: Unlike the rest of Japan, Hokkaido enjoys a cooler, less humid summer — perfect for hiking and outdoor exploration.
- Explore beyond the cities: While Sapporo is a vibrant base, the real magic lies in Hokkaido’s great outdoors. Rent a car or join guided tours to explore outside the main cities.
How to book it?
To assist with summer itineraries, Hokkaido Tourism provides trade resources including: Suggested road trip and rail itineraries Images, video footage, and brochures Seasonal event calendars Partner contacts for DMCs and accommodation providers Educational B2B seminars for travel trades (upcoming)
