About Hokkaido

Hokkaido is the most northern island of Japan lying between longitude 41°21' and latitude 45° 33' North . It has a total area of approximately 83,451 square kilometers and accounts for about 22% of the total area of Japan while accommodating only about 5% of the total population. This means means it has large areas of pristine wilderness and ample area for farming and agriculture. Hokkaido boasts six national parks, five quasi-national parks and 12 prefectural parks. The combined area of these parks is about 10% of the total area of Hokkaido.

Note: Itinerary areas circled in blue

Originally inhabited by native Ainu, Hokkaido's development began in 1869 with the establishment of the Colonization Commission. Over the past 136 years Hokkaido has seen significant development and population growth, with the capital of Sapporo now being the fifth largest city in Japan. Fisheries and agriculture have been the foundation of Hokkaido's growth.

Hokkaido has a relatively cool climate compared to the rest of Japan. Spring sees abundant amounts of flowers and grasses bloom. Summer is generally mild and pleasant, with little or no rainy season and all flowers and trees are in full bloom. Autumn is cool and offers the wonderful attraction of trees in autumn colors of various shades of red, yellow, brown and gold. This is an especially beautiful time to consider hot spring tours, as most hot spring hotels will have out door bath areas to sit and take in the amazing colors. Winter can be very cold with large amounts of snow falling during the winter season, especially along the Japan Sea coast. This is a great time for skiers, snow boarders and other winter sports lovers to consider holidays. There is also the world famous Sapporo Snow and Ice Festivals with hundreds of sculptures on display.

(Source: http://www.hokkaidoguide.com/)

Scroll down now right to the bottom for a day-by-day account of my Hokkaido vacation!