Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaidō) is the second largest, northernmost and least developed of Japan’s four main islands. Its weather is harsh in winter with lots of snowfall, below zero temperatures and frozen seas, while in summer it does not get as hot and humid as in the other parts of the country.
With its unspoiled nature, many national parks and rural landscapes, Hokkaido attracts many outdoor lovers, including skiers and snowboarders in the colder seasons and hikers, cyclists and campers from June to September.
The new Hokkaido Shinkansen will take you to some of Japan’s most beautiful national parks, top ski resorts, and popular summer destinations.
Hokkaido region features only one prefecture of the same name, and its major cities include Sapporo, Asahikawa and Hakodate, which you can easily reach with your Japan Rail Pass.
