Family-friendly hotels in Sapporo can make a big difference when visiting with children, especially if you are carrying luggage, traveling during snowy weather, or using the city as a base for exploring Hokkaido by train. For this guide, I’ve chosen three Sapporo hotels that stand out for different types of family trips: one for excellent … Read more
Sapporo hotels with kitchens can make a family trip much easier, especially for longer stays with children. Kitchen facilities are also particularly useful for longer stays. Sapporo makes an excellent base for exploring Hokkaido, and apartment-style hotels let you settle in more comfortably than a typical compact Japanese business hotel. In this guide, I’ve selected … Read more
The best places to visit in Japan in winter combine snowy scenery, hot springs, seasonal food, winter festivals, and easy rail access. Snow-covered landscapes, hot springs, seasonal food, winter festivals, and quieter sightseeing can make the colder months feel completely different from the busy spring and autumn seasons. The challenge is choosing destinations that are … Read more
The Furano Lavender Express is one of the easiest ways to travel directly from Sapporo to Furano during Hokkaido’s summer sightseeing season. Operated by JR Hokkaido, this seasonal limited express runs between Sapporo and Furano without requiring a transfer. In 2026, the journey takes about two hours, making it a practical option for a long … Read more
This Hakodate travel guide covers one of Hokkaido’s most enjoyable cities to explore by train and an excellent first or final stop on a journey through Japan’s northern island. Located in southern Hokkaido, Hakodate combines a historic port, Western-influenced architecture, excellent seafood, a star-shaped fortress, traditional tram travel, and one of Japan’s most famous night … Read more
Hokkaido is one of the best regions in Japan for scenic rail travel. Its trains cross snowy wetlands, dramatic coastlines, flower-covered countryside and vast mountain landscapes that feel very different from railway journeys around Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. Many of Hokkaido’s most interesting trains are seasonal, so choosing the right experience depends heavily on when … Read more