Winter Holiday: Enjoy Snow and Onsen in Hokkaido
Imagine a morning atmosphere in the middle of a Japanese winter. The sky is a soft grey, the air bites at your skin, and every breath leaves a trail of white vapor in the air. In the distance, an expanse of snow covers triangular-roofed houses, pine trees stand elegantly in white coats, and the aroma of warm miso soup wafts from a traditional Japanese inn, a ryokan. This is Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, which transforms into a snowy wonderland every winter. For winter lovers, Hokkaido is an unmissable paradise where natural beauty, warm culinary delights, and hot spring traditions blend into an almost magical experience.
Every year, millions of tourists come to experience its charm. According to data from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Hokkaido received more than 14 million domestic and international tourists per year before the pandemic, with about 35% of them arriving in winter. The reason is simple: the snow in Hokkaido is among the best in the world. It is soft, dry, and extremely fine. Ski enthusiasts call it “Japow” or Japanese Powder Snow. In famous resorts like Niseko, Furano, and Rusutsu, travelers from all over the world come just to glide down mountain slopes blanketed in perfect white snow. Niseko, for instance, has even been recognized by CNN Travel as one of the “10 Best Ski Resorts in the World” due to its extraordinary snow quality and spectacular views of Mount Yotei, which resembles a miniature Fuji.
However, Hokkaido is not just about skiing. For those who aren't into extreme sports, there are so many other ways to enjoy winter here. One of them is the Sapporo Snow Festival (Sapporo Yuki Matsuri), held every February, which attracts more than 2 million visitors annually. This festival features hundreds of giant snow and ice sculptures, some of which are as tall as a three-story building! Imagine walking among snow palaces glowing in silvery blue while sipping a cup of hot chocolate! The atmosphere feels like stepping into a fantasy world. This festival has been held since 1950 and has become a symbol of pride for Hokkaido residents.
After a day of playing in the snow, nothing is more delightful than soaking in an onsen, a natural hot spring bath that is an inseparable part of Japanese culture. Because Hokkaido is an active volcanic region, the island has more than 250 natural hot spring sources scattered across various areas. One of the most famous is Noboribetsu Onsen, often called “Hell Valley” (Jigokudani) because of the sulfurous steam billowing from the ground. This place provides incredible tranquility. The water temperature ranges between 40–50°C and is believed to improve blood circulation and relieve stress. Sitting in hot water while watching the snow fall slowly is one of the most peaceful experiences one can have in Japan.
And of course, a holiday to Hokkaido would not be complete without exploring its tempting winter culinary scene. Due to its cold climate and fertile soil, Hokkaido is known as “Japan’s kitchen.” Fresh seafood such as king crab (tarabagani), sea urchin (uni), and scallops are must-try menu items. In Sapporo, the signature winter dish is miso ramen, served with a rich broth, butter, sweet corn, and thick slices of meat—perfect for warming the body. Additionally, there is jingisukan (Genghis Khan), which is grilled lamb served on a dome-shaped hot iron griddle. Data from the Hokkaido Tourism Organization shows that about 60% of tourists coming to Hokkaido cite culinary experiences as their primary reason for visiting, even surpassing the allure of skiing!
Beyond its natural beauty and culinary delights, Hokkaido’s appeal also lies in its orderliness and cultural authenticity. Although winter can make temperatures drop to -10°C in Sapporo or even -20°C in inland areas like Biei and Asahikawa, the community continues their activities with high spirits. The city remains clean, streets are kept snow-free thanks to underground heating systems, and public transportation runs on time.
Hokkaido also possesses a cultural uniqueness that is “calmer” compared to Tokyo or Osaka. Here, the people are known to be friendly, polite, and very appreciative of nature. It is no wonder the island is often used as a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Japan's big cities. Interestingly, tourism to Hokkaido is becoming increasingly friendly for international tourists. Based on a 2024 report by the Japan Tourism Agency, the increase in foreign tourists to Hokkaido reached 26% compared to the previous year, thanks to intensive promotion and easier transportation access. Direct flights from Jakarta to Sapporo are now available with a short transit, while the Hokkaido Shinkansen bullet train system connecting Tokyo to Hakodate makes regional travel even more efficient.
With a variety of accommodation facilities, ranging from traditional ryokans to luxury hotels with views of snowy mountains, every visitor can choose an experience that suits their holiday style.
Winter in Hokkaido is not just a matter of snow and cold. It is a journey full of warmth from the friendly faces of its residents, the scent of hot miso in the air, to the peace that arises when watching snowflakes fall onto the onsen water. Every step on this island offers a different sensation. It is playful when skiing, peaceful when soaking in a hot spring, and moving when realizing how harmonious the relationship between humans and nature is in Japan. Perhaps that is why many travelers, after visiting Hokkaido once, always want to return.
So, if you are planning an unforgettable winter holiday, Hokkaido is the answer. Prepare a thick coat, a camera, and a heart ready to be charmed. Because here, every grain of snow is not just a sign of the season, but an invitation to experience the real Japan.
