❄️ Hokkaido’s winter climate and characteristics
Hokkaido in winter is colder than other parts of Japan. The average temperature is below freezing, and in inland areas it can drop to -20°C. However, due to the low humidity, many foreigners find that it is not as cold as they expected. It is said that even -5℃ in Sapporo feels better than 0℃ in Tokyo.
The winter season is from December to March, with February being the coldest month. However, the charm of winter in Hokkaido is precisely because of the cold weather. Beautiful scenery created by the cold weather awaits you, including powder snow, drift ice, and icefalls.
🧥 Complete guide to cold weather measures
Layering is the basics in Hokkaido winter.
Since the room is heated, it is important to wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
🎿 How to enjoy snow
Hokkaido is full of activities in winter. Skiing and snowboarding in Niseko and Furano are world-famous. The quality of the powder snow has been described as “silky” and it attracts skiers from all over the world.
In addition to skiing, there are many experiences unique to winter, such as the Asahikawa Winter Festival, the Sounkyo Icefall Festival, and a drift ice cruise in the Sea of Okhotsk. Additionally, the Sapporo Snow Festival is held in February, and giant snow sculptures decorate the city.
🍜 Winter Hokkaido Gourmet
There are plenty of Hokkaido gourmet foods to enjoy during the cold winter. It is characterized by its many warming dishes, such as Sapporo ramen (miso), Genghis Khan (grilled mutton), soup curry, and Ishikari nabe (salmon hotpot). Also, don’t miss the fresh seafood such as seafood from Otaru and squid from Hakodate.