Hokkaido Island
Hokkaido is the northernmost of the four main islands and has a distinct flavour. You are aware that you are in Japan but everything is just a little bit different. There are crater lakes, smouldering volcanoes, winter sports, large-scale market gardening areas and of course, fresh seafood - some of it still alive! The drives cross-island are considerable distances so you will need to plan. Perhaps start at Hakodate in the south-west then make your way up towards Mount Usu, Lake Toya, Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano, Biei and Daisetsuzan.
Above and Below: Furano
Above and Below: Mount Usu
Above: Fumaroles on Mt Asahi-dake in the
Daisetsuzan volcanic group. It stands at 7,516'
and last erupted in 1739. In summer you can
reach it via the ropeway (Right and Below).
Daisetsuzan volcanic group. It stands at 7,516'
and last erupted in 1739. In summer you can
reach it via the ropeway (Right and Below).
Above: Lake Toya (crater lake).
Walking in the Tenninkyo Gorge. To ward off wild bears, ring a bell. You know, the one you left
behind in the car. There are 6,500 - 10,000 brown bears on Hokkaido and they can weigh up to 400 kg. Remember the bell when hiking!
Left: At Biei, looking towards the north.
Above and Below: Hakodate fish market - so fresh from tank to your plate!
Below: Lake Toya
Above: Hakodate up to Lake Toya/Mt Usu Below: Furano and Daisetsuzan