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).

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