The northernmost of Japan’s 47 prefectures, Hokkaido is also the second largest island in Japan. Originally the home of indigenous people called the Ainu, it became an outpost for Japanese trade and there were serious conflicts between the two races. Ainu still exist, but their culture is in peril of being lost. Historically, the island was called Ezo, and in the Meji Period, the name was changed to Hokkaido. Interestingly, there is no name for the island in the Ainu language.
As in the past, today Hokkaido is mostly volcanic mountain and forests, with many preserved in national parks such as Daisetsuzan National Park 大雪山. It is known for the cold climate, with cool summers and snowy, cold winters. Average temperatures range from a high in August of 17 to 22 degrees Celsius (about 62 to 71 degrees Fahrenheit) to a low in January of -12 to -4 degrees Celsius (about 10 to 24 degrees Fahrenheit).
Hokkaido scenic view (photo:
B*_J/flickr)
Visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty of Hokkaido, hiking in the mild summer, skiing and snowboarding in the wonderful powder snow on the mountains in winter. Snowfall varies greatly by region, but averages are 11 meters (about 400 inches) in the western part and 1.8 meters (about 71 inches) in the east. Natural hot springs, many of which feature outdoor baths where guests can soak and enjoy the view, are popular throughout the year. There are few cities and many farms. The largest city, Sapporo, is the capital.
Ice Cafe at Winter Festival in Asahikawa Hokkaido (photo: かがみ～/flickr)
Hokkaido is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean. The Tsugaru Strait separates the island from Honshu, the main island of Japan. The Seikan Tunnel connects the islands so it can be reached by railway. However, the most common arrival point is New Chitose Airport. Though it is not on most people’s tour of Japan, Hokkaido’s beauty is a good choice for the outdoor enthusiast.
Odori park in Sapporo Hokkaido (photo: inefekt69/flickr)
