10 Best Things to Do in Hokkaido in Summer (By a Local)
Planning a summer trip to Hokkaido? Amazing!
I grew up in Eastern Hokkaido, and I can tell you that summer is the best season to enjoy the island’s nature and food.
It’s also the most popular season, and I’ve noticed most visitors end up doing only the “famous” activities, like lavender fields in Furano or sightseeing in Sapporo…
Don’t get me wrong, they’re great, but there’s so much more waiting if you know where to look.
That’s why I put together this list of my top 10 things to do in Hokkaido in summer. They’re based on my own experiences. Places I’ve hiked, foods I’ve grown up with, and local gems I still enjoy every time I come home.
If you want a summer trip that feels like you really experienced Hokkaido, not just visited touristy spots, you’re in the right place.
1. Go Hiking in the Mountains
Summer in Hokkaido is the perfect time to hike! Unlike other parts of Japan, the temperatures stay comfortable, so you can really enjoy being outdoors.
If you’re new to hiking or just want something approachable, I recommend Mount Hakuto in Akan. It’s a smaller mountain with a gentle trail, but you still get that rewarding sense of climbing. At the summit, you will see a beautiful view of Lake Akan and Mount Oakan.
For a more classic experience, head to Mount Kurodake in Sounkyo. You can take the ropeway up and then continue hiking to the summit. The climb is steep, but the panoramic views over the Daisetsuzan mountains are worth every step!
And if you’re in Niseko, Iwaonupuri is one of my favorites. It’s an active volcano, so the trail takes you through changing landscapes — first forest, then rocky volcanic terrain. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the ocean from the summit. It’s not a long hike, but it feels adventurous and full of variety.
2. Take Easy Walks with Scenic Views
Not keen to do a long hike? No worries, Hokkaido has easy but rewarding trails, where you can slow down and really take in the beautiful nature.
One of my top picks is the Shiretoko Goko Lakes. You can stroll on wooden boardwalks and forest paths with views of the mountains, and if you’re lucky, wildlife like deer or foxes. It feels like stepping into untouched nature, but the paths are well-maintained and beginner- & stroller-friendly.
Closer to Akan, the Bokke trail is another favorite of mine. It’s an easy 1.5-km loop through the forest that leads to bubbling mud pools, heated by volcanic activity underground. I like taking this path in the morning after an onsen dip, when I stay at an onsen hotel in Akan. It’s short, mostly flat and easy.
3. Join Local Summer Festivals
Hokkaido has so many summer festivals! Almost every town has its own matsuri, with food stalls, fireworks, and traditional dances filling the streets.
I’ve loved going to these festivals growing up, because they bring communities together. I hope you get a chance to experience that too!
👉 I’ve put together a full guide here to the biggest and most unique festivals happening across Hokkaido. If you’re planning a trip in summer, it’s a must see!
4. Hit the Road on a Summer Road Trip
A road trip is my favorite way of enjoy summer in Hokkaido. Wide open roads, endless scenery, and no traffic (the best part!).
You’ll find so many spots to stop by between one destination to another, and there are lots of hidden gems that you can’t reach by public transportation.
👉If you’re ready to plan your own trip, you can browse my road trip itineraries here.
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5. Camp in Nature (No Gear Needed)
If you’ve ever wanted to try camping in Hokkaido but don’t want the hassle of packing tents and sleeping bags… glamping is the answer!
One place I personally loved is Lake House Toyako Glamping, right on the shores of Lake Toya. Everything is ready for you, from spacious tents and real beds to even a BBQ set.
It’s run by a friendly couple who put so much care into this lovely place. What I liked most is their direct access to the lake. You’re just a few steps away from the peaceful lakeside.
👉 If you’re interested staying here, read a full review of my stay at Lake House Toyako Glamping.
6. Join a Wildlife-Watching Cruise
One of the most exciting ways to enjoy summer in Hokkaido is from the sea! In Shiretoko, a nature-rich peninsula in the eastern part, you can take a cruise along the rugged coastline and spot wild animals.
Depending on the season, you might see dolphins, whales, or even brown bears walking along the shore. On my past cruise, I saw a pack of dolphins swimming along with us and a couple of bears!
👉 I’ve written Shiretoko Nature Cruise Guide with tips on how to choose the right cruise and what to expect.
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7. Stroll Through Colorful Flower Fields
When people think of Hokkaido in summer, flower fields usually come to mind. Lavender in Furano and patchwork hills in Biei are (too) famous. They’re beautiful, but often crowded.
What many visitors don’t know is that there are many other flower parks across Eastern Hokkaido (my home region)!
They are just as beautiful, and often much quieter. From pink shibazakura in spring to bright sunflowers and cosmos in late summer, you’ll find seasonal colors almost everywhere you go. Some parks are even free to enter, making them easy, budget-friendly stops.
👉 I’ve rounded up my favorite flower spots that most tourists miss!
8. Cool Down with Local Ice Cream
Is there anything better than a soft-serve ice cream on a hot summer day? No! In Hokkaido, ice creams are part of the travel experience. Almost every region has its own specialty flavor, made with local ingredients.
You might come across corn ice cream in many farm towns and roadside stations (Michi no Eki). It’s really fun to try different flavers wherever you go!
👉 Find some unique Hokkaido ice creams in this guide.
9. Taste Juicy Summer Melons
Melon is the iconic summer treat for us in Hokkaido. July and August are the best time to enjoy them at peak. Growing up in Hokkaido, I was excited every summer to scoop out from a half-cut melon fighiting over a bite with my sisters…
Furano Melon is probably the most famous one in Hokkaido. It’s so sweet and juicy! If you’re curious where to try it, I’ve asked a friend from Furano to share her favorite places to enjoy Furano melon.
10. Savor Sweet Summer Corn
This is something I realized after living away from home… Corn in Hokkaido is on another level!
My favorite kind is the rare “Pure White” corn, available only from August to mid-September. It’s as sweet as fruits (I’m not kidding), and so soft that you can eat freshly harvested ones daw.
Even if you can’t bring fresh corn back home, there are plenty of corn-inspired souvenirs, like corn crackers and corn rice mixes that make for an easy taste of Hokkaido after your trip!
Your next steps
Now you know the 10 fun things to do in Hokkaido in summer!
Next, are you ready to find perfect destinations for you?
Or you can browse easy-to-follow Hokkaido itineraries and get some inspirations.
Happy trip planning!
Plan your perfect trip with local gems and zero tourist traps.
✅ Fill your itinerary with local favorites you won’t find anywhere else.
✅ Know exactly which tourist traps to skip so you stop wasting time and money.
✅ Experience Eastern Hokkaido like you have a local friend showing you around.
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