Make the Most of Hokkaido’s Summer Break with Kids! Area-Specific Travel Suggestions and Family Vacation Tips

Hokkaido is blessed with vast landscapes, diverse activities, and delicious local cuisine, making it the perfect destination for parents looking to fully enjoy summer vacation with their children. Each area offers its own unique charms, so by tailoring your itinerary to your children’s ages and interests, you can keep them entertained and create unforgettable memories for the whole family. In this article, we’ll introduce family-friendly highlights and ways to spend your time across a wide range of areas, from Sapporo and its surroundings to Furano and Biei, the Eastern region of Hokkaido, and the Southern region. We hope you’ll use this as a reference when planning your next family trip to Hokkaido.

Sapporo & Surrounding Areas: Enjoy Urban Attractions and Natural Wonders Together

[In Sapporo City]

The city center of Sapporo features modern streets and large commercial facilities, offering a rich array of shopping and dining experiences. During the summer vacation period, many family-friendly events take place. If you plan ahead and sign up for some of these events, your kids won’t have a chance to get bored.

At “Shiroi Koibito Park,” you can learn about the production process of chocolates and sweets, while also trying a hands-on confectionery-making corner. Surrounded by the irresistible aroma of chocolate, children’s curiosity is sure to be sparked. The park’s whimsical, storybook-like setting offers fabulous backdrops for taking memorable photos.

“Maruyama Zoo” is a popular spot where you can see Hokkaido-style wildlife up close, including polar bears and wolves. There are plenty of benches and rest areas, making it comfortable for families with small children. You can also see a recently upgraded elephant house, which allows you to admire the endearing bonds between parent and baby elephants. Access via subway is straightforward, so even without a car, you can enjoy the trip worry-free.

At “Moerenuma Park,” which was designed with the involvement of renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi, you’ll discover a wonderfully artistic environment. The expansive grounds feature playgrounds, impressive fountains, and vast green lawns, making it the perfect setting for running around or having a picnic with the family.

[Surrounding Areas]

“Sapporo Satoland” boasts agricultural experiences, an animal interaction corner, and athletic play equipment that can keep your family entertained all day long. Thanks to the immersive nature activities, children’s imaginations and interests are bound to be piqued.

At “Jozankei Farm,” you’ll discover fruit-picking options depending on the season, barbecue facilities, and basic athletic installations. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy some energetic fun with the entire family. The nearby hot spring resorts offer a convenient way to relax after a busy day outdoors.

Furano & Biei Area: Get Inspired by Stunning Summer Flowers

The Furano and Biei region is widely known for its lavender fields—yet, there’s so much more during summer vacation. Vibrant waves of blooms fill the fields, creating enchanting views that children will love. The sweet floral fragrance and colorful vistas will surely captivate their senses.

“Farm Tomita” isn’t just about lavender; it showcases a wide variety of blossoms such as poppies and baby’s breath that you can enjoy throughout the season. Their lavender-flavored soft-serve ice cream and range of lavender-themed souvenirs are both immensely popular, so you won’t have trouble finding something special to bring home.

At “Shikisai no Oka,” you can hop aboard a tractor-pulled bus that takes you on a scenic ride through the extensive flower fields. As you traverse gently rolling hills, the broad vistas are magnificent, making it an ideal spot for snapping family photos with a breathtaking backdrop of nature.

“Blue Pond” is renowned for its mystical turquoise waters and is a favorite for photographers. The well-maintained boardwalk makes it relatively easy to stroll around, even with little ones in tow.

Eastern Hokkaido: Be Amazed by Vast Nature and Native Wildlife

Hokkaido’s Eastern region is known for its untouched landscapes and pristine natural scenery, making it an excellent option for families wanting an authentic experience of Hokkaido’s grandeur. The pleasant, low-humidity summers make traveling longer distances more manageable during school break.

At “Kushiro Marsh National Park,” you can take a canoe ride through the wetlands and immerse yourself in nature. Spotting wildlife like ducks or red-crowned cranes is an exciting activity for children, honing their observational skills. The panoramic views from the observatories are simply spectacular.

“Shiretoko National Park,” a World Natural Heritage Site, offers opportunities to witness wild animals like brown bears or orcas from cruise boats. With plenty of trekking trails, you can pick one that matches your family’s energy level and thoroughly enjoy exploring the beautiful natural environment together.

At “Lake Akan,” you’ll discover facilities that showcase the traditional Ainu culture, perfect for educational family experiences. There are also lake cruises and canoeing adventures, giving you more ways to appreciate the area’s tranquil beauty.

The “Asahiyama Zoo” is known for its dynamic “behavioral exhibits,” showcasing how animals move naturally in an engaging, up-close manner. It’s a perennial favorite in Hokkaido, guaranteeing excitement for children of all ages.

Southern Hokkaido: Explore Rich History and Relax in Hot Springs

Southern Hokkaido offers a mix of atmospheric port towns reminiscent of earlier eras and onsen resorts known for their abundant natural springs. Families will appreciate the relaxed, welcoming ambiance that encourages meaningful bonding time among parents and children.

“Hakodate” captivates visitors with its exotic cityscapes and dazzling night views. On balmy summer evenings, a trip up Mt. Hakodate offers a romantic panorama of the shimmering lights. Fresh seafood bowls and sweet treats are also unmissable highlights in the city’s culinary scene.

“Noboribetsu Onsen” is famous for its dramatic Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and billowing steam vents. The properties of these hot springs vary, so it’s an ideal introduction for children experiencing onsen for the first time. With many well-appointed accommodation options in the vicinity, families can enjoy a comfortable stay.

At “Onuma Quasi-National Park,” active travelers can indulge in scenic cycling routes and sightseeing cruises around the lake. The lush greenery provides a serene backdrop, and even smaller children can enjoy the pristine outdoors without feeling overwhelmed.

Key Points for an Enjoyable Family Vacation in Hokkaido

Plan your trip so that you can balance city visits and nature-based experiences to showcase the full range of Hokkaido’s wonders. This way, children can experience urban delights while also enjoying the great outdoors.

Popular sightseeing spots and lodging facilities often fill up well in advance during the summer. It’s prudent to start planning and booking early, including your transportation, to ensure a smoother journey.

Even though daytime temperatures in Hokkaido during the summer can be comfortable, mornings and evenings may still feel cool. It is wise to pack layers or jackets for added warmth and to be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Because so many of Hokkaido’s attractions revolve around the outdoors, protect your family from insects and sun exposure, and stay well-hydrated. Proper planning helps guarantee a relaxed trip for everyone involved.

Want to Capture Summer Memories in Hokkaido? Palette Photo Studio is Here for You!

Palette Photo Studio has multiple branches across Hokkaido: two in central Sapporo (Sapporo Factory and Sapporo Odori), plus three dedicated kids’ photography studios (palette +plus Sapporo Higashi, Nishi, and Nishioka), along with locations in Hakodate, Obihiro, and Asahikawa. We’re deeply rooted in Hokkaido and dedicated to transforming every special memory into your most cherished images yet.

All the kids’ photos featured in this article were taken at our very own Palette Photo Studio!

Whether it’s a significant outing or a cozy indoor day, consider booking a photo session with us to preserve your special moments. We’d be thrilled to help you create keepsakes that will last a lifetime.

Stay Updated on Palette’s Special Offers!

We regularly share our latest promotions and studio news on Instagram and LINE.

Follow us to keep track of limited-time campaigns! You might find exclusive deals that make your family’s photo shoot even more exciting.

Limited-Time Offer: Get a 500 Yen OFF Coupon for Adding Us on LINE!

Conclusion

Spending summer in Hokkaido allows families with children to create a wealth of wonderful memories. Try exploring metropolitan Sapporo for cosmopolitan adventures, experiencing the breathtaking flower fields in Furano and Biei, discovering the untamed wilderness of Eastern Hokkaido, and savoring hot springs and historical charm in Southern Hokkaido. There’s something for every age range and preference, ensuring that your trip is full of surprises and delights. Don’t forget to treat yourselves to Hokkaido’s tasty local specialties. By drawing on all these ideas, you can craft a spectacular summer holiday plan that will keep both kids and parents excited from start to finish. Leverage this information to make the most of your family trip in Hokkaido and ferry home an unforgettable collection of summertime experiences.