Golden Week Hokkaido Travel Hidden Gems! Soak in Breathtaking Views and Savor Local Gourmet Delights

Planning a Golden Week trip to Hokkaido with family often raises concerns about crowded tourist destinations. This can be especially challenging for parents traveling with children who want to move around smoothly and enjoy their getaway without stress. During this big holiday, well-known spots tend to get extremely busy. Still, if you venture a bit farther, you will discover high-transparency lakes, striking natural scenery, and local gourmet experiences you can savor at a relaxed pace. Here, we introduce recommended hidden gems in each major area of Hokkaido that you can visit during Golden Week. You will find tips to create memorable family moments filled with astounding views, unique local dishes, and history that you can share with your children.

Eastern Hokkaido: Immerse Yourself in Untouched Nature and Mysterious Lakes

The eastern region of Hokkaido is known for its vast, magnificent landscapes. Even around Golden Week, it can still be chilly, but warm clothing and proper preparation allow children to safely explore the great outdoors. This area is home to World Natural Heritage Sites, as well as mysteriously beautiful lakes. Families can enjoy hiking trails, scenic boat rides, or simply relish the dynamic views that embody Hokkaido’s grandeur.

Shiretoko Five Lakes (Shari Town)

These five lakes, scattered around the Shiretoko Peninsula, are part of a World Natural Heritage Site

They are surrounded by pristine forests, and you can stroll along wooden walkways while enjoying the fresh forest air

Some paths can be challenging for strollers, so comfortable attire and baby carriers are handy

Recommended highlight: On clear days, the reflections of the Shiretoko Mountain Range on the lake surface are spectacular. It is a wonderful opportunity to show children the beauty of nature

Lake Akan (Kushiro City)

Known for marimo (moss balls) and famous for its scenic beauty. It is protected as a Special Natural Monument of Japan

The lakeside boasts sightseeing boat launches, souvenir shops, and well-developed facilities showcasing Ainu culture

To entertain children, enjoy boat rides for spectacular views from the water or explore exhibits featuring Ainu handicrafts

Recommended point: The lakeside has a range of hot spring accommodations, making it a comfortable place for families with small children who need accessible options

Lake Mashu (Teshikaga Town)

Famed for frequently being shrouded in mist, hence the nickname “Misty Lake Mashu.” However, when weather is clear, it boasts some of the highest water transparency in the world

The panoramic view from nearby observatories is stunning. On sunny days, you can admire the lake’s deep, vivid blue

Recommended point: At the rest house near the lookout, you can try soft-serve ice cream colored in a special “Lake Mashu Blue” hue

Southern Hokkaido: Enjoy Historic Streetscapes, Cherry Blossoms, and Scenic Parks

Southern Hokkaido offers a unique blend of pioneering history and foreign influences. Golden Week here often coincides with peak cherry blossom season in many places, letting you relish vivid signs of spring. Let your children run around spacious parks, share delicious local dishes with the whole family, and maybe hop on a sightseeing boat or rent bicycles to feel the spring breeze. It is a delightful region brimming with cultural and scenic experiences.

Matsumae Park (Matsumae Town)

Located in the only castle town in Hokkaido, Matsumae Town, steeped in Edo-period history

Around Golden Week, numerous varieties of cherry blossoms bloom, painting the landscape in gorgeous pink shades

Its gentle slopes and walking paths are comfortable for families with children; they can explore the forests without feeling too tired

Recommended point: The contrast between the castle and cherry blossoms is spectacular. This is a great opportunity to learn about history while embracing the spring atmosphere

Onuma Quasi-National Park (Nanae Town)

Known for its picturesque contrast of Lake Onuma and the majestic Mt. Komagatake

You can enjoy water activities such as sightseeing boats or canoeing, depending on weather conditions

It features playgrounds and a rest house, making it very convenient for families

Recommended point: Savor local specialties like Onuma Beer and jingisukan (grilled mutton) at lakeside restaurants. The aroma from the charcoal grill will intrigue even small children

Central Hokkaido: Explore Glittering Lakes, Step into the Past, and Visit Movie Locations

This area includes the primary gateway to Hokkaido, New Chitose Airport, making it convenient for access. Despite its accessibility, the region never falls short in natural attractions, such as the famously clear lakes and towns rich in coal-mining history. During Golden Week, the weather is often relatively stable, letting you fully enjoy family-friendly activities and historical discoveries.

Lake Shikotsu (Chitose City)

Renowned for its high water clarity. The surrounding area offers campgrounds and canoeing activities

Exploring its walking trails rewards you with mesmerizing contrasts between lush greenery and deep blue waters

Look out for events or workshops geared toward children, such as nature observation or crafting

Recommended point: You can stop by one of the local hot spring facilities for a day visit. Even if the weather is cool during Golden Week, warming up is delightful and comforting

Yubari City

Once flourishing as a coal-mining town, it is also well-known for the film “The Yellow Handkerchief of Happiness”

You can learn about the area’s coal heritage at the Coal Mine Museum or see actual sites where the movie was filmed

Children are often curious about the mining exhibits. Adults enjoy a dose of nostalgia balanced with fresh discoveries

Recommended point: Yubari Melon is a much-loved local product, and savoring melon-based desserts or juice is a must. Share the sweet, juicy flavors with the entire family

Tips for a Successful Golden Week Hokkaido Getaway

Early Planning and Reservations: Golden Week inevitably draws crowds. Booking accommodations, sightseeing boats, and rental cars well in advance is recommended. Family rooms fill up quickly, so do not wait until the last minute.

Dress for the Weather: Even in Golden Week, Hokkaido can be pretty cold. Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, so prepare thicker jackets and small blankets for children. There have even been years with light snowfall during this period.

Secure Transportation: If you plan to visit eastern or northern regions of Hokkaido, note that public transportation may be limited in schedule or coverage, lengthening your travel time. If renting a car, do not forget to reserve child seats. If you opt for trains or buses, be sure to check timetables first.

Allow Extra Time in Your Itinerary: Roads can become congested during Golden Week. Routes near Sapporo or Hakodate tend to be especially busy. Research potential rest areas or scenic stops beforehand to help children avoid boredom on longer drives.

Diversify Your Activities: Incorporate interactive experiences to keep children engaged. Nature tours, craft workshops, or hands-on farm visits are fun and inviting. Consider programs where kids can interact with animals or learn about local crafts for a unique family trip.

Photo Studio Palette Operates Throughout Hokkaido!

Photo Studio Palette has two locations in central Sapporo—Sapporo Factory and Sapporo Odori—as well as three kids-focused specialty stores, palette +plus Sapporo Higashi, Nishi, and Nishioka, plus branches in Hakodate, Obihiro, and Asahikawa. We have studios in all key areas of Hokkaido!

Based in Hokkaido, our mission is to help make every commemorative photo shoot the best memory possible. With that in mind, we pour all our enthusiasm into each session.

All the photos featuring children in this article were taken at Palette!

Why not treat yourself to a photo shoot on your special outing, or add a meaningful indoor experience to your day? We look forward to helping you capture those priceless memories.

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Conclusion

During Golden Week, popular spots in Hokkaido naturally draw big crowds, but by avoiding peak times or exploring lesser-known areas, families traveling with children can still enjoy a comfortable and refreshing trip. Beautiful lakes, renowned cherry blossom sites, and towns filled with history await throughout each region. Hokkaido’s cuisine extends beyond jingisukan or fresh seafood: Yubari Melon and local specialty soft-serve ice creams are sure to delight children with sweet, unique flavors.

Golden Week is a prime opportunity for making lasting family memories. Plan carefully, embrace the busier atmosphere, and immerse yourselves in Hokkaido’s abundant charms. The vast landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and warm local hospitality are likely to leave a vivid impression on your children. Make the most of your Golden Week by ensuring that every family member is smiling from start to finish, and treasure this special trip together.