Hokkaido | Statistics
Region: Hokkaido
Capital: Sapporo
Population (approx.): 5.474 million (2012)
Area: 32,222 sq miles
Area Rank: 1
Hokkaido | Destinations
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island and Japan’s largest prefecture, accounting for over a fifth of Japan’s entire land area. Hokkaido experiences a colder winter than the rest of Japan due to its location but also a milder summer, which makes it a popular destination during the summer months to escape the heat from the southern regions. During the summer months, the Furano Lavender Fields attract thousands of tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of the beautiful lavender that fills the field. Farm Tomita is among the most popular, and near the Lavender Train Station. Sapporo, Hokkaido's capital and largest city, holds its annual Sapporo Snow Festival which also attracts tourists in the wintertime, making Hokkaido a popular destination year round.
Hokkaido | Local Food and Produce
Hokkaido is a major producer of several foods due to its extensive land providing farming capabilities and its ocean surrounding the island. Seafood from Hokkaido is especially popular, with their uni (sea urchin) and ikura (salmon roe) donburi being a popular dish. Hokkaido is also a major producer of dairy, producing about half of the country’s milk. The famous Sapporo beer is also a product of Sapporo, Hokkaido and was the first brewery of Japan.
Hokkaido | Arts and Crafts
In Hokkaido, a large group of Ainu, native indigenous people, reside. They are known to have been excellent hunters and created everyday items using their prey. The Ainu people were also known for their unique kimono, clothing, and accessory patterns. The Ainu kimono do not have the traditional kimono shape but are more over-robe-like. The kimonos are made not from traditional cloth, but from fibers of elm bark. The Ainu kimono have a more bold design than most kimonos today.
Hokkaido | Festivals and Events
Sapporo Snow Festival is one of Japan's largest winter festivals and attracts approximately two million visitors. The festival features spectacular works of snow and ice sculptures that will leave you in awe. During set times and dates, the gorgeous ice sculptures are illuminated with colorful lighting, adding more dimension and beauty.