Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

The "Nikka Whisky Hokkaido Yoichi Distillery" was established in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, who learned the art of whisky making in Scotland, the homeland of whisky. The distillery, with its red roofs and soft stone buildings set against the green of lawns and trees, evokes the beautiful landscapes of Scotland. Here, traditional methods are used to continue producing malt whisky.

The "Nikka Museum," which offers a detailed introduction to the history of Nikka Whisky and a paid tasting corner, is also worth a visit. Additionally, ten buildings, including the Kiln Tower (First Drying Tower), are designated as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties.

Free guided tours, which last about 70 minutes (about 50 minutes for the distillery tour and 20 minutes for free tasting), are held 12 times a day for groups of 1 to 9 people.

Surrounded by mountains, Asarigawa Onsen is easily accessible from downtown Otaru in about 20 minutes by car. It is well-known as the backwater of Otaru, and is recommended as a base for sightseeing in Otaru. The hot spring resort has a wide variety of facilities including hot spring bathhouses, cottages, pensions, and campgrounds, and is visited by many locals as well as tourists. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hot springs and skiing while feeling nature.

Using their great wealth amassed through the herring fishing trade, the Aoyama family constructed this stunning villa. Japan’s finest craftsmen spent 6 years perfecting the wood-frame construction while famous artists adorned the interior with original paintings, calligraphy, and more than 2,000 panes of handmade glass. Be sure not to leave before grabbing a bite! This residence-turned-preserved-villa now houses a delicious restaurant serving traditional herring cuisine, a reminder of how the family made its fortune.

Jozankei Hot Spring boasts a history of more than 150 years and has long been known as “Sapporo's back seat,” and is also popular for its easy accessibility, being less than an hour's drive from downtown Sapporo. Many of the inns and hotels lining the Toyohira River valley offer overnight stays as well as day-trip bathing, and footbaths and handbaths are available for casual enjoyment.

Surrounded by abundant nature, the area is famous for its beautiful seasonal scenery, especially in autumn when the valley turns brilliant colors. The bright red Futami Suspension Bridge over the Toyohira River is a perfect photo spot.

Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is a 30-minute drive away, and rafting, canoeing, and other activities that allow visitors to fully enjoy nature are available.

Nestled in a spacious rural landscape, Hokuren Kururu no Mori offers a unique opportunity to experience Hokkaido's rich agricultural culture. This hands-on facility features seasonal programs where visitors can enjoy activities such as sowing seeds, harvesting crops, and preparing dishes using the freshly picked produce. With various plans available, even small children can participate, making it a perfect destination for families seeking a fun and educational day out.

The site also includes a direct sales store offering fresh agricultural and livestock products, as well as a farm restaurant that serves locally sourced cuisine. In the restaurant, visitors can enjoy a buffet of seasonal dishes prepared with fresh vegetables and natural ingredients, showcasing the true taste of Hokkaido. The vibrant selection of farm-to-table dishes is popular even among the locals.

The earthy scent of soil and the sensation of touching real crops in nature make for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're visiting with family or friends, Hokuren Kururu no Mori provides a rare chance to connect with the land and discover the joy of farming in Hokkaido.

An about 40-hectare space that encompasses the Galaxy “Ginga” Garden, which has multiple themed gardens; the Animal Farm “Midori no Makiba,” with its sheep dog shows; a restaurant; a garden shop; and more. The facility makes efforts to reduce their environmental impact—for example, by recycling the kitchen waste from the restaurant into organic fertilizer.

This aquarium offers a fun way to learn about the ecology of salmon and freshwater fish that inhabit the Chitose River. Inside, you'll find about 10,000 fish from freshwater habitats around the world, and the powerful sight of white sturgeon and Japanese huchen swimming in the large tank is truly impressive. The highlight is Japan's first "Underwater Observation Zone," allowing you to observe the actual conditions inside the Chitose River through glass. You can witness salmon fry in March, dace and cherry salmon in June, and salmon returning to spawn from late August through winter, all right before your eyes. In the interactive zone, popular tanks let you directly interact with fish, such as a touch pool with baby sturgeon and a doctor fish experience.