This autumn, I had the chance to spend five unforgettable days exploring Hokkaido. From Taiwan, the flight to Sapporo takes only about three hours. During our five-day trip, we stayed at four different places — Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Kiki Shiretoko Natural Resort, Hotel Taisetsu, and Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo — each with its own unique charm.
Day 1: Tomamu — A Paradise in the Mountains
Tomamu lies about an hour and a half from New Chitose Airport. Nestled among rolling hills and forests, it’s a year-round resort famous for its natural beauty and seasonal experiences.
Though our stay was short, we enjoyed three memorable sights: the Mina-Mina Beach, the ethereal Chapel on the Water, and a breathtaking night fireworks show beneath the cold mountain sky.
Mina-Mina Beach is a vast indoor pool surrounded by glass walls, its water kept at a balmy 30°C. Artificial waves lap gently like a tropical sea — a surreal contrast to the snow outside. For those seeking deeper relaxation, the resort also offers a traditional onsen, a Japanese hot spring experience that’s both soothing and liberating.
Day 2: Lakes of the Gods and the Wilderness of Shiretoko
Our second day began with a long but scenic drive to Lake Mashu, often called the “Lake of the Gods” for its almost mystical clarity. In 1931, it was declared the clearest lake in the world. We only had 25 minutes there, but it was enough to be spellbound by the soft mist dancing above the dark blue water.
A short drive away, we stopped for lunch by Lake Kussharo, at Sunayu Rest House overlooking the vast lake. Later in the afternoon, we reached Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The word Shiretoko comes from the Ainu language, meaning “the end of the Earth.”
We walked along wooden paths lined with electric fences — not for decoration, but to keep wild Hokkaido brown bears at bay. From there, we could see majestic peaks like Mount Rausu, the highest in the park. That night, at Kiki Shiretoko Natural Resort, we breathed in the crisp, quiet mountain air and felt worlds away from civilization.
Day 3: Sea, Waterfalls, and Foxes in Kitami
The morning began with a cruise on the Aurora sightseeing boat, tracing Shiretoko’s rugged coastline. Heavy rain limited visibility, but even through the mist, the cliffs and seabirds were stunning. I’d recommend taking this cruise in summer — clear skies often bring sightings of whales or seals.
Next was Oshinkoshin Falls, a beautiful 30-meter twin waterfall known as “The Waterfall by the Road.” From there, we drove through rain to Lake Notoro for a brief stop before visiting one of my favorite places — Kitami Fox Village.
Here, we met the adorable Ezo red fox, native to Hokkaido, with thick fur and bushy tails. Though they look friendly, they are still wild animals, so touching is off-limits. Watching them play freely was pure joy.
Our final stop was the twin Ginga and Ryusei Falls, also called the Galaxy and Meteor waterfalls. That evening, after a long but beautiful day, we rested at Hotel Taisetsu, savoring a comforting buffet dinner.
Day 4: Otaru — A Romantic Canal Town
We returned to Otaru, a European-style port city known for its romantic canal and nostalgic charm. The old warehouses along the water have been transformed into stylish cafés, boutiques, and souvenir shops.
Some highlights worth visiting:
- The Steam Clock, built in 1977 by a Canadian clockmaker, releasing five gentle notes with each puff of steam.
- Otaru Canal, best enjoyed at dusk when the gas lamps flicker to life.
- Kitaichi Glass Museum, home to shimmering glass art.
- LeTAO, the iconic confectionery where the Fromage Double Cheesecake melts in your mouth. Don’t miss their Honey Butter Financier — crisp outside, soft inside, and impossibly fragrant.
From Otaru, we visited Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, set in Maruyama Park. In autumn, the shrine is a vision of golden leaves and quiet grace. An hour there felt far too short.
That night, we checked into Premier Hotel Tsubaki Sapporo, an elegant city retreat. I ended the day with a cup of hot tea by the window, thinking of how far we’d traveled — not just in distance, but in spirit.
Day 5: Mitsui Outlet and Farewell
Before heading back to Taiwan, we made a quick stop at Mitsui Outlet Park Sapporo Kitahiroshima — a favorite among Taiwanese travelers for its great deals on everything from sportswear to Japanese luxury brands.
Reflections
Hokkaido isn’t just a destination. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and let nature humble you.
Amid the mist of Lake Mashu, the chill of Shiretoko, and the warmth of Tomamu’s onsen, I learned that beauty doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it whispers — hidden in the stillness at the edge of the Earth.
Enjoy more pictures and short clips here.
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