HOKKAIDO ー
北海道

Hokkaido is located in the northernmost part of Japan and is Japan`s second large island next to Honshu. As the climate is subarctic, it is harshly cold in winter, while in summer, Hokkaido’s temperature is very temperate and comfortable. Hokkaido is connected with Honshu by railway now through the world’s longest undersea tunnel. The Ainu are original people of Hokkaido, but Japanese pioneered the undeveloped wilderness from 15th century, it is now one of the biggest agricultural areas in Japan. With its magnificent nature, it attracts tourists from foreign countries and as well as Japanese holidaymakers.It is the right place for many outdoor activities including horse riding, canoeing, tramping even whale watching! July is the rainy season in the areas to the south of Honshu, , where as, there is little rain in Hokkaido, so it is famous as for summer resorts. Sapporo is the capital of Hokkaido, with a population of almost 2 million people and is the largest city to the north of Tokyo. Many airplane services to the other cities of Hokkaido are operated. A rental car is recommended for getting around due to infrequent transportation, but traveling between cities is possible by the public transport. Japan’s Shinkansen bullet train system extended its service to Hokkaido through the undersea tunnel in the spring of 2016, therefore It is more easily accessible to use Japan Rail Pass.