Hey fellow travelers! Mark here, your friendly American backpacker, always eager to explore the vibrant cities and hidden gems of Asia. Recently, I embarked on some incredible day trips from Sapporo, Hokkaido, and I'm here to share my experiences and encourage you to add these destinations to your Asian adventure itinerary. Trust me, these journeys are not to be missed!
Hokkaido Shrine and the Breathtaking Cape Kamui
For those who prefer not to drive, organized day trips are a fantastic option for exploring destinations further afield. These tours typically depart from the iconic Sapporo TV Tower. My tour's first stop was the serene Hokkaido Shrine. Here, I highly recommend purchasing their omamori (protective amulets). Two stand out: the adorable pink character omamori and the small golden hammer omamori for prosperity. They're small, easy to carry, and make great souvenirs.
Next, we ventured to the remote and stunning Cape Kamui in Shakotan Peninsula, a hidden gem on Hokkaido's western coast. A short 20-minute walk from the parking area leads to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, mountains, and even snow-capped peaks in the distance, especially during May and June. The contrast of green, white, and the deep blue sea is truly mesmerizing.
For those driving, Shakotan offers a unique culinary experience: fresh, affordable sea urchin. Since it's a small fishing port, you're guaranteed the freshest catch!
Charming Otaru: Canals, Steam Clocks, and Sweet Treats
After Shakotan, our tour headed to the charming city of Otaru. This picturesque port city, about a 1.5-hour drive from Shakotan, is famous for its canal-lined streets and European-style architecture. We strolled along the Sakaimachi Street, a 1300-meter shopping haven filled with local crafts and delicacies.
A must-see in Otaru is the steam clock, one of only two functioning steam clocks in the world (the other being in Gastown, Vancouver). It's a charming piece of history and a great photo opportunity.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Sakaimachi Street | A bustling shopping street with a variety of shops and restaurants. |
| Steam Clock | One of only two in the world, a unique historical landmark. |
| Rokkatei | Famous for its delicious Hokkaido sweets and perfect for souvenirs. |
Otaru also hosts a vibrant summer festival at the end of July, featuring traditional dances, parades, and a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor. It's a fantastic time to visit! After exploring Otaru, we made a final stop at the Shiroi Koibito Park, home of the famous "Shiroi Koibito" cookies. The European-style gardens and musical clock performance made for a delightful end to the day.
These day trips cost roughly 1500 Taiwanese dollars, which is a great value for the experiences offered.
Hakodate's Hidden Gem: The Vibrant Hakodate Port Festival
Beyond Sapporo's surrounding areas, a trip to Hakodate for the unique Hakodate Port Festival (August 1st-5th, 2024) is highly recommended. The festival kicks off with a dazzling fireworks display over the harbor, made even more spectacular by Hakodate's lack of tall buildings.
One of the festival's highlights is the opportunity to ride decorated trams throughout the city. Even more exciting is the chance to participate in the traditional "Squid Dance" on August 2nd and 3rd. It's free, fun, and a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
For personalized Hakodate recommendations, I turned to my friend Lilia, who lived there for an extended period. She suggested starting with delectable treats at a renowned shop in the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse district, famous for its award-winning cheesecakes. Next, explore the historical Tategaoka Cape, followed by the breathtaking night view from Mount Hakodate. And for an unforgettable culinary adventure, don't miss the dancing squid rice bowl at Hakodate Asaichi Market!
These day trips from Sapporo offer a fantastic blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Hokkaido!
