Northern Circuit Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Hokkaido's Northern Circuit with this comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, accommodations, local food and culture, safety tips, logistics, and nearby destinations to explore.
- Introduction to Northern Circuit
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Circuit
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Circuit
- Best Things to Do in Northern Circuit: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Circuit
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Circuit
- Where to Stay in Northern Circuit: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Circuit: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Circuit
- Best Time to Visit Northern Circuit
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Circuit
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Circuit: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Circuit
- Where to Go Next from Northern Circuit: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Circuit
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is a remote yet stunning region that is known for its natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and traditional culture. The area is geographically diverse, ranging from snow-capped mountains to pristine lakes and rolling hills, dotted with hot springs and quaint villages along the way. It’s the perfect destination for adventurers who want to immerse themselves in Japan’s unique landscape while exploring historical sites and sampling local cuisine. Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is sure to leave an indelible impression on visitors, with its unique blend of breathtaking scenery and authentic cultural experiences.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Circuit
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is steeped in history and culture, with many museums and historical sites to explore. The following is a list of culturally significant attractions that visitors can add to their itinerary:
- Asahikawa City Museum - Located in Asahikawa City, this museum explores the history and culture of Hokkaido, with a focus on Asahikawa’s local heritage.
- Sounkyo Gorge - A popular hiking trail with stunning views of the mountains and waterfalls, Sounkyo Gorge is also home to the Ryusei-no-Taki Falls, one of Hokkaido’s most famous natural attractions.
- Furano Ski Area - Known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Furano Ski Area also offers visitors the chance to explore the peaceful floral gardens and lavender fields that bloom in the summer.
- Biei-cho - A picturesque town with rolling hills, towering trees, and scenic roads that are perfect for cycling or driving, Biei-cho is also home to the famous Blue Pond, with its vibrant blue hues that change according to the season.
Natural Attractions of Northern Circuit: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
The Northern Circuit is a nature lover’s paradise, featuring plenty of outdoor activities and stunning landscape views. Here are some natural attractions visitors shouldn’t miss:
- Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido’s largest national park that boasts of mountain peaks, forests, and hot springs, including the famous Asahidake Onsen.
- Lake Mashu - One of Japan’s most mysterious lakes known for its crystal-clear blue waters and eerie atmosphere, Lake Mashu is an important natural monument of Hokkaido.
- Shiretoko National Park - The untouched and pristine wilderness of the Shiretoko National Park offers visitors the chance to witness some of the country’s rare wildlife species, such as bears and eagles.
- Mount Tokachi - For thrill-seekers, there’s nothing as exciting as hiking Mt. Tokachi, an active volcano that offers spectacular views from its summit.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit region is famous for its many hiking and biking trails, showcasing the region’s natural beauty along the way. Here are some popular routes:
- Mount Rausu - The highest peak in the Shiretoko Mountain range offers a challenging hike with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Furano Trail - This biking route weaves through the endless rolling hills of Biei-cho while offering beautiful views of the patchwork fields of flowers and farmland.
- Katsurazawa Trail - A moderate hike that offers beautiful views of Lake Katsurazawa and the surrounding forested mountains.
- Tokachidake Onsen Trail - A moderate to difficult hike that offers visitors the chance to see the beautiful hot springs and volcanic landscape of Daisetsuzan National Park.
Best Things to Do in Northern Circuit: Activities and Tours
Apart from hiking and biking, visitors to the Northern Circuit have plenty of other fun activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:
- Horseback Riding - Take a scenic trek on horseback through the lush forests and fields of the Northern Circuit and experience Japan’s unique culture firsthand.
- Winter Sports - Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is famous for its winter scenery and excellent snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities.
- Onsen-Hopping - Visit one of the region’s many natural hot springs and experience the bliss of soaking in mineral-rich waters.
- Culinary Tours - Experience Hokkaido’s local cuisine, including seafood, dairy products, and meat dishes.
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Circuit
Here’s a sample itinerary for seven days in the Northern Circuit region, showing you the best places to visit in the area:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Asahikawa City Museum and nearby hot springs. |
| 2 | Hike in Daisetsuzan National Park. |
| 3 | Explore Furano Ski Area and its flower gardens. |
| 4 | Visit the Blue Pond and picturesque Biei-cho. |
| 5 | Drive along scenic routes and visit quaint towns. |
| 6 | Hike in Shiretoko National Park. |
| 7 | Visit Lake Mashu and experience its mystique. |
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Circuit
Must-Try Dishes
Northern Circuit’s local cuisine is rich in flavor and variety, with a focus on fresh seafood, dairy products, and meat dishes. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Genghis Khan - A traditional Hokkaido dish of grilled lamb or mutton that is cooked on a circular skillet with vegetables and served with dipping sauce.
- Oysters - Fresh and plump, Hokkaido’s oysters are famous worldwide for their flavor and texture.
- Ramen - Hokkaido’s ramen is famous for its rich broth and delicious toppings, such as corn, butter, and seafood.
- Soft Ice Cream - Made with fresh Hokkaido milk, soft serve ice cream is a local favorite.
Local Beverages
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is home to a thriving microbrewery scene, known for producing some of Japan’s best craft beer. Some local drinks to try include:
- Sapporo Beer - A world-renowned beer that originated in Hokkaido’s capital city of Sapporo.
- Yoichi Whisky - A top-rated Japanese distillery that produces premium whisky with locally sourced ingredients.
Where to Stay in Northern Circuit: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Northern Circuit region offers plenty of options for accommodations to suit any traveler’s budget or preference. Some popular choices include:
- Sounkyo Onsen - A traditional hot spring resort that is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
- Dormy Inn - A budget-friendly chain of hotels with modern amenities and clean rooms.
- Minshuku - A traditional Japanese-style guesthouse that features tatami rooms and traditional futon mattresses.
What to Buy in Northern Circuit: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is famous for its local products and souvenirs that make for excellent gifts or mementos of your trip. Some popular items to bring home include:
- Wines and Sake - Hokkaido’s vineyards produce some of the best wine in Japan, with top-notch flavor profiles.
- Lavender Products - The region is known for its lavender fields that produce essential oils, soaps, and other aromatic products.
- Wooden Crafts - Hokkaido is famous for its intricate woodworking techniques, and many local shops sell handcrafted toys, utensils, and furniture.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Circuit
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is rich in culture and traditions that date back centuries. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in local customs and etiquette, such as:
- Removing shoes before entering someone’s home or a traditional guesthouse.
- Bowing as a sign of respect when greeting someone.
- Using chopsticks properly when dining at a restaurant.
- Following the onsen etiquette when visiting a hot spring resort.
Best Time to Visit Northern Circuit
The best time to visit the Northern Circuit region is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is mild and the landscape is alive with vibrant colors. Winter (December-February) is also an excellent time to visit, with ample opportunities to experience winter sports and activities such as hot springs. Early spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and stunning landscapes, with cherry blossoms and autumn foliage respectively.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Circuit
Do:
- Dress appropriately for the weather, particularly when hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
- Respect the local culture and customs.
- Try the local cuisine and drinks.
- Make an effort to learn basic Japanese phrases.
Don’t:
- Wear shoes inside traditional Japanese-style accommodations.
- Leave a tip at restaurants or hotels.
- Ignore the signs and rules when visiting hot springs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit region is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and no major safety concerns. However, visitors should keep in mind that the area is remote and may have limited access to medical facilities, particularly during winter months. It’s essential to prepare accordingly when participating in outdoor activities or when traveling off the beaten path.
Health in Northern Circuit
Hokkaido is known for its high-quality medical facilities, and most hospitals offer excellent care to both Japanese and international patients. Visitors should take standard precautions concerning hygiene, particularly when it comes to food and water safety.
Getting to Northern Circuit: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Circuit
There are several airports in Hokkaido that visitors can use to access the Northern Circuit region. The following are the most commonly used:
- New Chitose Airport - Hokkaido’s main international airport located south of Sapporo, with flights to major cities in Japan and overseas.
- Asahikawa Airport - A domestic airport in the central part of Hokkaido that offers flights to major cities in Japan.
Bus Stations Near Northern Circuit
Buses are an affordable and convenient way to travel around the Northern Circuit region. The following are some bus stations and routes that visitors can use:
- Sapporo Bus Terminal - A major hub for local and regional buses, with routes to Asahikawa, Biei-cho, and Shiretoko National Park.
- Furano Bus Terminal - A bus terminal that services the Furano Ski Area and other attractions in the region.
- Asahikawa Station - The main JR railway station in Asahikawa that acts as a hub for local and regional bus services.
Other Options
Visitors can also choose to rent a car or bike to explore the Northern Circuit region on their terms.
How to Get Around in Northern Circuit
The best way to get around the Northern Circuit region is by car, as this offers the most flexibility when it comes to sightseeing and exploring the off-the-beaten-path destinations. However, public transportation is also widely available, with several bus lines connecting major attractions and towns.
Where to Go Next from Northern Circuit: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors to the Northern Circuit region can explore nearby destinations and excursions, such as:
- Otaru - A picturesque town with beautiful canals and historic buildings, known for its seafood and glasswork.
- Hakodate - A charming port town that features the looming Mount Hakodate and the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort.
- Sapporo - Hokkaido’s largest city, known for its delicious food scene, local festivals, and the famous Sapporo Beer Factory.
Conclusion
Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit is a beautiful region that is full of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and unique experiences. Whether you are looking to hike through rugged trails, indulge in delicious cuisine, or immerse yourself in local customs, the Northern Circuit has something to offer. Plan your trip to Hokkaido’s Northern Circuit with this comprehensive guide to make the most of your journey.
