Hokkaido 北海道, Japan

This was a company trip and was meant to be laid-back but a few of us saw it as the perfect excuse for adventure. So we teamed up, rented a car and carved out our own side itinerary with a road trip packed with scenic detours, must-see spots and steaming bowls of miso ramen.

We spent 5 days in total with 3 exploring Sapporo and 2 relaxing in Niseko, and had an incredible time.

As the designated itinerary planner, I shortlisted some fantastic spots and by the time we checked into our Sapporo hotel the first day, it was already mid-afternoon. No time was wasted. Luggage dropped and off we went!

The places we visited included:

• Hokkaido Ice Pavilion
• Lake Toya
• Nijo Market
• Sapporo Ramen Alley
• Sapporo TV Tower
• Shirogane Blue Pond
• Shirahige Falls
• Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Fall Festival

Our road trip at a glance:
Day 1: Nijo Market → Sapporo Ramen Alley
Day 2: Sapporo → Shirogane Blue Pond → Shirahige Falls → Tsutaya → Sapporo
Day 3: Sapporo → Hokkaido Ice Pavilion → Yoshino Kamikawa → Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Fall Festival → Sapporo
Day 4: Niseko → Lake Toya → Ippontei → Niseko

Hokkaido Ice Pavilion

The Hokkaido Ice Pavilion (北海道アイスパビリオン, Hokkaidō Aisu Pabirion, ほっかいどう あいすぱびりおん) (¥1,500) is a unique, year-round attraction located in Kamikawa. This immersive icy world offers visitors the rare chance to step into the depths of a Hokkaido winter, even in the middle of summer.

Whether you are visiting in sweltering August or snowy February, the ice pavilion guarantees sub-zero thrills and unforgettable frozen fun.

The facility is a 360-degree frozen chamber kept at a constant -20°C surrounded by towering ice walls, massive icicles and shimmering frost-covered sculptures.

One of the highlights is a chamber that simulates the coldest temperature ever recorded in Japan at -41°C. In the centre of the room, there is a button that activates huge cold fans, blasting freezing air for 2 minutes to intensify the chilling experience.

iseasywith.me Fun Tip

You can challenge yourself (WITH CARE!) to see how long you can last in -41°C.
If you are with friends, like I was, try doing a 'last one standing' challenge! It was hilarious as one friend did push-ups, another tried jumping jacks, hoping the movement would keep them warm. 😆
Once you are done (or cannnot take it anymore and gave up), there is a heated room right next to the chamber where you can 'defrost'.
While you are warming up, take a look at the towel they provide which turns completely stiff like a stick. 😜

Outside the ice pavilion, there is a ice slide (additional fee, not included in the ticket) for you to have more fun before you leave.

Address: 40 Sakae-cho, Kamikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido.

How we got there: We drove about 178 km from Sapporo to the ice pavilion. 😅

Lake Toya

Lake Toya (洞爺湖, Tōyako, とうやこ) is a spectacular caldera lake nestled within Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Covering an area of approximately 72 square kilometres, this nearly circular lake was formed about 110,000 years ago when a crater collapsed following a massive eruption. Interestingly, the lake remains unfrozen year-round despite the cold winters, thanks to volcanic activity beneath its surface. Known for its calm waters, even on windy days, Lake Toya provides perfect conditions for boating and enjoying stunning reflections of the surrounding scenery.

As part of the Toya-Usu UNESCO Global Geopark, the area showcases active volcanoes and unique geological features that attract travellers seeking both natural beauty and relaxation. The lake is also home to several small islands, collectively called the Nakajima Islands, which offer walking trails and peaceful nature spots accessible by boat, making Lake Toya a truly unforgettable destination.

How we got there: We drove about 42 km from Niseko. 🚖

iseasywith.me Travel Tip

A road circles the lake so you can make pit stops along the way whenever you spot scenic views worth photographing. 📷

Nijo Market

Nijo Market (二条市場, Nijō Ichiba, にじょう いちば) is a vibrant and historic public market that has served the city for more than 125 years, with its origins dating back to the early Meiji period (1868–1912). This long history gives the market its reputation as an enduring and authentic part of Sapporo’s culinary identity, earning it the nickname 'Sapporo’s kitchen'.

What began as a modest gathering of fishermen selling their catch near the Sosei River has grown into a beloved food destination known for its premium Hokkaido seafood, seasonal produce and local flavours. The market retains a casual, local charm while also welcoming visitors eager to taste the best of northern Japan.

Among the highlights are stalls overflowing with fresh king crabs, snow crabs, salmon roe (ikura) and sea urchin (Uni). One of the top experiences is enjoying a kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) at one of the many small eateries scattered within and around the market, perfect for a fresh and satisfying breakfast or lunch.

Beyond seafood, the market showcases local produce, such as sweet Yubari melons, summer corn and vegetables unique to Hokkaido’s rich agricultural land.

Nijo Market’s rich history, paired with its fresh offerings and warm local atmosphere, makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Sapporo’s food culture.

Address: Minami 3-jo, Higashi 1-chome, Chuo-ku.

By subway: About 5-7 minutes walk from Odori Station (Namboku, Toho and Tozai lines) or Bus Center-mae Station (on the Tozai Line).

How we got there: We walked, since our hotel was nearby.

Sapporo TV Tower

The Sapporo TV Tower (さっぽろテレビ塔, Sapporo Terebi-tō, さっぽろ てれびとう) is one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks. Standing 147.2 metres tall at the eastern end of Odori Park, the city’s central green space that stretches through downtown. Designed by the famed architect Tachū Naitō, who also created Tokyo Tower and Nagoya TV Tower, it was completed in 1957 and has since been a symbol of the city’s skyline.

At the tower’s observation deck located at 90.38 metres, it offers breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Sapporo. From this vantage point, you can admire the lush stretch of Odori Park below, the vast Ishikari Plain and the nearby mountain ranges including Mount Moiwa and Mount Teine.

The tower is especially magical at night when it is illuminated with colorful lights that change according to the season or special events. Its four large digital clocks on each side add a distinctive charm that is perfect for photos. The observation deck becomes particularly popular during key local celebrations such as the Sapporo Snow Festival in February and the Sapporo White Illumination, when the park and tower sparkle together in a festive glow.

Address: 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido.

How we got there: We walked from our hotel, passing by the tower on our way to Nijo Market.

Shirogane Blue Pond

The Shirogane Blue Pond (白金青い池, Shirogane Aoi Ike, しろがね あおい いけ), located in the town of Biei, is world-renowned for its striking, vivid blue waters and surreal landscape. What makes this pond especially captivating are the dead Japanese larch and silver birch trees that stand submerged in the water, creating an almost otherworldly scene beloved by photographers and nature lovers alike.

Interestingly, the pond is man-made, formed accidentally in 1988 during the construction of an erosion control system designed to protect Biei from volcanic mudflows originating from nearby Mount Tokachi. This human intervention created the pond, which has since become famous for its natural, vivid blue color caused by mineral-rich waters and unique light scattering.

The water flows from the nearby Shirahige Falls and is rich in colloidal aluminum hydroxide and other minerals that seep in from the cliffs. When this mineral-laden water mixes with water from the Biei River and settles in the pond, tiny aluminum particles scatter sunlight. This scattering causes shorter-wavelength blue light to dominate, making the water appear a brilliant, opaque blue, similar to the effect that makes the sky blue.

Seasonal Highlights:

• Summer (June to August): The pond shines in vibrant shades of blue, contrasting beautifully with the lush green trees. It is the most popular season for photographers seeking that iconic turquoise glow.
• Autumn (Late September to mid-October): Surrounded by brilliant foliage in hues of red, yellow, and orange, the pond becomes a picturesque mirror of seasonal color — a favorite for fall leaf-viewing.
• Winter (Late November to April): The pond is blanketed in snow and partially frozen, creating a serene, minimalist landscape. During this period, the area is illuminated at night, transforming it into a dreamlike winter scene.
• Spring (May): As the snow melts and nature awakens, the pond begins to regain its color. While still quiet, it offers a peaceful experience before the summer crowds arrive.

Address: Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido.

Map Code: 349 568 888/349 569 814*88.

How we got there: We drove about 164 km from Sapporo on the first day of our road trip and it was well worth it! ✌🏻

Shirahige Falls

The Shirahige Falls (白ひげの滝, Shirahige no Taki, しらひげ の たき) or 'White Beard Falls', is a striking natural landmark located in the Shirogane Onsen area of Biei. Famous for its delicate, veil-like streams of water and unique underground source, it is also the origin of the mineral-rich water that gives the nearby Shirogane Blue Pond (my previous location) its iconic cobalt hue.

Unlike typical waterfalls that tumble over cliff edges, Shirahige Falls emerges directly from the cracks in a volcanic rock face, fed by subterranean streams flowing from Mount Tokachi. The result is dozens of slender, milky-white streams cascading gracefully down the 30-metre-high, 40-metre-wide cliff, resembling the wispy strands of a white beard, hence the name 'Shirahige'. Thanks to its underground source, the falls rarely freezes, making it a scenic stop in any season.

The falls flow into the Biei River, often referred to as the Blue River due to its vivid blue color caused by aluminum-rich minerals. These minerals not only create a mesmerising color contrast with the white streams of the falls but also play a key role in the dazzling blue of Shirogane Blue Pond downstream.

Seasonal Highlights:

• Summer (June to August): Surrounded by lush greenery, the falls offer a cool, refreshing retreat in the warmer months.
• Autumn (September to November): Framed by brilliant red and yellow foliage, it becomes a photographer’s dream.
• Winter (November to April): The falls are illuminated at night, creating an enchanting winter scene where glowing white water contrasts against snowy cliffs and icy-blue water.

iseasywith.me Travel Tip

Personally, the best view point is from the Blue River Bridge (Shirogane Bridge), which spans the river gorge.

Address: Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido.

Map Code: 796 182 604.

How we got there: We drove about 3 km from Shirogane Blue Pond. 🚖

Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Fall Festival

Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Fall Festival (層雲峡温泉 氷瀑まつり, Sōunkyō Onsen Hyōbaku Matsuri, そううんきょう おんせん ひょうばく まつり) is one of Hokkaido’s premier winter events famed for its massive, stunning ice structures and enchanting atmosphere. Held annually in the Sounkyo Onsen hot spring resort area, this festival runs from late January to mid-March, taking full advantage of the region’s intense cold to create and preserve its icy masterpieces.

We were fortunate that our trip coincided with the festival dates, so we planned our visit accordingly.

The festival transforms the gorge into a mesmerising 'ice kingdom' where water is sprayed onto frameworks and naturally freezes into colossal formations, some soaring up to 13 metres tall.

Key Highlights:

• Ice caves and tunnels: Walk through long, intricate ice caves and tunnels.
• Hyōbaku Shrine: A small shrine carved from ice where visitors try to wedge coins into the icy walls, a traditional gesture for good luck.
• Ice bar: On selected days, the ice bar offers warm sake and non-alcoholic drinks served in a venue made entirely of ice.
• Ice slide and activities: Enjoy fun activities such as snow tubing (rental fee applies) and occasional ice climbing experiences.
• Illuminated ice structures: If you are able to stay into the evening, the ice buildings, sculptures and tunnels would be dramatically lit with colourful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
• Fireworks: Weekend and special day fireworks light up the cold night sky, enhancing the festival’s magical ambiance.

We had fun and spent our last afternoon in Sapporo here before we moved on to Niseko the following morning.

iseasywith.me Safety Tip

As you would be moving along ice, do be very careful and hold on to the railings as it would be quite a bump when you fall.

GPS coordinates: 43°43'36.4"N 142°56'58.6"E. Keep an eye out for the snow structures as you approach. Be sure to check if the festival is being held at this location before you go.

How we got there: We drove about 21.4 km after our lunch at Yoshino Kamikawa.

Food and Beverage

Aburiya Sapporo Ekimae

We had dinner at Aburiya after our 200 km drive back from the Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Fall Festival, just after returning the rental car.

Aburiya Sapporo Ekimae (炙屋 札幌駅前店) is an izakaya just a minute’s walk from the South Exit of Sapporo Station, located on the 10th floor of the Sapporo TR Building. It specializes in premium Hokkaido ingredients, offering charcoal-grilled seafood and meats, fresh sushi and sashimi, and creative a la carte dishes, all complemented by a curated selection of local sake.

Address: Chuo-ku Kita 4-jo Nishi 2-chome, Sapporo TR Building 10F (Sapporo Station South Exit).

Ippontei

As the car rental company had prepared the wrong vehicle and there was a delay in delivering the replacement, we drove to Ippontei (一本亭, いっぽんてい) for lunch before visiting Lake Toya.

Ippontei is a ramen restaurant in the heart of Toyako Onsen, a cosy hot spring town near the shores of scenic Lake Toya. Celebrated for its exceptional broth and welcoming atmosphere, Ippontei was awarded the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand distinction.

With its unassuming facade and retro, lived-in interior, Ippontei offers the feel of a well-loved neighbourhood eatery. Seating includes both counter spots and traditional Japanese raised tatami seating. It often fills quickly, especially during peak mealtimes, so early arrival is recommended.

Ippontei’s ramen is all about the broth, crafted over 20 hours using more than ten natural ingredients. The result is a soup that is both light and refreshing yet deeply flavourful.

The restaurant follows a 'sold-out = closed' policy, preparing only one day’s worth of broth to maintain freshness and consistency so arrive early.

Address: 78 Toyako Onsen, Abuta-gun, Hokkaido 049-5721.

Ramen-ten Nakama

Ramen-ten Nakama is a well-regarded ramen shop in the heart of Kutchan-cho, the gateway to Niseko. This cosy, unpretentious eatery is beloved by locals and visitors alike, featuring traditional counter seating where diners can watch chefs craft each signature bowl.

The restaurant is celebrated for its rich, flavourful broths, perfectly textured noodles and tender char siu pork. Menu highlights include classic miso and shoyu ramen, spicy tan-tan ramen and homemade gyoza. With its authentic atmosphere and consistently high-quality dishes, Nakama offers a standout culinary experience in the Niseko region.

Address: Kita 1-jo Nishi 1-2, Kutchan-cho, Abuta-gun.

Sapporo Ramen Alley

Sapporo Ramen Alley (元祖札幌ラーメン横丁, Ganso Sapporo Rāmen Yokochō (ganso meaning 'original'), がんそ さっぽろ らーめん よこちょう) is a narrow, atmospheric lane located in the heart of Susukino, Sapporo’s nightlife district and is widely known as the birthplace of miso ramen. This iconic spot has been serving hearty bowls of ramen since 1951.

Despite its compact size, the alley is packed with around 17 small ramen shops, each offering its own variation of the rich, miso-based broth that defines Sapporo ramen. Signature toppings like bean sprouts, butter, garlic, sweet corn and thick char siu pork reflect both the local ingredients and the region’s cold climate cuisine.

While it has earned international fame, Sapporo Ramen Alley still retains its old-school charm, with cosy, counter-style shops and warm, welcoming chefs. It is a great place for a ramen crawl, whether you are in search of the classic miso style or a creative twist.

Address: 1F N Grande Building, 8 Minami 5-jo Nishi 3-chome, Chuo-ku.

By subway: Short walk from Susukino Station (Subway Namboku Line).

How we got there: Even though we had an early dinner at Nijo Market, we just had to walk over to check out the street and grab a bowl of ramen. 🍜

The Nikka Bar

The Nikka Bar is a celebrated and atmospheric whisky bar located in the heart of Sapporo’s bustling Susukino entertainment district. Known as the only flagship store in Japan under the Nikka Bar brand to feature 'The' in its name, it stands as a sophisticated tribute to Nikka Whisky, whose first distillery, Yoichi, is located nearby in Hokkaido.

A must-visit for whisky enthusiasts and anyone seeking a classic, high-end bar experience, The Nikka Bar offers a relaxed yet refined ambiance. Its warm brick and wood interior, often accompanied by soft jazz, creates an inviting, adult atmosphere, a luxurious retreat where patrons can unwind and savour their drinks in style.

Situated just steps away from the iconic Nikka Whisky neon sign—the famous bearded man that lights up Susukino, the bar is perfectly located for an elegant night out in Sapporo’s liveliest district.

The highlight, of course, is the whisky. The menu features an extensive selection of Nikka’s finest expressions, including tasting sets and occasionally rare or discontinued bottles. Expert bartenders also craft both original and classic cocktails with precision and flair.

To complete the experience, the bar offers whisky-infused chocolate truffles and the signature 'Taketsuru' Ice Cream, made with premium Nikka whisky in homage to founder Masataka Taketsuru. Cigars are also available for those who wish to pair their drink with a timeless indulgence.

Tsutaya

After visiting Shirahige Falls, we had a late lunch at Tsutaya to sustain ourselves before the long 125 km drive back to Sapporo for the company dinner with our colleagues. 🍻

Tsutaya (つた家, Tsutaya, つたや) is a great example of a regional Japanese restaurant that quietly excels, far from big city crowds. Located in Kamifurano, a town best known for its rolling lavender fields and mountain views, the restaurant mirrors the area's understated charm. While tourists often rush through Furano for the flowers, Tsutaya invites you to slow down, eat thoughtfully and appreciate the craft of local food.

Handmade soba is a specialty here and it is not just comfort food but part of a long culinary tradition. At Tsutaya, the soba is often served cold with dipping sauce or in hot broth and paired with simple but elegant sides like tempura or marinated vegetables.

Address: 1-1-14 Nishikimachi, Kamifuranocho, Sorachi-gun.

How we got there: We drove about 21.3 km here from Shirahige Falls.

Yoshino Kamikawa

After our freezing feat at Hokkaido Ice Pavilion, we went to Yoshino to heat ourselves up again.

Yoshino Kamikawa (よしの 上川, Yoshino Kamikawa, よしの かみかわ) is a highly-regarded and long-established ramen shop, famous throughout the Kamikawa District for its signature, intensely satisfying bowl of Miso Ramen.

This shop is a local favourite, recognised for delivering a classic, hearty Hokkaido ramen experience perfect for the region's chilly climate.

Address: 98-30, Shinko, Kamikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido.

How we got there: We drove for a short 2.1 km from the Hokkaido Ice Pavilion.

That wraps up our fun and flexible company getaway! From frozen festivals to steaming bowls of miso ramen, every stop brought something new to enjoy.

I hope this gives you some ideas for your own Hokkaido road trip, whether you are heading out with friends, colleagues or just solo exploring.

Do check out my other adventures as planning for yours iseasywith.me.