北海道 Hokkaido

About Hokkaido

Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost and second-largest prefecture. It covers about 83,000 square kilometers and is home to approximately 5.2 million people. The name "Hokkaido" literally means "northern sea circuit," reflecting its geography as a large island surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, and the Okhotsk Sea.

Known for its cool climate, Hokkaido experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are harsh and snowy, making it a premier destination for winter sports and snow festivals. Spring brings cherry blossoms and flowering fields. Summer offers cool relief from the heat of southern Japan. Autumn transforms the landscape with vivid maple colors and autumn foliage.

The prefecture is famous for its dairy products, fresh seafood, and agricultural abundance. Major cities include Sapporo (the capital), Hakodate, and Asahikawa. Hokkaido is also known for its national parks, geothermal areas, and the indigenous Ainu culture.