The island of Hokkaido is located at the north end of Japan, near Russia, and has coastlines on the Sea of Japan, the Sea of Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean. The center of the island has a number of mountains and volcanic plateau, and there are coastal plains in all directions. Major cities include Sapporo and Asahikawa in the central region and the port of Hakodate facing Honshu.

You can enjoy the four seasons in Hokkaido. Spring & autumn are very comfortable but quite short, summer is warm but much less humid than on the mainland, and winter is long! The temperatures vary much depending on the elevation, distance to the sea, and time of the day/night. Air conditioning is typically available at hotels, shopping centres, etc. so there is no problem even during the coldest & hottest periods.

During winter, Hokkaido is covered with snow and you can enjoy a clear starry sky, winter festivals, shows with fireworks, hot springs surrounded by snowy mountains, and various winter activities! Particularly famous ski resorts include Niseko, Furano and Sapporo Teine. Pile up layers of clothes to adapt to the situation because you may feel hot inside buildings but super cold outside… and remember that Asahikawa city holds Japan’s low-temperature record: -42°F (-41°C)! You may consider buying “kairo” heating patches to put under your clothes; they are sold at many convenience stores…

Hokkaido one of beautiful place in the world, offers some of the most desolate and rugged yet sublimely. Beautiful winter landscape photography opportunities on the planet.

It’s the minimalist winter photographer’s dream.