From magnificent landscapes to grid layout modern cities, Hokkaido (literary means ‘road to the northern sea’) offers a continent-sized dramatic travel to the travelers. Perhaps Hokkaido is different from your image of Japan, this means the land has been developed in Western-style and risen fast in just 150 years. In addition to you will hear Ainu place names and see traditional culture in many destinations.
Awe-inspring natural wonders such as picturesque lakes and active volcanos form relaxed onsen resorts. Winter is a dream destination for powder skiers and snow lovers. The prefectural capital Sapporo is one of Japan’s most interesting and dynamic cities.
Overview
Area 82,400 sq km
Population 5,280,000
Capital Sapporo
Local Time Japan Standard Time (JST): GMT +9 hours
Hub Airport New Chitose (CTS)
At a Glance
Official Language Japanese
Visas & Passports Commonly many nationalities not required for stays of up to 90 days. Some nationalities will need a Japanese visa.
Electricity 100 volts AC / 50 Hz / 2 flat pins
Currency Yen (¥/JPY/円)
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Bills: ¥1000 / ¥2000 / ¥5000 / ¥10,000
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Coins: ¥1 / ¥5/ ¥10 / ¥50 / ¥100 / ¥500
Call Numbers
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Police 110
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Fire & Ambulance 119
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Marine Accident 118
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Country Code 81
Arrangements
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Valid your passport
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Valid your credit card
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Travel insurance
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Plan your basic itinerary
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Japanese yen in cash
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Online booking ahead
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Seasonal clothes
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Download useful app for travel, map or translation
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International licence if you drive by car or motorcycle
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Japan or Hokkaido rail pass if you travel by train
Public Holidays in Japan
New Year’s Day 1 Jan
Coming of Age Day 2nd Mon of Jan
National Foundation Day 11 Feb
The Emperor’s Birthday 23 Feb
Spring Equinox Around 21 Mar
Showa Day 29 Apr
Constitution Memorial Day 3 May
Greenery Day 4 May
Children’s Day 5 May
Marine Day 3rd Mon of Jul
Mountain Day 11 Aug
Respect for the Aged Day 3rd Mon of Sep
Fall Equinox Around 23 Sep
Health and Sports Day 2nd Mon of Oct
Culture Day 3 Nov
Labor Thanksgiving Day 23 Nov
Informative Websites
Hokkaido Government www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp
Hokkaido Tourism Association en.visit-hokkaido.jp
Akarenga: Hokkaido’s History and Culture www.akarenga-h.jp/en
Foundation of Ainu Culture www.ff-ainu.or.jp
Japan Meteorological Agency www.jma.go.jp
Immigration Service Agency www.immi-moj.go.jp
Home › Introduction › Hokkaido Fast Facts
