Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, transforms into a winter wonderland, offering an array of enchanting attractions that are perfect for Malaysian travellers seeking unique experiences. AirAsia X, staying true to its core mission of ensuring “Now Everyone Can Fly”, is thrilled to resume direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Hokkaido, marking its milestone as the only airline in Malaysia to operate this route with four flights weekly. Starting 1 October 2024 onwards to 30 March 2025, travellers can look forward to an exciting autumn and winter travel experience with an all-in* one way fare from just RM779, seats for the winter season (Dec’24 to Mar’25) are filling up fast! Book tickets now on the AirAsia MOVE app (formerly known as AirAsia Superapp) or AirAsia.com.
As you plan your itinerary, Japan National Tourism Organization Kuala Lumpur (JNTO KL) is delighted to share with Malaysia travellers information about lesser-known ski areas to mesmerising winter illuminations and rejuvenating hot springs, Hokkaido promises an unforgettable escape into the beauty of the season.
Discover lesser known ski areas
Sapporo Teine Ski Resort
For avid skiers and snowboarders, Hokkaido is renowned for its powder snow. However, many travellers overlook the captivating charm of lesser-known ski areas like Sapporo Teine and Sahoro Ski Resort. The Sapporo Teine Ski Resort located just 40 minutes away from Sapporo city, features two zones: the Highland Zone for advanced skiers and the Olympia Zone, which is less challenging and definitely suitable for beginners. There is also a family park offering sledding and tubing. From the top of the ski courses, you can admire the view of Sapporo city and the Sea of Japan at once.
Sahoro Resort Ski Area
Sahoro Resort Ski Area is situated in central Hokkaido and can be accessed by private transport, with 80 mins driving from Obihiro Airport. The Sahoro Ski Area is an ideal place for both advanced-level and beginners snow travellers which offers a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes. Both resorts provide an opportunity to experience Hokkaido’s celebrated snow without the crowds.
Bask in the Beauty of Winter Illumination
As night falls, Hokkaido’s winter landscapes come alive with enchanting illuminations. These artistic masterpieces are perfect for a winter night out and makes the freezing temperatures worth braving to witness these displays up close and personal!
Hoshi no Yume Illumination
Hoshi no Yume Illumination also known as ‘Dream of Stars’, is the illumination festival held at Goryokaku, one of the most recognizable attractions in Hakodate city, Hokkaido. Recently featured in the animated movie “Detective Conan – The Million-dollar Pentagram”, this star-shaped fort located at the heart of the city as an important landmark. In every beginning of December till the end of February, the star- shaped will be lit up with 2,000 light bulbs captivates visitors with its magical display of lights, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere perfect for night strolls around The Goryokaku Fortress.
The illumination can be viewed perfectly in its full glory from the Goryokaku Tower observation deck, where the star-shaped backdrop against the fortress can be clearly seen.
SAIRINKA
Another must-see is the Otofuke Tokachigawa Onsen Hakucho Festival “SAIRINKA,” takes place at Tokachigaoka Park, where visitors can marvel at illuminated ice sculptures and enjoy a traditional onsen (hot spring bath) experience, creating a festive atmosphere. The event usually runs from mid of January to late February, featuring hundreds of conical shaped objects that create a rhythmical audiovisual show for you to experience. These illuminations not only highlight the natural beauty of this small onsen town, but also create unforgettable memories for the holiday season.
Thrill seeking with drift ice adventures
Drift Ice Cruise Exploration
Thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies, look no further! If doing something wild and edgy is your cup of tea, Hokkaido offers unique experiences such as the Drift Ice Cruise. The Drift Ice Cruise, Ice Breaker “Aurora” is a daily cruise at Abashiri, that allows visitors to sail through the frozen Sea of Okhotsk, providing stunning views of the frozen landscape. As the cruise moves forward, visitors can see large drift ice being broken into smaller pieces and the floating drift ice will create another different view, if you are lucky enough, you may be able to spot Steller’s Sea Eagle and seals. The best time for this unique experience is in the second half of February.
Enjoy Scenic Winter Train Rides
SL fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train
Fancy a “Hogwarts” train experience? While you won’t be arriving at a magical castle on this train, you can be sure to take in magical sights that leave you astounded at nature’s marvels! All aboard the winter sightseeing trains, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the picturesque beauty of Hokkaido while being leisurely seated and sipping away at a cup of hot chocolate! The SL fuyu-no-Shitsugen Train is a sightseeing train, runs exclusively in January and February, offering passengers on a nostalgic journey through the serene snow-covered landscapes of Kushiro Marsh. Lucky travellers are able to capture the red-crowned cranes and Ezo deer from the train windows.
Ryuhyo Monogatari Train
Ryuhyo Monogatari Train is also one of the sightseeing trains operated by JR Hokkaido during the season when the Sea of Okhotsk is covered with drift ice. The train offers breathtaking views of the drifting ice and snowy landscapes while it runs along the coastline of the Sea of Okhotsk. These train rides not only provide comfort and warmth but also an extraordinary way to appreciate the winter scenery. However, it is not guaranteed that all passengers are able to enjoy the drift ice view from the train ride due to the weather situation each year, but rare nature sceneries are guaranteed.
Heal and Unwind by Soaking in the Rejuvenating Waters of the Onsen
Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan
After a day of exploration, nothing beats the soothing embrace of Hokkaido’s tranquil onsen (hot springs). An essential rite in Japanese culture, the onsen waters are calming and relaxing, and a perfectly blissful way to connect with nature and with oneself, leaving one feeling recharged and rejuvenated. The satisfaction of onsen experience will be higher especially during the winter season! Shikaribetsu Kotan, located at the Shikaribetsu Lakeside, is a unique winter village constructed entirely of ice and snow only in winter. This village offers a distinctive onsen experience where guests can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by the snowy landscape. The contrast feeling of warmth from the hot spring water and chillness from the natural wind will definitely make a good trip memory of winter Hokkaido for you.
Hot spring monkeys
The Monkey in the hot springs is one of the stunning sights in Japan. Hakodate Tropical Botanical Garden (Hot-Tubbing Monkeys) is a nature park in Hakodate city with facilities such as large pyramidal greenhouse, footbath, Monkey Mountain, etc. It is a place where you can spot Japanese macaques (snow monkeys) dipping in the onsen to seek relief from the harsh winter between December to May every year. The sight of the adorable monkeys bathing like humans is sure to delight any travelers looking to capture a rare sight!