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What's the Weather Like? Summer in Hokkaido Feels Like a Dream
Let's talk weather—because it's one of the biggest reasons families love Hokkaido in summer. While the rest of Japan is sweating it out with high heat and humidity, Hokkaido is doing its own thing: breezy mornings, sunny afternoons, and zero sticky shirts.
Hokkaido Summer Temperature
From late June to August, daytime temperatures usually hang out between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F).
It's warm enough for shorts and t-shirts, but cool enough to actually enjoy being outside with the kids—whether you're cycling around flower fields, hitting a trail, or just chasing butterflies in a meadow.
And those cooler nights? 16°C to 20°C (60°F to 68°F), perfect for a comfy sleep after a day of running around.
Here is the average summer temperatures in Hokkaido (June–August):
| Location | June (°C) | July (°C) | August (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 15–22°C | 19–26°C | 20–27°C |
| Furano & Biei | 12–22°C | 16–26°C | 17–27°C |
| Lake Toya | 13–22°C | 17–25°C | 18–26°C |
| Otaru | 14–21°C | 18–25°C | 19–26°C |
| Hakodate | 13–21°C | 17–25°C | 18–26°C |
| Shiretoko | 10–18°C | 14–22°C | 15–23°C |
Is It Wet and Humid in Summer?
Rain? Not a big deal here. Summer in Hokkaido tends to be much drier than the rest of Japan. Even during the rainy season (early June to mid-July in other parts), Hokkaido often skips the worst of it.
Planning tip for families: July and August are the best for full-bloom flowers, outdoor festivals, and warm-weather adventures. If you want fewer crowds and milder weather, late June or early September are also great times to go.
Bottom line? It's the kind of weather that makes you want to be outdoors all day—and that's exactly what Hokkaido is built for.
Where to Go? These Summer Hotspots Are Anything but Hot
Hokkaido's summer isn't just cool—it's bursting with colors, fresh air, and family-friendly places that'll make everyone smile (yes, even the teens). Here are the top spots you'll want to add to your summer itinerary.
1. Furano & Biei – Lavender Fields, Flower Trains, and Scenic Country Roads
This is Hokkaido's most colorful summer duo.
In Furano, Farm Tomita is the must-see—famous for its sprawling lavender fields (full bloom in mid-July), rainbow flower beds, and lavender-flavored ice cream. Hop on the Norokko Flower Train from Furano Station for a slow ride through blooming fields.
Over in Biei, head to Shikisai no Oka, a massive flower park where kids can hop on a tractor bus and parents can take in hilltop views straight out of a postcard.
Families can also cycle along the Patchwork Road or Panorama Road for a small section. The hills on both sides are covered in neat blocks of farmland with green, yellow, red, pink, and purple plants and flowers.
2. Sapporo – Green Spaces and City Comforts
Sapporo is easy to get around and packed with family perks.
Odori Park runs through the city center with playgrounds, fountains, and space for kids to roam. In summer, it also hosts the Sapporo Summer Festival, with beer gardens for adults and snacks galore for kids.
Ride the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway to the summit for a spectacular sunset, and don't miss the Maruyama Zoo or Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate-themed factory with sweet treats and a whimsical mini town for kids.
3. Lake Toya & Noboribetsu – Volcano Trails and Family Onsens
Lake Toya is a scenic caldera lake with gentle water activities—rent swan pedal boats, take the Usuzan Ropeway up Mt. Usu for steaming volcanic views, or catch the nightly Lake Toya Fireworks show (every night from late April to October!).
Just 1 hour away, Noboribetsu is known for its bubbling Jigokudani (Hell Valley). The easy walking paths and wooden walkways through the steaming earth make it feel like a safe, mini “volcano adventure” for curious kids. Stay in a family-friendly onsen hotel with private baths.
4. Shiretoko & Lake Akan – Wildlife and Cultural Encounters
In the far east, Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO site and a wildlife wonderland. Spot deer, foxes, and maybe even a bear (from a safe distance) on the Shiretoko Five Lakes walking trails or the Shiretoko Nature Cruise.
Further south, Lake Akan is home to the rare marimo moss balls. Visit the Akan Ainu Kotan village for hands-on cultural workshops—like wood carving or traditional dance shows. The lakeside eco cruises are calm and perfect for little travelers.
Festivals, Fireworks & Fun: Hokkaido's Summer Party Scene
In Summer, Hokkaido really comes to life with colorful festivals, cheerful parades, and fireworks lighting up the sky. From big city celebrations to small-town charm, there's always something festive happening—and yes, the kids will love it.
Sapporo Summer Festival – Beer, Games, and Park Vibes
It is the biggest and most famous festival in Hokkaido in Summer. Held from mid-July to mid-August, the Sapporo Summer Festival takes over Odori Park with several celebrations.
- Beer Festival with Japan's largest outdoor beer garden—don't worry, it's super family-friendly! While parents relax with a drink, kids can enjoy festival snacks (like chocolate-dipped bananas and yakisoba), play old-fashioned games, and soak up the fun atmosphere.
- Susukino Festival (First weekend of August) – Sapporo's nightlife district goes festive with mikoshi (portable shrine) parades, yukata, and street performances.
- Tanukikoji Festival – Held along Sapporo's covered shopping arcade, this one brings games, snacks, and cheerful local energy—great for a relaxed family evening.
- Hokkai Bon Odori (Mid-August) – Everyone's invited to dance in the circle during this traditional event near Odori Park. Kids can try the moves, and there's a magical lantern-lit atmosphere.
Furano Lavender Festival – Flowers and Fireworks
Each July, Farm Tomita and Nakafurano town throw a Lavender Festival to celebrate the height of bloom season.
In Hinode Park, enjoy a special Night Light Show. It's a quiet, magical display on the hilltop that's great for families who prefer a calm evening.
In Hokuseiyama Lavender Fields, take the open cable car to the top for the panoramic view of the purple lands.
Aside from the jaw-dropping purple fields, there are food stalls, music, and a beautiful fireworks show over the hills.
It's smaller and more relaxed than big-city events—perfect for younger kids who don't love crowds.
Lake Toya Long-Running Fireworks – Every Night is a Party
No need to plan around dates—Lake Toya does boat fireworks every single night from late April to October. Just grab a lakeside spot, relax after dinner, and enjoy the 20-minute show.
Many hotels offer views right from the room or bath, so even little ones can enjoy the sparkle before bedtime.
Not sure abou the festival date? Contact Asia Odyssey Travel! And we'll also arrange avaiable Summer festival itineraries for you!
Tastes of Summer: What to Eat (and Slurp) in Hokkaido
Hokkaido is Japan's food bowl, and in the warm months, the fields, farms, and seas deliver their best.
- Yubari Melon – Hokkaido's Sweet Summer Star
Let's start with the king of fruits: Yubari Melon. Bright orange, juicy, and so sweet it tastes like candy. Its sweetness level clocks in around 20, way higher than your typical honeydew (12–14).
You'll find slices sold at markets, train stations, and melon farms (especially near Furano). Want to splurge? Try Yubari Melon parfaits, melon soft cream, or even melon jelly. Just don't blink—your kids will finish it before you get a bite.
- Soft Cream – Creamy, Cold, and Everywhere
Soft serve in Hokkaido is on another level. Thanks to rich local milk, it's creamier, fresher, and comes in fun flavors like lavender, melon, matcha, and even squid ink if you're feeling wild.
Must-try spots: Farm Tomita, Milk Kobo near Niseko, and pretty much any highway rest stop.
- Seafood Galore – Crab, Scallops, Uni, Oh My!
Hokkaido's seafood is famous year-round, but summer brings its own specialties. Visit a morning market in Hakodate or Kushiro and dig into grilled scallops, uni (sea urchin), and fresh crab legs.
For families, try a kaisendon—a rice bowl topped with colorful seafood. Many places let you customize toppings, so even hesitant eaters can find something they like.
- Farm Cafés & Fruit Picking – Eat Where It Grows
Head to rural areas like Yoichi or Niki for fruit-picking fun. In summer, farms open their orchards for picking cherries, blueberries, and plums—and you can eat as you go.
Many farms also run cute cafés serving homemade pies, juices, and farm-to-table lunches.
Ready, Set, Explore! Suggested Summer Itineraries
Planning a family trip to Hokkaido? Here are some easy-breezy sample itineraries to match your travel style—whether you've got just a few days or a full week to explore.
3-Day Flower Fields & Farm Life (Furano, Biei, Sapporo)
Day 1: Sapporo to Furano – Visit Farm Tomita, Hinode Park, and check out the Lavender East fields. In the evening, catch the light-up show at Hinode Park if your trip lines up with the Lavender Festival.
Day 2: Biei & Furano – Drive the Patchwork Road and Panorama Road, stopping by Shikisai-no-Oka, Blue Pond, and the many photogenic fields.
Day 3: Back to Sapporo via Asahikawa Stopover – Say hi to the polar bears at Asahiyama Zoo, then slurp up a bowl of Asahikawa ramen.
7-Day Relaxed Family Road Trip (Sapporo – Furano – Biei – Otaru – Lake Toya)
Day 1: Sapporo Arrival + Nijo Market stroll
Day 2: Sapporo Fun
Spend your morning at Shiroi Koibito Park (chocolate and cookie heaven!), then head to Odori Park for a picnic and let the kids run wild.
Hit up Tanukikoji Shopping Street for street food and festival vibes. In the evening, ride up the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway for panoramic city night views.
Day 3: Sapporo to Furano (2.5–3 hrs drive)
Asahikawa Stopover. Say hi to the polar bears at Asahiyama Zoo, then slurp up a bowl of Asahikawa ramen. Then drive to Biei for the Patchwork Road and Shikisai-no-oka.
Day 4: Furano & Biei Exploration
Visit Farm Tomita, Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, and check out the Lavender East fields. In the evening, catch the light-up show at Hinode Park if your trip lines up with the Lavender Festival.
Day 5: Furano to Noboribetsu (4 hrs drive)
In Noboribetsu, step into the past at Noboribetsu Date Jidai Village, a fun samurai-and-ninja theme park. Then explore the steaming craters of Jigokudani (Hell Valley)—easy boardwalk trails and lots of photo ops.
Day 6: Noboribetsu to Lake Toya (1 hrs drive)
A short and scenic ride brings you to Lake Toya. Here, enjoy a lake cruise or take the Usuzan Ropeway to the observation deck for a panoramic view. Soak in a hot spring hotel and enjoy the nightly summer fireworks over the lake. It's peaceful, relaxing, and beautiful.
Day 7: Lake Toya to Otaru (2 hrs drive)
Make your way to the historic canal town of Otaru. Walk along the Otaru Canal and Sakaimachi Shopping Street. Visit Kitaichi Glass Otaru and try music box making at the museum. Then drive back to Sapporo in the late afternoon.
Day 8: Sapporo Departure
Let Asia Odyssey Travel Plan Your Coolest Summer Yet
From flower fields and festivals to melon feasts and mountain breezes, Hokkaido in summer is a dream for families who want fresh air, fun vibes, and a break from the usual sightseeing rush.
Whether you're chasing lavender in Furano, slurping seafood in Sapporo, or soaking in hot springs by Lake Toya, we're here to make it easy and unforgettable.
Tell us your travel dates, who's coming, and what you love—and we'll craft a custom Hokkaido trip just for you. Relax, we've got your summer covered.
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