Summer in Hokkaido is free from the rainy season, offering crisp and refreshing weather. However, this pleasant summer passes by in a flash. The summer solstice arrives in late June, after which the days begin to shorten. Did you know that on this summer solstice, Hokkaido has the longest daylight hours in all of Japan? We'll explain why.

The "summer solstice," the day with the longest daylight hours of the year, usually occurs around June 22nd. In 2025, it falls on Saturday, June 21st. Compared to the "winter solstice," the day with the shortest daylight, the length of the day differs by about five hours.

"Daylight hours" refers to the time from sunrise to sunset. But why does Hokkaido have the longest daylight on the summer solstice? The reason is that on the summer solstice, the sun rises from its northernmost point of the year and sets at its northernmost point. In other words, since Hokkaido is the northernmost region of Japan, it experiences longer daylight hours compared to other areas.

So, where in Hokkaido has the longest daylight hours? The answer is the northernmost tip, "Wakkanai." Cape Noshappu in Wakkanai is also known as a spot for beautiful sunsets, and many people visit to enjoy the sunset on the summer solstice.

By the way, it's a common misconception that the summer solstice is the day with the earliest sunrise and latest sunset. In reality, the earliest sunrise occurs about a week before the solstice, while the latest sunset happens about a week after. This discrepancy is due to the changing speed of the sun's apparent motion throughout the seasons.

After the summer solstice, the daylight hours gradually shorten towards winter, but summer in Hokkaido is just getting started! The lavender will soon be in full bloom, and various events and festivals will be held all over the prefecture. Let's enjoy the best of Hokkaido's summer to the fullest.

Cape Noshappu

■Location: 2-chome Noshappu, Wakkanai-shi
See details and map for "Cape Noshappu" on Domingo

*Images are for illustrative purposes.