Many people look forward to traveling to Hokkaido to enjoy the snow season, with its winter sports and snow and ice festivals. However, as a snowy region, Hokkaido has many differences compared to areas without snow. Here are six key points to know before you enjoy winter in Hokkaido.

1. Indoors in Hokkaido is warm! Layered clothing for temperature control is best

People in Hokkaido, living in the severe cold, create a warm and comfortable environment by using heating in well-insulated indoor spaces. Because of this, many people might find public transportation and commercial facilities to be not just "warm," but even "hot." Especially in Sapporo, with its extensive underground shopping arcades, walking around in full winter gear can make you sweat. When traveling to Hokkaido, it's best to wear clothes that you can easily take off and put on.

2. Prepare for snowy roads from the feet up! The penguin walk & anti-slip grips are essential

Snowy roads are extremely slippery. The trick to walking on them is the "penguin walk." Imagine shuffling along with small steps without lifting your feet much. Also, if you don't have winter boots that are slip-resistant on snow, it's a good idea to buy strap-on anti-slip grips for the soles of your shoes. You can find them at convenience stores in the airport, and they are affordable at around 1,000 yen.

3. Don't worry about the snow!? No umbrella needed in Hokkaido

Many people imagine snow makes you wet, just like rain. However, the snow that falls in Hokkaido is powdery and dry due to the low outside temperatures. Therefore, you won't get wet right away even if some snow gets on you. If snow accumulates on your body, you can just pat it off, so people in Hokkaido don't really need umbrellas. Just pull up the hood on your outerwear and you're good to go.

4. Can't move forward in the snow! Traveling with a suitcase is a bit inconvenient

A suitcase is the standard for travel luggage, but it's a bit inconvenient in Hokkaido's winter. The reason is that the wheels get stuck in the uneven, snowy paths. To enjoy your trip safely, a backpack is recommended for your main bag.

5. Caps and gloves are for more than just style—they're practical

Knit hats and gloves are essential items for winter in Hokkaido. Not only do they keep your head and hands warm, but they also protect them from hard snow and ice if you fall. Slipping and falling on your hands is a common occurrence, and there are many cases where gloves have prevented injury.

6. Winter driving is a whole different world! It's best to leave it to the pros

Driving exhilaratingly through Hokkaido's pure white snowy roads... it's a wonderful image, but driving on snowy roads is very difficult for those who aren't used to it. The glare from the snow makes the road dazzlingly bright, making it hard to see the road conditions. You might hit the brakes and not stop, which is a terrifying experience. For sightseeing in Hokkaido in winter, it's recommended to use public transportation like trains, buses, and taxis.

Winter in Hokkaido is a wonderland! Stay safe and have fun

From food and hot springs to winter festivals in various regions, winter in Hokkaido is full of things to enjoy! If you're planning a winter trip to Hokkaido, be sure to plan with plenty of time, keep these points in mind beforehand, and have a wonderful journey!

*Images are for illustrative purposes only.

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