Falling on icy sidewalks is a particularly common problem when traveling to Hokkaido in winter. It's not uncommon for snow that melted during the day to freeze again suddenly, making the roads suddenly slippery. Even if you're fully prepared for the cold, you often see tourists tripping over their feet due to lack of footing. In this article, we've compiled information on how to walk without slipping, choosing the right shoes, and what to bring before traveling to Hokkaido, all in an easy-to-understand format, even for first-time visitors.

Currently in Hokkaido, snow that melts during the day is refreezing due to the cold nights and mornings, causing sidewalks and crosswalks to suddenly turn into ice. In some places, the road surface can become like an ice skating rink.

Even more troublesome is "black ice," which looks like it's just wet but is actually ice. When walking on snow that has piled up to a certain extent, you naturally watch your step, but if you think "no snow = safety," black ice can be very dangerous. It's very important to always walk with the assumption that "I might slip."

When touring Hokkaido in winter, the choice of shoes has a big impact on the risk of falling. No matter how carefully you walk, depending on the shoes you wear, you may slip and fall wherever you walk.

For those who don't have winter shoes, we recommend removable cleats. They can be purchased at New Chitose Airport or convenience stores around Hokkaido for around 1,000 yen, and having them will make all the difference in your sense of security.

On Hokkaido's slippery winter roads, it's important to be prepared to avoid falling and to be prepared if you do fall.

Gloves are especially important. If you fall, your risk of injury will change dramatically depending on whether you can put your hands down without hesitation to protect your head and other important parts. It's best to prioritize practicality over style.

The basic trick for walking on slippery roads is the "penguin walk" that is popular in Hokkaido!

It's a simple trick, but it can greatly reduce the risk of falling and serious injury. It's also important not to rush or look at your smartphone while walking. You never know where a slippery spot might be, so be mindful of each step you take.

Hokkaido in winter has many attractions unique to this season, such as snowy scenery, gourmet food, and hot springs. However, falls can also lead to unexpected serious injuries. With a little preparation and awareness, many troubles can be prevented. Be sure to take proper precautions against footing, and enjoy winter tourism in Hokkaido safely and securely.