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Hokkaido Car Rentals

Renting a car in Hokkaido is almost essential, given the limited public transportation options on Japan's northernmost island. While it involves some extra effort, like obtaining an International Driving Permit before your trip, renting a car offers flexibility and convenience, especially if your time is limited or you plan to explore beyond Sapporo.

Driving in Hokkaido is relatively stress-free. Consider purchasing the “Expressway Pass” for unlimited tollway access, where practical speeds are often higher than officially permitted. Expect rental car costs to start around ¥8,000 per day, including insurance.

Top Hokkaido Summer Attractions

• Furano’s Lavender Farms: Visit during the second half of July for peak lavender blooms. Book your rental car, flights, and accommodations early to avoid inflated prices.
• The Blue Pond of Biei: While popular in summer, the Shirogane Blue Pond is particularly stunning in autumn. Nearby attractions include Shirahige Falls, just two minutes by car.
• Volcanic Lake Toya and Noboribetsu: Enjoy dramatic volcanic landscapes and relax in hot springs at these scenic locations.
• Asahikawa Zoo and Numata Fireflies: Explore one of Japan's most-visited zoos and see fireflies near Numata, a unique summer highlight.
• Capes Kamui and Shakotan: Experience Hokkaido’s coastal beauty with lush trails leading to wild beaches. Perfect for longer itineraries.
• Sapporo and Otaru: Make Sapporo your final stop to enjoy its famous beer without worrying about driving. Otaru’s oceanfront offers a charming escape close to the capital.

Where to Stay in Hokkaido During the Summer

Accommodations in Hokkaido can be pricey during the summer. Book as soon as you finalize your itinerary to secure the best options. Some recommended stays include:

• Mimatsuso Ryokan, Asahikawa: A cozy and homey option for a traditional experience.
• b hotel susukino, Sapporo: A stylish and convenient choice in the city.
• Rural Accommodations: While options in Furano, Biei, and Toya Onsen are limited, they offer proximity to major attractions.

Bonus: Visit the Makomanai Takino Cemetery near Sapporo to see a massive Buddha surrounded by lavender and unique replicas of Stonehenge and Easter Island Monoliths.

Other Hokkaido Road Trip FAQs

• Is it difficult to drive in Hokkaido? Driving in Hokkaido is straightforward, thanks to low population density, spacious expressways, and high speed limits. However, avoid winter driving due to heavy snow and limited emergency services.
• What is the best way to travel around Hokkaido? While Hokkaido lacks Shinkansen (bullet train) service, a combination of car rentals, local trains, and intra-island flights works best for exploring this vast region.
• Do you need a car to explore Hokkaido? While not mandatory, having a car is highly recommended for visiting remote attractions like Furano’s lavender fields or Biei’s Blue Pond, which are difficult to reach by public transport.

The Bottom Line

Even if you only use this as a starting point, this Hokkaido self-drive itinerary will simplify your planning. From car rental tips to must-see attractions like Furano’s lavender farms and Capes Kamui, Hokkaido is a fantastic summer destination. For a stress-free experience, consider commissioning a custom Japan itinerary and leave the details to the experts.