Local Guide
Hokkaido Travel] Complete guide to seasonal temperatures and recommended clothing for Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano.

The vast island of Hokkaido has temperatures and climates that vary from area to area. For those who are planning a trip to Hokkaido, we will explain the recommended clothing for the four seasonal climates, as well as the magnificent scenery and rich food in spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Hokkaido is roughly divided into the Southern Hokkaido area, which includes Hakodate; the Central Hokkaido area, centered on Sapporo; the Northern Hokkaido area, which includes Asahikawa, Furano, and Biei, all rich in nature; and the Eastern Hokkaido area, which includes Kitami, Abashiri, Kushiro, and Nemuro, all large farms.

The climate is also divided into three distinct areas: the Sea of Japan side, the Sea of Okhotsk side, and the Pacific Ocean side. Here we introduce the climates of Sapporo, which is located in central Hokkaido and has the characteristics of the Sea of Japan side, and Asahikawa and Furano, which are located in northern Hokkaido and have the characteristics of an inland climate.

The climate on the Sea of Japan side is relatively sunny in spring and autumn, refreshing in summer, and cloudy or snowy in winter. In winter, the further inland you go, the cooler it gets and the more snowfall there is, so be prepared to dress according to the season.

Cherry blossoms in Asahiyama Park (about 3,500 Ezo Yamazakura)
Cherry blossoms in Asahiyama Park (about 3,500 Ezo Yamazakura)

In Hokkaido, the season is still winter in March. The average temperature in Sapporo is 0.9°C, Asahikawa -1.7°C, and Furano -2.1°C. The average temperature in April is 7.0°C in Sapporo, 5.0°C in Asahikawa, and 5.0°C in Furano. The average temperature in April is 7.0℃ in Sapporo, 5.0℃ in Asahikawa, and 5.0℃ in Furano, which is the same as the temperature in Tokyo in late February, so it is advisable to dress for winter in March and April.
The cherry blossom front crosses the Tsugaru Straits in late April. The cherry blossoms bloom in southern Hokkaido and are at their best around G.W. in Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano. In May, Sapporo's maximum temperature rises to around 20℃ from the beginning of the month, and the minimum temperature rarely falls below 10℃. Asahikawa and Furano, however, are still chilly, and the maximum temperature does not reach the same level as Sapporo until mid-May, so be sure to bring a stole or a light coat that is easy to take off and put on.

Lavender fields at Tomita Farm in Furano
Lavender fields at Tomita Farm in Furano

Hokkaido has no rainy season and has the image of a refreshing summer, but in fact it depends on the atmospheric pressure. In years when the Pacific High pressure strongly extends to Hokkaido, it tends to be a hot summer, and when the Okhotsk Sea High pressure appears more frequently, it tends to be a cool summer.
The average temperature in Sapporo, Asahikawa, and Furano in June is around 15℃. It is pleasant to wear a long-sleeved shirt and a parka or jacket. This is the best time to enjoy the flowers, with shibazakura cherry blossoms blooming until mid-June, tulips and lilacs from mid to late June, and lavenders in full bloom in late June.
Average temperatures in July are 22.0℃ in Sapporo, 21.8℃ in Asahikawa, and 21.5℃ in Furano. In August, the average temperatures are 23.3°C in Sapporo, 22.1°C in Asahikawa, and 21.7°C in Furano. It is autumn at once, and the mornings and evenings feel chilly. Be sure to carry a parka or jacket.

Autumn leaves at Jozankei Nishikibashi Bridge
Autumn leaves at Jozankei Nishikibashi Bridge

The average temperature in September is 19.5°C in Sapporo, about 17.3°C in Asahikawa, and 16.9°C in Furano. Temperatures gradually vary from region to region. The autumn foliage begins to change in early September and is at its best from early to mid-October. In October, the average temperature in Sapporo is still 10°C, but in Asahikawa and Furano, it drops to about 8°C. The season gradually changes from autumn to winter.
In November, when the long winter season begins, the average temperature is 4.3°C in Sapporo and about 1.5°C in Asahikawa and Furano. It is cold and snowy. In Sapporo, snow rarely accumulates, but Asahikawa and Furano can receive as much as 26 cm and 30 cm of snow, respectively. Warming measures are necessary, such as avoiding heels and wearing boots, and wearing underwear with a heat-generating effect under your underwear.

Ice Village at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu
Ice Village at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu

Winter in Hokkaido is full of events, such as the Sapporo Snow Festival and the Ice Village at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu near Furano, which is open only during the winter. In order to enjoy these events in comfort, it is essential to check the temperature.
In December, the average temperature in Hokkaido drops below freezing. In January and February, it gets even colder, with Asahikawa and Furano recording average temperatures of -6°C to -8°C. The average temperature in Asahikawa and Furano ranges from -6°C to -8°C. When going outside, a heavy coat is not enough. A down coat is recommended. Be sure to wear a scarf to keep the wind from entering your neck. Prepare ear mufflers or knit hats to protect your ears from the cold. The temperature difference between the extremely cold outdoors and the cold indoors is more than 20°C (68°F), and the difference in temperature can be more than 30°C (86°F). Wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off so that you can stay comfortable even indoors.

After enjoying sightseeing, spend a relaxing time at a unique hotel.

All Guest rooms are spacious and relaxing.

Guest rooms are suites of more than 100 square meters
Guest rooms are suites of more than 100 square meters

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, about 90 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport, is surrounded by a vast 1,000 hectares of nature and is a resort that can be visited any time of the year. In summer, "UNKAI Terrace" offers spectacular views, and the "Farm Area" lets you experience the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. In winter, you can enjoy not only the ski slopes but also the "Ice Village," a town of ice, where you can fully enjoy your stay even if you don't ski. Within the area, there are two accommodations, "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" and "The Tower," that can be selected according to the purpose of your trip, allowing you to enjoy a stay that is perfect for you.

Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" is a hotel nestled on a mountainside surrounded by the resort's forest. The 32-story high-rise hotel has only four Guest rooms per floor. The 32-story high-rise hotel has only four guest rooms per floor, providing a spacious and luxurious atmosphere.
All Guest rooms are suites. All rooms are equipped with a jet bath with magnificent views and a private sauna. Traveling with children can be made even safer and more comfortable.
We also offer the "Mamanakudama Suite" and the "Pet Room" where you and your dog can spend time together. The Tower" is the resort's first and only building with a private sauna.

Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu

Casual and active living

Diverse Guest room types from twin to four-suite (Photo: Family Four-suite)
Diverse Guest room types from twin to four-suite (Photo: Family Four-suite)

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, about 90 minutes by train from New Chitose Airport, is surrounded by a vast 1,000 hectares of nature and is a resort that can be visited any time of the year. In summer, "UNKAI Terrace" offers spectacular views, and the "Farm Area" lets you experience the magnificent nature of Hokkaido. In winter, you can enjoy not only the ski slopes but also the "Ice Village," a town of ice, where you can fully enjoy your stay even if you don't ski. Within the area, there are two accommodations, "Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Tomamu" and "The Tower," that can be selected according to the purpose of your trip, allowing you to enjoy a stay that is perfect for you.

The Tower by Hoshino Resorts is a landmark of Tomamu, located in the center of the resort. The twin towers of the high-rise hotel are designed to resemble a forest in summer and winter, respectively. The Tower is close to a variety of Restaurants and Property, and is recommended for those who wish to spend their time actively. A total of 535 Guest rooms are available in various types, including standard rooms and family rooms. They can accommodate a wide range of needs, including couples and families. In particular, the Family Twin and Family Force rooms have low beds and are safe for small children.

Hoshino Resorts Tomamu the Tower by Hoshino Resorts

A hotel where you don't stop at just sleeping, but rather, where your trip will be more exciting

Superior Rooms
Superior Rooms" have storage space under the bed and can be used spaciously by two or three persons.

Asahikawa, a base city with good Direction to Furano and Biei, is a town that fascinates you with its individuality every time you visit, from the Asahiyama Zoo with its many attractions to the seasonal delicacies you will encounter in the local gourmet ladder. Located in the center of Asahikawa, OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts is also the departure point for airport buses, providing convenient Direction. Public spaces that are also part of the city and Guest rooms that emphasize ease of use for tourists, the Property offers a new way to enjoy Asahikawa, not only as a place to stay overnight, but also as a place to keep the excitement of your trip alive for a long time.

Hoshino Resorts OMO7 Asahikawa by Hoshino Resorts
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.