Hokkaido's Secret Side: Beyond the Guidebooks

You've heard of Sapporo's ramen, Niseko's powder snow, and the lavender fields of Furano. But what if you could experience the real Hokkaido, the one known only to locals? This vast island is a treasure trove of hidden gems, where unique history, stunning nature, and delicious food await those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Otaru's Hidden Flavors and Forgotten Past

Otaru is famous for its romantic canal and glassworks, but the true local experience is found in its culinary secrets. Near the station, a restaurant called Naruto is a must-visit for its signature spicy fried chicken. But don't stop there—look for the smaller, weathered shops serving up local seafood. For a sweet treat, find Kita no Aisu, a soft-cream stand that’s been serving rich Hokkaido milk swirls since 1978.

Beyond the food, Otaru holds a unique piece of history. You can walk along the abandoned tracks of the old Temiya Line railway. Closed in 1985, this path offers a rare chance to stroll on the tracks and appreciate the city's industrial past, far from the tourist crowds.

The Unsung Beauty of Northern and Eastern Hokkaido

While most tourists flock to the central cities, the far-flung regions offer breathtaking sights.

• Cape Soya: The northernmost point of Japan. The drive to get there is beautiful, and standing on the edge of the country with Russia so close is a memorable experience.
  

  

• Wakkanai's "White Road": A 3-kilometer road paved with crushed scallop shells, a local specialty. It offers a striking contrast of white against the deep blue of the sea.
  

  

• Sarufutsu Village: Known as Japan's largest scallop-producing area. You can experience scallop fishing and then enjoy a fresh-caught meal on the spot—a true taste of Hokkaido's bounty.

Unique and Thrilling Experiences

Hokkaido's "secrets" aren't just places—they're experiences.

• Jigoku-dani (Hell Valley) Onsen: Located near Noboribetsu, this is a spectacular volcanic valley with bubbling hot springs. While well-known, many locals know of specific onsens in the area that are less crowded and offer a more authentic, relaxing experience, with natural, free-flowing spring water.
  

  

• Sankebetsu Bear Incident Site: For a dose of history and a thrilling atmosphere, visit the site of Japan's worst-ever bear attack. A museum on-site details the chilling event, and walking through the quiet forest where it occurred is a powerful experience that makes you think about the relationship between humans and nature.
  

  

• The "Nagamare-go" Train: Take a special journey on this scenic train that travels along the coast from Hakodate. The train's interior is made from local Hokkaido cedar, and you can enjoy meals featuring local ingredients while taking in views of the Tsugaru Strait.
  

  

Whether you're exploring historic railways in Otaru, tasting freshly-caught scallops in Sarufutsu, or simply taking in the vast, wild landscape from a remote cape, these local secrets will give you a deeper connection to the true spirit of Hokkaido.