Why Hokkaido Is Japan’s Most Underrated Travel Trend in 2025: 7 Unique Experiences You’ve Never Heard Of

Hello travelers! ✈️If you're planning a trip to Japan in 2025 and want something beyond the typical Tokyo-Kyoto route, Hokkaido is calling your name — and trust us, it’s not just about snow and seafood anymore.

Here are 7 off-the-beaten-path experiences that are actually going viral in Japan right now:

1. 🥐 A Bakery That Sells Out Before Sunrise – Hidden Gem in Sapporo

Mori no Bakery (もりのベーカリー)Tucked away in the suburbs of Sapporo, this tiny bakery only opens a few days a week — and their croissants? Gone in an hour. Flaky, buttery, and warm, they’re worth waking up for.

2. 🌊 Blue Pond + Drone = Insta Gold (Biei)

Shirogane Blue PondAlready stunning from the ground, but now travelers are capturing surreal shots from above with drone photography tours at dawn. A top pick among Japanese influencers.

3. 🐿️ Night Tour to Meet Flying Squirrels (Kushiro)

Kushiro Marshland Wildlife Tour　Yes, you read that right — Japan’s adorable Ezo Momonga are like real-life Pikachu! Local guides lead you into the forest at night to spot these rare creatures.

4. ☁️ Coffee Above the Clouds at Unkai Terrace (Tomamu)

Unkai Terrace Only open during early mornings from May to October, this “Sea of Clouds” spot is a dreamlike experience. Sit on a mountaintop, sip coffee, and watch clouds roll beneath your feet.

5. 🚂 Nostalgic Railway Café (Otaru)

Otaru Railway Cafés Map Old train cars transformed into cozy cafés are popping up around Otaru. With retro interiors, local sweets, and Showa-era music, it’s a journey back in time.

6. 🍗 Zangi Festival – Fried Chicken, Hokkaido Style (Kushiro)

Kushiro Gourmet Events You’ve heard of karaage, but have you tried Zangi? This local twist on fried chicken is the star of regional food fests — crunchy, garlicky, and best with a cold beer.

7. 🌽 The Sweet-Savory Secret: Corn Soft Cream

Rest Stop Delights Corn ice cream might sound strange, but Hokkaido’s sweet corn is next level. Creamy, slightly salty, and totally photogenic, this is a must-try at local service areas. You could also buy at supermarket in Hokkaido.

✨Hokkaido is More Than Just Snow — It’s Japan’s Best Kept Secret

From mystical landscapes to foodie adventures, Hokkaido is full of surprises in every season. Whether you're here in spring blossoms, summer festivals, autumn foliage, or winter wonderland — this northern island delivers.

📸 Ready to explore? Save this list and share it with your travel buddies!