Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hokkaido in Spring

Planning a spring holiday? Hokkaido in springtime (April –June) is one of Japan’s most underrated travel seasons. Cool spring weather, vibrant landscapes, and best of all, late sakura blooms that appear long after cherry blossoms have faded in Tokyo or Kyoto. If you missed the main sakura season, Hokkaido gives you a second chance.

With Scoot flights to Sapporo (Hokkaido), there’s never been a better time to lock in your Japan holiday and discover
this northern gem at its best.

• Late-blooming sakura: Places like Hakodate’s Goryokaku Park and Sapporo’s Maruyama Park often see blossoms from late April into early May.
• Comfortable spring weather: Mild temperatures make the whole island accessible for road trips and outdoor exploration.  
• Seasonal highlights: Flower fields begin to bloom, wildlife becomes active, and fresh seafood is at its peak. 
• Fewer crowds: Compared to peak winter and summer seasons, spring travel is relaxed and enjoyable.

1. Enjoy late-season snow activities (April – early May)

Hokkaido’s lingering winter makes April to early May ideal for late‑season snow fun, with several major resorts still operating thanks to the region’s colder climate. As spring emerges in southern Hokkaido, higher‑elevation and north‑facing slopes continue to offer excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. For travellers looking for lower costs and fewer crowds, early April is the perfect time to take part in late-season snow activities.

These resorts remain open until April or early May: 

• Niseko Village and Hanazono: Closes 12 April 2026
• Niseko Annupuri and Grand Hirafu: Closes 6 May 2026
• Furano Ski Resort: Closes 6 May 2026
• Kiroro Ski Resort: Closes 6 May 2026

2. See Hokkaido’s late sakura blooms (late April – early May) 

One of the biggest spring highlights is Hokkaido’s famously late cherry blossom season. If you didn’t manage to catch sakura in Tokyo or Kyoto, Hokkaido offers a unique second opportunity.

Make sure these spots are on your must-see list:

• Goryokaku Park: A star‑shaped fort surrounded by 1,500 sakura trees! Stunning both from the ground and from Goryokaku Tower.
• Matsumae Park: Known as Hokkaido’s “sakura capital” with over 10,000 cherry trees and 250 varieties.
• Maruyama Park: A classic hanami spot near Hokkaido Shrine.

3. Experience vibrant flower festivals (May – early June)

Spring in Hokkaido is marked by colourful, large‑scale flower events. These seasonal blooms make it one of the most photogenic times for Japan holidays, perfect for travellers seeking unforgettable landscapes:

• Higashimokoto Shibazakura Festival: Hillsides transform into vivid carpets of pink moss phlox.
• Takikawa Canola Flower Festival: Vast yellow canola fields create stunning panoramic views.
• Sapporo Lilac Festival: Marvel at the lilacs in Odori Park with music, food, and local crafts.

4. Explore spring landscapes and outdoor adventures

As snow melts, wildflowers begin to sprout and temperatures steadily climb. Hokkaido’s vast natural scenery transforms into a paradise for explorers, making outdoor activities and road trips more accessible and incredibly rewarding:

• Shiretoko Five Lakes: Trails open from mid-April, revealing breathtaking early‑spring wildlife and scenery. Deer and fox sightings are common.
• Moerenuma Park: A fusion of art and nature designed by Isamu Noguchi. Spring weather makes it ideal for cycling and exploring its sculptural landscapes.
• Jozankei Onsen: Enjoy steaming hot springs surrounded by budding greenery and koi-nobori streamers fluttering in the crisp spring air.

5. Enjoy seasonal food

During spring, Hokkaido serves up some of its freshest seasonal specialities, including creamy uni, crisp asparagus, and fresh hairy crabs. Visitors can also indulge in limited‑edition cherry blossom treats like sakura mochi.

It's also one of the best times to sample Hokkaido’s unique snow‑aged sake, which is matured for months in naturally chilled snow cellars. As the island shifts from winter cold to gentle spring warmth, breweries release fresh batches that are smooth, clean, and delicately aromatic.

With late-blooming cherry blossoms and incredible landscapes, Hokkaido in the spring is a secret season worth discovering. Book your flight to Sapporo (Hokkaido) with Scoot now and enjoy the best of spring in Japan!