Hokkaido Route – Slow-Paced Cherry Blossoms, Romance, and Poetry
1. Route Recommendation
• Itinerary:
Hakodate Goryokaku Park – Sapporo Maruyama Park – Otaru
• Route Features: Slow-paced cherry blossom viewing, relaxation, and a sense of romance and poetry
• Best for: Couples
• Time Needed: 3 days, mid-May
• Transportation: Bus, JR (train)
Route Features: Start by viewing the pink cherry blossoms surrounding the star-shaped fortress of Goryokaku in Hakodate. Then, experience the peaceful springtime atmosphere of cherry blossoms and forests in Sapporo Maruyama Park. End your journey by strolling along the romantic Otaru Canal, where European architecture blends with traditional Japanese culture.
2. Itinerary Highlights
• Hakodate Goryokaku: Japan’s first Western-style star-shaped fortress, surrounded by a moat. From the Goryokaku Tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the pink cherry blossoms encircling the castle. It’s an incredibly romantic spot to embrace or share a kiss while taking in the view.
• Sapporo Maruyama Park: Covering over 600,000 square meters, Maruyama Park is home to more than 1,700 Ezo cherry trees. The park also hosts many wild birds, with the sounds of birdsong blending with the fragrance of flowers—it’s an ideal place to enjoy the tranquility of spring.
• Otaru: Known as Japan’s “City of Lights,” Otaru is a quaint, artistic town with a slow-paced life. From Otaru Park, located on a small hill in the town center, you can overlook the streets, canal, and cherry blossoms. The town’s architecture along the Otaru Canal is a blend of European and Japanese styles. There are also many unique glass artworks for sale, and if you have time, you can visit a glass studio to customize a special souvenir to commemorate your romantic journey.
Choose the Route that Best Fits Your Style for Cherry Blossom Viewing
With so many beautiful cherry blossom routes, can you resist the urge to go? It’s time to embark on a spontaneous trip to Japan and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of sakura in full bloom!