things to do in summer Hokkaido

Best Summer Family Outdoor Activities in Hokkaido

Summer may not be what you imagine when planning a trip to this northern island in Japan. But Hokkaido in Summer offers countless opportunities for adventure, beauty, and fun. Hokkaido has a long winter covered with snow, and therefore, people cherish the summertime very much. Moreover, the term of the golden week holiday is in Summer in Japan. Many parents in Hokkaido like to keep the kids entertained in the Summer. Let’s see what summer outdoor activities for kids that locals often took kids to do.

Outdoor Activities for Kids and Parents

Outdoor activities with kids would be perfect for chasing the boredom blues away and unplugging kids over the Summer. Here are some family-friendly summer outdoor activities that are popular for Hokkaido local families.

Gorgeous Summer Flowers Blooming

Every year in July, the fields are bursting with flowers. Fields filled with beautiful colours, purple, red, yellow, and more. The iconic sunflower field is popular on social media posts. The lavender fields in Hokkaido are some of the most beautiful in Japan.

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BBQ with Mommy’s and Daddy’s Juice

Since Hokkaido is covered with snow in the long winter, locals love to barbecue when summer comes. Significantly, there is a local dish called Genghis Khan in Hokkaido. It’s a  Mongolian barbecue that grills mutton and vegetables on a particular barbecue. Also, they drink beer or alcohol while barbecuing. Why don’t you barbecue in Hokkaido-Style to make your family vacation unforgettable?

You may think that what if you don’t bring your BBQ gear. No worries! Here is a BBQ guide to teaching you how to BBQ in Hokkaido hand by hand. Click here>>

Camping with Kids

Camping is one of the most popular summer family activities in Hokkaido. Notably, Hokkaido is famous for its rich natural environment. Whether you do bush camping, camp on-site, or glamping, you will never get any disapproving looks. Namely, it’s the camper’s dream. Nevertheless, many travel families have the same question. “There is no space for camp gear in our luggage.” No worries, I got some solutions to help you enjoy camping in Hokkaido with a free hand.

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Explore a National Park

There are 6 National Parks and 5 Quasi-National Parks in Hokkaido. Each offers unique views and activities.

To know the best and famous National Parks to days out with kids in Hokkaido, click here>>

Horse Riding and Horse Race

Horse riding is a popular activity from season to season in Hokkaido. Enjoy riding in varied terrains, such as beaches, fields, hills, bush, forests, rivers. It is one of the joys of Hokkaido activities. Moreover, horse riding in the snow season will bring a different experience. Click here>>

Also, you can make a family horse racing day in Hokkaido! Click here>>

Water Activities

Summertime is the best time to get activities with family, and it’s extra fun when the activities involve water. 

Summer Festival

Enjoy Summer Food in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Seafood

Hokkaido Soft Cream

Hokkaido is famous for its delicious milk, cream, and butter. The soft ice cream (soft-serve ice cream, ソフトクリーム) fully utilise milk, cream, and butter. It features a fragrant, rich milky, creamy, and smooth texture.