Autumn arrives early in Hokkaido.

The Japanese often consider Hokkaido a very different part of the Land of the Rising Sun because of its majestic, unspoiled scenery, beautiful nature, and peaceful way of life. No matter the season, the island is attractive to tourists: winter is a great sports park for ice and snow activities, summer is an ideal vacation spot, spring is vibrant with flowers and foliage, and Hokkaido is where autumn arrives earliest, offering a full range of romantic and gentle emotions. As the second largest island and located in the far north of Japan, Hokkaido's forests turn yellow and red early in the country. From mid-September to early October, the forests and grasslands are painted in a riot of golden autumn colors.

Lake Toya

Japan has 35 national parks spread across 47 prefectures, and Hokkaido alone boasts six, stretching across the island with enchanting landscapes ranging from forests and volcanoes to crystal-clear lakes that resemble giant mirrors. If you visit Hokkaido, you absolutely must immerse yourself in nature at one of these national parks. Near Sapporo – the capital of Hokkaido Prefecture – is Shikotsu-Toya National Park, home to Lake Toya, often described as a "mirror reflecting the sky," showcasing the surrounding mountains and foliage. In autumn, tourists flock to resorts near Toya to admire the lake and forests and enjoy the tranquility of nearby hot springs. Those interested in science should visit the Toyako Visitor Center and the Volcanology Museum south of Lake Toya. Here you'll find detailed information on the best times and locations for viewing the lake, as well as guidance on how to enjoy nature while respecting the local ecosystem. Most interestingly, the museum's exhibits revolve around the local flora and fauna, videos of Usu's volcanic eruptions, and the impact of this common natural phenomenon in Japan. Visitors can also experience a special area simulating the shaking of a volcanic eruption and learn basic coping skills in a real-life situation.

Enjoying the autumn scenery by cable car is a popular way to experience Daisetsuzan Park.

If you want to experience autumn on pristine natural trails, head to Daisetsuzan – the largest national park in Japan, covering over 2,000 square kilometers. The scenery is breathtakingly surreal as the forests change color. Asahidake, the highest mountain on Hokkaido Island, is also the area where the leaves turn red and yellow earliest, gradually spreading down the valley like a waterfall of red leaves. A cable car tour to admire the vibrant changing foliage is the most relaxing way to enjoy autumn. For those with stamina and a love for exercise, there are various hiking tours with different itineraries and schedules. Daisetsuzan National Park is also home to Sounkyo Gorge, one of Japan's most famous gorges in autumn. A vivid picture is painted by the sheer cliffs covered with changing maple and birch trees, stretching along the banks of the Ishikari River. The Ginga and Ryusei waterfalls cascade down from hundreds of meters, shimmering with a silvery sheen under the golden sunlight. The only word to describe this magnificent sight is "awe-inspiring."

Dishes made with the abundant seafood resources of Hokkaido.

The list of autumn natural destinations in Hokkaido is diverse, offering many colorful experiences. For travelers who enjoy lively, bustling atmospheres and festivals, the annual Sapporo Autumn Fest is a must-see. This year, the autumn festival will be held from September 6th to October 4th at Odori Park in the city center. In the cool weather, visitors can enjoy various street art forms, especially the famous cuisine of the island: from seafood like king crab, salmon, scallops, and cod roe to local dishes such as curry soup, ramen noodles, and grilled lamb. Hokkaido is also known as the land of butter, milk, and pastries, with a host of famous Japanese brands. If you don't have the chance to visit bakeries or farms that raise cows and process butter and dairy products, be sure to stop by tea shops and product display stalls to sample and buy as souvenirs the smooth and creamy cheesecakes from LeTAO or the crispy, fragrant cookies with the impressive name – "White Snow Lover," or Shiroi Koibito in Japanese.

The natural beauty and autumnal experiences of Hokkaido are the most alluring invitation for tourists to explore this northern island of Japan.

Source: https://heritagevietnamairlines.com/mua-thu-den-som-o-hokkaido/