Hokkaidos

Hokkaido, sometimes written as Hokkaidos in English, refers to the northernmost of Japan’s main islands and the corresponding prefecture, Hokkaidō. It is the second-largest island by area, covering about 83,450 square kilometers, and has a population of roughly 5.3 million. The capital and largest city is Sapporo.

Geography and climate: Hokkaido lies north of Honshu and is bordered by the Sea of Okhotsk to the north, the Sea of Japan to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the east. Its interior features rugged mountains, including the Daisetsuzan range, with Mount Asahi as the highest peak. The climate is cool temperate with marked seasonal variation; winter snowfall is heavy in many areas, supporting a thriving winter tourism sector.

History and demography: The island was inhabited for centuries by the Ainu people before substantial Japanese settlement intensified during the Meiji era. In 1869 it became known as Hokkaido with established administrative divisions. Today, the population is concentrated in urban centers such as Sapporo, Hakodate, and Otaru, with large rural areas in the foothills and coastal plains.

Economy and culture: Hokkaido has a diversified economy including agriculture (notably potatoes, dairy, wheat), fisheries, and manufacturing, complemented by growing tourism. Regional cuisine emphasizes seafood and dairy products, with popular dishes like jingisukan (grilled lamb) and soup curry. The island is known for the Sapporo Snow Festival, the Furano and Biei flower landscapes, and national parks such as Shiretoko. Shiretoko, located on the eastern coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Transportation: The region is served by New Chitose Airport near Sapporo and an extensive JR railway network. The Seikan Tunnel links Hokkaido with Honshu, facilitating rail and freight connections.