Planning a trip to Hokkaido? While it’s full of must-see spots, some attractions are mere tourist traps that can waste your time.
I’ve pinpointed 10 places you should definitely avoid and provided better alternatives to ensure your trip is both memorable and enjoyable.
Dive in to discover where to skip and where to go instead for a truly fantastic experience. 😊
1. Tomita Melon House
While Hokkaido is full of scenic attractions, some may be a downer. For one, there’s the Tomita Melon House, a unique farm selling melon and other local produce.
Here, you’ll find all sorts of melon products, which may be pricey. Plus, instead of melons on the fields, you’ll see some sparse flower expanse. The crowd can also get crowded, making it less appealing.
Visit This Place Instead: Farm Tomita
If you’re looking for a more fulfilling trip, make your way to Farm Tomita. The panoramic flower fields are bound to take your breath away.
You can stroll around and enjoy some luscious lavender-flavored ice cream.
Read More: 10 Things Most Tourists Miss Doing in Hokkaido
2. Asahikawa Ramen Village
Are you a ramen lover? Although the Asahikawa Ramen Village is dubbed as a ramen paradise, don’t get your hopes too high.
The ramen shops aren’t on par with the renowned names in the city. You’d be disappointed because the ramen quality varies depending on the shop. Not only that but long queues can be frustrating.
Visit This Place Instead: Ramen Alley in Sapporo
Go for a delightful ramen experience at the Ramen Alley in Sapporo. Instead of a commercialized vibe, this delivers a more authentic pursuit with great ramen options.
Read More: 10 Top Places I Regret Not Visiting in Sapporo
3. Tokiwa Park
If you’re planning to include Tokiwa Park in your itinerary, you’d better think twice. This huge park may appear interesting, but the lack of unique features around the area makes it boring.
The overall ambiance of the green space is inferior compared to other areas in Hokkaido. For this reason, it’s best to skip this site and find something else to visit.
Visit This Place Instead: Shikisai no Oka
The best alternative is none other than the Shikisai no Oka. Here, you get to see mesmerizing floral displays of tulips, lavender, dahlias, and more.
The lush fields are more than enough to captivate your senses. Bask in the countryside charm and capture the panoramic views.
Read More: 10 Most Beautiful Flower Parks to Visit in Japan
4. Seven Stars Tree
The iconic appeal of the Seven Stars Tree may entice you to add this site to your schedule.
However, I’m here to warn you that this picturesque landmark is just a lone section of trees, standing in a vast field.
This means you’ll be driving for hours only to see one attraction. The dramatic scenery many expect leads to an anticlimactic experience.
Visit This Place Instead: Blue Pond
If you want something that would mesmerize you, choose Blue Pond instead. This is a top-rated Biei attraction for all good reasons. The turquoise waters and its surrounding beauty are simply magical.
Read More: 17 Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make When Visiting Japan
5. Noboribetsu Bear Park
When in Hokkaido, you might be keen to visit Noboribetsu Bear Park. However, save yourself time and head to other parks instead. The wildlife encounter here isn’t as good as expected.
Most bears are kept in small enclosures, making them uncomfortable. In addition, the vibe of the park is outdated, adding to your disappointment.
Visit This Place Instead: Asahiyama Zoo
Spend a more fun-filled and ethical animal encounter at Asahiyama Zoo. This place offers a highly interactive experience, where you get to see different animals not just bears.
See penguins, snow leopards, red pandas, and polar bears. So, if you’re to pick only one animal park, this one is the best choice.
Read More: Don’t Come to Japan these Months!
6. Sapporo Clock Tower
Hokkaido welcomes visitors with plenty of landmarks, including the Sapporo Clock Tower. While this is a popular piece of history, the size and design may be underwhelming.
The clock is smaller than you expect it to be. Plus, the architecture is just plain and unadorned. Although the place has an interior museum, it doesn’t live up to its popularity.
Visit This Place Instead: Former Hokkaido Government Office
For a more impressive architectural wonder, there’s the Former Hokkaido Government Office. Beyond its historical charm, its red facade is utterly fascinating.
Read More: 10 New Things to Do in Japan
7. Jozankei Onsen
Hot springs are all over Hokkaido, and some of these onsens can get overrated. One definite example is the Jozankei Onsen.
Although it’s quite popular, many claim that the place itself is now overly commercialized. Plus, the huge crowds tend to create a more disruptive retreat instead.
Visit This Place Instead: Noboribetsu Onsen
Luxuriate in a more tranquil hot spring experience at Noboribetsu Onsen. This is highly recommended if you want to relax and be one with nature.
The serene atmosphere and soothing waters are a perfect treat after your adventure.
Read More: Top 10 Underrated Destinations in Japan
8. Sankaku Market
If you’re interested in some market explorations, perhaps it’s the best decision to skip Sankaku Market. Although the place offers fresh seafood, the unreasonable prices are sure to disappoint you.
Plus, the market is enveloped with a touristy feel. Since this section is just small, it can really get crowded, especially during weekends.
Visit This Place Instead: Nijo Market
In its place, a voyage through the vibrant Nijo Market.
You can find this remarkable market in Sapporo, offering a genuine market adventure. Their prices are also more reasonable for a more enjoyable seafood experience.
Read More: 10 Most Popular Cities to Visit in Japan for Tourists
9. Kitaichi Glass Otaru
Despite its unique architecture, the Kitaichi Glass Otaru might fail to live up to your expectations. Visitors need to spend a hefty amount for their glassware products.
Apart from the expensive prices, the shop can really get crowded. So, instead of seeing the beautiful glass pieces, you’d be spending more time with the queue.
Visit This Place Instead: Otaru Music Box Museum
For an alternative, go to the Otaru Music Box Museum. This place offers an enriching encounter, exploring lovely music boxes on display. You can even make your own for a more personalized touch.
Read More: 10 Hidden Gems in Japan You Must Discover!
10. Otaru Marchen Intersection
While preparing for your Hokkaido trip, you might be torn whether to include the Otaru Marchen Intersection or not. Long before its touristy nature, the place was known for its quaint beauty.
Unfortunately, the once charming place lost its allure. It’s already surrounded by a lot of stores, selling a variety of souvenirs. As a result, the area can get crowded.
Visit This Place Instead: Otaru Canal
Replace the attraction with a more memorable adventure to Otaru Canal. Bounded by lovely scenes and a serene atmosphere, the canal is a nice place to relax.