Shakotan - Hokkaido

Shakotan is a place worth visiting west of Hokkaido, just a 2hr drive from Sapporo. We rented a car and it was a comfortable drive passing by Otaru.

The views are breathtaking with some nice seafood as the attraction, uni (sea urchin) is a specialty in the area.

After all the sightseeing and walking you can have a dip in many of the onsens around with a sunset view, which is what this area is known for.

Enjoy the pics

Suzuran Hillside National Park, Takino - Sapporo

Spent a day at Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park. A nice 25-27 degrees, perfect for outdoors and beautiful tulips on display. 

Dad's come prepared, plenty activities for kids and it's fitting for dad' to spend some quality healthy time with their kids.

This was our second time but it's worthwhile mentioning that the facilities are nice and clean. Toilets, waiting rooms, resting places etc. oh I forgot, I am in Japan that's standard. 

It's only a half hour bus/subway away, so go for a visit. It's different from your everyday touristy type thing, more of the local Sapporian family weekend place...

Enjoy the pics...

Sapporo Snow Festival 2014 - Susukino & Odori

Some more pics of Snow Festival 2014 at Susukino, after that we made our way to Odori again. 

Today was the final day before they tear it all down. Again it was very crowded being a public holiday today, and of course very cold :)

Enjoy the pics...

Sapporo Snow Festival 2014 - Hokkaido

It's been a while since I last posted so apologies. 

This year's snow festival at Odori Park. A very cold night but worthwhile, many locals and tourists out enjoying themselves. Plenty of food-stands to keep everyone's stomach full whilst watching bands and illumination show with snow sculptures in the background. I really liked the big Sochi sculpture of the current Winter Olympics.

Enjoy the pics and leave any comments if you got a chance to attend or plan to come in future events...