Explore the cities, localities, and regional context that make up Hokkaidō.
Hokkaidō is a prefecture of Japan.
WS / ASIALAT 36.00 · LON 138.00
Regional answer
Where does Hokkaidō fit?
Hokkaidō is a prefecture of Japan. This directory lists 79 cities and localities in Hokkaidō.
Country
Japan
Administrative type
Prefecture
Listed localities
79
About Hokkaidō
Hokkaido is the northernmost and second-largest of Japan's main islands, and also a prefecture, known for its vast wilderness, cold snowy winters and fresh cuisine. Its capital is Sapporo. With wide-open landscapes unlike the rest of Japan, it is a paradise for skiing, nature and seafood.
Hokkaido is a large island of volcanic mountains, national parks, lakes and extensive farmland, with a cooler subarctic and humid continental climate. It receives heavy snowfall, making it Japan's premier winter-sports region. It is sparsely populated relative to its size.
Hokkaido has a distinct frontier character and is the homeland of the Indigenous Ainu people. It is famous for its dairy, seafood, ramen and beer, the Sapporo Snow Festival, and world-class powder skiing in resorts like Niseko.
Long home to the Ainu, Hokkaido was systematically settled and developed by Japan only from the late 19th century. Sapporo grew into a major city and hosted the 1972 Winter Olympics.
Key facts
The capital is Sapporo.
It is Japan's northernmost main island and largest prefecture.
It is the homeland of the Indigenous Ainu people.
It is renowned for skiing, dairy and seafood.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Hokkaido is the northernmost and second-largest of Japan's main islands, and also a prefecture, known for its vast wilderness, cold snowy winters and fresh cuisine. Its capital is Sapporo. With wide-open landscapes unlike the rest of Japan, it is a paradise for skiing, nature and seafood.
