Hokkaido, Japan's largest island, covers 83,424 square kilometers, comprising about 22% of Japan's total area. It features magnificent nature, unique Ainu culture, and relatively recent history from the pioneering era.

The World Natural Heritage site "Shiretoko" (registered 2005) preserves pristine wilderness where diverse wildlife including brown bears, Steller's sea eagles, white-tailed eagles, sea lions, and killer whales thrive. This rare global environment combines marine ecosystems nurtured by drift ice with terrestrial mixed forest ecosystems. As part of "Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Northern Japan" (registered 2021), sites like Ofune and Kakinoshima preserve evidence of Jomon culture spanning over 10,000 years.

Sapporo, with 1.95 million residents, features attractions like the Clock Tower, TV Tower, and Susukino district. The Sapporo Snow Festival annually attracts over 2 million visitors internationally, showcasing elaborate snow and ice sculptures. Hakodate, famous for night views from Mount Hakodate, ranks among the world's three great night views alongside Hong Kong and Naples. Goryokaku, Japan's first Western-style fortress, serves as a renowned cherry blossom spot.

Otaru, known for canals and glass crafts, charms visitors with Meiji and Taisho period architecture. The Furano-Biei region features summer lavender fields and beautiful hill landscapes along the "Hokkaido Garden Highway." Kushiro Marshland, Japan's largest wetland, provides crucial habitat for red-crowned cranes and other birds.

Ainu culture, of Hokkaido's indigenous people, emphasizes harmony with nature through unique worldview. Many place names derive from Ainu language: Sapporo (Sat-poro-pet), Kushiro (Kusuri). Upopoy (National Ainu Museum) in Shiraoi preserves, inherits, and creates Ainu culture.

Hokkaido's food culture emphasizes abundant seafood and agricultural products. Fresh seafood includes king crab, snow crab, scallops, sea urchin, and salmon roe; agricultural products feature potatoes, corn, and asparagus. Genghis Khan (grilled lamb) represents unique Hokkaido cuisine, while Sapporo ramen's rich miso-based broth gained national recognition. Superior dairy products include cheese, butter, and ice cream.