Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, was settled by Japanese pioneers in the 1800s, and before this time it was home to the aboriginal Ainu people. The resulting demographic fosters a unique blend of indigenous sensibilities and mainstream Japanese culture. Cast in a volcanic landscape that is blanketed in snow during the winter, Hokkaido hosts a number of resort communities that capitalise on the region's hot springs and snow-swept mountains.

Hokkaido's greatest asset is its winter sports arena. Resorts in the mountains surrounding Sapporo city spring into action in November and continue to operate ski-worthy slopes well into the month of April. Skiers and snowboarders flock from southern Japan and from across much of Asia to enjoy the top-notch facilities available here. Side activities such as snowmobiling are also available.

Strung across the entire island, national parks are perennially popular with Hokkaido's visitors. Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site remarkable for its caldera lakes, brown bears and volcanic hot springs. Resorts permeate many of the local parks (especially Daisetsuzan), providing guests with the chance to soak up the local lifestyle in world-class spas fuelled by geothermal vents.

For a night out on the town, head to the capital city, Sapporo. Japan's favourite beer is brewed here, and visitors have the opportunity to visit the beer museum before a pint or two in the neighbouring beer garden. The best restaurants are found here on Ramen Yokocho, an avenue so synonymous with ramen noodles that it was named after the local dish.

Accommodation is widely available, ranging from well-reputed hotels clustered in cities like Sapporo and Hakodate to the more lavish resort communities situated on the fringes of the island’s national parks. Ski lodges often fill up from November until April (when the powder is at its best), so it is wise to book in advance.

Transportation to and from Hokkaido is a straightforward affair. Chitose International Airport serves much of Asia as well as regional airports across Japan. Overnight trains can carry passengers as far away as Tokyo. It is even possible to hire a car and board a ferry from one of the other islands in the archipelago. The local railway network connects individual cities on the island, and a Hokkaido Pass permits unlimited access to local trains for a set number of days.

Hokkaido's summertime climate is much milder than the rest of Japan, and temperatures during peak months (July and August) hover around 20°C. The rains aren't as common here as in other parts of Japan, and tourists will find that humidity is substantially lower than expected, even in low-lying regions.

The emphasis is on higher elevations during the winter months when the winter sports scene gains momentum. Snow begins to accumulate in November and doesn't thaw until late April or early May. Temperatures in January and February regularly dip below -10°C. Those planning to enjoy the slopes may want to time their visit to coincide with the Sapporo Snow Festival, held early in February.