Travel Budget for Hokkaido Visit Hokkaido on a Budget or Travel in Style

Hokkaido, Japan
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Hokkaido is a cultural destination known for Asahiyama Zoo, Furano Lavender Fields, and Daisetsuzan National Park. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Hokkaido?

A typical traveler spends $119 (¥17,569) per day on a trip to Hokkaido. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Hokkaido based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $49 (¥7,255) on meals
  • $22 (¥3,263) on local transportation
  • $106 (¥15,682) on hotels

A one-week trip to Hokkaido for two people costs, on average, $1,663 (¥245,966). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $119
    ¥17,569
  • One Week Per person
    $831
    ¥122,983
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,663
    ¥245,966
  • One Month Per person
    $3,563
    ¥527,070
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,663
    ¥245,966
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $3,325
    ¥491,932
  • One Month For a couple
    $7,126
    ¥1,054,140
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hokkaido cost?

A one week trip to Hokkaido usually costs around $831 (¥122,983) for one person and $1,663 (¥245,966) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hokkaido on average costs around $1,663 (¥245,966) for one person and $3,325 (¥491,932) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hokkaido will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hokkaido on average costs around $3,563 (¥527,070) for one person and $7,126 (¥1,054,140) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Hokkaido expensive to visit?

In Hokkaido, budget travelers spend $52 (¥7,613) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $119 (¥17,569) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $236 (¥34,681) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Hokkaido.

Hokkaido is a smaller destination that attracts travelers with diverse styles, spending habits, and budgetary preferences. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Although Hokkaido can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by looking for discounts and coupons.

Within Asia, Hokkaido is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to many other destinations.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hokkaido Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hokkaido?

The average Hokkaido trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hokkaido travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Hokkaido cost?

Hokkaido on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$23
(¥3,403) 		$53
(¥7,841) 		$104
(¥15,376)
Local Transportation1 $9
(¥1,391) 		$22
(¥3,263) 		$46
(¥6,770)
Food2 $21
(¥3,157) 		$49
(¥7,255) 		$95
(¥14,104)
Entertainment1 $7
(¥1,066) 		$17
(¥2,553) 		$38
(¥5,626)
Alcohol2 $2-6
(¥303-910) 		$5-14
(¥714-2,142) 		$10-30
(¥1,496-4,487)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to be realistic about your budget for Hokkaido. Many assume they can visit on a shoestring, but most travelers find that to be very challenging. Think about what matters to you when traveling. Is it staying in a resort, visiting all the attractions, or dining out at nice restaurants? These factors will determine how much you spend on your trip.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $52 per day that backpackers often spend.

Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. When visiting Hokkaido, you'll want to see Asahiyama Zoo, Furano Lavender Fields, or Daisetsuzan National Park. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $119 per person, per day.

Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?

If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $236. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination will require a premium budget.



Accommodation Budget in Hokkaido

In Hokkaido, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak season. Off-season prices average around $, but in peak season, they can average around $. Prices generally range from $ to $, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Hokkaido for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $106 (¥15,682). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $53 (¥7,841) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $53
    ¥7,841
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $106
    ¥15,682

Hotels in Hokkaido

Looking for a hotel in Hokkaido? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Hokkaido

Choosing to travel outside of and in the low or shoulder season will give you lower hotel prices and less tourist congestion.



Transportation Budget in Hokkaido

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $22 (¥3,263) per person, per day, on local transportation in Hokkaido. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Hokkaido is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $22
    ¥3,263

Hokkaido is very spread out and therefore it is easiest to get around by car. Having a car makes it far easier to travel throughout the cities and take you the various national parks. Due to the snowy and icy roads in the winter, only drivers experienced with these conditions should drive. If you're visiting during the winter and unfamiliar with driving in these conditions, there are other options.

Trains connect larger cities, with some lines taking you to within walking distance of national park entrances. During summer, cycling is a popular option, especially for cycling throughout town then taking a ride through one of the national parks. Finally, Experience Japan tour company provides single and multi-day tours to various areas and parks throughout Hokkaido, making it a great option for those opting out of driving.

Transportation Tips

Be sure your hotel has hassle-free parking if you're planning to drive.

In Japan, trains are one of the fastest and lowest cost means of transportation. Getting a Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you plan to stay for several days or more. Regional and nation-wide passes are available, usually for the number of days of your choice.

A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • New Chitose Airport Private Transfer to Sapporo/Niseko/Furano for $92 details
  • Private Airport Transfer - New Chitose Airport (CTS) to Sapporo for $145 details
  • Airport Transfer! Hotel in center of Sapporo to New Chitose Airport (CTS) for $140 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Hokkaido
How much does it cost to go to Hokkaido? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Hokkaido
The price of renting a car in Hokkaido will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Hokkaido

Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Hokkaido can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Hokkaido is $49 (¥7,255) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $49
    ¥7,255

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Hokkaido is around $49 (¥7255) per person, with previous travelers spending from $21 to $96. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Hokkaido are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $15
  • Lunch: $7 to $20
  • Dinner: $15 to $35
  • Coffee: $4
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $7

Hokkaido is well known for their seafood options, especially their uni -sea urchin-and hairy crab dishes. Head to Ramen Yokocho, an alley east of the Susukino Station in Sapporo that's home to dozens of ramen shops with some unique flavors like crab ramen and scallop ramen.

Hokkaido is also the largest producer of dairy products in Japan, which results in some very unique combinations with their food. Specifically, their bata-kon ramen, a Hokkaido special that is made with a thick corn and butter broth.

Hokkaido also has some of the best options for sake, a must try is Asahikawa's Otokoyama. Sapporo is also famous for their Sapporo Beer, available in every bar in the area. At Mugishutei, you'll find over 300 bottled beer options and over 50 types of tequila. For more nightlife options, head to Susukino located south of center Sapporo, which has plenty of nightlife options ranging from pubs to clubs.

Food & Dining Tips

Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.

Take a water bottle with you to save on drinks. It's also an environmentally friendly option.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Hokkaido, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:

  • Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour for $97 details
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Kanae, a Sapporo Local for $82 details
  • Private Japanese Cooking Class in Sapporo with Local Host Kanae for $72 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Hokkaido

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Hokkaido typically cost an average of $17 (¥2,553) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $17
    ¥2,553

Some of the most popular sights include:

  • Asahiyama Zoo for ¥1000
  • Furano Lavender Fields (Free)
  • Daisetsuzan National Park (Free)
  • Hakodate Morning Market (Free)
  • Goryokaku Fort (Free)
  • Lake Toya (Free)
  • Otaru Canal (Free)
  • Noboribetsu Onsen for ¥1000
  • Biei Patchwork Road (Free)
  • Blue Pond (Aoiike) (Free)
  • Jozankei Onsen for ¥700
  • Sounkyo Gorge (Free)
  • Abashiri Prison Museum for ¥1000

Hokkaido is home to seven national parks, each one with their own hiking trails and stunning views. The Akan National Park is famous for their mysterious lakes, while the Onuma Quasi National Park has a peaceful lake near the Hakodate. Head to Shiretoko National Park on the eastern peninsula where you can view bears roaming the wilderness and bathing in the hot waterfalls. Plus, Shinetoko was recently named a World Heritage Site, so you can truly enjoy the inhibited beauty.

The Daisetsuzan National Park is the largest of the parks and located in the center of Hokkaido. It is known for being the best park for extreme hikers due to the intense landscape. One of the most popular parks is the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, primarily due to their picturesque volcanic hot springs and mossy canyons. Finally, the Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park is made up of two islands: Rishiri-to Island consists of a single volcano while Rebun-to Island is known for their waterfalls and wildflowers.



The major activity in Hokkaido is hiking; there is no shortage of trails that range from beginner to extreme, all of which provide some of the most beautiful scenery in Japan. Each national park has a number of activities of their own; take a boat cruise at the Shiretoko National Park or go canoeing near the Kushiro river at Akan National Park.

Plenty of activities can also be found in the Wakkanai region, from hiking to visiting national parks and wetlands, it's a nature lover's dream. For more information, check out this great guide to Wakkanai Hokkaido.

Hot springs are also a popular activity throughout Hokkaido, you'll find they vary from being open to the public to secluded resorts.

If you're there in the winter, head to Sapporo, home to Mt. Teine which was featured in the 1972 Winter Olympics. Here, you'll find a range of both beginner and experienced slopes. Sapporo also hosts an annual Snow Festival in early February which is famous for their ice sculpture competition which attracts artists from around the world.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Hokkaido. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Snowshoeing and Onsen Adventures in a Winter Wonderland -Sapporo. For $233 details
  • Sea Kayaking Tour – Otaru Coastal Adventure for $103 details
  • Sapporo Highlights: Golden Route Morning Walking Tour for $31 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Hokkaido

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $9.65 (¥1,428) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Hokkaido per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $9.65
    ¥1,428
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Hokkaido. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Sapporo Tour in the Port City of Otaru and Local beer brewery for $174 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Aug 14, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Hokkaido

  • Save some cash by participating in free sights and activities. A few of the best include:
    • Furano Lavender Fields
    • Daisetsuzan National Park
    • Hakodate Morning Market
    • Goryokaku Fort
    • Lake Toya
    • Otaru Canal
    • Biei Patchwork Road
    • Blue Pond (Aoiike)
    • Sounkyo Gorge
    • Cape Kamui
  • By taking a slower approach to travel, you can enjoy the local beauty while saving money. When you jam-pack your schedule with activities, your expenses can skyrocket. But if you allow yourself to relax and take in the sights, you might find you're spending less overall.

Budgeting Challenges

  • With limited public transportation in Hokkaido, it could be wise to rent a car or arrange for transportation, such as a tour. Just keep in mind that this might affect your budget in other areas.
  • Hokkaido isn't a major hub for hostels, so if you're expecting to stay in a cheap dorm, you might need to rethink your plans. Opting for a budget hotel or an apartment rental could be a smarter choice.
Traveling in Hokkaido
Hokkaido Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido, Japan is a nature lover's paradise. Located on the northernmost island of Japan, it is the largest prefecture in the country. Their extensive number of national parks are often compared to those found in Europe due to the similar flora and fauna found throughout, along with many faux German cottages located throughout the parks. Hokkaido is only a hundred or so years old, compared to other thousands-year-old prefectures in Japan, so much of the architecture and cities are modern and westernized.

Being so far north, Hokkaido experiences quite a bit of snow in the winter and is overall much cooler than other areas of Japan. The most popular times to visit are between May and August due to the dry and cool sunny days.



Regions

As a whole, Hokkaido is divided into four circuits: Central, Eastern, Northern, and Southern. The capital city of Sapporo is located in the Central Circuit and is home to the tourist office and the majority of food and accommodation options. The Eastern Circuit is the largest and most remote, the Northern Circuit is known for Furano, a popular ski resort, and the Southern Circuit is where you'll find the Onuma Quasi National Park.

Related
Looking for a hostel in Japan? In search of a party in Tokyo? Traveling alone to Osaka or Tokyo?

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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