Hokkaido: Between fields of flowers and the land of snow

Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost romantic destination. Seven days and six nights, from the lavender of Furano to the canals of Otaru, between flower fields and snowy lands, you will encounter the cleanest four seasons.

In summer, Furano is a sea of purple. The lavender fields at Tomita Farm stretch along the hills, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. Besides lavender, the rainbow fields are filled with sage, sunflowers, and poppies intertwining to form a palette, making it a paradise for photographers.

Visit Otaru, this canal town famous for "Love Letter." Strolling along the Otaru Canal, you'll see glass workshops converted from old warehouses and music box museums lining both banks. At dusk, gas lamps come on, reflecting on the water, creating a romance that feels almost unreal.

Sapporo's Moiwa Mountain and Hakodate's Mount Hakodate are known as Japan's three great night views. Hakodate's night view forms a two-way peninsula, with thousands of lights stretching along the coast, earning it the nickname "million-dollar night view," worth waiting for until dark.

If winter comes, powder snow is the keyword. Hokkaido's snow is dry and soft, making it a sanctuary for skiers. Soaking in the hot springs of Lake Toya or Jozankei for a night and watching snowflakes fall on your shoulders is pure healing.

The beauty of Hokkaido lies in its clean blank space. Whether it's the snow-capped mountains at the end of the flower fields or a single light in a snowy country, both exude a restrained yet gentle Japanese aesthetic. When leaving, you should pack a bottle of lavender fragrance in your suitcase.