How to Stay Warm on a Hokkaido Winter Trip

Winter clothing and gear to pack for Hokkaido

Winter in Hokkaido feels very different from winter in most of Japan, and in many other places too. For anyone visiting Hokkaido from around December to March, we have put together, from the perspective of a local taxi company, how to prepare for the cold before you leave, along with recommended winter gear.

* This page contains affiliate advertising (Rakuten Ichiba). The 「楽天市場で見る」 buttons mean "View on Rakuten Ichiba" and open pages in Japanese. Rakuten Ichiba shops generally ship only within Japan.

Hokkaido winters call for protection from snow and ice, not just the cold

In a Hokkaido winter, even in cities like Sapporo, it is common for daytime temperatures to stay below 0°C (32°F). On top of the low temperatures, cold wind and snow can make it feel even colder.

If you pack only a thick coat, your hands, ears, neck and feet will often get cold. The key to staying warm in Hokkaido is not to rely on your coat alone, but to cover your hands, neck, head and feet properly.

Another important point is grip. In winter, many roads and sidewalks in Hokkaido are covered in packed snow that has frozen into slick ice. When choosing shoes, think not only about warmth but also about how easily you can walk on snowy and icy surfaces.

The most important winter essentials for Hokkaido

Here are the eight things to prepare for a winter trip to Hokkaido. If any one is missing, that is where the cold gets in.

  • OuterwearYour outermost layer against wind and snow. Beyond thickness, check that it blocks wind and repels snow.
  • Thermal base layersKeep your body warm under your coat. Thin, warm layers work best, since you will go in and out of well-heated buildings often.
  • GlovesYou will take your hands out more than you expect to take photos or check maps, and fingertips get cold fast.
  • HatYour head and ears take the cold wind directly. Covering your ears makes a big difference.
  • Neck warmer / scarfStops cold air from slipping in at your collar, so your coat can do its job.
  • Thick socksCold travels up from snowy, frozen ground. A spare pair is a good idea too.
  • Winter shoes with good gripIn Hokkaido, shoes need to be warm and hard to slip in. More on this below.
  • Heat packs (kairo)Handy on days when you spend a long time outdoors. Stick-on, pocket and foot types each have their uses.

Most important: warm feet and good grip

Feet are the part of a Hokkaido winter outfit that people overlook most, and where they run into the most trouble. Shoes that let snow soak in chill your toes, and flat-soled shoes slip easily on icy surfaces.

When choosing shoes for Hokkaido, keep these points in mind:

  • Choose winter shoes with deep tread on the soles
  • Choose waterproof or water-repellent shoes that keep snow out
  • Pick a size that is not tight even with thick socks
  • If you bring your usual shoes, pack slip-on traction devices

* Any shoe or traction device can slip depending on the surface. On icy roads, take small steps and walk slowly.

Advice from a Hokkaido taxi driver

MUTO TAXI drivers, who carry passengers through Hokkaido winters, share the advice they most often give travelers.

Even a short walk from your hotel is cold
If you step out lightly dressed because it is "just around the corner", a few minutes of walking can leave you chilled. Even for a quick trip to a convenience store or restaurant, wear gloves and cover your neck.
You spend longer outdoors at sightseeing spots than you think
At viewpoints and snowy photo spots, enjoying the view and taking pictures keeps you outside longer than planned. Put on your hat and gloves before you get out of the car.
On snowy roads, shoes matter most
Shoes with worn soles or shallow, flat tread are especially slippery on icy surfaces. Besides warmth, check that your soles have good tread.
Even when traveling by car, dress warmly for getting in and out
The car may be warm, but you still get cold during the minutes of getting in and out, or walking from the parking lot to the entrance. Take your coat off in the car, and keep it within reach so you can put it on before you get out.
Watch for ice, even in central Sapporo
Even in central Sapporo, crosswalks, subway entrances and building entrances often have packed snow that has frozen into slick ice. Take small steps and put your whole foot down flat to reduce the risk of falling.

Recommended winter gear for a Hokkaido trip

Below, for each category, we explain why you need it in Hokkaido and what to look for, then introduce recommended items. You do not need to buy everything. Choose what you are missing based on your schedule and plans.

①Winter coats and jackets

Why you need it in Hokkaido

In a Hokkaido winter, wind and snow make it feel even colder than the temperature suggests. Whether you enjoy walking around town or waiting outdoors at sightseeing spots depends a lot on your coat.

What to look for

  • Choose a fabric that blocks wind (cold air getting inside chills you quickly)
  • Look for water-repellent or waterproof treatment that sheds snow
  • A length that covers your hips and thighs keeps you warmer when sitting or on windy days
  • A hood lets you cover up quickly when snow or wind picks up

Recommended: Winter coats and jackets

Long down coat (women's)
  • 95% down
  • Long length
  • Fur trim
  • M–XL

A long down coat labelled 95% down, in a smart design. Available in black and beige.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe long length covers you from the hips to the thighs, so you stay warmer when standing still outdoors, such as on snowy walks or at outdoor events. The design also works for walking around Sapporo or going out to dinner.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

SOWA winter blouson 5403
  • Waterproof and insulated
  • Cotton
  • Blouson

A winter blouson from Japanese workwear maker SOWA, made with cotton and sold as a waterproof, insulated jacket.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe short blouson cut is easy to move in, which suits active experiences like snowshoeing or farm visits. A practical jacket you can wear without worrying about snow and dirt.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Hooded down jacket (men's)
  • Detachable hood
  • High collar
  • Quilted
  • Lightweight

A quilted down jacket with a tall, high collar and a detachable hood. Available in white, black and navy.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe high collar helps keep cold wind out at the neck. Attach the hood on snowy or windy days, or remove it for a cleaner look when walking around town.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

NANGA special edition HINOC Rim Hood down jacket
  • Water-repellent down
  • 770FP
  • Made in Japan
  • Men's & women's

A hooded down jacket from Japanese down maker NANGA, filled with super water-repellent Spanish down (770FP). Made in Japan, this special edition uses flame-retardant fabric.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWater-repellent down keeps its warmth better even when snow makes it damp. A light, warm, serious jacket for ski resorts or the colder parts of Hokkaido such as the east.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

②Thermal base layers

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Buildings and vehicles in Hokkaido are well heated, so wearing thick sweaters can make you sweat indoors and then feel cold once you step outside. While traveling, it is more comfortable to stay warm with thin thermal layers and keep out the cold with your coat.

What to look for

  • Choose thin but warm fabrics, such as types that turn moisture into heat
  • Designs that cover the neck and wrists leave fewer gaps
  • Bring bottoms (thermal tights or leggings) as well as tops to keep your legs warm
  • Pack enough for the number of days, or plan for washing

Recommended: Thermal base layers

Radweather brushed-lining thermal shirt
  • Brushed lining
  • Antibacterial
  • Long sleeves
  • Men's & women's

A long-sleeve thermal shirt with a brushed inner lining, sold as antibacterial, in men's and women's sizes.

Why it helps in HokkaidoOne layer under your coat noticeably reduces the cold outdoors. The antibacterial finish makes it easy to wear over a trip of several days.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

HOOH crew-neck hot inner 485
  • Heat-generating
  • Lightly brushed
  • Cotton
  • Large sizes

A long-sleeve thermal that absorbs moisture such as sweat and turns it into heat, made with soft cotton.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThin and warm, so it does not get too hot in heated hotels, restaurants or cars. Good if you care about how it feels on your skin.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Hidamari Everest men's long-sleeve high-neck shirt
  • High neck
  • Thick
  • Made in Japan
  • Bottoms sold separately

A thick, high-neck men's thermal from the Hidamari underwear range. Made in Japan; matching bottoms are sold separately.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe high neck pairs well with a neck warmer to keep your neck area warm. Good for long days outdoors or trips to colder areas such as eastern Hokkaido.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

BURTLE thermal inner shirt 4091
  • Compression
  • Sweat-wicking, quick-dry
  • Odor control
  • Unisex

A close-fitting compression thermal from workwear brand BURTLE. Unisex.

Why it helps in HokkaidoIt wicks sweat and dries quickly, so you are less likely to get chilled after sweating. Suits days of skiing, snowshoeing and other active plans, and it layers without bulk.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Otafuku BT Dual Brushed Heavyweight JW-180
  • Brushed lining
  • Heavyweight
  • Sweat-wicking

A thick, brushed crew-neck thermal from Otafuku's BODY TOUGHNESS range.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe heavyweight fabric suits very cold days of outdoor sightseeing, or experiences where you stand still for a long time, such as drift ice tours or winter wildlife watching.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

ARMEDES brushed compression long tights (2-pack)
  • For legs
  • Brushed
  • 9/10 length
  • Men's
  • 2-pack

Men's brushed compression tights in 9/10 length, sold as a set of two.

Why it helps in HokkaidoA layer under your trousers makes a big difference to cold legs. The 2-pack gives you a spare while traveling.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

③Gloves

Why you need it in Hokkaido

When sightseeing, you will often take your hands out to take photos or check maps on your phone. Fingertips get cold quickly and take a long time to warm up again, so gloves are essential for a Hokkaido trip.

What to look for

  • Touchscreen-compatible gloves let you use your phone without taking them off
  • If you plan to touch snow, choose water-repellent or waterproof gloves
  • Mittens keep fingertips warmer than five-finger gloves (but make detailed tasks harder)
  • Gloves are easy to lose, so a carabiner or strap is handy

Recommended: Gloves

gerry touchscreen gloves
  • Touchscreen-compatible
  • Microfleece
  • Drawstring pouch
  • Carabiner

Fleece gloves that work with smartphones. They fold into the included pouch, which clips onto your bag with a carabiner.

Why it helps in HokkaidoYou can use map apps and take photos with your gloves on. When you take them off indoors, clipping them to your bag in the pouch helps you avoid leaving them behind.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

UNIVERSAL OVERALL boa gloves
  • Boa fleece
  • Touchscreen-compatible
  • 3 colors

Soft boa fleece gloves that work with touchscreens. Available in ivory, brown and black.

Why it helps in HokkaidoCombines the warmth of boa fleece with easy phone use. Good for city-focused trips if you want to stay warm and look good.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Warm knit mittens
  • Mittens
  • Fleece lining
  • Knit
  • Many colors

Knit mittens with a fleece lining, available in many colors.

Why it helps in HokkaidoIn mittens your fingers keep each other warm, so fingertips stay warmer. Good for standing outdoors, such as at the Sapporo Snow Festival. You will need to take them off to use your phone.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

④Neck warmers and scarves

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Cold air easily gets in through the gap at your collar. Covering your neck makes you feel much warmer and lets your coat work properly.

What to look for

  • Choose something easy to take off indoors
  • On windy days, a neck warmer that covers your mouth is handy
  • Scarves that tuck through, rather than needing to be tied, stay in place better
  • Compact items are easier to carry when you take them off

Recommended: Neck warmers and scarves

Hinode Kinuori silk turtle warmer
  • Silk
  • Made in Japan
  • For layering

A turtleneck-style neck warmer made of silk, designed to be worn under your clothes.

Why it helps in HokkaidoBecause it sits under your clothes, you can keep it on in heated rooms without it looking out of place, and it quietly protects your neck when you step outside.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Boa-lined bib-style neck warmer
  • Boa lining
  • Windproof
  • Bib style

A bib-style neck warmer with a boa lining that also covers your chest.

Why it helps in HokkaidoIt blocks drafts at your chest as well as your neck, which helps at windy seaside spots and ski resorts.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

gerry 2-way hood warmer
  • 2-way
  • Neck / hood
  • Shoulder warmer

Works as a neck warmer or as a hood, and covers down to the shoulders.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWhen snow starts falling or the wind picks up, pull it up over your head as a hood. Handy if you would rather not carry a hat.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

UNIVERSAL OVERALL tuck-through scarf
  • Tuck-through
  • Wave quilting
  • Unisex

A quilted scarf that fastens by tucking one end through. Unisex design.

Why it helps in HokkaidoJust tuck one end through and it stays put, so there is no need to tie it and it is less likely to come loose while you walk.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

NACHU & DIARY waffle mini scarf
  • Waffle knit
  • Short length
  • Unisex

A short scarf in waffle fabric, with a simple plain design.

Why it helps in HokkaidoShort and compact, so it fits easily in your bag when you take it off indoors. A simple way to add warmth at the collar of your coat.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Cashmere-touch large stole
  • Large
  • Cashmere-like feel
  • Thick
  • Plain or check

A thick, large stole with a cashmere-like feel, in plain colors or check patterns.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWrap it around your neck as a scarf, wear it over your shoulders, or use it as a lap blanket. It also helps keep you warm on flights and long journeys.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

QUEENHEAD large smooth stole
  • Large
  • Smooth brushed fabric
  • Thick
  • Check pattern

A large stole in smooth brushed fabric, sold as having a wool-like feel.

Why it helps in HokkaidoLarge enough to cover your neck well. Use it as a scarf outdoors and as a lap blanket in heated rooms or in the taxi.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

100% wool thick scarf
  • 100% wool
  • Thick
  • Fluffy

A fluffy, thick scarf made of 100% wool.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWool keeps your neck warm even outdoors in falling snow. The simple design goes with any coat.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑤Knit hats and winter hats

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Your head and ears take the cold wind directly. Cold ears can even feel painful, and simply wearing a hat makes time outdoors much more comfortable.

What to look for

  • Choose one you can pull down over your ears
  • Pick a snug fit so it does not blow off in the wind
  • On snowy days, combine it with a hood to keep your hair and face drier

Recommended: Knit hats and winter hats

Rothco knit watch cap with brim
  • Acrylic knit
  • Brim
  • Military style

A military-style knit cap with a brim, made from acrylic knit.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe brim helps keep falling snow and glare from the snow out of your eyes. Easy to match with casual outfits.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Hoodie balaclava (women's)
  • Hood in one
  • Fluffy knit
  • Doubles as neck warmer

A knit balaclava that combines a hood and neck warmer, in a soft, fluffy fabric.

Why it helps in HokkaidoCovers your head, ears and neck in one piece, so you do not need a separate hat and neck warmer. Good for winter activities and walks through snowy scenery.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑥Winter boots

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Winter streets in Hokkaido mix deep snow with patches of packed snow that have frozen into ice. In everyday sneakers, snow can soak through and chill your feet, and you are more likely to slip on icy surfaces. Choose footwear for both warmth and how well you can walk in it.

What to look for

  • Soles with deep tread designed for snowy and icy roads
  • Waterproof or water-repellent material that keeps snow out
  • Ankle height or higher helps stop snow getting inside
  • Avoid heels; choose flat, stable soles
  • Wear new boots a few times before your trip to break them in

Recommended: Winter boots

High-top snow boots (women's)
  • Waterproof
  • Anti-slip sole
  • Brushed / boa lining
  • High-top

High-top snow boots with a boa lining, sold as waterproof and anti-slip.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe high-top design covers your ankles, so snow is less likely to get inside even where it is deep. The boa lining also helps keep your feet warm.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Shearling-style snow boots (women's)
  • Anti-slip sole
  • Brushed lining
  • Tall
  • Large sizes

Tall, fluffy-looking snow boots with an anti-slip sole.

Why it helps in HokkaidoSoft and comfortable to walk in, so they suit long days on foot such as exploring Sapporo. Good if you want boots that look cute and handle snowy streets.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Insulated work boots (men's)
  • Insulated
  • Anti-slip sole
  • Thick sole
  • Short

Men's short work boots with a thick sole, sold as insulated and anti-slip.

Why it helps in HokkaidoCasual-looking winter boots that are easy to wear with everyday clothes. The thick sole helps reduce the cold coming up from icy ground.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Unisex slip-on snow boots
  • Waterproof / water-repellent
  • Anti-slip sole
  • Lightweight
  • Easy on and off

Unisex boa-lined snow boots sold as waterproof, water-repellent and anti-slip. A slip-on style that is easy to put on and take off.

Why it helps in HokkaidoLight and easy to slip on and off, which helps at restaurants and Japanese inns where you remove your shoes. Also handy for couples or families buying matching pairs in different sizes.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Fleece-lined snow boots (kids)
  • For children
  • Waterproof
  • Anti-slip sole
  • Boa lining

Boa-lined snow boots for children, sold as waterproof and anti-slip.

Why it helps in HokkaidoChildren who love snow tend to walk straight into it. Waterproof boots help stop their feet getting wet and cold. Useful when packing for a family trip.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑦Thick socks

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Walking on cold ground or snow chills your feet from the toes up. Think about thick socks together with your shoes, and carry a spare pair in case snow soaks through.

What to look for

  • Choose warm materials or double-layer designs
  • Check that your shoes are not tight with thick socks on (tight shoes restrict circulation and can make your feet colder)
  • Keep a spare pair in your bag, even on day trips

Recommended: Thick socks

Hidamari double socks (men's)
  • Double layer
  • Men's
  • Warm

Double-layer men's socks from the Hidamari underwear range.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThey wrap your toes, which get cold easily, and help on days of walking in snow. They also go well with boots.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Hidamari double socks (men's, 3 colors)
  • Double layer
  • Men's
  • 3 pairs

A set of three men's socks in different colors from the same range.

Why it helps in HokkaidoFor a multi-day trip, a set lets you change socks every day, and gives you a spare if a pair gets wet.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑧Tights and warm trousers

Why you need it in Hokkaido

People often bundle up their upper body and forget their legs. Jeans alone let cold wind through and your legs get cold easily. Adding tights or leg warmers changes how comfortable you feel outdoors.

What to look for

  • Choose thin, warm layers that fit under your trousers
  • On days you wear a skirt, use thick tights
  • Shins and ankles get cold easily, so leg warmers can help

Recommended: Tights and warm trousers

600-denier sheer-look tights
  • 600 denier
  • Sheer-look design
  • Large sizes

Thick 600-denier tights designed to look like sheer stockings.

Why it helps in HokkaidoFor anyone who wants to wear a skirt in winter Hokkaido. They look light while keeping your legs warmer.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Otafuku BT Thermo leg warmers JW-118
  • Leg warmers
  • Men's & women's
  • For outdoor use

Leg warmers from work-gear maker Otafuku, from a range also used for outdoor activities and hiking.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWear them under trousers or with boots to add warmth to your shins and ankles. Easy to take off and carry, which suits travel.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Brushed footed leggings (women's)
  • Brushed lining
  • Footed
  • Full length
  • Thick

Thick, full-length footed tights with a brushed lining, for women.

Why it helps in HokkaidoWorn under trousers, they keep your legs warmer even on days in jeans, which let the wind through. They also work as loungewear in your hotel room.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑨Disposable heat packs (kairo)

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Handy on days when you spend a long time outdoors, such as sightseeing, watching events like the Snow Festival, or waiting for activities. You can buy them locally, but bringing a few means you can use them as soon as you arrive.

What to look for

  • Stick-on types warm your whole body when placed on your back or lower back
  • Pocket types are handy for warming your hands
  • If your feet get cold, try foot types that go in your shoes
  • To avoid low-temperature burns, never stick them directly on skin, and follow the instructions
  • If taking them on a flight, check your airline's rules as well

Recommended: Disposable heat packs (kairo)

Okamoto Kaionkun non-adhesive heat packs (regular)
  • Pocket type
  • Regular size
  • 10 packs × 15

Regular-size heat packs for your pocket, sold as a bulk set.

Why it helps in HokkaidoKeep one in your pocket to warm your hands after taking photos or using your phone. On family or group trips, everyone can share them.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Iris Ohyama Poka Poka Kazoku stick-on heat packs (mini)
  • Stick-on
  • Mini size
  • Large pack

Mini-size heat packs that stick to your clothes, in a large bulk set.

Why it helps in HokkaidoThe mini size makes it easy to stick them where you need them, such as your back or lower back. The large pack also covers winter use at home or an emergency kit.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

Okamoto Kaionkun sock heat packs (black)
  • For feet
  • Sticks to socks
  • 5 pairs × 12

Foot heat packs that stick on top of your socks. Black, so they are less noticeable if you take your shoes off.

Why it helps in HokkaidoFor days of walking in snow or watching outdoor events, when your toes get cold. Black makes them less noticeable at restaurants where you remove your shoes.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

HOKKAIRO heat packs for shoes (15 pairs)
  • For feet
  • Goes in shoes
  • 15 pairs

Heat packs for your feet that go inside your shoes.

Why it helps in HokkaidoIf you would rather not stick packs on your socks, slip these into your shoes to warm your toes.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

⑩Other useful winter items

Why you need it in Hokkaido

Besides the basics, some small items make a real difference to comfort, such as protecting your ears on days without a hat, or dealing with dry winter air. Choose to suit your travel style.

What to look for

  • If you do not like hats, ear muffs at least protect your ears
  • Winter air in Hokkaido is dry, and heated rooms dry out too, so lip balm and hand cream are handy
  • Sunlit snowfields and ski slopes can be very bright, so sunglasses help

Recommended: Other useful winter items

GORGE fluffy ear muffs (cat ears)
  • Ear muffs
  • Faux fur
  • Women's

Fluffy ear muffs with a cute cat-ear design.

Why it helps in HokkaidoProtects your ears from cold wind on days you do not want to mess up your hair or wear a hat. They also look cute in photos.

Prices vary by shop. Please check the latest price, sizes and stock on Rakuten Ichiba.

FAQ: staying warm on a Hokkaido trip

Q. What should I wear for a winter trip to Hokkaido?

A. Start with thin, warm base layers and a windproof coat. Then protect your hands, head and neck with gloves, a hat and a neck warmer, and your feet with thick socks and winter shoes. Buildings are well heated, so layers that are easy to take off keep you comfortable.

Q. Do I need snow boots for a winter trip to Hokkaido?

A. If you plan to walk on snowy or icy roads, we recommend winter shoes with deep tread. If you bring your usual shoes, you can add slip-on traction devices. Any shoe can slip depending on the surface, so take small steps and walk slowly.

Q. Can I buy winter gear after arriving in Hokkaido?

A. Gloves, heat packs and simple traction devices are often sold at the airport and at shops in town. However, sizes and choices may be limited, and you often need to walk outside soon after arriving, so it is best to prepare the basics, such as shoes and a coat, before you leave.

Q. If I travel by taxi or car, do I still need to dress warmly?

A. The car is warm, but you will be outside when getting in and out and when moving around at sightseeing spots. You often have to walk from the parking lot to the facility or viewpoint, so we recommend gloves and a hat even on days you travel by car.

Q. Can I order these items from outside Japan?

A. Rakuten Ichiba is a Japanese online shopping site, and shops generally ship only to addresses in Japan. Product pages are in Japanese. If you want to have items delivered to your hotel in Japan, please check with the hotel beforehand.

Q. Why are prices not shown on this page?

A. On Rakuten Ichiba, prices and shipping costs vary by shop and can change during sales. Please check the latest price via each item's 「楽天市場で見る」 (View on Rakuten Ichiba) button.

Get around winter Hokkaido with MUTO TAXI

If you are not used to driving on snow, or worry about moving around with heavy luggage, consider a private charter taxi. Our drivers know winter roads well and will take you from New Chitose Airport to your hotel, ski resort or sightseeing spots.

Book a New Chitose Airport taxi / see fares