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Why Choose Hokkaido?
For Taiwanese cyclists, Hokkaido offers several incomparable advantages:
- Cool Summers: Average temperatures of 20-25°C in July-August, far more comfortable than Taiwanese summers
- Spectacular Scenery: Lavender fields, wheat fields, volcanic lakes—a landscape completely different from Taiwan
- Convenient Access: Direct flights from Taipei to New Chitose Airport take about 4 hours
- Cycling-Friendly: Wide roads with complete cycling facilities
- Rich Cuisine: Seafood, dairy products, ramen—your ride refueling will definitely be satisfying
Main Cycling Routes
Route 1: Biei·Furano (Most Popular)
Route: Bibaushi Station → Biei → Shikisai-no-Oka → Furano
| Item | Data |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approx. 40-60K |
| Elevation Gain | Approx. 300-500m |
| Difficulty | ★★★ |
| Best Season | July (lavender in full bloom) |
Highlights:
- Furano Lavender: The world’s most famous lavender fields
- Biei Hills: Rolling colored farmland like a painting
- Shikisai-no-Oka: Flower fields in different colors each season
Route 2: Eastern Hokkaido Loop (Advanced)
Route: Obihiro → Kushiro → Shiretoko → Abashiri → Obihiro
| Item | Data |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approx. 400-600K |
| Duration | 5-7 days |
| Difficulty | ★★★★ |
| Best Season | August |
Highlights:
- Shiretoko Peninsula: A World Heritage site where brown bears roam
- Lake Mashu: Japan’s clearest lake
- Cape Nosappu: Japan’s easternmost point
Route 3: Lake Toya·Hakodate (Southern)
Route: Hakodate → Onuma Quasi-National Park → Lake Toya
| Distance | Approx. 150K |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Difficulty | ★★★ |
Highlights:
- Hakodate Night View: One of Japan’s three great night views
- Lake Toya: A volcanic crater lake
- Jigokudani: Noboribetsu hot springs
Options for Bringing Your Bike
Flying with a Bicycle:
- Need to confirm airline regulations in advance
- Generally requires packing (bike bag)
- Additional fees approximately NT$1,500-5,000
Renting a Bike in Japan:
- Road bike rental shops available near New Chitose Airport
- Carbon road bike rental: approximately NT$2,000-4,000/day
- Suitable for short-term travelers
Pre-Trip Preparation
| Preparation Item | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Visa | Visa-free for Taiwanese passport holders |
| Language | Basic Japanese or translation app |
| Insurance | Purchase travel insurance (including cycling coverage) |
| Accommodation | Book early during peak travel season |
| Supplies | 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are everywhere |
Challenges of Cycling in Hokkaido
- Traffic Rules: Ride on the left (opposite of Taiwan!)
- Bear Encounters: Brown bears may appear on mountain bike trails—carry a bear bell
- Weather Changes: It can suddenly turn cold even in summer
- Road Distances: Supply points are much farther apart than in Taiwan
Budget Estimate
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip Flights | NT$10,000-20,000 |
| Accommodation x7 nights | NT$15,000-25,000 |
| Bike Rental | NT$14,000-28,000 |
| Food | NT$7,000-14,000 |
| Transportation | NT$3,000-8,000 |
| Total | NT$49,000-95,000 |
Hokkaido is a cycling trip worth planning—the vast land, crisp air, and unique scenery will leave you with unforgettable riding memories.
Related Reading
- Complete Guide to Cycling in Hokkaido, Japan: Riding Through Lavender Fields and Plains
- A Cycling Dream in Hokkaido: A Romantic Journey Pedaling Between Lavender and Snowy Mountains
- The Complete Guide to Cycling Tourism in Taiwan: East Coast Route and Sun Moon Lake Loop
- Summer Mountain Cycling in Taiwan: Cool Routes Through Lishan and Fushoushan