A Journey to Japan: Memories from the Trip
9 Chome-1-1 Kita 7 Jonyshi, Higashi Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
삿포로 맥주 박물관
My journey to Hokkaido began with a late-night bus from Geoje Gohyeon to Incheon Airport, filled with a mix of anticipation and the quiet chill of December. This trip was particularly special because I saw a new side of my daughter; the girl who used to be passive was now confidently navigating departure gates and luggage check-ins. It was a comforting realization that she had grown into a reliable traveler, while I happily took the passenger seat.
Our winter exploration of Japan's northern island took us through the historic streets of Sapporo and the sulfurous depths of Noboribetsu. From fairy-tale parks to the stark beauty of Hell Valley, this trip was a collection of new sights, smooth beer tastings, and the unique, sometimes startling, cultural experiences that only travel can provide.
Cultural Landmarks: Sapporo Beer Museum and Shiroi Koibito Park
Our first stop was the Sapporo Beer Museum (삿포로 맥주 박물관). Even though I’m not a big drinker, the beautiful red brick building was a sight to behold. I took photos of the drinks I couldn't consume, though a tiny sip revealed a surprisingly smooth texture. The architecture and the surrounding trees created a dignified atmosphere that felt uniquely Sapporo.
We then moved on to Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park dedicated to Sapporo's most famous sweets. The area felt like stepping directly into a fairy tale. Surrounded by the winter snow, I couldn't help but wonder how these beautiful gardens would look when adorned with spring blossoms. It’s a place that captures the whimsical side of Hokkaido's culture.
The Steam of Noboribetsu: Hell Valley and Hot Springs
As the sun began to set around 4:30 PM, we arrived in Noboribetsu. The early darkness added a mysterious layer to Hell Valley (Jigokudani). By 4:50 PM, the valley was so dark it felt like midnight, but the unmistakable scent of sulfur reminded us that we were in one of Japan's top three hot spring regions. The steam rising from the earth was a powerful display of nature's heat in the middle of a cold winter.
After exploring the valley, we looked forward to our hotel stay. While the advertised "unlimited crab" buffet was a bit mediocre in taste, the anticipation of the famous hot springs kept our spirits high. However, the evening took a surprising turn when staff entered our room unexpectedly—a stark reminder of the different service customs in traditional Japanese inns.
Traditional Tatami Stays and Ryokan Etiquette
Our room featured traditional tatami flooring, with cozy futons tucked away in the wardrobe. As someone who manages accommodations myself, I found the room setup fascinating, though the unexpected intrusion by the staff left me a bit embarrassed. It's a unique aspect of ryokan culture where staff often enter to prepare bedding, though the timing this time was a bit startling!
Photo Gallery: Captured Moments from Hokkaido
Hokkaido in winter has a way of making everything feel a bit more magical, even with the small hiccups along the way. Have you ever been surprised by local customs while traveling in a foreign country, or perhaps experienced a sudden change in how you view your travel companions? I'd love to hear your stories, and if you're planning a trip to Sapporo soon, would you like me to find some local hidden gems for authentic crab dishes instead of the usual buffets?
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