August is Japan's hottest and most humid month, but Hokkaido offers a perfect escape with its cool summer climate.
Like July, Hokkaido's August is warm with average temperatures of 22°C (72°F). Having more sunny days and warm weather, Hokkaido in August is perfect for outdoor fun and families' summer vacation.
Hokkaido's Weather and Climate in August
- Average Temperature: 22°C (72°F)
- Daytime Highs: 26°C (79°F)
- Nighttime Lows: 19°C (67°F)
- Rainfall: 156mm/ 6.14″
Hokkaido's summer reaches its peak in August, with warm days and increasing humidity.
Slightly warmer than July, daytime highs in August typically are around 26°C (79°F), and hardly rise above 30°C (86°F), which is still perfect for outdoor activities and exploring.
As the sun sets, the temperature drops to 19°C (67°F), so it's always a good idea to bring a light jacket with you for cooler evening breezes.
Will the Typhoon Affect Hokkaido in August?
Typhoons usually hit Japan from May to October, but barely affect Hokkaido due to its northernmost location.
You may encounter more showers during those days, which could hardly disturb your itinerary since rain rarely lasts more than a few hours. Still, there is a chance that your flights get delayed or canceled due to typhoons. Remember to check out the typhoon news for the latest updates, or travel with Japan Highlights for real-time typhoon updates and backup plans.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Hokkaido?
Stunning Flower Fields in Hokkaido, JapanAbsolutely! Not like the hot and humid summer in other parts of Japan, August offers sunny skies and cool breezes, which is perfect for outdoor fun.
However, August is also during the Obon festival (from August 13th to 16th), and Japanese school vacations (extended until August 21st to 30th), making August a popular travel period.
In August, popular spots like Furano, Biei, and Sapporo see higher tourist traffic. To ensure a smooth and stress-free trip, it's highly recommended to secure your bookings at least three months in advance.
Where to Go in August in Hokkaido
1. Sapporo
Sapporo Clock Tower in Summer, Hokkaido, Japan- Suggest schedule time: 2–3 days
Sapporo in August blends mild weather (17–25°C / 63–77°F) with vibrant festivals. Explore the Sapporo Clock Tower, shop at the Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, and indulge in fresh seafood at Nijo Market —a haven for crab and uni lovers.
If your trip falls before August 16th, 2025, don't miss the Sapporo Summer Festival at Odori Park, where beer gardens, live music, and night illuminations create an unforgettable atmosphere.
2. Furano
Lavender Fields of Tomita Farm in Summer, Hokkaido, Japan- Suggest schedule time: 1 day
August is one of the best times to visit Furano for its lavender fields and farms. Farm Tomita in Nakafurano Town stands out as a top attraction, offering immersive floral experiences and photo opportunities.
Noticed that lavenders usually peak before mid-August, but even post-bloom, you can still enjoy lavender-flavor ice cream and drinks at farm cafes.
3. Biei
Panorama View from Unkai Terrace in Summer, Hokkaido, Japan- Suggest schedule time: 1 day
Biei's Shikisai-no-Oka is especially popular in August for its full-blooming flowers across rolling hills. Explore the Shirogane Blue Pond surrounded by lush forest, which captivates visitors with its mineral-rich azure waters.
The Unkai Terrace is also perfect for seeing clouds rolling beneath your feet when you walk on the Cloud Walk observation deck. Then you could cool down with Hokkaido milk-based soft-serve ice cream and other cloud-themed sweets.
4. Shikotsu-Toya National Park
Lake toya in Toyoko town, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Hokkaido Japan- Suggest schedule time: 1–2 days
With pleasant weather and sunny days in August, you could have a good time in Shikotsu-Toya National Park for outdoor fun. Kayak on Lake Toya with your family, hike along the shady lake-side trails, and soak in Noboribetsu's hot springs to experience authentic Japanese culture.
5. Shiretoko Peninsula
Shiretoko National Park in Summer, Hokkaido, Japan- Suggest schedule time: 2 days
The Shiretoko Peninsula is Hokkaido's farthest eastern promontory, and a world heritage site perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.
Hiking the Shiretoko Goko Lakes Trail remains the most popular activity, with its family-friendly wooden boardwalks and coastal vistas. August's mild weather makes this trail particularly enjoyable, while its forested paths increase chances of spotting wildlife like deer, foxes, or brown bears.
6. Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido, Japan- Suggest schedule time: 1–2 days
For outdoor enthusiasts, August is ideal for exploring the high-elevation area of Daisetsuzan National Park. With snowmelt revealing accessible paths, you could explore the park easily for wildflowers, waterfalls, and witness panoramic vistas of Hokkaido's highest peak, Mount Asahidake—views often reserved for those willing to venture deep.
Top Things to Do in August in Hokkaido
Hokkaido in August showing its lushest, with sunny days and warm weather.
It becomes a refreshing escape from other parts of Japan with humid and sweltering weather. Outdoor activities or summer festivals offer equally unforgettable experiences.
1. Appreciate Colorful Flower Fields
Flowers Fields at Summer Sunny Dayat Farm Tomita in Furano, Hokkaido, Japan- Must visit: Furano & Biei
August in Hokkaido blooms with colorful flower fields. Though lavender fields only last until mid-August, you could still enjoy later blooms like Nemophila and sunflowers paint Furano and Biei's hillsides. What's more, you could savor seasonal treats from farms to make up your summer vacation, such as lavender-flavored milk ice cream, lavender tea, and white wine.
2. Embark on Outdoor Adventures
Deers in Forest in Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido, Japan- For first-timers: Shikotsu-Toya National Park
- For hiking enthusiasts: Daisetsuzan National Park, Shiretoko Peninsula
August's pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities, especially for family-friendly adventures during school summer holidays.
In Shikotsu-Toya National Park, you could kayak on Lake Toya's glassy waters with your family, hike shaded lakeside trails, or soak in Noboribetsu's hot springs to experience authentic Japanese culture.
If you are planning a trip including Furano or Biei, and longing for some hiking experience, Daisetsuzan National Park is a good choice. As Japan's largest national park, it offers well-marked trails through alpine meadows and volcanic peaks to suit your needs.
For a trip in-depth and nature lovers, embark on an adventure into Shiretoko Peninsula. Get ready for an encounter with wildlife, hike through volcanic landscapes, and admire awe-inspiring nature wonders.
3. Attend Vibrant Summer Festivals
Vibrant Summer Festival in Hokkaido, JapanIf your travel plan falls between July 18th to August 16th in 2025, don't miss the Sapporo Summer Festival in Odori Park. With its lively beer gardens, food stalls, and festive atmosphere, it's the perfect way to celebrate the spirit of summer.
For a deeper cultural experience, head to Mikasa City, just an hour's drive from Sapporo, for the Hokkai-bon-odori Festival (August 13th - 15th, 2025). Join locals in traditional Bon Odori dances and songs, and stay for the grand finale—a breathtaking fireworks display lighting up the summer sky.
Crowds and Costs in Hokkaido in August
August is one of the best times to visit Hokkaido, and also a peak time for spending a cozy summer vacation.
From early to mid-August, it would be very crowded due to the peak lavender season and Obon festival (August 13th - 16th, 2025). So you could expect higher prices and fewer hotel choices without reserving in advance.
As the Japanese school summer vacations end in late August, large summer crowds in the main attractions would gradually be gone. You could enjoy a lower discount during this time, but don't expect much until September arrives.
What to Pack and Wear in Hokkaido in August
Hokkaido in August is warm enough to wear light layers (shirts and a light jacket) for daytime and cooler evenings. If you plan to hike and explore nature, bring your usual comfortable shoes for a long time walking.
Sunny days are common in August and UV levels are high in Hokkaido. Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen would be needed. You could encounter sudden heavy showers during your outdoor time, so a compact umbrella could always come in handy.
FAQs About Trip to Hokkaido in August
Does It Rain a Lot in Hokkaido in August?
Hokkaido does not have a distinct rainy season.
In August, you could expect occasional heavy rains, which normally would not disturb your itinerary, and more sunny days than in July. Bring an umbrella or waterproof gear with you the cope with the situation.
How's the Weather in Hokkaido Compared to Tokyo in August?
When Tokyo is under the hot and humid weather averaging 25–30°C (77–86°F), Hokkaido offers a refreshing escape from Tokyo's summer heat.
Hokkaido's average temperatures in August are typically around 20–25°C (68–77°F) with dry and sunny days, perfect for outdoor fun and sightseeing.
Can I See Lavender Fields in Furano in August 2025?
Lavender Flowers in Furano, Hokkaido, JapanIt depends on when you plan to visit Furano.
Furano's lavender typically peaks from mid-July to early August. In 2025, lavender blooms may fade earlier due to global warming, but there is a big chance to appreciate late varieties at Farm Tomita in early August.
For those who travel to Furano in mid-August or later, they could still explore other seasonal flowers and enjoy some lavender-themed treats.
Let Us Help You Plan Your 2025/2026 Trip
Are you expecting to travel to Hokkaido in 2025/2026? See below for some of our most popular tour itineraries that include Hokkaido:
- 8-Day Hokkaido Summer Vacation
- 9-Day Best of Japan's Winter
- 14-Day Japan Highlights and Skiing in Hokkaido
Contact us and we'll help you to plan your Japan itinerary based on your personal preferences.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Japan Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.