Probably best known for its eponymous beer, Sapporo—the capital of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island—has maintained the youthful and open atmosphere of the 1972 Olympic Winter Games, drawing international visitors for its annual Snow Festival and its world-famous ramen. Those seeking out the full diversity of Japanese cuisine will want to visit: a city with a ramen-inspired theme park is one that embraces and pampers foodies.

Even if you can't be in Hakodate to see the cherry blossoms in May, you'll fall in love with the sunset views from Mount Hakodate. Surrounded by the ocean, it's no wonder Hakodate is known for fresh seafood. If you're up early, have domburi for breakfast at a restaurant in the Morning Market by Hakodate Station.

Once the flourishing trade center of colonial Hokkaido, Otaru is characterized by its canal lined with old western-style warehouses. Today, the canal still bustles, but now it’s travelers as opposed to merchants who frequent the waterway; and the stone buildings that once stored goods now harbor museums, stores, and trendy eateries.