Saturday, July 28, 2007

Summertime in Hokkaido

Finally, a trip to Hokkaido in summer, totally different from the freezing, but nevertheless enchanting winter i spent in Akanko last year. What's more, we covered most of the major spots on the island, making us probably more well-travelled in the province then most of the Japanese themselves. It was'nt all that perfect though, given that some days were either rainy or cloudy coz of the class 4 typhoon approaching Japan, but all in all, it was still great, and certainly most special (I'll reveal more in a later post) to me. In the meantime, please enjoy the pics.



The spectacular night view makes any visit to Hakodate worthwhile



Canals are a dime a dozen in many places, but the one in Otaru is just plain charming



One day i'm going back for the Sapporo Snow festival



A view of Cape Gorota with Mt Rishiri in the background, one of the rewards of taking the splendid hikes in Rebun Island



With Asahidake looking in the background, the Alpine flowers flaunt their beauty



Asahidake with its reflection in one of the snow-melt pools



A sight to behold -The entire Daisetsuzan carpeted with alpine flowers



Neat rows of flowers in the ever-popular Farm Tomita, Furano



Romantic Sundown at Biei



Iconic trees and patchwork fields - a pastoral paradise



Rugged yet beautiful coastline of the Okhotsk Sea, Utoro



Outdoor bath in our amazing hotel overlooking the sea



Eluding me yet again, the mysterious Lake Mashu