THESE Romantic Destinations Makes Best Cruises for Couples!

BY  Sibashree May 17, 2025

Japan will have already exceeded the 10 million visitor mark by April 2025. The number is 10.54 million, specifically, as the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) data states.  JNTO had also stated earlier that 2024 was the year of the highest tourist footfall, with the number shooting up to 36.8 million.  Now, Tokyo, as the cultural, economic, and commercial epicentre of Japan, is, of course, experiencing the most tourism boom.  However, around 1300 km apart, Hokkaido also contributes to the country's tourism growth.  So, this time, we decided to make a Tokyo to Hokkaido journey, and our Tour and Travel blog has all the details as always! What Is The Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance? The distance between Tokyo and Hokkaido is 1,281.5 km. Traveling this distance by car takes around 20 hours.  However, taking a flight or a bullet train is the best option for traveling between these two destinations.  What Is A Good Month To Visit Hokkaido? Hokkaido is a year-round travel destination. However, the best times to visit are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Mild weather conditions and moderate rainfall make these months ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the nearby attractions.  Further, Spring or Sakura is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido and all parts of Japan. Similarly, Koyo, or the autumn foliage in yellow, orange, and red, makes Hokkaido look like a painting.  Again, the summer season in Hokkaido is pleasant and cooler than Japan's main island, and it is ideal for hiking and exploring the scenic flower fields. Also, in winter, Hokkaido has a lot of visitors for skiing and snowboarding.  Nevertheless, the table below provides a detailed idea of the weather conditions of Hokkaido by month.  MonthAverage Temperature (Degree Celsius)Rainfall (Inches)Hours of SunJanuary-958February-849March-3410April5212May121.915June181.715July20316August22514September165.812October94.811November34.610December-54.99 How Do I Go From Tokyo To Hokkaido? There are four ways to travel from Hokkaido to Tokyo. You can take a flight, Shinkansen bullet train, ferry or car.  Take A Tokyo To Hokkaido Flight Duration: 1.2-1.5 Hours Cost: 5500 Japanese Yen (One Way) Route: Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Sapporo Chitose Airport Best for: Quick Traveling If you want to reach Hokkaido from Tokyo in the blink of an eye, you can take a flight to Sapporo from Narita or Haneda Airport. These two airports are close to Tokyo Station.  Traveling In Tokyo To Hokkaido Bullet Train Duration: 7-7.5 Hours Cost: 26990 - 35860 Japanese Yen (for Adults) Route: Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Sapporo Station Best for: Exploring the Scenic View and Food Scene Taking the Tokyo to Hokkaido train is the way to cover the distance. The Shinkansen bullet train journey is long and expensive.  However, it is the best way to explore the attractions on the route.  Further, the train journey is divided into two stages.  Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Limited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo The first stage of the journey takes around 4-4.5 hours, and the second stage of the journey will take close to 3.5 hours.  Moreover, if you have plans to explore various parts of Japan by train, you can buy a JR or Japan Rail Pass for 50000 Japanese Yen. It remains valid for 7 days.  Ferry Ride From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-22 Hours Cost: 26990 - 12000 Japanese Yen Route: Tokyo to Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port to Sapporo Best for: Patrons of Slow Traveling Evening Ferry Timing: Departure - 7:45 PM, Arrival - 1:45 PM Next Day Night Ferry Timing: Departure - 1:45 AM, Arrival: 7:35 PM Next Day The journey from Tokyo to Hokkaido is divided into three stages.  First, you have to travel to Oarai Port from Tokyo Station after a train journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes.  Then, you will have to take the Sunflower Ferry from Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port. Finally, you will need to take a train ride or ride a car to reach Sapporo from Tomakomai Port. Road Trip From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-23 Hours Cost: 15000 Japanese Yen for Tolls, 15000-26000 Japanese Yen for Ferries, and Car Rental Route: Tokyo, Aomori City, Hakodate, Sapporo Best for: Travelers Willing to Explore the Tohoku Region and other Areas A car trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido is a lifetime experience. However, the journey also consists of various stages. Driving from Tokyo to Aomori City Ferry Ride from Aomori to Hakodate or Tomakomai Driving to Sapporo Tokyo To Hokkaido Journey: Places To Visit There are multiple places to visit during the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Let me briefly introduce these stopovers to you.  • Otaru Otaru basks in its unique charm as a port city. You will see historical canals and old warehouses here.  It also has many sushi bars if you want to try the best of Japanese flavors.  • Sapporo Sapporo has a palpable urban energy as the capital of the Hokkaido region. However, it is also the gateway to the Northeastern mountains.  • Hakodate It is a coastal city located at Hokkaido’s southwestern tip. It is often referred to as the gateway between Hokkaido and Honshu.  • Tohoku Region The Tohoku Region has historical attractions like Sendai. The Aomori prefecture is a cultural hub of the region.  However, for me, Kakunodate is the most fascinating place here. It is well-preserved, and this feudal town is home to Samurai residences.  • Shiretoko National Park Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful wildlife and pristine ambiance.  • Daisetsuzan National Park It is the largest national park in Hokkaido. With its diverse landscape and trails, it is a favorite of hikers.  Lake Toya, Nikko, Furano and Biei, and Lake Akan are other popular places to visit on the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Tokyo To Hokkaido: Where To Eat?  If you love ramen and soup curries, the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey will be the ultimate gastronomic delight. You cannot miss the seafood, grilled lamb, or Jingisukan.  Further, Aomori and Sendai will be your stopovers on the route. These cities in the Tohoku region are known for their regional delicacies such as Kiritanpo Hot Pot, Hachinohe Senbei Soup, and Kitakata Ramen.  See why we all prefer bullet train rides over flights! 😋😋😋😋😋😋 Further, once you reach Sapporo in Hokkaido, your choices will be as vivid as they can get.  Sapporo DelicaciesWhy So Special?Sapporo RamenThick noodlesRich brothDiverse in toppingsJingisukanSignature-style grilled lambTastes amazing with beerSoup CurryA flavor bomb with a fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. Fresh SeafoodSushiNemuro Hanamaru and other crab delicaciesSteak or YakinikuSignature Hokkaido-style grilled beefSweetsYogurts ParfaitMango Parfait Is Hokkaido Worth Visiting? Yes, Hokkaido is a place worth visiting. It is a melting pot of unique cultures, outdoor activities, and natural wonders. Also, Hokkaido has some real surprises for Murakami fans, and I will spill the beans if you are not already aware! First, have a look at the table below for a sneak peek into why Hokkaido is so popular among tourists. Reasons Why You Must Visit HokkaidoThe HighlightsCultural and Historical Experiences• Hakodate Historical Town• Onsen culture or hot spring experiences in Noboribetsu• Exploring the indigenous Ainu Culture at Lake AkanGastronomic delight• Fresh seafood at the Sapporo fish market• Trying Sapporo ramen, soup, and dairy products**• Exploring Ramen Alley or Ganso Ramen Yokocho in the Susukino nightlife area(It is the birthplace of miso ramen.)Exploring Wildlife• A visit to the Shiretoko National Park• Spotting bears, deer, and foxesDiverse Landscapes• Mountains such as Asahi-dake, Mount Rausu, etc. • Forest areas such as Mt. Daisetsu and the Hidaka Mountains• Hokkaido is home to 22% of the entire forest land in Japan. • Beaches in Hokkaido, such as Otsu Beach, Shimamui Beach and Aso Beach Ishikari• Volcanic areas such as the Akan Volcanic Complex, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and Daisetsuzan Volcanic GroupWinter Sports• Skiing• SnowboardingSummer Outdoor Activities• Biking• Hiking• Cycling ** Hokkaido is world-famous for its milk and dairy products. Hokkaido milk is creamy, rich, and full-bodied. It has been a favorite among chefs and connoisseurs since the 19th century after the western farming technique became popular in Japan.** Why Is Hokkaido A Murakami Lover’s Dream Destination? Have you heard of the Matsuyama Farm, located in the remote north of Hokkaido? It is an annual meeting ground for Murakami lovers from all corners of the world.  Further, Hokkaido is THE LOCATION of the Oscar-winning film Drive My Car. It was based on Haruki Murakami's stories.  Also, be it the Men Without Women story collection or the surreal novel A Wild Sheep Chase, Hokkaido has been an important element in Murakami’s work.  Moreover, prominent places mentioned in Murakami’s work are: Keio Plaza Hotel in Sapporo (the inspiration behind the Dolphin Hotel in Dance Dance Dance) Nakatonbetsu (the hometown of the young chauffeur in Drive My Car) Bifuka (the inspiration behind the town of Junitaki in A Wild Sheep Chase.  Also, Lake Shikotsu, despite not being directly related to the work of Murakami, is a place you cannot miss in Hokkaido. Is 3 Days Enough In Hokkaido? The second-largest island in Japan, Hokkaido, cannot be explored in three days. However, here, we have tried making a compressed itinerary if you are staying here for three days.  On the first day, you can tour Sapporo and visit places such as the Sapporo TV Tower, Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, and Moerenuma Park.  Further, on day 2, you can explore the history of Hokkaido by visiting coastal cities such as Otaru (known for its historic canals) and Otoyama Sake Brewery Museum. Also, don’t forget to try the seafood here. On day 3, you can enjoy the best of Hokkaido’s natural wonders such as Nopporo Forest Park, Lake Shikotsu, and Mount Tarumae.  Mount Tarumae is an active volcano and a popular hiking spot. On the other hand, Lake Shikotsu is the second-deepest lake in Japan.  Are you tired of exploring all the outdoor attractions in Hokkaido? Relax at hot springs such as Jozankei, Noboritbetsu, and Asahidake and enjoy the ultimate Japanese experience.  Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tokyo to Hokkaido distance. How Long Is The Bullet Train From Tokyo To Hokkaido? The Hayabusa Shinkansen is the fastest bullet train running from Tokyo to Hokkaido. This journey from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes. You can book a reserved seat at 26990 Japanese Yen or a Green Seat for 35860 Japanese Yen (for adults). Is It Better To Fly Or Train From Tokyo To Sapporo? If you want to travel quickly, you must take a Tokyo to Sapporo flight, which will take around 1 hour and 35 minutes. New Chitose Airport near Sapporo serves as the key entry point. On the other hand, if you want a more scenic experience, you can take a two-stage train journey.Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-HokutoLimited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to SapporoThe total journey will take around 7.5 hours. How Long Is A Flight From Tokyo to Hokkaido? The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo in Hokkaido takes from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. It is one of the busiest air routes in the world, and hence, you will get many flight options. 

BY  Barsha Feb 8, 2023

So you are craving some Ethiopian food. And you are thinking about checking out some Ethiopian restaurants near you. But there the problem arises - if you have never tried out Ethiopian cuisine, then this could prove to be a sad experience if you choose the wrong restaurant. This is exactly why we decided to checkout some of the best Ethiopian restaurants in Los Angeles. And guess what? It was a great day, and we had a fantastic time tasting delicious Ethiopian food. Simply scroll down and checkout all the top places to eat Ethiopian food in Los Angeles! Top 7 Ethiopian Restaurants In Los Angeles - Complete Guide Here we are, ready with the top Ethiopian restaurants in Los Angeles, and you are stills searching for ‘Ethiopian food Los Angeles’ on search engines like you were looking for Peruvian food recently? Stop right now! Instead, just save this article for now and scroll down to find out which are the best places to eat Ethiopian food - so chill out and scroll down! 1. Messob Ethiopian Restaurant: Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Messob is literally LA’s answer to the ‘little Ethiopia restaurant’ search query. The place has great reviews both from their usual guests and even from people who have visited the place to try out Ethiopian cuisine for the first time. Plus, we loved the food here! Review By Mitch Kling: Please, please come here. Getahun is so sweet and welcoming, please don’t let your inexperience scare you. You will be welcomed wholeheartedly with smiles and amazing service. The love and pride this restaurant has for its food and culture are mouth-wateringly palpable in every bite. I am so happy with everything we had. Get the honey wine made in-house. Try some Ethiopian beers. 2. Rosalind's: Image Source: go.sodere.com One of our favorite Ethiopian restaurants in Los Angeles has to be Rosalind’s - the food is delicious, and more importantly, it’s a spacious restaurant. Since we were a group of people, the place was perfect for us - what a beautiful group-friendly restaurant, just like the ones in Vegas! Review By Jackie Martinez: This was my first time trying Ethiopian food, and I loved it! My partner and I got the vegan goodness combo (which comes with collard greens, green beans, and lentils) and one beef dish. It was the perfect shareable portion. The Injera was super tasty and had a nice yeasty sourdough flavor that paired nicely with the meat and veggies. I loved how aromatic, spicy, and tangy the food was. Lots of amazing and bold flavors. 3. Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine: Image Source: images.ctfassets.net Delicious Ethiopian stews, spongy bread, and tasty vegan combos - that’s exactly the kind of thing we were looking for when we came across Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine. If you are looking for an Ethiopia restaurant that serves vegan food, then this is your option. Review By Gaya D: If you like delicious healthy food, Rahel cannot be missed! I've been coming here for 8 years, and the quality has remained consistently high. The food is always amazingly tasty and lovingly prepared. The restaurant employees are kind and attentive. I always look forward to my visits here. Make sure to get a platter to share, so you can try everything! 4. Lucy Ethiopian restaurant: Image Source: d1ralsognjng37.cloudfront.net Another one of our favorite Ethiopian restaurants in Los Angeles has to be Lucy Ethiopian restaurant! It’s a simple restaurant serving great Ethiopian food - so delicious and packed with flavors. In short, we loved this restaurant! Review By Linda Torres: Came here for a date night. Unfortunately, they were an hour from closing, but they still served us. They gave us our food in to-go plates conveniently. The tea was delicious, we had the veggie platter and a side of lamb in a red sauce. Wish I had taken pictures and written down the names of the dishes. It was delicious!!! We’ll be returning for the ritual coffee!! Can’t wait!! 5. Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market: Image Source: lh3.googleusercontent.com Please don’t type in ‘restaurants Ethiopian’ and end up getting confused about all the search results you will get. Instead, just go to Buna Ethiopian Restaurant & Market. You will find everything here - from imported groceries to traditional Ethiopian food, which you won’t be able to regret. Review By Ash: Found out about this place on Reddit— it’s a small, modest little restaurant in the back of a little Ethiopian store that sells spices and carvings, etc. The food was exceptional— I got the garlic salted trout, and my husband got the vegetable platter. So much flavor and these plates were mild in terms of spicy heat. Would 100% return back. 6. Azla Ethiopian Eatery: Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Come on, you really don’t need to search ‘Ethiopia restaurant near me’ - just go to Azla Ethiopian Eatery, especially if you are in search of vegan options. Also, the restaurant has crazy reviews when you think about it - and we agree too, the food’s great! Review By Jonathan Neal: OMG, I just ate here for the first time. So delicious. I got potato curry, pea curry, sweet potatoes, and rice, all for $10! It’s love at first bite for me! Healthy and tasty and vegan and good-sized portions. Did I say that I’m in love? Wow! I love discoveries like this. I just finished dinner, and I already can’t wait to come back ? 7. Lalibela: Image Source: d1ralsognjng37.cloudfront.net Honestly, we loved Lalibela! Lalibela is one of those Ethiopian restaurants in LA that serve great food, and more importantly, they have this coffee ceremony which is so cool. We are definitely going back to this crazy restaurant - you should check this place out as well! Review By Brandy Duong: My first time trying Ethiopian food. My cousin is a vegetarian, so this was a wonderful meal, but since I mainly tried the veggie utopia, I wished I had ordered a meatier option. The veggie utopia was aesthetically pleasing and also quite tasty, especially their lentils and carrot potatoes. The street gets busy, and parking can be quite hard to find. And It’s A Wrap! And that’s a wrap on all the top Ethiopian places to eat in Los Angeles. So instead of typing out search queries like ‘Ethiopian restaurants near me’ on Google, just save this article. And trust us, you won’t regret it! Also, one last thing before we bid adieu for now - don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences about these Ethiopian restaurants in the comments below. Read Also: Top 12 Perdido Key Restaurants – Reviews & Budget 10 Best Restaurants On Sanibel Island – Tour And Travel Guide Best Asian Restaurants In Florida – A Must Visit For Food Lovers

BY  Nabamita Nov 25, 2023

With its charming winter landscapes and bustling cities, the East Coast beckons with an allure that demands style and practicality. As we embark on a journey to these picturesque destinations, let's explore the art of layered luxury – a fusion of fashion and function that keeps you warm while ensuring you look impeccable in every winter snapshot. Embracing East Coast Style East Coast cities have a distinct fashion culture, blending classic sophistication with an urban flair. Winter in this region is not just about staying warm; it's an opportunity to showcase your style amidst snow-covered streets and historic architecture. The East Coast winter wardrobe carefully balances timeless pieces and on-trend accents, setting the stage for the layered luxury we're about to explore. Understanding Layered Luxury Layering is not just a necessity; it's a fashion statement. The art of layering combines different clothing pieces to create a stylish yet functional ensemble. Imagine seamlessly blending a base, insulating, and outer layer topped off with chic accessories – a winter-ready masterpiece. What does each layer include? Keep reading to find out! Base Layer Begin your journey with a foundation that embraces and luxuriates in the cocoon of comfort and warmth. Prioritize fabrics beyond merely insulating; opt for the indulgence of moisture-wicking materials such as the exquisite merino wool or cutting-edge high-tech fabrics designed to keep you warm and dry in the face of unpredictable winter elements.  Your base layers for the East Coast adventure should include thermal tops and leggings, the undisputed champions of snug beginnings. These pieces form the cornerstone of your layered luxury ensemble, ensuring your comfort is paramount as you explore the East Coast's charming streets and scenic landscapes. Insulating Layer Transform your winter wardrobe into a masterpiece by skillfully incorporating an insulating layer that provides warmth and elevates your style to new heights. Picture the cozy embrace of chunky knit sweaters, each stitch a testament to the craftsmanship that intertwines fashion and comfort. Envelop yourself in the soft luxury of fleece-lined jackets, where every touch reminds you that winter can be both cozy and chic. Few brands match The Row's timeless elegance and quality craftsmanship when delving into investment pieces. Their selection of insulating pieces transcends mere function, becoming a statement of refined taste and sartorial excellence.  Picture yourself draped in The Row's chunky knit sweater, the epitome of understated luxury, or wrapped in their fleece-lined jacket, a testament to the brand's commitment to warmth and style. These investment pieces from The Row seamlessly integrate into your winter wardrobe, becoming not just clothing items but expressions of your discerning fashion sensibilities. Outer Layer Your outer layer stands as the frontline defense against the whims of winter, a vital shield ensuring you remain impervious to the elements. Elevate your winter wardrobe by investing in a coat that not only exudes style but also boasts a formidable combination of waterproof and windproof features. Picture yourself adorned in a stylish parka, its sleek design concealing a robust protective layer that wards off rain and wind with finesse.  Alternatively, opt for the timeless elegance of a tailored wool coat, wrapping yourself in a cocoon of warmth without compromising on fashion. For a classic touch, consider the enduring charm of a trench coat, a versatile option that seamlessly marries both fashion and function. As you navigate the streets of the East Coast, let your outer layer be a statement of resilience and refinement, a testament to your ability to brave the winter elements with unparalleled sophistication. Accessories No winter ensemble is complete without the perfect accessories. Envelop yourself in the sumptuous warmth of a luxurious scarf, not only a style statement but a practical necessity, warding off the chill that winter breathes. Slide your hands into insulated gloves, each finger wrapped in snug comfort, creating a barrier against the biting cold.  Crown your winter look with a fashionable hat, a sartorial choice that adds flair and protects you from the elements. Accessories, in their duality of fashion and function, are the pièce de résistance of your winter wardrobe, elevating your ensemble from ordinary to extraordinary. City-Specific Considerations As mentioned, the East Coast is home to picturesque cities and landscapes that attract visitors yearly, especially during the wintertime. Some of the most beloved places to visit include Vermont and New Hampshire. When visiting either of these locations during the winter months, there are a few winter wardrobe considerations to keep in mind when packing your bags for your trip away. For instance, with Vermont, Vermont's winter is known for its biting cold, requiring a wardrobe that can withstand the harshest temperatures. Consider thicker insulating layers and durable outerwear. Local fashion trends often incorporate rustic elements, allowing you to blend seamlessly with the scenic surroundings. Whereas New Hampshire, with its mix of mountains and cityscapes, demands versatility in your winter wardrobe. A combination of casual and sophisticated pieces will serve you well. As you embark on your East Coast winter getaway, remember that layering is not just a functional necessity; it's a form of self-expression. Embrace the layered luxury lifestyle by combining practicality with style, creating a winter wardrobe that captivates and protects. Pack wisely, layer thoughtfully, and make every winter moment a stylish statement. Your East Coast adventure awaits – wrapped in layers of luxury. Read Also: 6 Clever Tricks To Save On Extra Baggage Fees For Your Next Flight A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight! The Ultimate Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Chicago Using Google Flights Momondo Flights: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Flights In 2023?