If you are planning to visit Mexico City, you have to prepare a list of things to do in Mexico City! Do you ever wonder why the city is so nostalgic and creates melancholia? It is a home of art galleries, overwhelming museums, and a haven for architecture lovers! Read the article to learn more.
Mexico City is an exciting place to be, especially if you enjoy museums with some of the world’s oldest and largest museums. It is a perfect place to be if you want to play tourist for a while!
It has been the capital of New Spain for almost 300 years now, and it is filled with ancient ruins representing an absolute sanctum for history! With sprawling mansions and several world heritage sites, you cannot keep this beauty from your bucket list.
These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City For You
Before we identify the exciting and interesting things you can do while visiting Mexico City, I want to bring to your attention that Mexico City was once called the City of Palaces.
It is also perfect for those who are attracted to a place’s local flavor when traveling! So as a tourist, you must integrate yourself with the delicious food, an electric combination of visiting architectural masterpieces, local villages, markets, and history.
The cultural diversity in Mexico City is incomparable to any in the world. Hence, it is a beautiful travel destination with chaotic yet picturesque views. With historical UNESCO sites around and inside the city, trust me; you will be busy with your visit!
Chapultepec Castle
This castle is mostly a part of tours organized almost daily! The Chapultepec Castle and the National Museum of Anthropology can initially seem intimidating, and you can easily get overwhelmed when you first visit.
However, it is one of the top attractions that is engaging and enjoyable. You can stroll in the Chapultepec Park adjoining the castle and then go inside it to be informed about its features by a guide.
The castle is more like a museum that displays significant artifacts such as Mayan, Mexico, and Teotihuacan exhibits. The castle is open for 5 to 6 hours, and you can get mobile tickets for $90 per head, while entry is free for students with IDs, disabled people, children, and senior citizens.
Bosque De Chapultepec
In Mexico City, Bosque De Chapultepec is one of the largest parks, comprising 686 hectares. The park also has a rock formation located centrally called Chapultepec Hill, one of the park’s main attractions.
It is also considered an ecological space that effectively helps maintain an environmental balance along with the city’s cultural aspects. When you buy tickets for the castle, the park becomes accessible; hence, you do not need to purchase tickets separately for the park.
Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec
One of the 4 zoos in Mexico City, Parque Zoológico De Chapultepec is one of the best. The Zoo is a part of Chapultepec Park and was inaugurated in 1923. The Zoo is free to access, and there are many families along with their children to enjoy themselves.
It is spread across 42 acres, with annual visitors of 5.5 million. They have a collection of 250 species and a total of 1930 animals in the Zoo.
Museo Nacional De Antropologia
It is considered the national museum of Spain as it displays artifacts from multiple civilizations and includes pre-Columbian history. This museum is so big and expands to cover so many periods that it can be exhausting for visitors.
It is the most popular museum in Mexico, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the displays in detail. The tickets to enter the museum are $4 per person. The time to visit is from 9 am to 5 pm from Tuesday to Sunday!
Free tours are available on Saturdays in 5 different time durations. They are:
10:30 am.
12:30 pm.
1:30 pm.
3 pm.
5 pm.
Also, if you are a foreigner visiting the museum, avoid Sundays. On that day, the natives receive free admission. Hence, there will be a crowd in the museum.
Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe
The Basilica De Santa Maria De Guadalupe is a mammoth church that is also addressed as the country’s national shrine. It is considered a significant pilgrimage site for the Catholics from 1709 because it contains the famous cloak displaying the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
The church acts as a shrine, and you must be respectful when you visit it, so try to avoid wearing workout clothing or shorts. The tickets to enter the church are 50 cents per head, and it also allows free cancellation.
Coyoacan
Are you on a vacation in Mexico city? Please visit Coyoacan, you will get a feeling of bohemian culture all around you, while a park sits centrally named Jardin Centenario Park. The village can be addressed as a collection of monuments presenting history.
The meaning of the name “Coyoacan” is a place for coyotes. It is a bohemian neighborhood with the Museo de Frida Kahlo, which is blue in color, where you can see a collection of her life and work. Also, there is the preserved home of Leon Trotsky, which you can visit.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the village. However, there are art galleries, sidewalk cafes, and colorful artisan markets that you will love to explore!
Museo Soumaya
Another classic museum that is privately owned, Museo Soumaya, is a non-profit organization with two buildings, Plaza Loreto and Plaza Carso. The time to visit the museum is between 10:30 and 6:30 every day, with free admission.
The architect is Fernando Romero, and the museum’s collection includes artwork and artifacts between the 15th and mid-2th centuries. It is one of the world’s largest museums which houses approximately 70,000 works.
Zocalo
Want to experience the culture of Mexico, you should visit the Zocalo or the Plaza de la Constitución, which is one of the most popular sports in the city. It is a historical public plaza that is quite large and is always alive and buzzing. This is one of the best things to do in Mexico city!
You can find Aztec dancers and performers who showcase traditional skills, integrate cultural performances, and also perform political demonstrations. It is shaped as a square with a sprawling place to host the performances. Admission is completely free!
Landmarks and beautiful architecture surround the place, such as the Temple Mayor and Palacio Bellas Artes! You can start your exploration of the city from here, integrating a historical location that represents the culture.
Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México
One of the significant monuments, Catedral Metropolitana De La Ciudad De México, is the largest church in Latin America, more dominating than the Zocalo. It is an iconic structure with a must-see!
A feast to the eyes, the church is as innovative and inquisitive as regards the use of Aztec stones used in construction. The Altar de person is elaborately gilded and carved and is an eye-catcher! There is also a dusky Christ figure called the Senor del Veneno on the right.
The cathedral is an artistic delight because of its intricate carvings and 17th-century wooden designs. The ticket prices are $34.99 per head. You can roam around freely; however, people are asked to respect it during mass.
National Palace
The National Palace has served as the official residence of the president of Mexico since 2018. It is also the seat of the federal executive in Mexico. It is one of Mexico City attractions!
The palace is beautifully designed, and the ticket to visit the grounds will cost around $29. You will face grand colonial architecture that you can’t stop but admire. It is also a symbol of the national history of Spain.
Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución
The Mexican Revolution is being commemorated by Monumento Y Museo De La Revolución, which is located in the Plaza de la Republica. The entry fee is $15, while you can also take a bus tour that will take you around the building and guide you through the historical representation.
Torre Latino
A skyscraper in downtown Mexico City, the Torre Latinoamericana is centrally located and considered one of the most important landmarks in history. It was launched on 30 April 1956, and the architect of the building was Augusto H. Alvarez.
The building has 44 stories with a height of 166 meters and is quite popular because it has been successfully developed in a seismic zone. The building is open from 10 am to 9 pm, and the tickets cost $9.
You will find an aquarium in the building, considered the highest aquarium in the world, along with observation decks designed to enjoy the spectacular view of the city. The aquarium is located on the 38th floor.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos
A one of its kind library, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is considered one of the biggest by the Mexican press. It is located in the downtown section of Mexico City. The presidential candidate and the prior president of the National Library of Mexico, Jose Vasconcelos, has inspired this library.
The library was inaugurated in 2006, and with advanced constructions, the library has become an attraction in the 21st century. Entry to the library is free; however, they have certain rules regarding using and accessing the books.
Mercado Roma
It is a multi-level food hall chic in its updo sporting a rooftop beer garden and international eateries. You can have delivery, takeaway, and dine-in here! It is a traditional yet modern take on indie gourmet snacks featuring all the upcoming chefs of the city.
There is no entry fee, but you will spend a lot because the food is delicious! For all you Instagrammers, take advantage of this place because where else would you get pictures thus sumptuous?
El Bazar Sabado
A marketplace with vibrant colors and options is open from morning 10 to evening 7 p.m. It boasts a collection of top traditional Mexican arts, crafts and local artists who display their art for you to buy!
Guys and girls, you will spend a lot of money here, especially with the beautiful clothing items and home decor. You will also get food in stalls in 18th-century homes or mansions belonging to aristocratic residents.
Acuario Inbursa
One of the largest aquariums in Latin America, with more than 230 diverse species and more than 5000 animals. The aquarium is in the district of Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City. Imagine the beauty of the aquarium while standing below these beauties!
The exhibition space comprises 3500 square meters with approximately 1.6 million liters of Ocean water. The display comprises 5 types of sharks, barracuda, and manta rays. One ticket to enter the aquarium costs $230.
Antara Fashion Hall
The mall is an attraction with an upscale view of the stores in the open-air shopping center in Colonia Granada, Mexico City. There are beautiful displays along which you can carry on your shopping excursion.
Women love shopping, don’t they? Guys, if you do not accompany your girls to this shopping mall, you will miss out big time. With beautiful clothing stores and food restaurants, it is the place to be in Mexico City!
Plaza San Jacinto
Another remarkable public place to visit, perfect for spending time, taking a stroll, or visiting the San Jacinto Church, Plaza San Jacinto is the public square! You can also visit the pre-Hispanic village of Tenanitla, a perfect place to experience bohemian culture.
The Plaza is the apt place to understand the culture of Mexico and experience the way art, baroque, and sculptures come together to create vibrancy and medieval beauty!
Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan
Located closer to the Pyramid Sun at its southern end, Museo De Sitio Teotihuacan symbolizes Teotihuacan’s local culture. It is a refreshing stop, especially if you have been walking around the whole day!
The ticket price to visit the museum is $73.55, where you will find traditions, history, and experience. It is one of the significant features, especially because Teotihuacan boasts of palaces, ruins of apartments, temples, and pyramids.
Ballet Folklorico De Mexico
If you have gone to Mexico City, you must attend this beautiful performance, especially with the impressive performance of the Mexican folkloric ensemble! Ballet performances have been going on for the past 6 decades.
There are costumes and dance numbers presented in the traditional performance by Mexican artists! The ticket price for the ballet is approximately $40.
San Angel
If you are more of a cultural fellow, you have to go to San Angel, a neighborhood in Mexico which is charming to its core! You can go right in your pictures with the colonial homes covered in bougainvillea.
The streets are cobblestone, with upscale restaurants and cafes on the sidewalks. This route connects you to the 17th-century El Carmen Monastery and the Plaza San Jacinto, so get some history and culture!
There are also art markets on the roadside on Saturday, creating a perfect view for the hungry artist in you!
Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco
A mesmerizing place to be, Floating Gardens Of Xochimilco has been announced as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the canals, which spread across 100 square miles.
The place is a mixture of culture and nature where the open-air gondolas float while the whole market is established on the gondolas. Flower, food, and beverage sellers are all carrying on in the gondolas.
Mariachi musicians play traditional songs, and you can party in nearby boats with your friends and family while drinking some beer.
Six Flags Mexico
It is for the adrenaline junkies! Also, if you have children, visit Six Flags Mexico, an amusement park closer to the southern edge of Mexico City and in the Tlalpan forest. There are two water rides, and the park is open year-round.
There are 9 roller coaster rides apart from other rides; in total 50 rides in the park. The ticket to entry into the park costs around $57. Get yourself an adrenaline-filled day, people!
El Angel De La Independencia
It is mostly known as El Angel, which is a victory column that is situated in downtown Mexico City! The El Angel De La Independencia is also identified as an independence tribute for the victory of Mexico over Spain after the War of Independence.
You can see the gold statue, the Angel of Independence, almost anywhere in the city. To go to the top of the monument, you must buy a ticket for $16. You can also opt for a private helicopter tour which will cost you more!
The monument is gigantic and represents the victory and the development of the people after independence.
Alameda Central
This place is famous, and why won’t it be? Have you seen the beautiful monument with its sharp corners and the majestic visuals it creates contracting the sky? It is not only beautiful, it is also historically important for the people.
The monument is also a park where people hang around and is considered a marketplace! It was where heretics were burned under the Spanish acquisition, so clearly, this place is a place of sacrifice.
You do not need to pay anything to visit the place! And do remember to take pictures, people!
Sagrario Metropolitano
The visiting charge for Sagrario Metropolitano is $84 per person, which might be a little pricey, but it is worth it! The church has been made of stone, standing brave in its elegance and architectural beauty.
The facades of the church have been lavishly ornate, and if you are a monument fan, you cannot miss the baroque architecture reflecting the Greek side of the monument.
Unam Biblioteca Central
Book lovers, here you go! Another library is located in Mexico City, you have to visit it! Unam Biblioteca Central belongs to the National Autonomous University of Mexico and is the main library for students in Ciudad Universitaria.
The book collection in this library is one of the largest and most multidisciplinary in providing books for adjacent faculties. The library has beautiful murals, and you do not need to pay any charge to visit it.
Los Dinamos
Are you a hiker? Or a nature lover? Go for Los Dinamos, as it is the perfect place for rock climbing, camping, and hiking across the wooded valley with waterfalls and large streams. It is open from 6 am and is a protected area.
You can take a bus to Los Dinamos, which will cost $19.58! It is situated near the southwest area of the city with trails across the terrain! Happy hiking!
Territorio Capitan
Sports lovers, Territorio Capitan is the home of the Capitanes, which was founded in 2016. The beauty of the stadium is more beautiful in person and it boasts of being the first Latin American franchise across the NBA G League.
For the historical tours, the price of the tickets is $149 for one person. However, it changes with the size of your visiting group!
Day Of The Dead
If you are planning on traveling to Mexico City, aim for your dates around November, as the Day Of The Dead. is celebrated on 1 and 2 November. It varies with different localities, which will give you a glimpse of Mexican heritage.
Remember Daniel Craig’s James Bond making his way across the city in the opening scene? It was the Day Of The Dead when the people of Mexico celebrated the dead as it is said, “The dead are alive.”
Concerts across Mexico City are organized, and everyone has different ticket prices, but yes, take advantage of this celebration as you will learn about Mexico City more closely.
Now You Know!
I have made a list keeping in mind that only some are of the same practices and choices, and you might prefer adventure or a museum! But overall, all these places are perfect for that list you are making of things to do in Mexico City.
What can be more interesting and exciting if you do not learn about the culture and the people of the place you are visiting? Traveling across the world and learning about different cultures is mind-opening.
Comment down below about the place you liked the most out of all the places and why!
Mashum Mollah is the feature writer of Search Engine Magazine and an SEO Analyst at Real Wealth Business. Over the last 3 years, He has successfully developed and implemented online marketing, SEO, and conversion campaigns for 50+ businesses of all sizes. He is the co-founder of Social Media Magazine.
There is a famous quote about the national parks in North America, “National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” - Wallace Stegner.
There are about 423 national parks scattered across Alabama for visiting and some. Nonetheless, there exist some National parks in Alabama Camping. The National Park Service (NPS) of the country maintains and curates these areas. The key aim of these national parks is to bring the demonstrated tragic and victorious history of the state to its visitors.
Alabama is a perfect place for spending a few days of your vacation. I hope you are here because you are looking for some suggestions for the famous national parks in Alabama. Well, you are at the right place because today we will discuss the historical parks in Alabama suitable for sightseeing.
The Best National parks In Alabama
Generally speaking, the national parks in America are a combination of history and environmental beauty. No more waiting because the list of top national parks in Alabama is here. Brace yourself to explore some incredibly thrilling places in your upcoming holidays:
1. Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site
National Park Service (NPS) has designated this institute as a national historic site known as a historic national park. With a variety of fauna, it is the first university campus to receive honor from the government.
The park is located on the University campus itself, which makes the destination accessible to all. It also has a museum covering George Washington Carver’s rare photos and unique life details. The burial ground is the best place to spend some alone and silent quality time. The site is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm daily for visitors.
2. Freedom Riders National Monument
This monument symbolizes the protests of freedom riders whose one bus was firebombed by KKK members. You will sense a feeling of courage and confidence by going through the historical facts of them below the monument.
The park offers a drive-only tour to many historical points to remind you of the tragic event at Greyhound Bus Terminal. Additionally, the Anniston Memorial Hospital that holds the remembrance of the burnt bus is also noteworthy.
3. Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail
It is one of the most popular national parks in Alabama; however, it also carries significant historical events. The event also made the public furious. The route of the marchers in the site is a national historic trail now providing a sneak peek at American History.
The place will cherish you with the march of 600 people across 54-mile roadways to Montgomery. The Future Georgia congressman John Lewis led this procession on 7th March 1965.
What’s more?- you will find rich insights while visiting the three interpretive centers along this route. Please note that the journey would begin at the Selma Interpretive Center if you plan to visit this place. It is at the foot of the bridge on Broad Street.
These centers open at 9 a.m., whereas they close at 4:30 p.m.
4. Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail
There are special touches of history in the majority of the national parks in Alabama and this one is also not an exception. One native name of this place in the chronicle of America is “The Journey of Injustice.”
The site will make you remember the struggling lives of Native Americans who relocated to Oklahoma from their homes in Alabama. The forceful removal between 1830 to 1840 from their native land makes their journey route “The Trail of Tears.”
The National Park Service (NPS) has scheduled stops in multiple packers along this route as a part of the driving tip. It includes Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.
You can visualize the events of this historical movement at different stops in Alabama itself. Some of the most famous ones are Willstown Mission Cemetery, Waterloo Landing, and Fort Payne Cabin Site.
5. Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site
Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site honors the legendary military of the first Afro-American fighter pilots of America. Two aircraft hangars lounge on the site. Once you reach the place to visit these hangers, you will observe a wide range of engaging exhibits.
In addition to that, several areas of the park present documentaries of the pilots’ daily livelihood, training, and hassles during the war. All these have made it become one of the ‘best national parks in Alabama.’ The perfect time to visit the place is before Memorial Day for Tuskegee Sairmen Fly-in.
Furthermore, both the museums in hangar one and hangar 2 remain open Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
6. Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
It has been consistently ranked in the list of the best national parks in Alabama. Precisely, you will get awestruck once you stand in front of the entrance of the park. It is one of the favorite holiday spots for travel freaks owing to its stunning environment and deep serenity.
But beyond these, the site had experienced a ruthless and blood-shedding war about 100 years ago. The horseshoe bend of the Tallapoosa River was the accurate pinpoint of the battle. The oppression of Native American Tribes weaves the stories of this place.
The visitor center is the starting mark of your tour. You can also enjoy a film of 15 minutes demonstrating the concept of battle. The park is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The Final Thoughts
After reading this guide, is not your mind asking you to book a ticket and set out for Alabama? The national parks in Alabama mentioned above are significant pieces of remarkable and revolutionary history.
We hope that the list of national parks in Alabama will be of immense help while visiting here. As we have covered the key takeaways of each site along with opening and closing time, you should not face any more difficulties in planning a tour.
Moreover, if you have any opinions to share with us, feel free to comment in the comment box below. Lastly, keep supporting us in getting more travel guides on mesmerizing places across the globe.
The “Mile High City,” Denver, can be a wonderful base if you are traveling to Colorado Springs.
Both are wonderfully blessed by the Rocky Mountains and beautiful waterfalls. Furthermore, for adults, the things to do or the fun activities in Denver are diverse.
Nevertheless, this time, it is about seeing beyond the hot springs in Denver and the Rocky Mountain National Park.
In fact, it’s time to plan a trip from Denver to Colorado Springs, home to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Garden of the Gods, and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee.
Furthermore, with a distance of less than 100 miles, these two cities are well-connected by bus, air, shuttle services, and smooth driving roads.
Keep reading to know how to travel the distance.
What Is The Denver To Colorado Springs Distance?
The distance between Denver and Colorado Springs is around 70 miles or 110 km. Traveling this distance by road via I-25 S takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
However, you can also take a city-to-city bus or a bus shuttle. Moreover, you can fly from the Denver Airport to the Colorado Springs Airport.
So, here is a summary of the travel time based on the modes of transport.
Denver to Colorado Springs Modes of Transport Travel Time (Approx) Denver to Colorado Springs by City to City Bus 1 Hour and 15 Minutes Denver to Colorado Springs Shuttle Bus Service 1 Hour and 15 Minutes Uber or Lyft Services 1 Hour and 30 Minutes By Car 1 Hour and 10 Minutes By Flight (Excluding the Airport Transfers) 45 Minutes
So, taking a bus or a private car rental is the best way to travel from Denver to Colorado Springs. Thus, you can strike a balance between the travel time and budget.
How To Travel From Denver To Colorado Springs?
Have you decided to take a flight from Denver to Colorado? Or, have you booked an Uber service for the trip?
Know the best choices before preparing your itinerary.
1. Denver To Colorado Springs City-To-City Buses
Bustang is the best bus service from Denver to Colorado Springs. The Bustang buses start from the Denver Union Station, and the ticket price is just $13.
Furthermore, these buses have free Wi-Fi and washroom facilities.
Moreover, you can take the Flixbus services, and the ticket price starts from around $14.
Unfortunately, the Regional Transportation District, or RTD, does not have a bus from Denver to Colorado Springs.
2. Bus Shuttles
Bus shuttle services are available from Denver to Colorado Springs. However, you must only opt for trusted options such as Grehound.
Greyhound offers two bus shuttle services from Denver to Colorado Springs. Both buses depart from the Denver Union Station Bus Concourse and travel to Colorado Springs Tejon Park-N-Ride.
One bus departs from Denver at 7 PM and reaches Colorado Springs at 8:30 PM. Furthermore, the ticket price is $35.98.
On the other hand, the second bus departs at 8:10 PM and reaches Colorado Springs at 9:25 PM. The ticket price is $18.98.
3. Uber Or Lyft Services From Denver To Colorado Springs
If you are traveling from Denver to Colorado Springs for the first time, taking an Uber or Lyft service will be the safest option.
An Uber ride to complete the trip takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the travel price is $135.
On the other hand, a Lyft ride for this route will cost you between $120 and $165. With Lyft, you can make a booking 90 days in advance.
Also, consider a 2% surcharge for airport pickups and drops.
4. Traveling From Denver To Colorado Springs By Car
A car drive or ride in a rented car from Denver to Colorado is beautiful. The journey via Interstate-25 takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes.
However, this route can have the most notorious traffic on certain days, and then the travel time will shoot up to 2 to 3 hours.
Furthermore, from March to May, hailstorms are common in the area. So, when traveling in these months, choose a 4WD or a vehicle that has tires to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Moreover, the road expansion on Interstate-25 has made the ride bumpy. Nevertheless, a car rental for this journey will cost you between $70 and $120.
Also, if you follow traffic updates and find the I-25 route busy, you can opt for alternatives such as Highway US-85/CO-105, Highway 83, and CO-67.
However, these are longer routes and can stretch your travel time by an hour or so.
5. Fly From Denver To Colorado Springs
The Denver International Airport is located at a distance of around 23 miles from Denver. However, it is not just an airport that serves Denver.
It is often the choicest airport for travelers from other countries due to its mid-continent location.
Furthermore, the Colorado Springs Airport is located around 12 miles away from the city.
The flight duration between these two airports is around USD 120 to 670. The fastest flight on this route takes 45 minutes to complete the journey.
Moreover, private cars, Uber, Lyft services, and buses are frequently available for airport transfers.
Traveling From Denver To Colorado Springs: Tips To Remember
March to May and September to October, or the spring and autumn seasons, are ideal for a trip from Denver to Colorado Springs.
Especially, Denver is one of the best places to visit in December in the USA.
Furthermore, if you want to bypass the traffic on this route, you must plan a trip before 7 AM or after 7 PM.
Also, Friday afternoons are the busiest. So, avoid a car ride in those hours and check the traffic conditions on platforms such as the COtrip website.
Moreover, if you find the I-25 route to be busy, you can take Highway 83, which runs parallel and usually has less traffic.
Traveling From Denver To Colorado Springs: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers related to the Denver to Colorado Springs trip.
1. Is It Better To Fly Into Colorado Springs Or Denver? The better option to fly into between Colorado Springs and Denver airports depends on the part of Colorado you want to explore. For example, if you want to explore the northern part of Colorado and have cheaper and more diverse flight options, the Denver International Airport will be a better choice. On the other hand, the Colorado Springs Airport is ideal for the Southern Colorado attractions. 2. How Much Is The Train From Denver To Colorado Springs? No passenger train runs between Denver and Colorado Springs. However, you can enjoy a scenic train ride in the Pikes Peak Area on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. This train passes through ethereal Alpine landscapes before it reaches its summit at 14115 foot. 3. Is There A Shuttle Between Colorado Springs And Denver? Yes, there is a shuttle service between Colorado Springs and Denver. Reputed names such as Greyhound offer shuttle bus services on this route. The travel time is around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the ticket price is around $18.98 to $35.98.
Have you seen the viral social media photos of a lone person walking on a strip of sand sandwiched between white snow and blue surf?
Then, I have to burst the bubbles.
You are actually looking at the Tottori Sand Dunes in the San’in Kaigan Geopark (Honshu Island).
However, the internet has continuously labeled it as Hokkaido Beach.
So, while those posts are a myth, Hokkaido genuinely has its own incredible now-meets-sea beaches.
Nevertheless, here, I will talk about the “Viral Hokkaido Beach,” and give you a brief comparison showing why and how it is different from the actual Hokkaido Beach.
Also, as fantasy is a driving force in Haruki Murakami’s work, the astonishing and actual Hokkaido Beach in Western Japan is nothing short of a dream! It is the land where snow, sand, and sea meet.
It’s surreal when you see snow-covered sand dunes appearing before your eyes against the backdrop of the sea.
Also, the blocks of ice or jewelry ice in the Tokachi River mouth attract a lot of visitors in the winter.
And that’s not all! The beach has sandbars, volcanoes, coasts, and valleys.
Do you also want to see Hokkaido beach snow and other unique attractions? You will find all the details in this Tour and Travel Blog.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Hokkaido Beach?
Hokkaido beach weather remains pleasant throughout the year. So, it’s a year-round destination.
However, if you want to witness the golden moments where the sea, sand, and snow meet, you have to plan a trip from December to February.
And let me spill the beans for you, Hokkaido Beach is not located in Hokkaido. Moreover, if you especially want to see the phenomenon of ice, snow, and sand meeting, you have to travel to the main island of Honshu.
Why Does Hokkaido Beach Have So Much Snow?
Hokkaido Beach has so much snow because strong winds blow and shift ice to the beach from late January to February.
This ice comes from the frozen chunks of freshwater from the Amur River. Further, during January and February, you will find icebergs in the water and on the beach.
How To Reach Hokkaido Beach From Tokyo?
The distance between Tokyo and San’in Kaigan Geopark, the home of Hokkaido Beach, is around 657 km.
The best way to reach San’in Kaigan Geopark from Tokyo is by taking a bullet train.
Take a bullet train from the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. It will take around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Then, travel on the Super Hakuto limited express train for 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Tottori Station.
Finally, you can take a bus from Tottori Station to Hokkaido Beach.
However, if you want to really enjoy the scene of ice, sand, and sea meeting, you have to take a cruise ride from Monbetsu, Rausu, and Abashiri.
Everything will appear before your eyes as an impossible dream as you see the Hokkaido Beach from the shore or an icebreaker.
Do you want some more adventure while exploring the beautiful Hokkaido Beach? You can go for a guided ice walk from Shiretoko.
And as you walk toward the beach, you will meet the most fascinating wildlife of the area. The sea eagles and white-tailed eagles, especially, will cross your path many a time.
You will see a real-life example of how the food chain in nature works as these birds prey on fish before your eyes.
Having said that, you will have to wear a dry suit and snowshoes for the walk. You will rent snowshoes from the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center.
Shiretoko National Park Nature Center: A UNESCO World Heritage Site On Your Way To Hokkaido Beach
Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, is a favorite of hikers. You can go for a hike through the Furepe Waterfall Trail.
The trail passes through a forest, and it opens in a meadow looked over by Mount Io, Mount Rausu, and Mount Tenchosan.
Finally, the trail ends with a fascinating cliffside view of Furepe Waterfall. It looks the most fascinating during the winter season.
Due to extreme cold temperatures, the water of the waterfall gets transformed into bluish ice.
Exploring San’in Kaigan Geopark: Home To The “Viral” Hokkaido Beach
San’in Kaigan Geopark is a celebration of the Earth's heritage. Stretching over 245,844 hectares, this Geopark is also home to the Genbudo Cave, “known as the place where the term of Quaternary geomagnetic reversal polarity was first proposed with basalt.”
“The San’in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark is home to a diversity of geological sites related to the formation of the Sea of Japan, including granite outcrops formed when Japan was part of the Asian continent (70 million years ago), as well as sedimentary and volcanic rocks accumulated when Japan rifted away from Asia (25 to 15 million years ago) to form the Sea of Japan, a geological process still on-going today.”- UNESCO
Further, due to the unique geological features, the park is also home to diverse flora and fauna. You will find rare plant species such as Ciconia boyciana, Pseudolysimachion ornatum, and Ranunculus nipponicus here.
Moreover, you will be able to see many marine animals and avian creatures in the park. During the winter season, especially, you will spot marine animals such as:
Steller sea lions
Sea eagles
Seals
The Steller sea lions come here from the Kuril Islands in the south as the ice starts drifting toward the Hokkaido Beach.
Again, irrespective of the season of your visit, you will meet Blakiston’s fish owl in San’in Kaigan Geopark. It is an endangered species.
In addition, the nearby mountains here have some of the biggest mammals in Japan. You will find here “Ezo red foxes,” “Ussuri brown bears,” and “Ezo silka deer.”
A Honshu Vs. Hokkaido Comparison: The Viral Vs. Actual Hokkaido Beach
FeatureThe Viral "Hokkaido Beach" LocationThe Real Hokkaido Winter BeachesActual LocationSan'in Kaigan Geopark (Tottori/Kyoto)Otaru, Toyokoro, and Shiretoko CoastsWhat You SeeSnow-covered sand dunes meeting the Sea of JapanDrift ice, jewelry ice, and snow on black sandBest AccessBullet train from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka and then TottoriFly into Sapporo (New Chitose Airport)
The Real Hokkaido Winter Coastline: Ice And Wildlife
I have already mentioned that what we actually know as the Hokkaido Beach is actually in Honshu.
Still, the actual Hokkaido island also offers dramatic winter coastlines shaped by freezing rivers and Siberian weather.
So, you will enjoy the sub-zero beach magic here.
Toyokoro: The Shimmering Jewelry Ice Of Otsu Beach
On the southeastern coast of Hokkaido, the shoreline of Toyokoro becomes an outdoor gallery of natural crystals from January to February.
This amazing natural phenomenon is called Jewelry Ice. The ice here is completely transparent as it originates from the pure freshwater of the Tokachi River.
Also, as the river freezes, you will find massive sheets of ice breaking apart and emptying into the Pacific Ocean.
Then, the ocean waves tumble and smooth these blocks into rounded and glass-like crystals.
The waves further wash the crystals back onto the dark sands of Otsu Beach.
Moreover, these ice crystal balls look magical during sunrise or set as the ice blocks refract the amber sunlight like gemstones.
The Okhotsk Coast: Ryuhyo Drift Ice And Sea Ice Walkers
If you go further north, you will find the Sea of Okhotsk,
This coast has an entirely different frozen landscape.
Here, you will find Ryuhyo, or drift ice.
This is a massive layer of sea ice originating near the Amur River in Siberia and drifting south, completely choking Hokkaido’s northern waters in a vast white sheet by late January.
Furthermore, it is the place to indulge in a host of adventurous activities.
The Icebreaker Cruises
These cruises operate out of Monbetsu and Abashiri.
These are heavy-duty vessels crushing directly through the dense sea ice field. Thus, as a passenger, you can enjoy panoramic views of an endless frozen ocean.
Shiretoko Ice Walks
The Shiretoko Peninsula is a rugged UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here, the ice becomes thick, and the thickness is enough for you to walk on.
You can be a part of any guided tour to get equipped with insulated dry suits to safely trek across the floating ice sheets or even float in the freezing coastal waters.
Apex Wildlife
This icy ecosystem attracts incredible biodiversity.
You can regularly spot massive Steller’s sea eagles, white-tailed eagles, and seals resting on the moving ice floes.
A Gear Checklist For Hokkaido Beach
Dry Suits: Mandatory for drift ice walking to prevent hypothermia if you slip into the freezing ocean.
Snowshoes: Essential for trekking over soft, deep coastal powder.
Spikes/Crampons: Necessary if walking near the frozen Furepe Waterfall trails where paths turn to solid ice.
Some More Information About Hokkaido Beach You Need To Know
Here is some more information about Hokkaido Beach.
Does Hokkaido Have A Beach?
Yes, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, has many beaches. The beaches and coastlines along the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk show diversity in their characters.
Nevertheless, some popular beaches in Hokkaido are Shimamui Beach, Shiretoko Beach, Otsu Beach, and Otaru Dream Beach.
Why Is Hokkaido So Famous?
Hokkaido is famous in the world for its milk and dairy products. It is also the land of inspiration behind many of Haruki Murakami’s works.
Further, Hokkaido has a vibrant food scene with specialties such as Sapporo ramen and crab and scallop delicacies.
Also, it has geological wonders such as Mount Asah volcano in the Daisetsuzan National Park and geothermal spots such as Noboribetsu Onsen.
Where Is The Beach Where Snow, Sand, And Sea Meet?
Hokkaido Beach is the place where snow, sand, and sea meet. It is located in western Japan, and it stretches between the eastern Kyogamisaki Cape in Kyoto, and the western Hakuto Kaigan Coast in Tottori.
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