The Best 5 Places To Visit In Sicily This Year

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  Abdul Aziz Feb 26, 2024

For movement to selected countries without any problems and to stay there for a certain period, it is necessary to have a particular authorization document. These are so-called visas, which are ordinary and VIP. The latter are good because they have great power and give the holders a huge range of privileges. The Golden Visa for wealthy investors is one of them. It can be issued in the EU by anyone who wants to, but the main requirement is that you do not have European citizenship. It is necessary to familiarize yourself with all the conditions and peculiarities in detail to avoid problems later in the procedure. Golden Visa Programs Overview First, it should be noted that they represent the issuance of a residence permit with subsequent granting of permanent residence status to the country's migration program participant on improved conditions. The holder is entitled to many advantages and privileges that his family members can use later. The status can be obtained with the help of the following: acquisition of immovable property; buying back government bonds; opening a deposit account; registering your own business; other contributions to development funds. You should understand that the Golden Visa programs is a kind of pass that gives the right to obtain a residence permit in a particular country. Such a card can be obtained if you buy a house in the chosen location, make a large investment, or donate a significant amount of money. It also allows access to education in top European universities. Moreover, it is allowed to move freely around Europe. Furthermore, it is an opportunity to live legally in a civilized society with a high standard of living. The document is issued in several countries, which we will discuss in detail below. Each state has developed its requirements for programs to get the status. It is necessary to familiarize yourself with them more closely, especially if you are planning to move soon, being an investor, and fulfill the critical condition for issuing the card. Malta Malta is one of the countries with Golden visas. It is famous for its unrivaled beaches, warm climate, and hospitable locals. It is a top-rated tourist destination and a good choice for those who wish to change their residency. The program looks very attractive for those obtaining a residence permit to contribute to the state's economy. There are several ways - to invest in some property or contribute to the country's budget. This country is a member of the European Union and Schengen zone and unites in itself: a thriving economy; a stable property market; high-quality social services. Under the respective program, the decision on the application for a residence permit is often made in a short period - within 4 to 6 months. Once approved, the person is granted the requested one for 5 years with the possibility of an extension. It is worth emphasizing that this can be a pathway to citizenship for the principal applicant and his immediate family as long as all requirements are met. Cyprus It is the so-called "Pearl of the Mediterranean". It pleases with its hospitable residents, Adelaide weather, clean, attractive beaches, and stunning scenery. According to the Immigrant Invest Vladlena Baranova expert, candidates with dependent family members can travel to different European corners, live, work, and study wherever they want. Moreover, permanent residence in a given country is not a prerequisite. Greece Greece stands out among other EU Golden visa programs. After receiving the card, living anywhere in the country to come on holiday whenever you want becomes realistic. First, it is worth understanding that this is a tourist country, so you can get income from investments by renting out the bought flat or house. Moreover, you can choose, buy an object, draw up documents, and submit them remotely. Spain By participating in this program and getting what you want, you can move to the country with your relatives. There is a high quality of life in Spain, a low crime rate, and a good attitude toward foreigners. It is also possible to realize visa-free trips to Schengen countries. In this case, there is no need to obtain a work permit. You can open branches and set up a new company without fears and risks. Italy To participate in this program, you must invest the required amount, i.e., 250 thousand euros. It must be invested in strategic economic sectors, e.g., government bonds and charity funds. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Temporarily Unavailable Programs It became known that the Prime Minister of Portugal announced the end of his country's program. Portugal has indeed decided to eliminate the possibility of obtaining a residence permit through a financial contribution to real estate. However, he still allows foreigners to get it on condition of investing 500,000 euros in local companies or funds not related to real estate. We recommend that you seek help from specialists to avoid problems and misunderstandings while resolving issues. Read Also: Best Places For River Rafting In India Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India

BY  Subham Saha Sep 29, 2021

A long piece of green land from the Atlantic Coast to the feet of the Appalachian Mountainsins is North Carolina. North Carolina is famous for its 500 miles of green stretchy land. And the multiple national parks in North Carolina are the best tourist spots in the entire nation. Nc national park is quite popular because of the natural greenery, and these parks are the home of many wildlife. From the green smokey mountain to the Atlantic ocean, all you will find is ample green land full of wild lives. When you are in North Carolina, you can enjoy your travel days with multiple activities. But when you are in North Carolina, do not miss out on any of the national parks in North Carolina. Because these parks are quite popular not only in North Carolina, the popularity of the parks is spread throughout the whole nation. Because of the rich history of the past. 8 Top Popular National Parks In North Carolina The beauty of the Atlantis ocean seashore and the smokey mountains are the best part of national parks in North Carolina. The most significant advantage of the North Carolina National parks in the area is the combination of mountains, seashores, and the ocean. All you can enjoy in one single place. Here are the names of the eight popular North Carolina national parks, which are the most attractive wildlife parks in the entire country. 1. Great Smoky Mountain National Park The Great Smoky Mountain national park is just situated in the middle of Tennessee and North Carolina. The ancient Great Smoky Mountain is carrying the impression of the past.  And the national park’s natural beauty is so attractive that Smokey Mountains are becoming the most popular national park in North Carolina. And Smoky Mountain National park has the most significant North Carolina wildland. All-inclusive resorts in North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountain national park cater to visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst the area's stunning natural beauty. 2. Blue Ridge Parkway Blue Ridge Parkway is just under the feet of the North Carolina Blue Ridge mountains. The biggest attraction of the place is the mountain trails and the passway. This parkway is so vibrant that many of the visitors want to see the national parks in North Carolina. They alert one day for the Blue Ridge mountain visit. You can enjoy the mountain view by slowly driving your car in the passway. The biggest attraction of the place is the top mountain view. Apart from the natural scenery, you can go camping or cycling to enjoy the tour. 3. Appalachian National Scenic Trail When you want to visit the national parks near North Carolina, the Appalachian national trails are historically diverse and the most popular national parks in North Carolina. This is the best national park in North Carolina. The mountain trail is 2,180 miles long. In 1937 the tracks were built for private citizens. But after that, now these trails are one of the popular national parks in Nc. When you plan to visit these national trails, many forest services, and voluntary services will help you reach the destination. 4. Cape Lookout National Seashore In the list of national parks in North Carolina, cape lookout national seashore is quite popular because this place is situated just beside the ocean. What do you expect when you are on the Cape lookout seashore? Only view? All seaside entertainments are present here. You can go fishing. Visit the wildlife sanctuary; you have to bring your own tent or rent the tent for camping in the cape lookout. Keep your camping area clean because the park has stringent rules to maintain cleanliness. 5. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site See the history and the origin of the first England settlements. One time this place is the home of the Native American, European American, and the African American. You can feel the past of the historic site’s biggest attraction is the 1869 monument. The 1.25 miles long freedom trails are passing through the forest area. When you are visiting the place, you can take a tour of these walking trails. You can feel the history and the beauty of the forest in single hiking. Read Also: Best National Parks In Hawaii 6. Moores Creek National Battlefield Moores National park was a battlefield. The battle between the loyalist forces and the North Carolina patriots. The battle between the loyalists and the patriots is remembered today. Among all the national parks in North Carolina, this is built on the battleground in respect of the patriots. And this war is the starting of a new revolution in America by the winning of the patriots. From this national battlefield, you will know the history, culture, and the starting of the new generations. 7. Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site This is the home of the Pulitzer winner poet and writer Carl Sandburg. The home is in the Handerson Vallie in the village of Flat Rock. In 1945 the Sandburg family was moving here to find solitude and calm nature. This house is just right in the middle of the forest area. The surrounding areas are full of trees, and the natural, calm and quiet place is undoubtedly the best place for a writer. The library of the house is the greatest attraction. And the house has an attached farm within it. Read Also: Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know 8. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park Guilford courthouse national military park is built in honor of the patriots who have fought the war in 1781. The biggest attraction of the place is their huge collection of the armory and the weapons of the battlefield. If you are in this military park, start to see the park from the museum. The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is just a 15-minute drive from Greensboro. You can visit the park in your car. Apart from the car, you can simply cycle around the park by bicycle. Or you can simply take a walk to see the surrounding places. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How many nationakl park is in North Carolina? Among the 41 state parks, there are 10 national parks and 4 national forests are in North Carolina. It also offers a range of outdoor activities, that includes swim,fishing, rides, biking, hicking, picnic and paddle. What is the most visited national park in North Carolina? Great Smoky Mountains  National Park is the most visited national park in North Carolina. What is the only state without a national park in North Carolina? Delaware can be considered as the only state that has no national park. Maybe not for long. What is the largest national park in North Carolina? Here is a list of largest national parks in North Carolina: 1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park 2. Blue Ridge Parkway 3.The Folkways Of Appalachia 4.Nanthla National Forest 5.Pisgah National Forest Wrapping It Up: Most of the visitors are asking about how many state parks are in North Carolina? You get almost twenty options. But these eight national parks in North Carolina are just perfect for all types and all ages of visitors. North Carolina's natural ambiance and historical value is the best option for children. From one visit, your child is going to feel the glorious past of American history, and the naturally beautiful environment boosts up their mind in an open way. So what is your travel planning? Do not forget to share your experiences with us. You May Also Like:  Alabama Travel Guide 7 Best National Parks In Ohio You Should Know Before Going 7 Things To Do In Salem – Latest Travel Guide