Sapporo, the capital, is located at the same latitude as Madrid, Marseilles. Rome, Toronto and Portland. Land Area Hokkaido covers an area of 83,408 km2, which includes the approximately 5,000 km2 of the Northern Territories. Hokkaido is about the same size as Austria, or about twice the size of the Netherlands or Switzerland. Environment Hokkaido is blessed with the most magnificent natural beauty in all Japan.
Caldera lakes, meandering rivers.
The island is dotted with hot springs, and is known inter nationally as a winter sports center. As of 1995, the population of Hokkaido was about 5,690,000. The population density is much lower than that of other prefectures, providing the citizens of Hokkaido with opportunities to lead pleasant and leisurely lifestyles. Climate Hokkaido is cool and comfortable in the summer, and has no rainy season. In winter, much snow falls and the island becomes a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts.