Best Motorcycle Roads in Hokkaido

honda motorcycle in front of a mountain in hokkaido

Hokkaido - Motorcyclists' Paradise

Hokkaido is the northernmost of Japan’s four main islands, and it’s an extremely popular destination among Japanese riders thanks to its wide-open spaces, light traffic, and sparse population. After riding around the island for over a month in the summer of 2023, here is our pick of the best motorcycle roads in Hokkaido.

1. Route 228 & 229

best motorcycle roads in japan hokkaido
best motorcycle roads in japan hokkaido coast

Roads 228 and 229 offer a perfect introduction to Hokkaidō, showcasing the island’s rugged southwestern coastline. This route provides stunning ocean views as it winds along the water’s edge, passes through tunnels, and weaves through charming coastal towns. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and enjoy fresh seafood. Highlights include Matsumae Castle, the island’s only Japanese-style castle, Esashi Town, known for its rich history and herring fishing heritage, and the dramatic cliffs of Cape Benkei and Cape Kamui

2. Ororon Line & Cape Soya

The northern tip of Hokkaido is a dream destination for many Japanese riders. There’s something special about reaching the far ends of an island. Most motorcyclists head to Wakkanai via the coastal Ororon Line—a straight shot with incredible views, especially of Rishiri Island, which is almost entirely a volcano. You can ride along the coast to Cape Noshappu, then continue through Wakkanai to Cape Soya, the northernmost point in Japan. For a bit of off-road fun, don’t miss the Path of White Shells. If you’re looking to stay overnight in Wakkanai, there’s a famous rider house or a free campsite in the local park.

3. Mt. Hakodake

rindo off-road in hokkaido

Hokkaido has a lot of off-roading options, but nice roads are rarely listed on the internet in English. This road was recommended to us by the owner of Mustache Boss who is a rider as well and has an impressive collection of motorcycles. The road is on Google Maps, but has no name and for some reason doesn’t trace the road automatically. On OpenStreetMap, it is called Dohoku Super Rindo (道北スーパー林道) or 美深歌登大規模林道. This is an overall easy off-road track, but there are a few steep sections with deep gravel. Watch out for bears! 

4. Shiretoko Pass

best motorcycle roads in japan shiretoko pass
best motorcycle roads in hokkaido shiretoko national park

This road through the Shiretoko Pass is a must-do when riding in Hokkaido. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Shiretoko National Park is famed for its untouched wilderness and incredible wildlife. The road takes you through some of the most remote and wild landscapes you’ll find in Japan. While the ride itself may be short, it’s worth spending a few days in the area to explore the hiking trails like the Shiretoko Five Lakes, take a cruise along the coast, or try some off-road riding to the Kamuiwakka hot spring waterfallsBe prepared for unpredictable weather—clouds often roll in, obscuring the views, but with a bit of luck you’ll get to enjoy one of the most beautiful places in Hokkaido.

5. Akan-Mashu National Park

This ride offers a scenic tour around one of Hokkaido’s most stunning lakes and takes you through the heart of Akan-Mashu National Park. You’ll traverse volcanic landscapes and lush forests, with plenty of opportunities to stop at viewpoints, hot springs, and cultural sites. The journey includes Bihoro Pass, where you can admire the dramatic scenery shaped by past volcanic activity, before descending through ancient forests to explore the park’s three lakes—Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo.

Lake Mashu is famous for its crystal-clear waters, though it’s often shrouded in fog during the summer. Lake Kussharo, one of Japan’s largest caldera lakes, offers the unique experience of creating your own hot spring in the sand along its shore. At Lake Akan, don’t miss the chance to see the unusual marimo algae, and visit the Ainu Kotan, a reconstructed Ainu village where you can learn about Hokkaido’s indigenous people and their rich culture.

6. Cape Nosappu

The end of the roads and capes are usually great spots for a ride, and are also popular with Japanese motorcyclists. The route from Nemuro to Cape Nosapputhe easternmost point of Japan (and of Hokkaido), leads through open and remote coastal landscapes, and on clear days, you may be able to see the Kuril Islands from the Cape. 

In the area, you’ll find the abandoned Aurora Tower, a stark reminder of the depopulation in Japan’s rural regions. Another point of interest is the Shima-no-kakehashi monument, built to pray for world peace and the return of four disputed islands of the Kuril Archipelago to Japan. For those wanting to stay overnight, there’s a nearby rider house, perfect for catching the sunrise the next morning.

7. Cape Erimo

Route 336, known as the “Golden Road” due to its high construction costs, is an incredible coastal drive leading to the stunning Cape Erimo. This route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, high cliffs, and rugged coastlines. Cape Erimo is famous for its strong winds and seal colonies. As you ride along the southern coast of Hokkaido, you’ll also enjoy views of the imposing Hidaka Mountains. At the cape, you can visit the Museum of Wind, learn about the area’s famously powerful winds, try to spot wild seals, and sample the local seafood.

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