Sapporo - Japan's fifth largest city Map of the Hokkaido region Sapporo is Japan's fifth largest city. With a population of 1.85 million it is Hokkaido's political, economic, cultural and transportation center. During the Meiji period, the Japanese government, eager to fortify its northern defenses, established the Kaitakushi (Development Commission) to aid in developing the region. The result was a beautiful town with streets crossing at 90 degrees that less than 130 years later finds itself a major Japanese metropolis. Today, Sapporo is the jewel of Northern Japan with tourists particularly interested in landmark buildings from the pioneering age; the Clock Tower, the old red brick buildings as well as the charm of nature found lining the streets in the shape of famous poplar, elm and acacia trees. Combined with the region's pure air, abundant greenery and culinary treasures, Sapporo is a truly unique city.

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The Winter Opening of Asahiyama Zoo - Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido - November 18 (Fri), 2011-April 8 (Sun), 2012 Asahiyama Zoo, the northernmost zoo in Japan, has been a popular attraction with its interesting and cute animals and exciting interactive facilities that allow visitors to view the animals moving, swimming, and flying up close. After snow lies thick on the ground in Asahikawa, polar bears and snow leopards become much more active and entertain visitors with their lively behaviors. http://www5.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/

Iomante no Himatsuri (Fire Ceremony) - Special site at Lake Akan Ainu Kotan, Kushiro City, Hokkaido - September 1 (Thu)-October 31 (Mon), 2011 Visitors will be attracted by the mysterious atmosphere incorporating roaring fire and traditional dancing of the Ainu tribe, under the night sky. http://www.lake-akan.com/en/index.html

All information is subject to change without notice.

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