The capital of Hokkaido gears up for its big annual summer festival, running from 19 July to 16 August at Odori Park. Along with a showcase of traditional culture like the Bon folk dances, the highlight of the festival is the massive beer garden that seats some 13,000 revellers. Along with beers from the four big players – Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo and Suntory – there’s also a section dedicated to German beers and a World Beer Square replete with international brews. sapporo-natsu.com
Where to stay
If you’re already planning your year-end winter holiday, consider Skye Niseko, which opened in winter 2018. With 105 luxury apartments and penthouses boasting stunning mountain views, it also has a convenient ski-in/ski-out location and ski valet services. skyeniseko.com