
With Christmas approaching, I think it is a good time to share that winter trip I had in Japan.
Let’s start with Hakodate, because it’s the first city I stopped by when I reached Hokkaido.


Hokkaido is the coldest island in Japan. During winter, most streets, houses and buildings will be covered with snow. The snow itself was beautiful. I was already astonished by the view I had from the train even before I arrived at the Hakodate station.
As someone who spent most of my life living in a forever-summer land, snow is more than just frozen water to me. It is not only dazzling to look at, but also magical to be able to touch and feel the coldness.
What I like the most about Hakodate is how calm the city is. Maybe it’s because I visited during the slowest time of the year? Not sure. But anyway, I really feel at peace there. The streets are pretty empty with only a handful of cars passing by and everyone seemed so laid-back. No rushy walks, no noisy horns honking, just plain relaxing.
The night time during this season in Hakodate was just as serene. The subtle Christmas lights along the streets created such a gentle festive vibe without being too loud.
Travelling away to a quiet city like this is just what I need sometimes to escape from the busy, fast-paced world in Singapore.
Wishing you a lovely time.
Carolynn