Wi-Fi and Travel Information in Hokkaido, Japan: Your Ultimate Guide

Traveling the vast land of Hokkaido with reliable internet access is surely reassuring. . While there are many free Wi-Fi spots in Hokkaido, having your own personal Wi-Fi actually allows you to use the internet more comfortably and securely.
For you to be able to enjoy Hokkaido to its fullest, this article will guide you to the free Wi-Fi available in Hokkaido, as well as introduce you to our recommended Wi-Fi rental service, WiFiBOX.

[Rent Now] Wi-Fi rental for use in Hokkaido and throughout Japan with surprisingly simple booking, pickup, and return. From 440 yen per day

Free Public Wi-Fi Available in Hokkaido

Sapporo, the central city of Hokkaido, provides a free Wi-Fi service called Sapporo City Wi-Fi. Available locations include Maruyama Zoo, Sapporo Dome, Jozankei Onsen Hot Spring Resort, Odori Park, and 16 Sapporo City Subway stations.

There are also many free Wi-Fi spots provided by JR Hokkaido stations and municipalities, so it would be convenient to check if public free Wi-Fi is available before visiting any sightseeing spot.

SSID List of Free Public Wi-Fi Available in Hokkaido

The SSIDs for free public Wi-Fi in Hokkaido are as follows.

Public Wi-Fi in Sapporo, Hokkaido

• Sapporo_City_Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi in municipalities and tourist spots outside Sapporo

• Ishikari City: IshikariCity_free_Wi-Fi
• Asahikawa City: +machinakaWi-Fi
• Abashiri City: ABASHIRI_City_Wi-Fi
• Hakodate City: 00_HAKODATE_FREE_Wi-Fi
• Otaru City: .Otaru_Free_Wi-Fi (available in the Sakai-machi-dori area with many tourist spots)
• Obihiro City: OBIHIRO_FREE_Wi-Fi
• New Chitose Airport: NewChitose_Airport_Free_Wi-Fi
• Asahiyama Zoo: asahiyama-zoo-c●● (Numbers in ●● are arbitrary)

How to log in to free public Wi-Fi available in Hokkaido

Although it varies depending on the access point, follow the basic steps below to connect to f the internet on public Wi-Fi.

1. Open the Wi-Fi settings screen of the device and tap Wi-Fi.
2. Select your desired SSID from the list of networks displayed.
3. Open a web browser (Google Chrome, Safari, etc.) and tap "connect to the internet", then confirm the Terms of Use and select "I Agree".
4. Register your e-mail address (*) and tap "Start Connection" to connect to the internet.
   *Several public Wi-Fi with no registration are also available.

Other Free Wi-Fi Available in Hokkaido

Many facilities and stores in Hokkaido operate their own free Wi-Fi services. Here are some of the free Wi-Fi services provided by cafes and stores in Hokkaido.

Cafes

There are many cafes in Hokkaido that offer free Wi-Fi service. Major cafe brands will almost certainly have their own free Wi-Fi with the below SSIDs:

• Starbucks Coffee: at_STARBUCKS_Wi2
• Tully's Coffee: tullys_Wi-Fi
• Doutor Coffee: DOUTOR_FREE_Wi-Fi
• Komeda Coffee Shop: Komeda_Wi-Fi
• Ueshima Coffee Shop: Free_UESHIMA_Wi-Fi
• PRONTO: PRONTO FREE Wi-Fi
• St. Mark's Cafe: 309cafe_Wi-Fi, etc.

Within them, Starbucks Coffee, Tully's Coffee, and St. Mark's Cafe can be used only by agreeing to the Terms of Use. Other cafes can also be used by simply registering an account with an e-mail address, but be sure to check in advance as there may be restrictions on the number of times you can use the internet, and duration of each connection.

Railway Stations

Free Wi-Fi is also available at major stations in Hokkaido. See if your device detects this SSID: "JR-Hokkaido Free Wi-Fi".

To connect, first turn on Wi-Fi in the settings screen of your device, then select "JR-Hokkaido Free Wi-Fi" from the list of networks,then open your internet browser. An authentication screen will automatically open. Register your email address for your temporary registration, and tap the link in the email you receive (within 10 minutes of registration) to fully connect to the internet. In addition to email addresses, you can also log in using various social media accounts.

Hotels and Accommodation

Many hotels in Hokkaido have their own free Wi-Fi available. Wi-Fi is usually free of charge, but be aware that some hotels may charge you for it. When booking a hotel, it is a good idea to check if free Wi-Fi is available.

The steps to connect to Wi-Fi varies from hotel to hotel, but in most cases, you can connect by entering the ID and password informed to you in the guest room or at the front desk.

Airport

At New Chitose Airport, free Wi-Fi is available at both the domestic and international terminals; the SSID is "NewChitose_Airport_Free_Wi-Fi".

To use the service, turn on Wi-Fi in your device's settings screen and select "NewChitose_Airport_Free_Wi-Fi" from the network list. The internet browser will then launch. Follow the on-screen instructions to agree to the terms of use, then tap the button to complete the connection.

We will introduce free Wi-Fi SSIDs for airports in Hokkaido other than New Chitose Airport.

• Hakodate Airport: FREESPOT
• Sapporo Okadama Airport: FREESPOT
• Asahikawa Airport: asahikawa-airport
• Kushiro Airport: Kushiro-Airport
• Memanbetsu Airport: mmb-freespot
• Obihiro Airport: airport-WIFI-free
• Wakkanai Airport: FREESPOT
• Monbetsu Airport: FREESPOT
• Nakashibetsu Airport: FREESPOT
  (There is no free Wi-Fi service at Okushiri Airport and Rishiri Airport.)

[Wi-Fi Self-Rental] WiFiBOX: a must-have all in one Wi-Fi + power bank for traveling in Hokkaido, and throughout Japan. From 440 yen per day

"WiFiBOX" is recommended for renting Wi-Fi in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is blessed with many tourist attractions, and there are many access points where you can use Wi-Fi for free. However, depending on the location, it is possible to lose internet access as soon as you leave the area. This could be uncomfortable, especially when traveling outdoors. . Furthermore, remember that communication via free Wi-Fi is not encrypted, and there is a risk of information leakage, so you need to pay close attention to security.

If you are concerned about free Wi-Fi, here is a Wi-Fi rental service that we recommend: WiFiBOX. You can use the internet in a highly secured environment and enjoy your stay in Hokkaido more comfortably.

It is also worth noting that WiFiBOX's Wi-Fi units can also function as power bank , allowing you to stay connected while staying juiced up, making it a good choice for those who want to use a highly functional Wi-Fi rental.

Let's check out more details about the process of using and setting upWiFiBOX, and where to pick up and return the Wi-Fi unit.

Usage and Setup Flow

To use and set up WiFiBOX, follow the steps below.

1. Make a reservation

After selecting your destination (for usage in Hokkaido, please select "Japan") from the official WiFiBOX website (https://wifibox.telecomsquare.co.jp/), select your usage period and plan, and tap "checkout". Next, if you are using the service for the first time, you need to create an account first.If you already have an account, log in and complete the payment procedure using a credit card (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express) or debit card.

2. Receive the Wi-Fi unit

Open the QR code reader within the email you receive after the reservation, then scan the QR code on the upper right corner of the display on the WiFiBOX machine. Confirm your reservation once more, select "Receive" and pull out the unit from the machine.
(*"QR Code" is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE)

3. Connect to Wi-Fi

After turning on the Wi-Fi unit, open the Wi-Fi settings screen of your device, and select the SSID listed on the back of the Wi-Fi unit. Then, enter the passwordcomplete the connection.

Please refer to the following for specific instructions.

(Link to WiFiBOX Quick Guide)
https://wifibox.telecomsquare.co.jp/en/pages/guide

Pickup and return locations

As of April2023, WiFiBOX automatic rental machines are available at Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Kansai Airport, Central Japan International Airport, Fukuoka Airport, Tokyo Station,Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya Station area..

Currently, there are no locations in Hokkaido where WiFiBOX can be picked up or returned, so it is a good idea to complete the procedures at the airport or train station you plan to pass through when traveling.

See below for details on the location of WiFiBOX.

(Link to WiFiBOX Map)
WiFiBOX Location List

What Kind of Place is Hokkaido?

Hokkaido is a vast island surrounded on all sides by the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, and the Sea of Okhotsk, and because it is so largeas a single prefecture, its administration is divided into 14 administrative divisions: Ishikari, Sorachi, Goshi, Iburi, Hidaka, Watashima, Hiyama, Tokachi, Kushiro, Nemuro, Okhotsk, Kamikawa, Rumoi, and Soya. In addition, there are 179 municipalities consisting of 35 cities, 129 towns, and 15 villages. In terms of climate, it is cold and snowy in winter; however there is no rainy season and typhoons rarely come.

Many of the tourist spots are scenic spots and hot spring resorts that take advantage of the rich natural environment, but in recent years, theme parks and tourist facilities have also been increasing. Spots such as Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa City and Otaru Aquarium in Otaru City, where you can see creatures living freely in an environment close to its habitat, are also popular throughout Japan.

In addition, Sapporo, the largest city of Hokkaido, holds large-scale events such as the YOSAKOI Soran Festival and the Sapporo Snow Festival once a year, with each event attracting many travelers from inside and outside of Japan.

Hokkaido Highlights

Hokkaido is known for its expansive wilderness, but it also has many other tourist facilities and historical sites. We have carefully curated a selection of spots and attractions that we particularly recommend in Hokkaido.

Odori Park

This large-scale park makes full use of the vast land in the Odori area in the center of Sapporo City. Lilac flowers bloom from spring to summer, and the large fountain and grilled corn stalls are very popular among tourists. On sunny days, locals can often be seen here, as they can sit back and relax while shopping.
In winter, the area is used as the site of the Sapporo White Illumination held at the end of the year and the Sapporo Snow Festival in February.The winter scenery is sure to leave a lasting impression on many people. It is also the site of the YOSAKOI Soran Festival held around June, and it is one of the parks that represent Hokkaido.

Asahiyama Zoo

This northernmost zoo in Japan is located in the suburbs of Asahikawa City. The scene where penguins swimming through an underwater tunnel, or seals swimming freely in a large tank, is often broadcasted on Japanese television. These are called "behavioral exhibits," in which the ecology of wild animals living in the wild is displayed as it is. In addition to penguins and seals, polar bears and hippopotamuses can also be seen in behavioral exhibits.

While many zoos are closed during the winter in Hokkaido, this zoo is open on days when penguins can be seen strolling around. In midsummer, the zoo holds a "Night Zoo" where you can see the nocturnal animals in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit spot for animal lovers.

Shirogane Blue Pond

Located in Biei-cho, which has become one of Hokkaido's most popular tourist destinations, this lake attracts visitors with its fantastic scenery. The lake is not a natural lake, but an artificial one where water accumulated along the wall that was built to prevent disasters caused by the eruption of the active volcano, Tokachi-dake.

You can enjoy the quiet scenery in summer, or gazeat the gorgeous lights in winter. It is one of the most popular scenic spots in Hokkaido, where you will feel refreshed anytime you visit.

Official site: https://www.biei-hokkaido.jp/ja/sightseeing/shirogane-blue-pond/

Mount Hakodate

Mount Hakodate is a world-famous spot for its beautiful night view of Hakodate. A ropeway will take you to the top of the mountain, while you can enjoy the view of Hakodate along the way.

If you visit during the daytime, you can enjoy an hour-long hike along a well-maintained hiking course. Enjoy Mt. Hakodate while listening to the sound of wild birds during the day and gazing at the breathtaking scenery at night.

Official site: https://334.co.jp/

Otaru Canal

The canal, built in 1923, is a symbol of Hokkaido's pioneering spirit. The uniqueness of this canal is that it was not built by digging out the land, but by reclaiming the coast.

Although no longer used as a canal, the stone warehouses along the waterway are a famous attraction. Enjoy the retro atmosphere of the gas lamps as you stroll along the canal at night.

Official website: https://otaru.gr.jp/shop/otarucanal

Internet and Wi-Fi Situation in Hokkaido

In Hokkaido, there are numerous free Wi-Fi connections in various locations, including public facilities such as train stations and airports, tourist attractions, cafes, and hotels. However, because internet communications using free Wi-Fi are not encrypted, some people may be concerned about security. In addition, there is no free Wi-Fiin suburban areas or scenic spots, which may cause problems when you want to send photos to friends or upload them to your social media. For such people, bringing your own Wi-Fi is the best option.

WiFiBOX can be used in more than 130 countries and regions, and can of course be used within Hokkaido. You might want to use WiFiBOX for a reliable internet environment, so you can enjoy the beautiful Hokkaido to its fullest!.