Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan's main islands

Hokkaido may be famous for its exceptional food with the freshest produce, but asides from its delectable cuisine there's plenty to do year round. It is also known for its primeval forests, volcanoes, bubbling natural hot springs, fields of alpine wildflowers, and ski areas. Rugged yet tranquil, the island's stunning scenery will surely leave you wanting more. Download the Hokkaido Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you plan out your trip.

1. Shikisai-no-oka

From April to October, dozens of flowers blanket the hills of Shikisai-no-oka, so there are many months to feast your eyes on a rainbow of blossoms. In the winter, snow covers the grounds and you can cruise around on a snowmobile or go sledding down the slopes. No matter what season you decide to visit, they also have an alpaca ranch where you can help feed the fuzzy animals.

2. Sapporo

The island’s capital may be one of the most underrated cities in Japan. Home to the eponymous beer (a museum has been dedicated to it), expansive sculpture parks, and delectable regional cuisine such as soup curry and jingisukan (grilled mutton), there’s plenty to see and eat in Sapporo. And of course there are markets to visit. Nijo Market is the most accessible from downtown, but if you want to shop with the locals, head out to Jyogai Ichiba for a more authentic experience.

3. Otaru

Just a short 30-minute train ride from Sapporo, Otaru is particularly known for glassware and music boxes, but if you’re going to make a trip to this small harbor city, make sure to grab lunch at Wakadori Jidai Naruto Honten, where you’ll have some of the best fried chicken you’ve ever sunk your teeth into. Walk off your meal along the Otaru Canal before you turn onto Sakaimachi road to do a little shopping at the number of shops that line the street.

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Three Best Things to Do in Lake Como, the Understated Italian Wonder

Just below the snow-capped, gigantic Rhaetian Alps and nestled in between lush, green hills lies one of Italy's understated wonders--Lake Como. It is considered as one of Lombardy region's most picturesque lakes Shaped like an inverted Y, its shoreline is dotted with spectacular medieval villages and as you would expect of any Italian water-side town, colorful villas. If that doesn't make you dream of visiting Lake Como then download the Lake Como Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Lakeside Village Hopping

The region's capital, Como, in its self, is a spectacular city that's famous for their silk products. Revel in its historic center where their impressive Duomo that dates back the 15th-century stands. To see an impressive view of the lake from above, you can take a cable car up to the quiet village of Brunate. A trip to Lake Como would never be complete without a visit to its most famous town, Bellagio. Its breathtaking view of the lake is considered the best in all the towns.

2.      Stroll Around Beautiful Villas

Lake Como is definitely a contender for having the most beautiful villas in the world. A short walk from the Bellagio town center is the gardens of Villa Melzi, a traditional English-style garden. It stretches along the lakefront and is home to a wide variety of plants and sculptures and even has an orangery and a small museum. Villa Carlotta is also a notable villa for its rhododendrons and azaleas that bloom in spring. The villa itself serves as a setting for art exhibitions and musical events.

3.     Enjoy Relaxing Boat Cruises

Taking a cruise in Lake Como itself is one of the best ways to marvel at the beauty of the lakeside houses owned by one of the most famous people in the world like Richard Branson and George Clooney. Going on a cruise not only gives you a glimpse of the lifestyle of the rich and famous, but it also gives you a grand view of the towns and villages. There's a wide variety of cruises to choose from as well. If you opt much more romantic scenery then a sunset cruise will be perfect for you.

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