We based ourselves in Niseko to explore Hokkaido’s early summer landscape. From here, we discovered the stunning Shakotan Peninsula, where the famous “Shakotan Blue” sea meets the windswept cliffs of Cape Kamui. Our journey took us to the peaceful Lake Toya, a caldera lake overlooked by volcanic Mount Usu. The true highlight was our stay at Zaborin Ryokan – when we tried to extend our stay, it was fully booked and we moved to the Park Hyatt down the road, though Zaborin’s intimate charm proved impossible to match.