Hokkaidō

Hokkaido (help·info) (北海道 Hokkaidō^?, literally "Northern Sea Circuit"), formerly known as Ezo, Yezo, Yeso, or Yesso, is Japan's second largest island; it is also the largest and northernmost of Japan's 47 prefectural-level subdivisions.

The Tsugaru Strait separates Hokkaido from Honshu,^[2] although the two islands are connected by the underwater railway Seikan Tunnel.

The largest city on Hokkaido is its capital, Sapporo, which is also its only ordinance-designated city.

Hokkaido was settled by Ainu, Nivkh, and Orok 20,000 years ago.^[3]

The Nihon Shoki, finished in 720, is often said to be the first mention of Hokkaido in recorded history.

Hokkaidō is known for its relatively cool summers and icy winters.

Unlike the other major islands of Japan, Hokkaido is normally not affected by the June–July rainy season and the relative lack of humidity and typically warm, rather than hot, summer weather makes its climate an attraction for tourists from other parts of Japan.