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Local Cuisine
Handpicked Hotels
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No Options Sold
9 days 8 nights
fromUSD $3798.00
Single Supplement: USD $720.00
Single Room
Single room types are rooms for
single room occupants.
One person will be occupying the
hotel room throughout the tour.
Twin Room
Twin room types are rooms set for two people who will occupy one room, but will have two separate beds.
Double Room
A double room is a room that has one bed for two people to share.
Triple Room
A triple room is one room where three people may share the same room. It has three separate beds.
Japanese Style Room
A Japanese-style room traditionally does not have a western-style bed, it is a tatami floor room with futon bedding. However, if you prefer a western-style bed, you may request one though we cannot guarantee it.
Please note: If you would like to request neighboring rooms next to your traveling companions, you and your traveling companions must have the same room types in order to be next to each other. For example, if you have requested a double room, but your traveling companions have requested a twin, or triple room, then neighboring rooms cannot be accommodated. However, if both you and your traveling companions match in room type, then neighboring rooms will likely be arranged for your convenience.
If you are unable to visit Japan for its beautiful cherry
blossoms in March and April, there is still a chance for
you to see the cherry blossoms while joining this tour.
Hokkaido is the northernmost of Japan's four main
islands. The further up northeast you go, the colder it
usually gets and the later the cherry blossoms bloom.
This tour is designed to visit the Central and Southern
areas of Hokkaido when the cherry blossoms are in full
bloom in this area in late April and early May.
Hokkaido has the image of farming and nature while
being the home of the indigenous Ainu people and their
culture for a long time. In the town of Shiraoi, the
Upopoy
National Ainu Museum celebrates their cultural heritage.
In Noboribetsu, the Jigokudani "Hell Valley" creates a
scene of primordial beauty wreathed in volcanic smoke.
The region has various hot pools and rivers, such as the
Oyunomagawa Natural Foot Bath, which is an excellent
place for hikers in the area to soak their tired feet. Lake
Toya is one of the most beautiful places in all of
Hokkaido, and springtime offers especially lovely views
at night, of a fireworks show reflecting a rainbow of color
in the clear water.
Hakodate, which located in the southern part of
Hokkaido, has been a major trade port with the West
since the mid-1800s. Perhaps the most distinct feature
of
Hakodate is Fort Goryokaku, which is a Western-style
military fort that was converted into a park. The
distinctive star-shaped park is bordered on all sides by
picturesque clusters of cherry blossoms. The view from
Mount Hakodate is also a sight to behold, with visitors
taking the ropeway up to the viewpoint to enjoy the
breathtaking scene. As a prosperous fishing port,
Hakodate also has a lively morning market full of
delicious seafood. Also in southern Hokkaido, visit
Matsumae Castle, which prospered during the Edo
period through trade with the indigenous Ainu people.
The castle structure has over 10,000 cherry blossoms
planted north of its grounds with 250 varieties of the
flower, which is celebrated every year with the
Matsumae
Cherry Blossom Festival. Since the powerful Matsumae
family once ruled the area, there is an event during the
festival where there is a march of people clad in samurai
armor.
Otaru is a beautiful fishing port with a charming local
culture influenced by the West, with a glass factory
called
"Garasukan" and a Music Box Museum with music
boxes
from around the world. Foodies will enjoy the trip to
Otaru Sushi District, which features fresh locally-caught
seafood. Sapporo is one of the top destinations on our
tour, and we explore the must-see historic sights of
Hokkaido's capital city. The Historical Village of
Hokkaido
offers a window into the past, showing the island
developing into what it is today. Taste fresh beer at the
Sapporo Beer Museum and satisfy your sweet tooth at
Shiroi Koibito Park. Odori Park is the best place in the
city for Cherry blossoms and is a picturesque retreat
from the bustling city.
Discover the breathtaking nature, historic wonders, and
cultural delights of Hokkaido while enjoying the
backdrop
of Japan's famous cherry blossoms. Browse our
detailed
itinerary below for more information.
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Please Note:
All prices are per person, based on twin (double on request)
or triple occupancy.
International flights are not included
on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to choose your
own departure and get the best value for your money!
We can arrange international flights for US customers if
needed, please ask for details.
We require US$200 deposit per person to hold the space at time of booking and the final payment is due 2 month prior to departure.
Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling.
This tour starts and finishes in Sapporo for arrivals and departures at New Chitose Airport (CTS).
Vegetarian or special meals can be arranged.
Please note that the meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
Click here for detailed itinerary
Tour schedule and prices subject to change without notice
Welcome to Sapporo! You will be met at the arrival gate by an AJT representative holding an "All Japan Tours" sign.
ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Chitose or similar class
NOTE 1: The meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
In the morning we will go to Shiraoi, and the Upopoy National Ainu Museum, a newer museum facility that celebrates the cultural heritage of the native Ainu people, including exhibits on Ainu language, culture, history, crafts, music, and dance. The tour then continues to Noboribetsu, and stops to visit Jigokudani "Hell Valley". This rocky crater is constantly venting smoke and sulfur into the air from boiling pools, hot rivers, and jagged cracks in the landscape bordered by vegetation creeping up the crater's gentle slopes, lending the entire valley a mysterious, primordial beauty. Take the safe walking paths through this rocky crater, where water roils inside nearby bubbling pools and sulfurous steam rises from jagged cracks in the landscape. A hot river, flowing from out the area, eventually reaches the perfect temperature at the Oyunumagawa Natural Foot Bath. Here, we will take some time to relax and soak our feet in the refreshing hot stream. Then we travel to Lake Toya, listed as one of the top 100 beautiful landscapes of Japan in 2008. This is the 3rd largest caldera lake in Japan, about 42 km around. It has 4 pretty islands and is the habitat of many kinds of birds and deer. Tonight we will stay in a traditional Japanese style hotel offering hot spring baths with beautiful views of the lake. After dinner in the hotel, enjoy a fireworks that set off from boats. starting at around 8.45pm and lasts 20 minutes.
Toya Sun Palace or similar class
After breakfast, we will go to Lake Toya, a gorgeous caldera lake shaped in a near-perfect circle, and surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty including Mount Usu. We take the Mount Usu Ropeway up to a spectacular observation point to take in the surrounding springtime scene, accented with lovely cherry blossoms. Next, we head to Nanae, to visit Road Station Nanairo- Nanae, Japan's number 1 ranked road station, which sells souvenirs and produce from around Hokkaido. Finally, we arrive in Hakodate. First, we visit Fort Goryokaku, a magnificent Western-style military fort converted into a star-shaped park. This is, by far, the best place to view the cherry blossoms in Hakodate. On the other hand, for sweeping views of the city in the evening, we take the Hakodate Ropeway to take in an incredible cityscape panorama before turning in for the night.
Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar class
In Matsumae we will be touring around Matsumae Castle and enjoying the Cherry Blossom Festival. Matsumae Castle once belonged to the powerful Matsumae Clan that ruled the region. It was a former castle town that thrived through trade, but after many years it was converted into a park. North of the castle there are over 10,000 cherry blossoms planted in rows across the area. You can see over 250 varieties of the flower throughout the park, which is why the blooming period in the area lasts for a month. During the festival there will be performances, food stalls, and special events for visitors to enjoy. At the western edge of Matsumae Park is a small historical theme park called Matsumaehan Yashiki. It recreates Matsumae Town during the Edo Period, which includes a guard station, merchant houses, magistrate’s office and shipping agent.
Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar class
In the morning, we take a trip to the Hakodate Morning Market, where you can browse the fresh local produce try the fresh seafood. Then we travel to Mori, where you will enjoy the cherry blossom festival at Aobagaoka Park, where around a thousand cherry blossoms, around 17 varieties, have been planted. Enjoy the sight of the Morikomachi and Aoba Shidare varieties, which can only be seen in this park. Then we make our way to Kuromatsunai, where your group will join an engaging Taiko lesson. Have fun learning easy rhythms under the guidance of an expert taiko drummer. Then we take a pleasant walk through the Utasai Beech Forest. The beautiful forest of Japanese beech trees has a captivating, timeless feel as you walk its paths. The rare forest is designated as one of Japan's important cultural properties, and is breathtaking in the spring.
Hilton Niseko Village or similar class
In the morning we will travel to Otaru, renowned for its canals and glassblowing. During the first half of the 20th century, the Otaru Canal was a vital part of the city's busy harbor. The canal allowed large vessels to be unloaded onto smaller ones, then transported to the local warehouses. Although the canal became obsolete when modern dock facilities allowed for direct unloading from the large vessels, it still remains an integral part of the city's history and culture. As part of a citizen's movement in the 1980s, the canal was beautifully restored and former warehouses were transformed into cafes, restaurants, museums, and shops. Then, we will make our way to the Otaru Sushi District, where you will be free to find your own sushi lunch from among the shops selling various kinds of sushi. Next, we will visit Kitaichi Garasukan and the Music Box Museum. In the afternoon, Then we travel to Asahikawa Ramen Village to try some of Hokkaido's best ramen. Eight famous ramen restaurants from Asahikawa have opened small branch stores besides one another in the complex alongside a gift shop and a small ramen shrine.
Asahikawa Grand Hotel or similar class
In the morning, we take a trip to Biei, a small town surrounded by a picturesque landscape of gently rolling hills and vast fields. We will pay a visit to the mystic man made Blue Pond. This pond is blue because of the aluminum hydroxide.The Blue Pond changes colors depending on the weather. For example, in spring it turns into spectacularly green color. The artificial pond was created as a part of erosion control system that was built to prevent Biei in case of an eruption of Mount Tokachidake. Then we head to Furano, a famous flower- viewing spot, known especially for its lavender fields. First, a delightful ice-cream experience awaits, using locally sourced Hokkaido milk to create the soft, sweet cream in various flavors including a lavender-flavored ice cream. Next, we take in the splendid sight of Tomita Farm, which is home to many of Furano's beautiful flower fields. Finally, we head to Sapporo, first to view the cherry blossoms at Odori Park - a large public park in the middle of the city. After, we browse the various brightly lit shops and restaurants in Susukino, which is one of Sapporo's chief entertainment districts.
ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo or similar class
In the morning, we go into the Historic Village of Hokkaido where horse-drawn carriages and trolleys are still seen and used. The village offers insight into its history as well as an open-air museum with buildings which exemplify Hokkaido's architectural evolution from the Meiji and Taisho eras into the modern age. Then visit Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park founded by a local chocolate company. Its famous Shiroi Koibito cookies are buttery with a white chocolate center. They are a popular favorite with locals and tourists alike. After lunch, we travel to Hokkaido Shrine, an elegant shrine complex situated next to Maruyama Park under the protection of four Shinto kami (deities). Then we will tour the Sapporo Beer Museum, which produces one of Japan's most popular beers. Finally, we will pay a visit to the Hill of the Buddha, designed by the Japanese modernist architect Tadao Ando, this statue sits in a large stone rotunda surrounded by flowers and includes a pristine reflecting pool.
ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo or similar class
After breakfast, our tour officially ends.
Checkout time is 11 am.
Transfer to New Chitose Airport by Airport
Limousine Bus.
NOTE 2: The departure airport transfer is ONLY available on the last day of the tour. If you plan to stay extra nights after the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to the airport on your own.
NOTE 3: If you would like to stay longer in Japan, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Shiraoi is a small town in Hokkaido Prefecture. Though officially established in the mid-1800s by the lords of Sendai during the feudal era, this coastal town’s history goes back even further as a former settlement of the native Ainu. In recognition of this dual heritage, the town has constructed the Ainu Museum, which celebrates the language, history, culture, and legacy of the Ainu, through various exhibits and demonstrations for nearly every aspect of daily Ainu life. The museum apparently has collected over five thousand various folk items related to the Ainu people. Shiraoi is also noted for its beautiful nature, especially Lake Kuttara, which, according to Japan’s Ministry of the Environment, is one of Japan’s clearest lakes. Shiraoi wagyu beef is a famous local product, with local farms of black Japanese cattle scattered around the nearby countryside.
A replacement facility for the old “Porotokan” Ainu Museum, this newer exhibit space works to further expand visitors’ understanding of the Ainu People.
Initially opened in 1990, the Porotokan Ainu Museum was dedicated to cataloging, preserving, and teaching the history and culture of the original native peoples of Hokkaido: the Ainu people. In 2018, however, the Porotokan closed down in order to clear the way for the new and expanded National Ainu Museum. This newer museum’s philosophy is based on the ideals of multicultural coexistence and presents various exhibits divided into six separate Ainu-centered themes: history, language, lifestyle, livelihood, worldview, and trade with other peoples. The museum is one building in a larger facility called Upopoy (“singing in a large group” in Ainu language). This facility includes, in addition to the museum, a National Park near Lake Poroto, and a Memorial Site for deceased Ainu.
Noboribetsu is located in southwestern Hokkaido along the southern coast of Hokkaido. Noboribestu is part of the Shikotsu-Toya National Park, which is located in southwestern Hokkaido. This place is known throughout Hokkaido and hosts Hokkaido’s best-known hot spring resort. Surrounding the area is a forest and if visitors wish to, they can travel to Shikotsu-Toya National Park. There are numerous outdoor activities within the park which include hiking, hot springs, camping, boat tours on the lakes, canoeing, and many other activities. Noboribetsu is also home to the famous Noboribestu Jigokudani. The Jigokudani (or known as “Hell Valley”) is just above the town, this valley is the number one destination for nature lovers making a visit to Noboribestu.
Hell valley - displaying volcanic activities.
There are many hot springs in Japan, one of which is located in Hokkaido with the name of Jigokudani, meaning “Hell Valley.” The very characteristics of the valley itself justify the name given to the location. Other physical features of the valley include its crater foundation that is more than a kilometer and half all around.
Just outside the Jigokudani “Hell Valley” of Noboribetsu, the river Oyunumagawa cools to just the right temperature for a pleasing foot bath.
Noboribetsu is known for its Jigokudani “Hell Valley” natural hot spring region. As a result, a number of local onsen resorts have sprung up around the local area, offering a hit mineral bath to weary travelers. But as the Oyunuma River winds around the valley, the temperature of the river cools to the perfect degree for a refreshing bath for to soothe your tired feet. The foot bath is free, and visitors may sit on a wooden deck and dangle their feet into the flowing river, or they may stand in the river’s flow. Those who choose to stand in the river, the natural silt and mineral deposits wash over and scour the feet clean.
Lake Toya is located southwest of Sapporo, at the center of the lake are four islands called Nakajima. On the island called O-shima, which is the largest of the four islands, is the Toyako Forest Museum. Kannon-jima used to enshrine a sculpture of Kannon, Goddess of Mercy, from the Edo Period, but now there is just the temple in its place. Benten-jima is connected to Kannon-jima by a sandbank called Toppmoshiri. Benzaiten, Goddess of everything that flows like music, time, water, speech, rivers and knowledge, is enshrined on the island. Manju-jima is off limits to casual visitors because it is known for having many vipers thus it is called “Snake Island.” Another thing you can do around Lake Toya is rent out bicycles and pass by sculptures surrounding the lake shore.
Experience the stunning Lake Toya Fireworks display between May and October over breathtaking Lake Toya - one of the most beautiful lakes in Japan.
Lake Toya is an exceptionally lake in Hokkaido, sitting near picturesque Mount Usu. The lake has a single island in the middle, known as Nakajima - rising like a shapely green pupil inside a clear blue eye. The lake one of the two northernmost lakes in Japan that never freezes, and so remains clear and beautiful all year- round. And although Japan hosts hundreds of fireworks festivals every year, it is the Lake Toya Fireworks display that is one of the most delightful. Fireworks like brilliant flowers burst in all colors of the rainbow, and can be seen reflecting off the surface of the water, in a nightly display running from May to October. This makes it one of the longest-running fireworks shows in Japan.
A volcano which has erupted four times in the past 100 years.
Mount Usu, Japan’s most active volcano. The unusual thing with Mount Usu is that it does not spew out tons of lava, but instead forms new landmarks. The rise of volatile magma creates the lava domes as well as the crypto domes. There are several walking trails that can be taken to see the destruction left behind. There are also wrecked houses, confection factory, telephone poles, cars and other buildings that remain there to educate individuals on the destructive power of volcanoes. The trail then leads to the craters where you can still see steam emitting from the fissures.
Nanae is a large town in the southern Oshima subprefecture of Hokkaido. Prominent features of this town include idyllic Lake Onuma – a part of Onuma Quasi- National Park, and nearby stratovolcano Mount Koma-ga- take, which looks especially picturesque from across the lake. Nanae has a large farming and agricultural community, with travelers visiting the various orchards around town to enjoy seasonal fruit-picking. Apples are especially abundant, and are considered a symbol of the town. One major point of interest in Nanae is the Hokkaido Kelp Museum, which details the history and techniques involved in kelp aquaculture through various exhibits and movies – they even sell kelp-flavored ice cream!
Road Station Nanairo-Nanae is the number one "road station" in Hokkaido, and sells a variety of locally-produced foods and souvenirs.
As more people in Japan began to drive around the country (as opposed to using the trains), Japan developed a series of "road stations" across the country, from Okinawa to Hokkaido. These stations offer visitors local produce, cuisine, and souvenirs from that region. Consistently ranked as the top road station in Hokkaido is Road Station Nanairo-Nanae, which is located at Nanae-cho in southern Hokkaido. This roadstation sells the various local delights of the region, including a special soft-serve ice cream made with guarana, and fluffy croquettes. Many of the local souvenirs they make feature locally grown apples, including apple ponzu, apple pound cake, apple curry, and of course, apple juice.
Hakodate is a port city and is the third largest city in Hokkaido. It was one of the first ports to be open to foreign trade and the influences of other countries can be shown in the Motomachi area of the city. The architecture still survives even after the 1934 Great Hakodate Fire, which destroyed over 11,000 buildings and World War II bombings. The night view from Mount Hakodate is one of the top tourist spots people go to and is the symbol of the city. Since Hakodate is a port town there is a place called the morning market where you can buy a plethora of fresh seafood and other delectable items. Hakodate is a city of cultural importance that not only reflects the past, but possibilities of the future. As the gateway to Hokkaido it would be a great place to stop and visit all the sites.
Japan's first Western style fortress.
The Goryokaku Fort was first built over a hundred years ago, this established structure held the magistrate’s office where Hokkaido was administered and was the first western-styled stronghold of its kind in Japan. The fort was not always affiliated to military, once it lost its importance for military self-defense, it was employed as a park in 1910. This area is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in early May because it has more than a thousand trees blooming there each year. An observation tower is also available for public use to view the grounds from above.
One of the Japan's three best night views.
Known as “Lying Cow” for its shape, Mount Hakodate offers one of the best views from its summit some 334 meters high, overlooking both sea and land. The views that can be seen from Mount Hakodate include the peninsulas located south from the summit, the Tsugaru and Shimokita Peninsulas belonging to Aomori Prefecture. In addition to the peninsular views, the night time and daytime views in either direction are popular among the tourists, so tourists need only worry about the observation deck and ropeway operational times when visiting Mount Hakodate.
Enjoy fresh seafood for breakfast.
Hakodate’s Morning Market is a market specializing in seafood. It was created after World War II and extends some four city blocks. This morning market consists of approximately 160 shops, however tourists from all over can buy and have their meals prepared for them at that moment. Seafood like sea urchins, clams, king crab, salmon and more amongst the fruit and vegetables that they sell as well. This market offers sales every day from early in the morning until around noon time.
Matsumae is a town that was once a castle town located at the southernmost part of Hokkaido. Matsumae hosts many unique attractions for visitors to experience, which include the popular Matsumae Park. This place is home to over ten thousand cherry trees, which in the spring all bloom together to form one of Japan’s best cherry blossom spots. This area also has over 250 different species of cherry trees. The large number of species results in this area having a long cherry blossom season. The trees bloom from late April to late May and a festival is held at the same time as well.
Also known as Fukushima Castle.
Matsumae Castle is located in the town of Matsumae and was the only Japanese style castle to have been established on Hokkaido. The original castle was destroyed many time throughout its history, but the current building standing there today was rebuilt in the 1960s. The current castle is home to the museum which showcase the local history of the Matsumae clan and also features some Ainu history.
Most popular cherry blossom viewing spot in Hokkaido with over ten thousand cherry trees.
Matsumae Park was once the former castle grounds north of Matsumae Castle. This area is the home of over 250 different species of cherry trees and features over 10,000 cherry trees. Because of the 250 different species of cherry trees, Matsumae Park has a unique and long cherry blossom season that lasts from late April to late May. The Matsumae Cherry Blossom Festival is held here for much of late April to late May as well.
A small historical theme park that recreates Matsumae Town of the Edo Period.
One of the many attractions available to visitors in the Matsumae Castel area is the Matsumaehan Yashiki. This place is a small, but interesting them park. This little theme park recreates the historical Matsumae Town from the Edo Period. This park features a guard station, merchant houses and even a magistrate office. There are many life sized mannequins representing the people from that age. Visitors can also rent costumes (the clothes people wore during the Edo Period) while they explore the park.
Mori Machi is a small town in southern Hokkaido. The town is located on the edge Onuma Quasi-National Park, and so is known for it's scenic natural surroundings, which include majestic Mount Komagatake. Its position on the coast makes the town a go-to location for fresh seafood dishes with fresh-caught Alaska pollock, scallops, hair crab, and shrimp. The town has other naturally marvelous locations such as Aobagaoka Park, which hosts an annual cherry blossom festival in honor of around 1000 cherry trees coming into full bloom. Speaking of festivals, the town also hosts is summer matsuri (festival), which includes taiko drumming and carrying the local "mikoshi" shrine through the city.
Aobagaoka Park Cherry Blossom Festival is a festival in Mori Machi, celebrating the blossoming cherry blossoms at Aobagaoka Park, which is home to around 1000 cherry trees.
The Aobagaoka Park Cherry blossom festival commemorates the opening blossoms of Aobagaoka Park's cherry trees. It is held every year from late April until mid-May. Around a thousand cherry trees are gathered in groves around the park, creating the feeling of walking underneath a roof of fluffy pastel pink clouds. The trees are of the yoshino cherry variety, yielding a bright pink color, but there are also some of the "weeping"cherry blossom trees, which look especially gorgeous when lit up at night. While browsing the festival, you can enjoy various festival food and sweets. The cherry blossom soft-serve ice cream is especially popular.
Kuromatsunai is a town located in southern Hokkaido prefecture, in Shiribeshi subprefecture. The town is an ideal tour location for travelers looking to experience some local, off-the-beaten-track Hokkaido culture and activities. While visiting Kuromatsunai, travelers can go fishing in a gorgeous mountain stream, dine on local versions of soba and ramen dishes, take a taiko drumming lesson under the eye of an expert, and enjoy a "farming experience" where you help local farmers harvest crops and learn about the land. But without doubt the most incredible activity to do while in Kuromatsunaie is a nature walk through the Utasai Beech Forest, a treasure of the city untouched by human hands.
Take a Taiko Lesson at Kuromatsunai, where you will soon be drumming simple, enjoyable rhythms under the guidance of a local taiko drum expert.
While in the town of Kuromatsunai, there are various local cultural amusements to enjoy, and one such activity is learning to play the taiko drums. The taiko is a large native drum, usually made of wood, and topped with a head of stretched cowhide. The cowhide is struck with a pair of wooden sticks to create a loud, vibrant sound. Used in many aspects of Japanese traditional culture from kabuki theater performances to samurai-era warfare, taiko drums produce a resonating sound and are made in various sizes from the tiny "shime-daiko" to the massive "o-daiko". Everything from the holding of the stick to the position of the body as you strike the drumhead is a part of the art, and any who are interested in learning to play this instrument can enjoy a simple, fun class learning to play the taiko drum with a taiko expert in Kuromatsunai.
Enjoy a refreshing walk through the Utasai Beech Forest, an idyllic grove of virgin beech trees, untouched by civilization.
Utasai Beech Forest is a protected forest of Japanese beech trees protected by the Japanese government as a national treasure. The rustic, untouched nature of this forest grants hikers through the region the feeling of entering an enchanting forest paradise that has been preserved in its natural state. This being a forest of deciduous beech trees, Utasai Forest presents a different scenic profile depending on the season you go. Spring is a lush panorama of deep and vibrant greens, summer enchants the forest view with shafts of golden sunlight, autumn drastically changes the canopy overhead to colorful bursts of reddish orange and gold, and winter provides the peaceful stillness that accompanies fresh- fallen snow. Walking Tours through this forest give visitors the opportunity to enjoy this refreshing nature scene while preserving the untouched quality of the forest.
Otaru is a small harbor city in Hokkaido near Sapporo. There are various activities in Otaru, including food (especially seafood), sightseeing and shopping. There are many hills, including the very steep slope called Jigoku-Zaka, thus is a popular location for skiing and other sports. Otaru beer is also well known in Hokkaido, places like the Otaru Soko No. 1 Brewery is a popular place for beer lovers. The Otaru Canal is a very popular place for tourist to gather. The Otaru Canal is also one of the locations of the Snow Light Path Festival held every February, where the area is decorated in lights and small snow statues. Tourist can visit the various glass workshops and shop for famous Otaru glassware or even make their glassware. The Music Box Museum is one of the most popular destinations in Otaru, guests can explore the sea of music boxes in this Museum.
Beautiful canal lined by old warehouses.
The Otaru Canal was employed by businesses to transport their merchandise to warehouses with smaller ships since the bigger ships could not directly unload their goods to their destinations. However, eventually there was no use for the smaller vessels when the facilities were modernized, making the use of canals less necessary. Now the area is a tourist attraction, during the day people take leisurely walks about the scenic route where there are museums, restaurants, and shops. Furthermore, Otaru Canal is the main site of the Snow Light Path Festival which is celebrated annually during February as a winter festival.
Otaru is a port city known for fresh sushi, a natural complement to its thriving fishing industry. The Sushi District lines up some of the city’s top restaurants.
Otaru has been a thriving fishing town since the Edo period, when its network of canals allowed for easy unloading of fishing boats. Years later, though the canals are now a local promenade and tourist hotspot, the fishing industry survives, finding fresh appeal by supporting the city’s top sushi restaurants now lining the Otaru Sushi District. A couple of these restaurants have earned Michelin Stars, and some require a reservation in advance. Some of these restaurants are native to Otaru, but many are more widely established, with branch restaurants all over the world. Otaru has over a hundred sushi restaurants scattered throughout the city, offering a broad variety of sushi dishes to choose from. Select sushi, including the shrimp and sea urchin, are praised as Otaru’s finest offerings.
Otaru's famous blown glass factory.
The glass made in Otaru is refined and is made in many workshops that also offer hands-on experience for guests who take interest in making their own glassware for a fee. Otaru is located in the prefecture of Hokkaido, neighboring the city of Sapporo. Aside from glass workshops, there are also many cafés, restaurants, and other shops that also allow guests to admire and purchase their artistic glass.
A unique museum about Music Box.
Among the many shops found on Sakaimichi Street is the Otaru Music Box Museum. It not only displays various objects, but also sells a wide range of music boxes, some of which are more elaborate than others; some move and others light up along with their melody. Midst the various types of music boxes are some made from glass, wood, or even traditional Japanese fabric, some are fashioned after sushi or Western-themed concepts. These music boxes also carry different songs according to a collection that the establishment has at their disposable.
Asahikawa is located north of Sapporo and it is the second largest city in Hokkaido. Asahikawa is mainly used as a transition point for Wakkanai in the north, Biei and Furano to the south and Daisetsuzan National Park to the southeast. The sake from Asahikawa has won many prizes for using the superior Hokkaido rice in the brewing process. Although Asahikawa is not known for being a tourist place, there is still the Asahikawa Zoo, which is one of the best zoos in Japan to visit and is second to Ueno Zoo in Tokyo for visitor attendance. The innovative design of the facility allows visitors to see the animals from numerous angles at a close proximity. There are also places within the city where artisans use the lumber to create a variety of crafts.
Village with eight famous ramen restaurants.
Asahikawa is famous for its ramen. Whereas Sapporo is known for its miso based broth and Hakodate for its salt based broth, Asahikawa is known for its shoyu (soya sauce) based broths. Shops serving shoyu based ramen can be found throughout the city. The broth of Asahikawa Ramen is also known for being quite oily, and there is often a thin layer of oil on top of the soup. Another characteristic of the local ramen is the generally thin, hard and wavy noodles. The range of toppings is quite typical and includes green onions, pork, bamboo shoots and eggs. On the outskirts of the city there is an interesting collection of ramen shops called the Asahikawa Ramen Village. Eight famous ramen restaurants from Asahikawa have opened small branch stores besides one another in the complex alongside a gift shop and a small ramen shrine.
Biei is a small town that is surrounded by landscapes of rolling hills and wide fields. The town is located in the Kamikawa (Ishikari) District of the Kamikawa Subprefecture near the center of Hokkaido. Since Mount Tokachidake’s eruption in December 1988, measures were taken to prevent damage to Biei. An erosion control was built to prevent disastrous outcomes, which created the Blue Pond near the Shirogane Onsen. There is also a famous photo gallery by Shinzo Maeda, who opened it in 1987, called Takushinkan. Shinzo Maeda was a well- respected landscape photographer whose photos put Biei on the map as one of the best sightseeing spots in Hokkaido back in the 1970s. Hill of Shikisai is a flower garden with over seven dozen varieties of flowers, which are lined up separately. Biei is a place where nature’s beauty is plentiful and barely tampered with.
A naturally blue colored pond outside of Biei.
The Blue Pond is located in the center of Hokkaido near Biei right outside the Shirogane Onsen. Many people that own Apple computer products will recognize this location from the Apple screen savers images. This pond gives off a deep rich blue color because of the natural minerals dissolved in the water. It was not until recently that this location started to become a popular tourist destination, so this location is still a little underdeveloped compared to popular locations. Besides the pond there is not much else to do, but to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Furano is known for its flowers, television dramas, and for its ski resort fun. The city is located in the middle of Hokkaido and has been given the nickname of “The Bellybutton of Hokkaido.” The most popular flower to see in the area, when in season, is the lavender. In the summertime there are fields full of the purple colored flower that it just takes your breath away. At the Furano Ski Resort, whether guests are going by themselves, with friends, or family, there is enough entertainment for everyone. The Furano and the Kita-no-me zones are two areas that are divided, but are part of the same Furano Ski Area. Also around the winter time is the Furano Kan Kan Mura Snow Night Fantasy at the New Furano Prince Hotel, where there are snow huts, snow cafe and other fun activities to do.
The town of Furano – known largely for its gorgeous lavender flowers – also offers visitors the local experience of making creamy Hokkaido ice cream.
Hokkaido is famed for its fresh and creamy milk-based products – cheese, butter, and ice cream. A popular notion of Hokkaido ice cream production is the blending of their soft cream base with a variety of local flavors that Hokkaido is proud of. Not only fruity flavors like cherry, strawberry, grape, or peach, but vegetable flavors like asparagus and corn are sold – they even have really strange flavors like lavender, sunflower, kelp, and squid ink! A workshop in Furano offers visitors the chance to make their own sweet cream concoction using creamy Hokkaido milk – and you never know what interesting flavors they may have to try!
Farm with beautiful lavender and flower fields.
Among the various summer lavender fields to visit in Furano, Farm Tomita is one of the best known and oldest lavender farms in the region of Hokkaido. The Hanabito House has a souvenir shop where you can buy various lavender goods as well as cafes nearby to try lavender flavored goods. The museum is on the upper floor of the Hanabito House and on the same floor is the scent testing room, where you can compare different types of lavender fragrances.
Located in Hokkaido Prefecture, Sapporo was once a dense forest with wildlife that included bears, deer, and wolves until its construction started in 1871. A man named Shima Yoshitake began the city’s development which eventually led to the current North American form it has as a grid-like system layout. Consequently, the northern and southern parts of the city are divided by the main boulevard called O-dori, which runs through the center of the city. Sapporo is known mostly for its beer, beer museum, dairy products, and its annual snow festival every February. One of the oldest standing structures established is the Sapporo Clock Tower, introduced by the North Americans, is now employed as a history museum. Dr. William Clark, a scholar from America, became one of the founders that established educational policies at the Sapporo Agricultural College. Later, this same college became the University of Hokkaido.
Pleasant public park in the city center.
Located in the center of Sapporo, running from east to west is Odori Park. It was supposed to be the main street separating Sapporo north from south as a fire break, but now represents the area holding the annual Snow Festival events. It has 92 types of trees and many flowerbeds, enough to attract tourists and locals for a relaxing time in its vicinity. For guests wishing for good views and photographs, there is the Sapporo TV Tower’s observation deck available to the public for a fee. The deck is especially popular during the Snow Festival’s events held every February.
Sapporo's entertainment district.
Nightlife plans for guests in Sapporo might include activities like hitting the pachinko machines, nightclubs, bars, karaoke, and restaurants. If that is the case, it will probably lead them to Sapporo’s biggest entertainment neighborhood, Susukino, which is similar to Shinjuku’s Kabukicho red light district. As such, it should not come as a surprise that expenses might run a little higher here than in other parts of the city. Susukino is one of the sites that hosts the annual Snow Festival held every February in Sapporo. Genghis Khan nabe, or Susukino’s Ramen Yokocho are local foods recommended to all.
Open air museum about Hokkaido.
The Historic Village of Hokkaido is a restored area based of what remained from the Meiji era and Taisho era. It is now an open-air museum with shops, households, and horse-drawn trams that run through the village. It displays various buildings and shops that were once constructed during Hokkaido’s growing development, including 60 different buildings from all over this northern island. It is also a place where many who lost their positions in the Edo Shogunate went to start their lives anew, especially samurai. It is located in the suburbs of Sapporo. It consists residential, mountainous, fishing, and agricultural zones.
Chocolate factory, shop, and museum.
Located in Sapporo, Shiroi Koibito Park is a factory for confectionaries and a theme park. It is known for its white chocolate and its famous souvenir cookies in Hokkaido. There are various indoor and outdoor activities and places to visit. Guests can enter the factory and see how cookies and candy are made by the Shiroi Koibito employees. The factory tours also include a hands-on experience for guests to create and design their own cookies. The park is opened year-round, including its seasonal rose garden, which is said to be at its best during summer seasons.
Hokkaido Shrine is the most prominent shrine of Sapporo, established by Emperor Meiji in 1971. The shrine is attractive to visit in every season, and is Hokkaido’s guardian shrine.
Hokkaido Shrine, once known as Sapporo Shrine, is located in the city of Sapporo and is one of the most important Shinto shrines in the city. By order of Emperor Meiji, three Shinto kami (deities) were enshrined there– three spirits of protection to guard the island of Hokkaido. After the emperor’s passing, his soul was also enshrined there, adding a fourth protector to the shrine, and it was renamed Hokkaido Shrine. The shrine achieves especial importance and popularity during three important times of the year – spring, for its lovely cherry blossoms; summer, as the heart of the Sapporo Festival; and the New Year, when Japanese attend their yearly hatsumoude – the annual first shrine visit.
Museum of the Sapporo Beer Breweries.
Sapporo is considered the birthplace of beer in Japan since it started manufacturing beer in the Meiji Period. The building for the Sapporo Beer Museum was originally used as the Sapporo Sugar Company around 1890. Then, it was employed as a location for the cleaning process of barley leaves that were used to make beer in 1965. Finally, it was made into a brewery and, then, the museum that now has two neighboring beer gardens. There are tasting lounges and tours offered at the Sapporo Beer Museum for a fee, though there are few signs containing English for foreign guests.
The Hill of the Buddha, designed by architect Tadao Ando, is a great stone rotunda enclosing a statue of the Buddha and surrounded with thousands of lavender flowers.
The Hill of the Buddha is a Buddhist shrine and scenic monument in Sapporo. A massive stone statue of the seated Buddha is surrounded in a giant stone rotunda and preceded by a large reflecting pool. Designed in 2005 by modernist architect Tadao Ando, the Hill of the Buddha was constructed outside the Makomanai Takino Cemetery. The rotunda is covered in over a hundred thousand lavender flowers, one of the symbols of Hokkaido. Far from being the only monument at this unique cemetery, other picturesque points of interest include replica models of the Moai Heads of Easter Island, as well as the UK’s Stonehenge.
Located just a five minute walk from JR Chitoise station and a 10 minute drive from the airport, the hotel offers guests comfort and convenience. The in- house restaurant serves up traditional Japanese dishes. However, if you are in the mood for other cuisines, just step out of the hotel and you will find numerous restaurants and bars where you can indulge with your favorite cuisine or drink.
Toya Sunpalace is located along the Lake Toya and all guests room are faced to the lake to be enjoyed the beautiful spectacles in season through the year. Please enjoy and relax at the big main bath and a open-air hot spring bath. There is also an amusement baths park including wave and slide pool. The summer fireworks at the lake are popular.
Facing beautiful Hakodate Port, this hotel is located in exotic and poetic surroundings including Motomachi Park, a historical church and the morning market.
Hilton Niseko Village, Japan's premier mountain resort offering unparalleled year-round winter and summer outdoor activities in an unbeatable location. Set at the foot of Hokkaido's Niseko Annupuri Mountain, the Hilton Niseko Village is the perfect base from which to enjoy a huge variety of outdoor activities.
Asahiakwa Grand Hotel is a European- Style city hotel with distinct look and located at the city center. The hotel's lobby and entrance are designed by Canadian designer John Edison, the great- grandson of the king of inventors, Thomas Alva Edison. The stately architecture and elegant space enable guests to have the supreme satisfaction during the stay.
This modern luxury hotel and resort, situated in the northernmost major city of Japan, is a landmark for opulence and leisure. Guests will enjoy a location that is just a short walk from the Sapporo Subway Station and an additional six minutes from the JR Sapporo Station. ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo is an ideal choice for guests who want a central location close to public transport links and a vast selection of on- site facilities as well as first class professional service.
PLEASE NOTE: These are the hotels All Japan Tours generally uses on the touring styles and regions shown. There is no guarantee that you will stay in the lodgings listed on the website. We encourage you to check your travel documentation for confirmation of the exact accommodation you will be staying in.
Destinations
Shiraoi / Noboribetsu / Lake Toya / Hakodate / Matsumae / Mori / Kuromatsunai / Niseko / Otaru / Asahikawa / Biei / Furano / Sapporo
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Planned by experts, based on seasonal favorites and must-see sites.
Choose your style and split cost with other passengers
Chosen by our experienced staff
Guide is available to you 24/7 and sleeps in the same hotel
Learn to create your own Sushi, meet a geisha or maiko, and more
Meet locals and visit rural areas of Japan you might miss on other tours
Group Tour Style | Budget | Deluxe | Deluxe-Plus | Signature | Active |
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< View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | < View Tours | |
Feature | Our Budget Tours are designed for our guests who are on a limited budget. Explore the must-see sights and enjoy a hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. | Sample all Japan has to offer, from unique locales to must see tourist attractions. Our Deluxe Tours are fully guided, and use our luxury coaches for your convenience and comfort. | Experience Japanese culture at a slower pace, and with a smaller group size than our deluxe tours. Stay in each city longer so you can soak in the culture and fully appreciate the destinations. | Enjoy upgraded hotels, a slower pace, and a smaller group size for a more intimate experience. Access to a wide range of unique activities that immerse you in authentic Japanese culture. | Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. |
Advantage | Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a set of quick stops to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or if you plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys, these are the tours for you. | Our most popular tours for everyone. Fully-escorted - the most hassle-free way to visit Japan for the best value. From Hokkaido to Kyushu, the duration of our Deluxe Tours range from 5 to 27 days. Whether you want to see the best of Japan in a shorter time, or take your time in each city, you will find a tour package that suits your preferences. | Smaller group sizes enable our guests to access more of Japanese culture and traditions. Our Deluxe-Plus Tours are carefully balanced for you to discover the unique Japanese culture, history, arts, food and spectacular scenery Japan has. If you love Japan and want to appreciate the best of everything Japan can offer, these are the tours for you. | Dive into the cultural aspects of Japan at a more leisurely pace. Enjoy more than just sightseeing. All of our Signature Small Group Tours feature a wide range of cultural experiences through interaction with the people and places that represent all that is authentic about the destination. Get an alternative, more in-depth understanding of Japanese culture and art. | Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best cultural locations with off-the-beaten-path destinations via Japanese public transportation. Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes. |
Group Size | 20 to 45 people | 10 to 35 people | 6 to 24 people | 4 to 16 people | 4 to 13 people |
Fully-escorted | Comprehensively escorted by AJT's professional English speaking tour guide | Your guides are local experts and residents of the city you are visiting, they do not always escort the group when traveling between cities | |||
Pace | Fast pace to see as much as possible while in Japan | Perfect pace to see as much as possible while in Japan | More leisurely pace to soak in and fully appreciate the destinations, plus free time to explore on your own | ||
Airport Transfers | Airport transfers are NOT included unless otherwise specified | Airport transfers are included* (If no options are taken: hotels are not requested to be changed and passengers use the correct airports) | Airport transfers are included if arriving on the first day of the tour and returning on the last day of the tour | Private airport transfers are included if arriving on the first day of the tour and returning on the last day of the tour | Airport transfers are NOT included unless otherwise specified |
Transfer between cities | Transfer between cities via private coach and Shinkansen (bullet train), depending on the itinerary | Transfer between cities via private coach and first class Shinkansen (bullet train), depending on the itinerary | Transfer between cities via Shinkansen (bullet train) or express train. Private minivans are also used occasionally where public transport is not available or practical | ||
Sightseeing | Sightseeing by private coach with an escorted guide | Sightseeing by private coach and public transportation with an escorted guide | Sightseeing via public transportation (local train, subway & local bus) with local guides | ||
Admission fees and activities | All entry fees to sites and activities listed in the itinerary are included | ||||
Luggage Transfers | Luggage transfers by private coach from hotel to hotel, plus separate luggage transfers are included on select tours | Separate luggage transfers are included | |||
Meals | Breakfast every morning, plus meals as indicated (vegetarian or special meals can be arranged) | ||||
Accommodation | Carefully-selected budget hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected superior/deluxe hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected deluxe/boutique hotels and ryokans | Carefully-selected deluxe/luxury hotels and ryokans | Accommodations range from local Japanese inns (minshuku) to budget hotels, to superior/deluxe hotels depending on the tour and destination |
Ages | 4 years old and above | 6 years old and above | |||
Health & Activity | In order to enjoy our tour, you should be able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing activities can only be accomplished on foot. Wheelchairs can be arranged upon request. However, we regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. | These tours are tailored to the energetic traveler; guests should feel comfortable walking from 4 to 10 miles a day depending on the tour and destination. |