Hokkaido Adventure

Sapporo, Otaru, Yoichi, Niseko in Summer, Asahikawa, Asahidake Onsen, Daisetsuzan National Park
from
EUR 3.245,-

Available 14 days Depart June - September

Individual Tour
Personalised travel docs Maximum flexibility Fully customisable Personal consultant
Arrange your consultation with an expert to customise this itinerary. Plan your trip now
  • Adventure
  • Cuisine
  • Nature
  • Seasonal

Overview

Discover Hokkaido’s Wild Beauty: Active Adventures & Alpine Comfort

On this 14-day tailor-made journey, explore the raw beauty and cultural richness of Hokkaido – Japan’s wild northern frontier.

This immersive tour blends active adventure with refined comfort, guiding you through Hokkaido’s two largest cities (Sapporo and Asahikawa), Japan’s most celebrated mountain resort (Niseko), and the expansive alpine wilderness of Daisetsuzan National Park.

Travel by scenic coastal trains, hike volcanic peaks, soak in remote mountain onsens, and enjoy experiences like downhill mountain biking, white-water rafting, and kayaking in glacial meltwater.

This itinerary is completely customisable to your travel style and fitness level, offering flexibility for couples, solo explorers, or families seeking a refreshing escape into Japan’s pristine outdoors.

Suggested itinerary

From one of the major cities in Europe, you will fly to Tokyo (Narita or Haneda). Depending on your arrival time, an overnight stay in Tokyo may be needed before your domestic flight to Hokkaido.

This long-haul travel day marks the beginning of your journey to Japan’s wild north – Hokkaido. The anticipation builds as you prepare to leave behind city skylines and step into untamed nature.

Day 2

Upon arrival at New Chitose Airport, you'll transfer to your hotel in Sapporo via airport limousine bus. As Hokkaido’s vibrant capital, Sapporo greets you with its unique fusion of open green spaces, mountain views, and culinary excellence. 

In the warmer months of the year, the city transforms from ice sculptures to lush green parks, buzzing beer gardens, open-air events, and fresh seafood markets bustling with flavour. You’ll immediately notice the wide boulevards and a slower pace compared to Tokyo or Osaka - laid-back, outdoorsy, and full of heart. 

Day 3

Today, dive into Sapporo's rich history and vibrant atmosphere with a guided city walk. Begin at the Sapporo Clock Tower, a historic wooden structure built in 1878 that now serves as a museum showcasing the city's early development. From there, take a short walk to Odori Park, a 1.5 km stretch of flower-lined greenery dividing the city, offering a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful flowerbeds.

Continue east to the Sapporo TV Tower, where you can ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Head to Ganso Ramen Yokocho for a hearty bowl of miso ramen, then browse the eclectic shops of Tanuki Koji Arcade, a covered arcade offering a variety of shops and eateries.

In the evening, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum to explore Japan’s beer heritage, followed by a grilled lamb dinner at the iconic Beer Garden. For a local dessert treat, try soft-serve ice cream made with Hokkaido’s famously creamy milk.

Begin your day with a scenic coastal train ride along Ishikari Bay to Otaru, a charming canal city with strong maritime roots.

Wander the romantic Otaru Canal, lined with historical warehouses and charming cafes, and browse along Sakaimachi Street, renowned for its glassware shops, music box stores, and local handicrafts. Don't miss the Otaru Music Box Museum, showcasing a vast collection of beautifully crafted music boxes.

For lunch, feast on top-grade sushi along Otaru’s Sushi Street, where chefs source ingredients directly from the Sea of Japan. In the afternoon, continue by train to Yoichi for a tour of the Nikka Whisky Distillery – complete with English audio guides and whisky tasting, where you’ll learn the story of founder Masataka Taketsuru and his Scottish connection that shaped Japanese whisky-making. 

Afterwards, transfer to Kutchan by train and take a short taxi ride to your Hirafu accommodation in Niseko. The next four days will be dedicated to relaxation and alpine exploration. 

In winter, Niseko is celebrated as one of the premier ski resorts in the world. However, summer in Niseko is a hidden treasure, waiting to be explored. 

Today, take on the scenic hike to the summit of Mt. Niseko, Annupuri. This moderate trail takes about 4 hours round-trip and rewards you with breathtaking views of Mt. Yotei (Ezo Fuji) across the valley. 

If timed right, you’ll witness the mystical morning fog clearing over the valley. The trail passes through wildflower meadows and is occasionally dotted with Hokkaido squirrels and alpine butterflies. 

This trail does not need a guide, but we are happy to arrange one for deeper insight.

Day 6

Design your own day with thrilling outdoor options. 

We recommend the downhill mountain biking experience on Niseko’s lift-assisted bike park, which offers over 20 km of thrilling downhill and flow trails. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or curious first timer, gear up for an adrenaline-filled ride. 

After your adventure, soak in a local outdoor onsen or unwind in your accommodation’s private bath – true Hokkaido relaxation. Want to elevate the experience? Consider a spa treatment or a local farm-to-table dinner.

Day 7

Choose your thrill today: white-water rafting, SUP, kayaking, or ducky rafting on the pristine Shiribetsu River. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf in the cool alpine air.

Every experience offers stunning natural backdrops and expert local guides. This day can be as exhilarating or as leisurely as you’d like – perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to connect with Hokkaido’s great outdoors.

For your final day in the Niseko area, we would recommend challenging yourself with a guided full-day ascent of Mt. Yotei, a 10-hour trek best suited to experienced hikers. However, it is well worth it for the fantastic views of the Yotei’s caldera and the scenery beyond the summit. 

Prefer a lighter route? Our guides also offer easier nature walks featuring wildflowers, sulphur mine ruins, and marshland scenery. All treks are tailored to your pace and interest. Whichever route you choose, pack your camera—this area is home to panoramic caldera views, volcanic landscapes, and serene mountain flora.

Today, board a comfortable coach back to Sapporo (~2.5 hrs). Explore Nijo Market’s seafood offerings for lunch—fresh uni (sea urchin), grilled scallops, and crab bowls await.

In the afternoon, visit Kaitaku no Mura (Historical Village of Hokkaido), showcasing preserved Meiji and Taisho-era buildings and Ainu heritage.

Spend your evening in Susukino—the city's entertainment district brimming with izakayas, craft cocktail bars, and dessert cafés. If you’re craving late-night ramen, this is the place.

Today, travel by train to Asahikawa, Hokkaido’s second-largest city. Enjoy lunch and sake tasting at the Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum, giving you insight into the manufacture of Japan's national beverage, and providing a delicious tasting and lunch.

Then, dive into indigenous history at the Kawamura Kaneto Ainu Memorial Museum. The museum offers rare insight into the traditions, language, and resistance of the Ainu people, capturing some of their history and struggles to be remembered. 

In the afternoon, continue by coach to Asahidake Onsen, nestled at the foot of Mt. Asahidake in the Daisetsuzan National Park. Check into your ryokan and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner. Don’t miss the open-air onsen bath under the stars.

Daisetsuzan National Park is Japan's largest national park, offering a diverse range of alpine landscapes, volcanic terrains, and rich biodiversity.

Begin your adventure by taking the Asahidake Ropeway from the base station at 1,100 meters to the Sugatami Station at 1,600 meters above sea level. From here, embark on the Sugatami Pond Loop Trail, a 1.7 km circular hike that takes approximately one hour to complete. This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding alpine flora and fumaroles, with the iconic Sugatami Pond reflecting the majestic peak of Mount Asahidake. 

For those seeking a more challenging hike, continue from Sugatami Pond towards the summit of Mt. Asahidake, a two-three hours ascent that rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the Daisetsuzan mountain range.

The Asahidake Visitor Center, located near the ropeway station, provides valuable information on the area's ecology and offers amenities such as restrooms and souvenir shops. Some wildlife to spot are: pika, alpine foxes, or seasonal alpine flowers like the white dryas.

Relax in the mineral-rich onsen or take an additional trek in the park.

You might also choose a guided day trip to the flower-filled fields of Furano and Biei. These areas are famous for their rolling lavender hills, vibrant flower farms, and panoramic rural landscapes.

Alternatively, explore the nearby trails or rent a bicycle for a peaceful ride through alpine scenery. End the day with a local Hokkaido soft cream or handmade souvenir shopping in the area.

Enjoy a final morning in the fresh mountain air—whether it's a short alpine stroll or one last soak in your ryokan’s onsen. Then return by rail to Sapporo (approx. 3 hrs via Asahikawa). 

For your final night, treat yourself to a Robatayaki dinner or a high-end sushi experience featuring Hokkaido’s premium seafood. Wrap up your adventure with a walk through Odori Park or a quiet drink in Susukino’s vibrant bar scene.

After breakfast, an airport limousine bus will take you to New Chitose Airport for your flight back to Europe. 

If time allows, explore the airport’s Royce' Chocolate World or browse Hokkaido’s famous food souvenirs—your last taste of the north before heading home with unforgettable memories.

Accommodation

The following types of accommodation are recommended for this tour

Japan has quite a number of different types of accommodation, from Western hotels to traditional Japanese inns.

Please note, all our tours are tailor-made so we can arrange whatever accommodation required to meet your specific needs.

Ryokan + 5 Photos
Ryokan

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a unique cultural experience. Guests sleep on tatami mats, enjoy traditional meals and may have hot springs & gardens.

Western Style Hotel + 5 Photos
Western Style Hotel

Western-style hotels in Japan offer comfort and convenience with amenities like room service and fitness centres. Many are located in major cities and near popular destinations.

Important information

Important information

  • Travel insurance is optional. Let us know if you’d like help adding it to your trip.
  • The itinerary shown is an example. We’ll tailor the tour to fit your interests and travel style.
  • Once you get in touch, we’ll fine-tune the details together to make sure the trip suits you perfectly.

What is included

  • International return flight tickets 
  • Checked luggage 
  • Airport transfers 
  • 9 nights in western style accommodations 
  • 3 nights in Japanese-style Ryokan with onsen 
  • Breakfast and dinner (selected locations) 
  • Transport tickets between destinations

What is not included

  • Local transport (buses, metro, taxis) 
  • Local city tax which needs to be paid on the spot 
  • Optional excursions, activities and sightseeing tours 
  • Travel insurance

Please note, this is just an example of a tailor-made tour. The services described as included and not included will differ based on your requirements. At Japanspecialist we are happy to accommodate all your requests when creating your personalised tour.

 

Arrange your consultation with an expert

Our experienced travel consultants are ready to customise this itinerary and arrange your dream holiday today. You can either schedule an online meeting with one of our consultants or fill out an enquiry form and we will get back to you with a personalised tailor-made offer.

Your tailor-made holiday in four simple steps

1
Book your online travel consultation
 
Schedule an online call or fill out an enquiry form
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Finalise your requirements and preferences
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Receive your custom itinerary and quote
4
 
Complete your booking and enjoy your trip

Experience Japan your way with our experts

The Japanspecialist travel consulting team

We are part of JTB, the largest travel company in Japan and one of the biggest in the world, with over 100 years of experience. We are passionate about this wonderful country, having spent decades designing adventurous itineraries for our clients.

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