WINTER IN JAPAN TOUR PACKAGE

ITINERARY

​​DAY 1: ARRIVAL AND EXPLORATION OF SAPPORO

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• Begin your Hokkaido adventure in Sapporo, the bustling capital of the region. Explore the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about Japan’s brewing heritage and sample the iconic beer. In the evening, dive into the vibrant nightlife of Susukino, the city’s entertainment district. If visiting in early February, enjoy the dazzling snow sculptures and ice displays at the renowned Sapporo Snow Festival. Overnight in Sapporo.

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​​DAY 2: DAY TRIP TO OTARU

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• Take a 40-minute train ride to the picturesque port town of Otaru. Stroll along the beautifully preserved canal area, which transforms into a magical scene during the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival (held concurrently with the Sapporo Snow Festival). Admire the glowing lanterns and illuminated snow sculptures. Explore Sakaimachi Street for local crafts and treats before returning to Sapporo for the night.

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DAY 3-4: SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING IN NISEKO

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• Depart Sapporo for Niseko, Japan’s premier ski resort. Over two days, enjoy world-class powder snow on the slopes, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Indulge in après-ski activities, including relaxing in hot springs and savoring gourmet cuisine. Spend your evenings at a cozy mountain lodge or resort in Niseko.

DAY 5: NISEKO TO LAKE TOYA

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• Take a scenic bus ride to Lake Toya, a tranquil caldera lake with stunning views. Visit the Usuzan Ropeway for panoramic vistas of the lake and the active Mount Usu volcano. Stay overnight at Toyako Onsen, a charming hot spring resort town at the base of the mountain.

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DAY 6: LAKE TOYA TO NOBORIBETSU

• Travel to Noboribetsu, Hokkaido's most celebrated hot spring resort. Explore the dramatic geothermal landscape of Jigokudani (Hell Valley), where you’ll find steaming vents and sulfurous streams. End the day soaking in the rejuvenating waters of your onsen accommodation.

DAY 7: NOBORIBETSU TO ASAHIKAWA

• Board a train to Asahikawa, Hokkaido's second-largest city. Visit the famed Asahiyama Zoo, known for its unique animal exhibits, including the seasonal penguin walk. Sample Asahikawa’s signature soy sauce-based ramen at one of the city’s renowned ramen shops. If visiting in February, don’t miss the Asahikawa Winter Festival, featuring snow sculptures and a giant snow stage.

DAY 8: ASAHIKAWA TO SOUNKYO ONSEN

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• Proceed to Sounkyo Onsen, a picturesque hot spring resort in Daisetsuzan National Park. Experience the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival (late January to late March), where illuminated ice sculptures and frozen waterfalls create a magical winter wonderland. Spend the night enjoying the serene hot springs.

DAY 9: SOUNKYO TO ABASHIRI

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• Rise early for the journey to Abashiri, located on Hokkaido’s eastern coast. In winter, take a boat tour to witness the breathtaking drift ice floating on the Sea of Okhotsk. Visit the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum to learn about the unique ecology of the region.

DAY 10-11: EXPLORE THE SHIRETOKO PENINSULA

• Travel from Abashiri to the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s most untouched natural areas. Stay in Utoro, a charming town by the sea. Spend two days marveling at the dramatic winter landscape, walking through snowy trails, and enjoying drift ice tours.

DAY 12: RETURN TO SAPPORO OR TOKYO

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• Make your way to Memanbetsu Airport for a domestic flight back to Sapporo or Tokyo. Reflect on your incredible winter journey through Hokkaido’s diverse landscapes and seasonal festivities.

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KEY HIGHLIGHTS