Hokkaido

Our most recommended things to do in Hokkaido

Japan: 7, 14 or 21-Day Japan Rail Pass

Japan: 7, 14 or 21-Day Japan Rail Pass

Take the hassle out of your vacation transportation with the Japan Rail Pass. Explore the whole country with just one ticket and ride the famous Shinkansen bullet train. Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Hiroshima, and Hokkaido to Kyushu – Japan's your oyster with a 7, 14, or 21-day pass. Get your voucher mailed to your home or office address, then exchange this for your actual Japan Rail Pass at a major train station or international airport in Japan and start traveling. Use the free guide booklet to make the best of your Japan trip, thanks to insider tips and train details. Travel as much as you like for 7, 14, or 21 consecutive days. The pass includes: • All Japan Rail Group shinkansen bullet trains, except the Nozomi and Mizuho departures • All Japan Rail Group limited express, express, rapid, local, trains, and Bus Rapid Transit in Tohoku • Tokyo Monorail between Haneda airport and Hamamatsucho station (no service to Narita) • Aomori Railway services between Aomori and Hachinohe (some exceptions) • Ishikawa Railway services between Kanazawa and Tsubata (local, limited departures only) • Ainokaze Toyama Railway services between Toyama and Takaoka (local departures only) • All Japan Rail Bus local lines (some exceptions, no express services), including services from JR Hokkaido Bus, JR Bus Tohoku, JR Bus Kanto, JR Tokai Bus, West Japan JR Bus, Chugoku JR Bus, JR Shikoku Bus, and JR Kyushu Bus • JR-West ferry service between Miyajima and Miyajimaguchi (JR station near the pier with ferry services for Miyajima)

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Ningle Terrace Tour

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Ningle Terrace Tour

Explore the region of Hokkaido in the winter on this adventurous day trip from Sapporo. Marvel at the internet-famous trees of Biei, visit the magical Furano's Ningle Terrace, and, depending on the season, see the roaring Shirahige Falls. Begin your day tour by meeting your driver in Sapporo. Head to Asahiyama Zoo and spend about 1.5 hours exploring and eating lunch. Renowned Asahiyama Zoo, Japan's northernmost zoo and a must-visit in winter. Unlike many other zoos, here the animals don't hide away during the cold season See adorable penguins take a walk in the snow (from December to March), clumsy raccoons crawl on top of their heads to make faces, curious seals play up and down in the glass column, and monkeys snuggle with each other to keep warm.On days when the zoo is closed, visit other attractions instead. Biei Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls (Apr.1th to Nov.30th) Between April 1 and November 30, your next stop is Biei Aoike. Spend around 30 minutes exploring this pond formed to intercept volcanic magma. Take a picture of the stunning blue water and compare it to the famous default Macbook photo. Next, continue to the Furano area,visit the roaring Shirahige Falls. It is 600 meters above sea level, located in the white gold hot spring town of Miei Town. It is named "White Beard Falls" because of the white whisker-like water that pours down from the crevasses in the rocks. Water gushing from the ground, lapping against the rocks, created a blue glow of spray. Here the mountains are green in summer and the snow is white in winter, and you can enjoy the contrast between the two seasons. If you're traveling between December 1 and March 31, 2024, marvel at the internet-famous trees of Biei instead. See the Ken & Merry Tree. Then visit Four Seasons Hill (approx. 40 minutes),When the winter is covered with snow, this time the four seasons color hill becomes a snow paradise, there are snowmobiles, sledding and other entertainment, even novice can enjoy the snow and nature. Finish your tour with a visit to the iconic Ningle Terrace (close from 4th Nov to 29th Nov) in Furano. Explore this workshop built by a character in the novels of Japanese writer Satoshi Kuramoto. Stroll through the chalets and small shops and buy a handmade souvenir to remember your Hokkaido adventure. After finding your perfect souvenir, return to Sapporo.

Hokkaido: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Otaru Full-Day Tour

Hokkaido: Noboribetsu, Lake Toya and Otaru Full-Day Tour

Join a Hokkaido tour from Sapporo, exploring the wonders of Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Oyunuma Pond, and Shikotsu Toya National Park. Witness the spectacle of Showa Shinzan's volcano, enjoy panoramic views of Lake Toya, and delve into the charm of Otaru with its canal, glass arts, and winter festival. Start your tour from Sapporo, making your way to the first stop of the day, a relic of a crater in that was formed about 10,000 years ago in Noboribetsu. See Jigokudani, also known as Hell Valley, with its boiling sulfuric hot springs and volcanic steam plumes. Visit the Oyunuma Pond, the remains of a volcanic crater formed by the eruption of Mt Hiwa. Head to an observation deck to see the steaming lake. Walk to see its blue-green waters up close. As you take a stroll around the lake, smell the sulfur and see the steam rise from the source of hot springs. Watch yellow spherical sulfur floating on the surface of the water. If you wish to unwind at the outdoor foot bath, follow a long mountain road along a hot sulphur river in the woods (closed due to road reasons in winter). At noon, continue to the Lake Toyako area, a volcanic caldera lake in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Get 2 hours of free time for lunch and sightseeing. Then, it’s onward to Showa Shinzan, an active volcano that erupted in the early years of the Showa era (20th century). Witness white smoke and sulfurous fumes erupting from the reddish-brown mountains. While you cannot enter the mountain, you can feel the overwhelming energy of the earth simply by looking at it. Just a short walk from the Showa Shinzan Ropeway entrance, you’ll find the Bear Park, home to over 100 Hokkaido brown bears—the largest wild mammals in Hokkaido. Here, you can experience the fun of feeding these massive yet lovable creatures. Watch as they stand on their hind legs, wave enthusiastically, and charm visitors with their playful antics.(admission fee is not included) Then, make a stop at Lake Touyako Observatory. Gaze out over a broad panorama encompassing the entire volcanic lake and the surrounding natural wonders scattered throughout Shikotsu Toya National Park, including Mt. Usu, Mt. Yotei, Mt. Showa, and Nakajima Island. Continue to Otaru, an atmospheric port town with a romantic canal. Take a stroll through the ancient canal streets, surrounded by warehouses built from red bricks and gray tiles from the Meiji era. Visit Kitaichi Glass workshop to see the exquisite glass arts and crafts that the city is famous for. Explore Otaru Music Box Museum, Japan's largest music box store with thousands of music boxes from all over the world on display. In the winter, check out the Otaru Snow Light Path festival which lights up the city with shimmering lights and glowing snow statues (about 10 days in early February from 5 PM-9 PM). Additionally, many locals put lantern displays in front of their shops and homes, adding to the festive spirit. After a day full of exploration, head back to Sapporo.

Hokkaido Ski Full-Day Tour: Sapporo International Ski Resort

Hokkaido Ski Full-Day Tour: Sapporo International Ski Resort

Spend the day skiing at Sapporo International Ski Resort. Take the hassle out of your experience with transportation, ski gear rental, and a day pass to the slopes, all included. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland as you ski through premium powder snow, stopping for snacks and drinks as needed. Meet your driver and board the bus to Sapporo International Ski Resort in Hokkaido. On arrival, get help from your driver to complete the necessary rental procedures for the ski resort before picking up your pre-booked skis, poles, snowshoes, and other gear, depending on the chosen option. Start your day of skiing in an area renowned for its abundant snowfall and high-quality powder snow, providing excellent skiing conditions. Explore a variety of slopes of different difficulties, catering to skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, so you can find the right slope for you. You can also explore other snow activities, such as snowshoe hiking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing, allowing you to enrich your skiing adventure and fully enjoy the pleasures of winter. Relax at restaurants, cafes, and cozy resting areas during breaks, savoring delicious local cuisine. Admire the beautiful natural surroundings of Hokkaido, with spectacular snowy landscapes and forests all around, for a full day before returning your equipment to the service desk and meeting your driver at the ski resort's main gate to head back to the meeting point.

Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport

Sapporo City: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport

Experience a safe and reliable private airport transfer with 24-hour service between New Chitose Airport and your accommodation in Sapporo City. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrival hall, holding a sign with your name. They will monitor your flight status, ensuring you are not inconvenienced by any delays. Avoid the hassle of carrying heavy luggage and navigating public transportation. Rest assured that all vehicles are regularly maintained to high standards, providing you with a comfortable and secure journey.

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Ningle Terrace Full-Day Trip

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Ningle Terrace Full-Day Trip

8:00AM Meet at 3 Chome Kita 7 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0807 Japan Asahiyama Zoo (closing time of Nov.4th-10th 2024, Dec.30th,2024-Jan.1th 2025) Start your day with a visit to Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s most innovative and popular zoos, located in Asahikawa, Hokkaido. Famous for its unique animal enclosures and close-up views of animals in their natural habitats, Asahiyama Zoo offers visitors an opportunity to see a wide variety of animals from both Hokkaido and around the world. The zoo is renowned for its "Glass Tunnel" exhibit, where visitors can walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by the zoo’s playful penguins, and the "Ice and Snow World" exhibit, which showcases polar bears and other cold-weather animals. The zoo is designed to encourage the animals' natural behaviors, and it offers a fantastic chance for close-up interactions with many species. Ken and Mary’s Tree (Biei Ins popular tree watch in the bus instead from 1st Dec 2024-31st Mar 2025) Next, head to Ken and Mary’s Tree, a famous landmark in the beautiful Furano region. This solitary tree became an iconic symbol after appearing in a popular Japanese TV commercial for a car brand in the 1980s. You can take a memorable photo there! Shikisai no Oka (Visit from 1st Dec 2024 - 31st Mar 2025) Just a short drive from Ken and Mary’s Tree is Shikisai no Oka, a flower park that offers stunning views of Hokkaido’s seasonal landscapes. Known for its vibrant flower fields, this park is a photographer’s dream. Enjoy a hot drink passing by the HERB GARDEN, choose one from the Hokkaido's specialty corn soup or hot tea. Biei Pond (Visit from 1st Apr - 30th Nov) Nestled in the picturesque town of Biei, Hokkaido, Blue Pond is famous for its striking, vibrant blue waters. The pond’s unique color is a result of natural minerals and fine particles suspended in the water, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly scene. Shirahige Falls (Visit from 1st Apr - 30th Nov) As a stunning waterfall known for its distinctive white, milky appearance. The falls cascade from a height of 20 meters, with the water flowing over a series of rocks, creating a beautiful, foamy mist. Ningle Terrace (Close from 4th Nov - 29th Nov) Next, visit Ningle Terrace, a magical location nestled within the forested mountains of Furano. This spot is known for its wooden terrace that offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty. The terrace is designed to give visitors a sense of tranquility and a connection with nature, surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery. Furano Wine Laboratory (Visit from 4th Nov - 29th Nov when Ningle Terrace closes) End your day with a visit to it, where you can learn about the region’s agricultural practices and enjoy the bounty of Furano’s famous fruits. Hokkaido, with its cool climate, is known for producing high-quality fruits, and Furano is particularly famous for its grapes, melons, and strawberries.

Sapporo: Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Lake Toya & Shikotsu Tour

Sapporo: Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Lake Toya & Shikotsu Tour

--- Begin Your Journey from Sapporo --- Start your adventure with convenient pickups at Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel or Sapporo TV Tower. Board a comfortable coach and relax as you travel to your first stop. --- Admire Stunning Views at Lake Toya Sairo Observatory --- Begin your exploration at the Lake Toya Sairo Observatory, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Toya, Nakajima Island, and the surrounding volcanic mountains, including Showa Shinzan and Mount Usu. --- Enjoy a Relaxing Break at Lake Toya Onsen Town --- Stop at the Lake Toya Onsen Town for lunch and a leisurely stroll. Relax with free foot baths and hand baths along the lakeshore. Don’t forget your camera—on clear days, you can capture views of Mount Yotei, known as Hokkaido’s Mount Fuji. --- Discover Showa Shinzan and Bear Ranch --- Visit Showa Shinzan, one of the newest volcanoes in Japan, formed in the mid-20th century. Opt to visit the nearby Bear Ranch to see Hokkaido’s iconic brown bears up close. Tickets for the ranch can be included depending on your package. --- Explore Noboribetsu Hell Valley --- Marvel at the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Noboribetsu Hell Valley, a hot spring source with unique sulfuric fumes and bubbling water. Experience the raw power of nature in this iconic geothermal wonder. --- Seasonal Highlight: Shikotsu Ice Festival (Feb 1–Feb 24) --- During the Ice Festival, replace the Mitsui Outlet Park stop with a visit to the enchanting Shikotsu Ice Festival. Admire dazzling ice sculptures created from the lake’s pure waters, glowing blue by day and illuminated with colorful lights at night. This unforgettable winter experience is a must-see! --- Shop at Mitsui Outlet Park (Nov 1–Jan 31, Feb 25–Mar 31) --- On non-festival dates, enjoy a shopping spree at Hokkaido’s largest outlet mall. Discover a variety of local products, international brands, and delicious Hokkaido treats. --- Return to Sapporo --- Relax on the journey back to Sapporo with convenient drop-offs at the TV Tower or Tokyu REI Hotel. Reflect on a day filled with Hokkaido’s natural beauty and seasonal charm.

Niseko: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport

Niseko: Private Transfer to/from New Chitose Airport

Experience a safe and reliable private airport transfer with 24-hour service between New Chitose Airport and your accommodation in Niseko City. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrival hall, holding a sign with your name. They will monitor your flight status, ensuring you are not inconvenienced by any delays. Avoid the hassle of carrying heavy luggage and navigating public transportation. Rest assured that all vehicles are regularly maintained to high standards, providing you with a comfortable and secure journey.

Hokkaido 1-Day Trip: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei and Ningle Terrace

Hokkaido 1-Day Trip: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei and Ningle Terrace

08:00 - Sapporo ◆Start your beautiful journey today. Meet at the Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Stop. Address: 3-1, Kita 7 Jo Nishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido. (For pick-up and drop-off service.) ◆10:30-Asahiyama Zoo (Approx. 120 minutes, including free time for lunch) Asahiyama Zoo is located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, and is Japan's northernmost zoo. It has become the most visited zoo in Japan. During the winter months, you can enjoy watching penguins walk in the snow, mischievous raccoons climbing overhead, seals swimming in clear glass tubes, and monkeys cuddling for warmth. The zoo maximizes animal freedom while offering visitors close-up views. Penguin Walk (Expected to run from December to March; the time may vary depending on snow conditions, and it may be canceled due to weather.) (closed from Nov 4-10, 2024, and Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025). If the zoo is closed, the tour will visit the Ken & Merry Tree, Biei Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace. The guide will adjust the schedule based on weather conditions for an optimal experience. ◆ 13:00 - Biei Ken & Merry Tree (Seasonal from December 1st to March 31st – vehicle sightseeing, no stop to get off the bus) The Ken & Merry Tree is famous for appearing in a 1972 Nissan commercial. This towering white poplar tree became an iconic backdrop for the commercial, and the area is surrounded by Christmas trees, creating a charming setting. ◆13:50 - Furano Shikisai-no-oka (Approx. 40 minutes, Seasonal from December 1st to March 31st ) During winter, Shikisai-no-oka becomes a snowy playground. You can enjoy snowmobile rides, sledding, and other winter activities. Even beginners can fully enjoy the snow and nature. You can also choose to visit the alpaca farm. Note: Snow activities are at your own expense. ◆14:40 - Furano (Approx. 30 minutes) Ningle Terrace, inspired by a character from Japanese writer Kōbō Abe's novel, is a charming collection of small handcrafted shops. The tiny cabins sell unique handmade items, such as glass and paper crafts, lavender products, and more. The lights at dusk create a magical and romantic atmosphere. ◆Furano Wine ( if Ningle Terrace is closed, Nov.4th-29th) Furano Wine is made from locally grown grapes, produced by the Furano Grape and Vine Research Institute. The area has a history of over 50 years of winemaking, promoting local agriculture. Taste the region’s signature wine here. ◆15:40 - Return Return to Sapporo City, finishing your day with happy memories! ◆18:10 - Arrival and Dissolution Arrive at Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Stop.

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Ningle Terrace Full-Day Tour

Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Ningle Terrace Full-Day Tour

Asahiyama Zoo (30th Dec, 2024- 1st Jan, 2025 closed) Asahiyama Zoo is the northernmost zoo in Japan and is now the most visited zoo in the whole of Japan. There are penguins strolling leisurely, cute little raccoons, seals moving nimbly, and monkeys snuggling up for warmth. The biggest feature here is to ensure that the animals can be kept in a relatively free state to the greatest extent, and through clever display, visitors can observe the animals from zero distance. Ken & Merry Tree (1st Dec-31st Mar, Biei Ins popular tree instead and watch in the bus) It was named for its appearance in Nissan's 1972 "Horizon of Love" CM commercial. The male and female protagonists of the advertising film Ken & Mary, with this tall poplar tree as the background, performed a wonderful advertising film on the land of the north. Near Ken & Mary's Wood, there is a lovely yellow painted triangular building surrounded by a Christmas tree. Shikisai no Oka (1st Dec - 31st Mar) In winter, the hill of Four Seasons becomes a snow park, where there are snowmobiles, sledding and other recreational activities, even beginners can enjoy the snow and nature, and you can also choose to visit the alpaca ranch. Biei Pond (1st Apr - 30th Nov) It was formed by a dam that was built to trap the lava, and the water in the pool reflects blue in the sunlight. A National Geographic photographer's shot of the Green Pool was acquired by Apple and became one of the default desktops for the MAC series. You never know what it will look like in the next moment, so it is full of anticipation. Shirahige Falls (1st Apr - 30th Nov) White Beard falls 30 meter-drop, 600 meters above sea level. Here the mountains are green in summer and the snow is white in winter, you can enjoy the contrast beauty between the two seasons. Ningle Terrace(closed for Nov.4th-29th) Here is a forest handmade experience workshop inspired by a spirit from a Japanese novel. The cabins here are small shops, selling unique small goods, which are basically handmade. Each shop is small and sophisticated, and everything is only sold here, there is no second place, and the lighting in the evening is very romantic.

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What people are saying about Hokkaido

Overall rating

4.7
(169 reviews)

I cannot recommend this tour enough! The entire experience was truly magical. The weather was absolutely perfect, making the snowshoe trek even more enjoyable. Our guide was beyond amazing – not only was he knowledgeable and friendly, but he went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable time. He surprised us with delicious homemade cookies and a sourdough bread sandwich lovingly made by his wife, which added such a personal touch. The vibe throughout the tour was fantastic, and it felt more like an adventure with a friend than a guide. As if that wasn’t enough, he took professional-quality photos of us along the way, capturing memories we’ll treasure forever. To top it all off, he even dropped us off at an onsen after the tour – something that wasn’t even included in the package! If you’re considering booking this, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you won’t forget!

My family and I booked this customised private tour to Otaru. Lee was our driver for the day. He arrived early and met us at our hotel. He drove us with care to all of our attraction stops and waited patiently for us to finish at each place before taking us along to our next attraction spot. He went above and beyond when I realised the next morning that I had left my gloves in his vehicle. He dropped them off to reception for me at the end of a long working day for him as I would be departing Hokkaido early the following morning. Thank you Lee and your lovely wife for all of your kind assistance in making our trip so wonderful and effortless. Would definitely book Lee to be our driver again when we visit Hokkaido in the near future!

Our preferred date was not available, so we stayed an extra night to do this trip and it was worth the effort. Our guide, J (Jay) was great. It is very demanding translating between three languages, Japanese, Chinese and Australiano. Jay did a wonderful job keeping the group together and informed with respect, good humour and knowledge. It was good to spend the day in the company of J.

The penguin walk was amazing though quite icy in the zoo. Please walk carefully . Our guide Rita was amazing

Excellent, comfy seats, mostly on time service, great and easy service to use.