Summer in Hokkaido

Day 1

Arrival Kushiro

Upon arrival you’ll be met by your guide and escorted by private car to your accommodation.

Immerse yourself in your new surroundings with lunch at Washo market, where you can make your own Seafood Bowl called "Katte Don". 

Time permitting, you can enjoy canoeing, bird watching with a local guide, or discover plant life at Onnenai Boardwalk.

Day 2

Kiritappu Wetland

Spend time exploring the Kiritappu Wetland, also known as the ‘wetland of flowers’. Over 400 kinds of the flowers such as the Cottongrass, the Yezo-licorice and the Yezo-gentian can be found here from June to August.

Day 3

Todowara

Today you’ll visit Todowara, a haunting and mysterious landscape made up of withered fir debris and wetlands.

You’ll also have the chance to visit the woods of Mizunara and Narawara which were formed by trees that have been withered by strong winds.

Day 4

Utoro Bear Cruise

Embark on a cruise along the Shiretoko peninsula to see Utoro’s brown bears in their natural habitat.

Day 5

Rausu Cruise

Set off on a cruise to spot Sperm Whales, Baird's Beaked Whales and Minke Whales, as well as dolphins, and seabirds.

Stop on the way back to learn about and taste Konbu  – the seaweed that’s used throughout Japanese cooking.

Day 6

Rausu - Kawayu

Today you’ll visit Shiretoko Five Lakes, a set of five lakes formed by the eruption of nearby Mount Io.

Here you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the views of the five lakes and the mountains, the Sea of Okhotsk and the surrounding wilderness.

Day 7

Lake Akan

Head to Mt. Meakan, the main peak of the Akan Volcanic Complex, on the southwest shore of Lake Akan.

Several trails are on offer, and you’ll also have the chance to explore the visitor centre and forest of nearby Kawayu Onsen.

Kawayu Onsen is also the home of the Ainu people who you’ll get to meet and hear about their traditions, customs and daily life.  

Day 8

Lake Onneto trekking

Enjoy a trek around the Akan area which was created solely from volcanic activity.

Witness some of the world’s most impressive caldera, where eruptions of Mt. Oakan, Mt. Fuppushi, and Mt. Meakan have taken place over thousands of years, spot local flora, and learn about spherical algae.

Day 9

Shikaoi

Today you’ll be driven to Shikaoi.

Here you can enjoy rural life and get back to basics picking vegetables, riding farm tractors and milking cows. Try canoeing in Lake Shikaribetsu, hiking, dog sledding, or treat yourself to a hot-air balloon ride.

In the evening, experience Banei Horse Racing – an important part of Hokkaido history and the only horse racing in the world with plodding workhorses pulling weights.

Day 10

Asahidake Onsen

In the morning you’ll try your hand at Soba noodle making at a farm.

Afterwards you’ll be escorted to Blue Pond and Shirohige waterfall to see the fascinating colour of the water caused by the mix of sunrays and minerals.

Day 11

Asahidake Nature Walking

Embark on a hike at the base of Mt Asahidake - Hokkaido’s highest mountain – amongst ponds, steaming fumaroles, and wild flowers.

You’ll get the chance to visit Asahiyama Zoo, learn about the ancient art of sake brewing at Otokoyama Brewery, and sample the local ramen noodles.

Day 12

Sapporo

Head on a tour of Sapporo where you’ll see the Clock Tower, TV Tower, the old Hokkaido government office building and Odori Park.

You’ll also have time to enjoy some shopping, eating and relaxing at your leisure.

Day 13

Departure

Today you’ll be escorted to the airport for your onward journey.