8-Day Hokkaido Summer Vacation — Nature & Traditions

Welcome to Hokkaido, a land of natural wonders and cultural treasures. We would be honored to take you there and excited to show you around Sapporo.

Upon arrival, we will pick you up from the airport and take you to visit some of the city's most beloved landmarks, including Sapporo Clock Tower, a historic building that has become a symbol of the city, lively Tanukikoji Shopping Street, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine, and Nijo Market, a seafood market that offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of the locals and their love for fresh seafood.

The night at the Sapporo Clock Tower

On day 2, we would travel to Asahikawa and visit its highlights:

• Asahiyama Zoo is Hokkaido's most popular zoo in Asahikawa, with unique and interactive exhibits. It's home to over 700 animals from 150 different species, including rare and endangered species.
• Asahikawa Ramen Village is a food theme park with eight different ramen shops and a museum that explains the history and culture of ramen.
• In the afternoon, go horse riding at Clark Horse Garden or visit Arashiyama Workshop for various activities. The area is known for attracting artists and has pottery, glass, and dyeing workshops, as well as charming cafes with shopping opportunities.

Colorful Bird in the Asahiyama Zoo

This day guarantees a colorful experience and a taste of Japan's rural culture:

• Furano is a town in Hokkaido known for its beautiful flower fields, including lavender, sunflowers, and poppies. The flower fields are in full bloom during the summer months and offer stunning views.
• Biei is a nearby town known for its Blue Pond, a natural pond with vivid blue water that is a popular photography spot. The pond gets its unique color from natural minerals in the water and is especially beautiful in the sunlight.
• In the afternoon, visit Furano Farm to try various hands-on experiences, such as making cheese, butter, and candles. If lucky, visitors could also have the chance to taste authentic lavender ice cream made with locally-grown lavender. The farm is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a relaxing atmosphere.

The Blue Pond in Biei

Take a day trip to experience Hokkaido's spectacular geothermal activity, and meet the local bears:

• Visit Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) for geysers, hot springs, and volcanic activity. You can walk along the boardwalks and see the steam rising from the ground. The area is also known for its unique smell, which comes from the sulfur in the hot springs.
• Bear Park is a nearby attraction where visitors can see bears up close and learn about their behavior and habitat. The ranch has a large outdoor area where the bears can roam freely, and visitors can watch them from observation decks.

The Hall Valley

On Day 5, we plan to immerse yourselves in the history and culture of Noboribetsu and visit a beautiful lake:

• Enter Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura for a ninja experience and traditional Edo-Period (1603–1867) Japanese culture performances, such as ninja shows and samurai sword fights. Hands-on experiences include dressing up in traditional costumes and trying your hand at archery.
• In the afternoon, visit Lake Toya and take a cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the lake and Mount Usu. Lake Toya is a caldera lake in southwestern Hokkaido, known for its beautiful scenery and hot springs.

Lake Toya in the morning

Heading to Otaru on day 6...

• Immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Otaru Canal, a beloved landmark that has been featured in many movies and TV dramas. Learn about the canal's rich history and significance to the region.
• Then visit Music Box Museum, where you can see and hear a stunning collection of music boxes from around the world.
• In the afternoon, head back to Sapporo and visit Shiroi Koibito Chocolate Factory, where you can have a hands-on experience making your own chocolate treats.

The Otaru Canal after sunset

On the seventh day, we'll discover Sapporo's rich history and culture:

• Visit Hokkaido Museum and Hokkaido Historical Village to learn about the history, culture, and natural environment of Hokkaido.
• In the afternoon, visit Sapporo Science Center for fun and educational activities. The Center has various exhibits and interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way. It has a planetarium and a 3D theater that offer immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.

Mammoth skeleton in Hokkaido Museum

As your Japan adventure draws to a close on day 8, take some time to relax or explore Sapporo on your own before your private driver takes you to the airport for your flight.
Have a safe trip and we hope you enjoyed your Hokkaido summer vacation!

Have a safe flight home!