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Active Japan: Hokkaido In Winter, Sea Ice To Onsens
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Length
9 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Abashiri (Japan)
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Ends in
Sapporo (Japan)
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Available Tour Start Dates
JAN 21, 2027 to MAR 10, 2028
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
Active
Hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and kayaking adventures all over the world, made for outdoor types., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$4,099.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Hokkaido in winter doesn't do subtle either - everything's just quieter under snow. Snowshoe deep into the frozen hush of Shiretoko Five Lakes, drift across sea ice off the coast, and spend an afternoon with the Ainu Kotan learning stories older than the season itself. The reward comes at dusk, in a traditional onsen, snow still falling outside.
Visited During Tour
Abashiri (Japan) | Akan-Ko / Lake Akan (Japan) | Asahikawa (Hokkaido, Japan) | Sapporo (Japan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Active Japan: Hokkaido In Winter, Sea Ice To Onsens tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AJWH-11864
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Day
1Abashiri
Arrive at any time and meet your group and CEO for a welcome meeting in the evening.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
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Day
2Abashiri
After a filling breakfast, depart the hotel en route to the Primeval Forest area of Shiretoko National Park. Strap on some snowshoes and hike through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shiretoko Peninsula awaits. Embark on a guided four hour snowshoe trek through the Primeval Forest area of the park. Be sure to bring binoculars if you are a keen animal enthusiast, as there is ample opportunity to spot various species from the Steller's sea eagle to Japanese deer and maybe even a flying squirrel. The scenery is equally as dramatic as you witness the cliff edges hang over the turquoise water of the sea. In the afternoon, join a local guide for an incredible adventure across the ice. Walk safely over the drift ice that forms on top of the sea during the winter months and float in the water if you dare. Head back to Abashiri in the evening for dinner.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Snowshoeing in Primeval Forest
Snowshoe through the Primeval Forest in Shiretoko, seemingly untouched by man, especially in when covered in now. Snowshoe through the forest and be on the look out for foxes and deer while admiring the incredible forest and cliff side views. You may even have the chance to see animal prints in the snow or the elusive flyng squirrel.
Drift Ice Walk
Gear up in a special dry suit and join a local guide to walk across the ever changing drift ice floating atop the sea. During the winter months, the ice in Shirtoko becomes nice and solid, allowing you to safely follow your guide through the beautiful winter wonderland. Float in the water if you wish and keep your eye out for the beautiful clione gastropods that travel with the seasonal drift ice.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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Day
3Abashiri
Discover the unique history of Hokkaido's wild frontier with a visit to the notorious Abashiri Prison Museum. Marvel at the beautiful architecture and explore the world's oldest surviving five-winged wooden prison house. Inside, realistic life-sized displays bring the past to life, illustrating daily inmate routines, grueling frontier labor, and legendary prison breaks. The museum offers a profound look at how these convicts helped build Hokkaido's infrastructure under extreme winter conditions. You can even sample an authentic replica of a traditional prison meal at the onsite cafeteria if you wish. In the afternoon, take a fat bike tour along the beautiful Okhotsk Coastline, spanning from Siberia down to Hokkaido.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Abashiri Prison Museum
Visit the notorious Abashiri Prison Museum to learn of the Meiji-era penal history and Japan's wild frontier. Opt to try to prison-style lunch and learn about the unique history here in Hokkaido.
Free Time
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Abashiri.
Fat bike tour
Experience the beauty of Abashiri's Okhotsk coastline on a guided fat bike adventure. Ride along snowy coastal trails and enjoy panoramic views of the Sea of Okhotsk, with the chance to see drift ice during winter.
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Day
4Abashiri/Akan-ko
Depart Abashiri this morning and head inland towards Lake Akan. En route, stop at the shore of Lake Kussharo, where you can take a moment to get your hands dirty digging into the sandy shore and actually hitting hot spring water. Dig your own personal Onsen! A sign of the volcanic activity still present underground in this area. The next stop is a visit to the active volcano, Mt Lo, which sits inside the Kussharo caldera. Watch the sulfurous smoke and steam rise from the craggy landmass. Make a final stop at the observatory deck to take in views of Lake Kussharo and Lake Mashu before continuing on your overnight stay at a Ryokan. After a dinner with your fellow travelers, enjoy a cultural performance in tribute to the history of the local Ainu people of the region. Akan Yukar Lost Kamuy is a presentation of Ainu ancient ceremonial dance, contemporary dance and digital art.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sulphur Mountain & Lake Kussharo
Visit the otherworldly sulphur mountain and breathe in the hot air. See the greenish yellow algae that grows around the fumaroles with a steady stream of steam released across the mountain. The head to Lake Kushharo. With a hot spring under the sand, dig a hole and relax in your hand-dug beachy hot spring.
Lake Mashu Observatory Deck
Visit the impressive caldera lake within Akan Mashu National Park. Take in the views from the best spot to see whats considered the clearest lake in the world.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ryokan Stay
Experience traditional Japanese life with a night at a traditional Japanese Inn. Stay in tatami-matted rooms and enjoy a glimpse into Japanese culture and history.
Ainu Kotan - Ainu Culture Dance
Visit the Ainu Kotan Village. There are only two indigenous groups remaining in Japan and Akanko Ainu Kotan is one of the largest settlements still remaining in Hokkaido. During our visit, we'll see the village and experience their cultural performance in the evening.
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Day
5Akan-ko/Asahikawa
Enjoy a leisurely start to the morning to spend the morning hours enjoying the Ryokan hot springs a second time. Or choose to join your CEO for a walk around Lake Akan. Then make your way towards Asahikawa. Leave room for dinner, because this evening we'll try the famous Asahikawa ramen. This ramen is famed throughout Japan as one of the best in the country.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Free Time
Spend the morning soaking in the ryokan onsen or take a stroll around Lake Akan with your CEO
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ramen Dinner in Asahikawa
Nearly every region of Japan has their own style of ramen, so a trip to Hokkaido wouldn't be complete without trying Asahikawa specialty ramen. With thin noodles and savory broth, this is a dish you won't want to miss.
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Day
6Asahikawa
It's time to rise and shine and strap on those hiking boots once again. This morning, head to the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway. Board the ten minute gondola ride up to the start of the walk. Spend a couple of hours exploring the area on foot, and hope for glimpses of the mountain ranges as the fog comes and goes.
It's important to note that in the winter, you can expect snow on the ground at Asahidake, so itinerary adjustments may be made. Cold weather clothing should be packed during this season.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway & Hike
Visit Daisetsuzan National Park and ride the gondola up to start your hike around Sugatami Pond Loop. This easy, loop hike will give you astounding views of volcanic rock and Mount Asahi-dake, the tallest mountain in Hokkaido reflecting off ponds. After the hike, take the gondola back down.
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Day
7Asahikawa/Sapporo
Sapporo, the capitol of Hokkaido, is home to some of the island's most interesting spots. With a day at leisure, choose to join your CEO to visit the Hill of the Buddha, a incredible and huge shrine. Or, choose to explore the Hokkaido Jingu shrine, a shinto shrine honoring 4 deities.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Free Time
Spend a free afternoon in Sapporo
2Optional Activities for Day 7
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Day
8Sapporo
Spend today getting well acquainted with the city of Sapporo, home of the world famous beer. Begin your day with a visit to the Nijo Market. Walk through the stalls full of fresh seafood, most caught right of the coast of Hokkaido. You'll see crabs, fish and things you may have never seen before like fresh urchin and fish eggs. Afterwards, head to the home of the first Japanese made beer, Sapporo Beer Museum, and sample beer that can only be found at this location.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Nijo Market
Visit Nijo Market, a market over 100 years old. You'll see fresh local seafood like urchins and salmon eggs, and other local vendors.
Sapporo Beer Testing
Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a tour and tasting of the popular brew. Known as the first beer made in Japan, we'll have a chance to sample a beer that can only be found at the museum. Opt for a fun all-you-can-eat-and-drink meal in the Beer Hall.
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Day
9Sapporo
Depart at any time.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Active Japan: Hokkaido In Winter, Sea Ice To Onsens tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg. 14
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour Local Living Moment: Ryokan Stay, Akan-koYour Foodie Moment: Ramen Dinner in Asahikawa, Asahikawa. Snowshoeing in Primeval Forest. Drift Ice Walk. Abashiri Prison Museum. Free Time in Abashiri. Sulphur Mountain & Lake Kussharo. Lake Mashu Observatory Deck. Ryokan Stay. Ainu Kotan - Ainu Culture Dance. Free Time in Akan. Try Asahikawa's famous ramen. Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway & Hike. Free Time in Sapporo. Nijo Market. Sapporo Beer Testing.
Highlights
Snowshoe through the snow-covered Shiretoko Five Lakes, Soak in a soothing onsen at a traditional ryokan, Discover the culture of northern Japan's Indigenous Ainu people with a visit to Ainu Kotan Village, Float on the solid ice covering the sea
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Sapporo- Hokkaido Jingu Shrine- Hill of the Buddha
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (7nts), Ryokan stay (1nt)
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Plane, private vehicle, local train, walking, snowshoe.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Checklist
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Service Level
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.