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Active Northern Japan: Winter In Hokkaido
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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
Tokyo (Japan)
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Ends in
Sapporo (Japan)
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Available Tour Start Dates
JAN 28, 2027 to MAR 17, 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.
Not Available
Overview
Step into a dreamscape as you experience the magic of Hokkaido in the heart of winter. These untouched landscapes turn even more dramatic, blanketed in fresh, powdery snow. Get ready to take trekking to the next level with a snowshoe adventure through the breathtaking Shiretoko Five Lakes and Primeval Forest. Connect with rich history and culture as you visit the Ainu Kotan, one of Japan's last Indigenous communities. Then, melt into pure relaxation with an overnight stay at a traditional onsen - the perfect way to unwind after a day of winter wonders in Hokkaido.
Visited During Tour
Akan-Ko / Lake Akan (Japan) | Asahikawa (Hokkaido, Japan) | Sapporo (Japan) | Shiretoko National Park (Japan) | Tokyo (Japan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
There are not currently any Active Northern Japan: Winter In Hokkaido tour dates available from G Adventures, for the selected year.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like to view details regarding such tours.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AJSW-10411
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Day
1Tokyo/Shiretoko
Welcome to Tokyo, Japan. There's no time to waste as you join your fellow travelers in the morning for a welcome briefing with your CEO and head towards the airport to board your flight to Memanbetsu airport in Hokkaido. Upon arrival, head to your hotel outside Shiretoko National Park and enjoy dinner together with your CEO and new travel mates.
This tour departs from Tokyo today, so if you want to spend more time in Tokyo, consider joining the Active Northern Japan: Winter in Tokyo & Hokkaido.
Please not this tour begins with a flight from Tokyo to Hokkaido. This internal flight is included in the cost of your tour. Please make sure to arrive at your meeting point hotel no later than 10:00 am to ensure you do not miss the flight.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
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.
Accommodations: Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel -
Day
2Shiretoko
After a filling breakfast, depart the hotel en route to the Five Lakes area of Shiretoko National Park. This area is famous for its namesake five lakes that were formed years ago by the eruption of Mount Lo. In the winter, this park is completely blanketed in perfectly white snow and the lakes freeze over. Strap on some snowshoes and hike through the park and over the lakes. In the evening, enjoy a free afternoon to explore Shiretoko.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Snowshoeing in Shiretoko Five Lakes
Explore the snow and ice covered Shiretoko Five Lakes on snowshoes. During the winter, this UNESCO World Heritage Site limits the amount of visitors, so this is quite the special opportunity to explore the stunning white covered mountainous scenery.
Free Time
Spend the afternoon free in Shiretoko.
Accommodations: Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel -
Day
3Shiretoko
Another morning snowshoe hike in 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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Accommodations: Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel -
Day
4Shiretoko/Akan-ko
Depart Shiretoko this morning and head slightly inland towards Lake Akan. En route stop to visit active volcano Mt Lo, which sits inside the Kussharo caldera. Watch the sulfurous smoke and steam dramatically rise from the wintery craggy landmass. From there, continue on to 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! Yet another sign of the volcanic activity still present underground in this area. 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:
- 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.
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.
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.
Accommodations: New Akan Hotel -
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. Don't fill up too much during the day, because dinner this evening is 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:
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.
Accommodations: Hotel Amanek Asahikawa -
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.
Accommodations: Hotel Amanek Asahikawa -
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.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Free Time
Spend a free afternoon in Sapporo.
Accommodations: The B Sapporo2Optional Activities for Day 7
Show -
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:
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.
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.
Accommodations: The B Sapporo -
Day
9Sapporo
Depart at any time.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Active Northern Japan: Winter In Hokkaido tour:
Akan-cho
New Akan Hotel
Location
2-8-8, Akankoonsen, Akancho, Kushiro
Akan-cho, Japan-085-0467
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Asahikawa
Hotel Amanek Asahikawa
Location
8 Chome-218 1 Jodori, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 070-0031, Japan
Asahikawa, Japan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Sapporo
The B Sapporo
Location
17-17, Minami 3-jo Nishi 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Hokkaido
Sapporo, Japan-060-0063
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Shiretoko
Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel
Location
306 Utorokagawa, Shari, Shari District, Hokkaido
Shiretoko, Japan-099-4351
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Active Northern Japan: Winter In Hokkaido tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg. 14
Short Introduction
Experience the winter magic of Hokkaido with a snowshoe adventure through Shiretoko Five Lakes and Primeval Forest. Immerse in rich history at the Ainu Kotan, one of Japan's last Indigenous communities, and unwind in a traditional onsen. Discover dramatic landscapes, cultural treasures, and pure relaxation in the heart of Hokkaido's winter wonderland.
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 Shiretoko Five Lakes, Primeval Forest. Drift Ice Walk. Free time in Shiretoko & Sapporo. Sulphur Mountain Visit. Lake Kussharo Hot Spring Beach. Lake Mashu Observatory Deck visit. Traditional Ryokan stay and onsen hotspring. Local Ramen speciality dinner. Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway & Hike. Nijo Market Visit. Sapporo beer tasting.
Highlights
Snowshoe through the powder-covered Shiretoko Five Lakes and Primeval Forest, Soak in a soothing onsen at a traditional ryokan for ultimate relaxation, Discover the culture of northern Japan's Indigenous Ainu people with a visit to Ainu Kotan Village.
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
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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.)Note: We highly recommend bringing hiking poles, as walking in snow can be more difficult or slippery.
Packing Note
We highly recommend bringing hiking poles, as walking in snow can be more difficult or slippery.
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.