Discover Hokkaido: Cuisine, History & Culture in Northern Japan - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Sapporo, Self-Guided Culinary Tour of Michelin Restaurants

Welcome to Japan! Your flight arrives in Sapporo, which is located on the northern island of Hokkaido. The island is known for its natural hot springs, national parks, and outdoor activities, as well as its rich history and culture. Your driver will collect you from the airport, and once you've settled at your hotel, it's time to take a culinary journey through the vibrant capital of Sapporo. The city is home to more than 50 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a gastronomic wonderland for even the most discerning foodies.

If you're a crab enthusiast, start at Hyousetsu No Mon. Here, you'll indulge in an array of delectable crab dishes that showcase the freshness and quality of Hokkaido's seafood. Next, head to Mikuni Sapporo for French-inspired cuisine with a Japanese twist—the restaurant blends French techniques with Hokkaido's freshest ingredients, resulting in a memorable dining experience. Continue to Araki Tempura Restaurant and watch chefs expertly fry seafood and vegetables in a light batter, then savor each bite with a side of zesty dipping sauce. Learn about the history of tempura in Japanese cuisine as you partake.

Sushi Miyakawa is the next stop, a high-end sushi establishment where you'll watch the sushi master expertly craft each piece, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Finish the day at Ramen Shingen, an unassuming restaurant beloved by locals for its delicious miso ramen. Slurp down steaming bowls of noodles topped with flavorful broth and all the necessary fixings. Afterward, head back to your hotel for what will surely be a good night's sleep on a full stomach! 

Day 2: Discover Sapporo City: Historic Sites, Parks & Shopping

See more of Sapporo today with a guided city tour. Begin with a visit to Sapporo Clock Tower, one of the few remaining Western-style buildings in the city and a symbol of its rich history. Your guide will share stories of how this structure became a local landmark, then take you on a leisurely stroll to the spacious Odori Park, a green oasis in the city center with paved walkways and shade trees. Walk to the very end of the park to Sapporo TV Tower and head up to the observation deck for views that span the entire city as your guide points out significant sights. 

Next up is the bustling Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade, a covered street that stretches over seven blocks and features more than 200 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Navigate the endless maze of stores, picking up some traditional souvenirs or grabbing a snack from one of the vendors.

Your final stop is Shiroi Koibito Park, a chocolate-themed park that houses the Ishiya Chocolate Factory. The factory is most known for its delicious Shiroi Koibito cookie, which consists of two butter cookies layered with their signature white chocolate, and you'll get to see the production process in action. The cookies are also one of Hokkaido's most popular souvenirs, so be sure to purchase some for yourself as well as a few extras for family back home!

Day 3: Day Trip to Otaru, Mount Tengu Observatory

Visit Otaru, a picturesque harbor town with beautiful canals, scenery, and unparalleled artistry in glasswork and music boxes. Your guide will pick you up in the morning and you'll make the two-hour drive. Upon arrival, start at the former Hokkaido Bank Head Office, a beautiful stone building that showcases the modern architecture of Otaru. Built in 1912, the building now serves as a museum where you can learn about the history of the bank and the city's development. 

Then, take a leisurely stroll along the Otaru Canal. Completed in 1923 after nine years of construction, the waterway spans 3,740 feet (1,140 m) in length and 131 feet (40 m) in width. Your guide will share interesting facts and stories about the canal's significance, its surrounding architecture, and the role it played in Otaru's economic growth.

From here, make your way to Sakaimachi Street, a lively shopping area renowned for its exquisite glass and music box shops. As you peruse the stores and galleries, you'll meet the local craftspeople and perhaps even have the chance to create your own glass masterpiece or customize a music box to take home as a souvenir. End with a ride on a scenic ropeway that takes you to the incredible views of the Mount Tengu Observatory. Enjoy the panoramas of the gorgeous countryside, and take a few moments to capture the perfect photo while your guide points out key landmarks. 

Day 4: Transfer to Noboribetsu, Hot Springs of Hell Valley 

Your next destination is the city of Noboribetsu, home to natural hot springs or onsens, primeval forests, and fanciful demon statues decorating the city center. Your private driver will collect you from your hotel after checkout and you'll make the 1.5-hour scenic drive. Once you've checked in at your accommodations, start your exploration of the volcanic wonders of this region with a guided tour. 

The adventure begins at Hell Valley, located just above the city and the source of most of the hot springs in town. There are multiple trails you can walk on here, which take you through forests and past the hot steam vents and sulfurous streams, a constant reminder of the volcanic origins of this region. For more intense physical activity, hike deep into the hills to the River Oyunuma Natural Footbath, where you can ditch your shoes and soak your feet in the hot water.

Later, take a visit to Date Jidaimura Noboribetsu, a cultural theme park dedicated to the history of Japan's Edo period. Step inside and get transported back in time, learning about the lives of people in this time period, trying local food, and watching traditional performances that include the fierce battles of the ninja and elegant dances of times before. As evening approaches, head back to your ryokan and spend the remainder of your day leisurely soaking in the hot springs. These soothing waters provide the perfect way to unwind from your active day.

Day 5: Scenic Cruise on Lake Toya, Explore Mount Usu

Meet your guides after breakfast and make the one-hour drive to the scenic Lake Toya, a picturesque crater lake nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park. Renowned for its thermal springs and the active volcano Mount Usu, this region combines natural beauty with geological wonders—even in cold weather, the lake never freezes! Tour around the lake while your guides explain more about the history of the lake and volcano, gaining insight into the forces that have created and transformed this fascinating place. 

Day 6: Transfer to Hakodate, Visit Onuma Quasi-National Park

You're off to Hakodate today, a port town that sits at the foot of the impressive Mount Hakodate. Hakodate is also home to Onuma Quasi-National Park and the beautiful Onuma and Konuma Lakes. Your driver will collect you from your hotel in the morning, and you'll make the three-hour drive to Onuma Park, where you'll start with a scenic walk between the lakes, traversing charming bridges and peninsulas along the way. There are multiple walking paths, ranging from 15 to 60 minutes in length, perfect for taking in the tranquil atmosphere and fresh air.

Visitors seeking a more active experience can rent a bike and cruise along the 6-mile (10 km) cycling course that encircles Lake Onuma. While the route follows the main road for the most part, you'll still enjoy a pleasant ride through the park's pristine surroundings. During the warmer months, you'll also have the option of hopping aboard a sightseeing boat tour, which offers a 30-minute ride across the lakes. Activities such as canoeing, tennis, golf, fishing, or camping are also available around the park. This evening, relax at your hotel in Hakodate or explore more of the town on your own. 

Day 7: Depart Hakodate

Your adventure in Japan comes to a close today. After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel and transfer to the Hakodate airport for your journey home or to your next destination. Safe travels! 

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