13 day Japan Autumn Hokkaido Experience

Day 1 - HOME/TAIPEI

This evening, we board our flight for Sapporo (Japan) via Taiwanese Airline, China Airways - this will involve a brief stopover in Taipei.

Meals - As per fight

Day 2 - TAIPEI/SAPPORO (JAPAN)

Once we land into Taipei, there will be a bit of time to stretch out your legs before reboarding our flight for Chitose Airport in Sapporo, Japan. After arriving in Sapporo in the afternoon, our local guide will be hand to greet us and hopefully we can check into our hotel for rest (subject to hotel availability). If check in is not possible, we will have some time to explore nearby areas such as the local shops, or simply wander the streets to take in the local culture. Tonight, we will enjoy our first dinner together.

Meals - As per flight / Dinner

Accommodation - Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Day 3 - SAPPORO/BIEI/FURANO

Begin your exploration with a drive through the picturesque regions of Biei and Furano, cruising along Patchwork Road and Panorama Road. Experience stunning landscapes as you stop at Hokusei no Oka for expansive views of colourful rolling hills framed by the Taisetsu mountain range. Continue to Shikisai no Oka, where you can stroll through 7 hectares of blooming flowers, including sunflowers, lavenders, and cosmos—perfect for photo opportunities during Autumn and enjoying the natural beauty.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Shin-Furano Prince Hotel or similar

Day 4 - FURANO/SOUNKYO GORGE/SOUNKYO ONSEN

On this day, you'll embark on a journey from Furano to Sounkyo Gorge, a breathtaking destination known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning waterfalls. Begin your adventure with a ride on the Kurodake Ropeway, ascending the mountain to reveal panoramic views of the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, a striking backdrop of rugged peaks and emerald alpine forests. Once at the top, take time to soak in the beauty surrounding you. Afterward, venture down to view the famous Ryusei No Taki (Shooting Star Falls) and Ginga No Taki (Milky Way Falls), two of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area, renowned for their picturesque cascades. Stop by the Obako rock formation, a striking natural feature that provides another opportunity for memorable photographs. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at a leisurely pace, with free time to explore the gorge further and take in the stunning Koyo, or autumn leaves, which are particularly impressive during this season.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Sounkyo Kanko Hotel or similar

Day 5 - SOUNKYO ONSEN/ABASHIR/SHIRETOKO REGION

Depart Sounkyo Onsen toward the Shiretoko region. At the Okhotsk Ryu-Hyo Museum, engage interactively with drift ice in a -15°C simulated room and learn about unique sea creatures like Clione, known as the sea angel. Then, head to Tentozan Observatory for panoramic views of Lake Abashiri and the stunning Shiretoko Peninsula. A visit to the Shiretoko World Heritage Conservation Center wraps up the day as you view a film showcasing the region's natural splendours throughout the seasons.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Shiretoko Daiichi Hotel or similar

Day 6 - SHIRETOKO TOUR/LAKE AKAN

This day begins with an exciting boat tour from Shiretoko Utoro Port, where you’ll have the chance to witness stunning cliffs and unique rock formations along the Shiretoko Peninsula. As you cruise through the waters, keep an eye out for local wildlife, adding a sense of adventure to your journey. After the boat tour, you will explore the Shiretoko Five Lakes, which offers two tailored walking routes designed to highlight the area’s remarkable beauty. You can choose to take the Elevated Wooden Path, a one-mile path that leads to the first lake and provides panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, including the breathtaking Sea of Okhotsk. After your exploration, you’ll drive to Teshikaga, where Lake Mashu awaits. Here, visit the observation deck to view one of the clearest lakes in the world, with its striking blue waters often referred to as a "mystical mirror." This natural wonder is renowned for its visibility and ethereal beauty. As the day winds down, you’ll arrive at Lake Akan, settling in and preparing for the experiences ahead, wrapped in the tranquility of this picturesque lakeside setting.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - New Akan Hotel or similar

Day 7 - LAKE AKAN/TOKACHIGAWA

Enjoy a leisurely morning at Lake Akan, a tranquil location known for its stunning natural beauty. You can take your time enjoying the serene surroundings before embarking on a scenic cruise along the lake, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to see rare green Marimo algae, a type of aquatic moss that forms into spherical shapes. After your relaxing cruise, head to Washo Ichiba Market, a bustling hub where you can indulge in Kushiro’s culinary delights. Following this culinary adventure, you’ll travel to Tokachigawa Onsen. This renowned hot spring resort is famous for its Moor hot springs, often referred to as “hot springs for beauty.” These hot springs contain rich organic plant-derived compounds that are believed to have excellent skin moisturizing and smoothing effects, providing a rejuvenating experience after a day of exploration.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation -Tokachigawa Daiheigen Hotel or similar

Day 8 - TOKACHIGAWA/NOBORIBETSU

After breakfast, we depart from Tokachigawa Onsen, traveling towards Noboribetsu, with a scenic few hour journey that allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Hokkaido. Along the way, you'll stop for lunch we continue our drive to Noboribetsu and upon arrival, we will make a visit to the Shiraoi Ainu Village, where you’ll gain valuable insights into the Ainu culture. Through engaging displays of heirlooms, household utensils, and traditional embroidery, you can appreciate the rich heritage and lifestyle of the Ainu people. After exploring the village, you'll return to your accommodations for the night, allowing time to relax and reflect on the experiences of the day.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Noboribetsu Mahoroba Hotel or similar

Day 9 - NOBORIBETSU/HAKODATE

This day begins with breakfast before traveling from Noboribetsu to Hakodate. You’ll first stop at Goryokaku Tower, where you can ascend to enjoy panoramic views of Goryokaku Fort Park, a historic star-shaped fortification surrounded by beautiful gardens and autumn foliage. Afterward, you can take a leisurely stroll to Goryokaku Fort itself, experiencing its picturesque surroundings up close. The afternoon is yours to explore, with free time at the Motomachi shopping arcade, where you can shop for souvenirs or taste local snacks. In the evening, you’ll take the ropeway to Mt. Hakodate, where the breathtaking views of the city lights at night are renowned for their beauty. After an incredible day, you’ll return to your hotel to unwind.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar

Day 10 - HAKODATE/LAKE TOYA

Start your morning in Hakodate with a visit to the bustling morning market, where explore the fresh seafood and local delicacies that can be found here. After exploring the market, you'll depart for Lake Toya, taking in the scenic views during the journey. Upon arrival, we visit Mt. Showa Shinzan, an active volcano, and take the Mt. Usu Ropeway to enjoy breathtaking vistas of both the mountain and the lake below. The area is also home to Bear Ranch, where you’ll learn about local wildlife. As the day comes to a close, you'll settle into your accommodation at Lake Toya, where the natural beauty of the area sets the perfect backdrop for relaxation.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Toyako Kohantei or similar

Day 11 - LAKE TOYA/SAPPORO

After a hearty breakfast, depart from Lake Toya for Sapporo. This bus journey offers captivating views of the picturesque landscapes of Hokkaido, setting the stage for your day in the vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour highlighting Sapporo’s main attractions, including the historic clock tower and Odori Park. After taking in the sights, you’ll have free time for shopping, allowing you to explore local boutiques and perhaps pick up unique souvenirs.

Meals - Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Accommodation - Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Day 12 - SAPPORO/TAIPEI/HOME

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before preparing for departure. You'll have the morning free to soak in the last moments in Sapporo. As lunch approaches, you’ll check out and head to the airport for your flight back home with China Airways (via Taipei). This marks the end of your memorable journey through Hokkaido, filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food, as you head home with cherished memories.

Meals - Breakfast / As per flight

Accommodation - N/A

Day 13 - ARRIVE HOME

Your flight arrives back home today and we hope you had a great holiday!

Meals - As per flight

Accommodation - N/A