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Embark on an enchanting 10-day journey through Hokkaido with Luxury Japan Travel, where traditional Japanese elegance blends seamlessly with nature's splendour. Begin your adventure in the historic city of Hakodate, indulging in the tranquillity of luxurious ryokans and the culinary finesse of kaiseki cuisine. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of the star-shaped Goryokaku fortress and the vibrant Hakodate Morning Market. Journey onwards to the charming town of Otaru, where history whispers through its picturesque canal and glass workshops. As you venture into Sapporo, Hokkaido's lively capital, experience a mosaic of urban exploration, from the serene Hokkaido Jingu Shrine to the lively Sapporo Beer Museum. Your senses will be delighted by the floral extravaganza of Furano and Biei, painting a canvas of vibrant colours and scenic beauty. As you delve into the rich Ainu heritage and witness the breathtaking views from Mount Hakodate, each day unfolds into a story of discovery and luxury. Concluding with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation of Japan’s northern gem, this tour is an exquisite blend of relaxation, cultural depth, and gourmet experiences, tailored for those seeking an exclusive and unforgettable adventure."
Crafted with a passion for immersive luxury and cultural richness, our Summer 2024 Hokkaido Tour is a meticulously designed journey through Japan's northern paradise. Each day is woven with exclusive experiences, from serene onsen retreats and Michelin-starred dining to intimate sake tastings and scenic explorations, ensuring a symphony of unforgettable moments that capture the heart and soul of Hokkaido's enchanting beauty.
Itineraries
Day 1
Date : August 5, 2025
Arrival in Hakodate – Embrace Serenity
Locations: Hakodate
Your adventure begins upon landing at Hakodate Airport, where the mesmerizing beauty of Hokkaido starts to unfold. Our Luxury Japan Travel Tour Directors, your hosts and guides, will warmly welcome you, setting the tone for a tour filled with personal touches and exclusive experiences. You'll be whisked away to a luxurious ryokan, an epitome of Japanese elegance, where a soothing onsen bath awaits to wash away your travel fatigue. As evening descends, indulge in a meticulously prepared kaiseki dinner, an intricate dance of flavors and artistry, marking the start of your culinary journey in Japan.
- Welcome at Hakodate Airport
- Check-in at luxury ryokan
- Onsen experience
- Kaiseki dinner
Meals: Dinner
Day 2
Date : August 6, 2025
Hakodate - A Blend of History and Nature
Locations: Hakodate and surrounds
Awaken to a day of exploration in Hakodate, a city where history and scenic beauty intertwine. Discover the star-shaped Goryokaku Koen, a fortress bearing tales of yesteryears, and ascend the Goryokaku Tower for a bird's-eye view of this historical gem. Visit the Morning Market for some local treats. Stroll through the charming Red Brick Warehouse district, a symbol of Hakodate's rich past, now bustling with quaint shops and cozy cafes. The day culminates with a breathtaking evening vista from Mount Hakodate, a moment where city lights and twilight skies create a magical tapestry.
- Visit Goryokaku Koen & Tower
- Hakodate Morning Market
- Red Brick Warehouse district exploration
- Mount Hakodate evening view
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
Date : August 7, 2025
Cultural Immersion
Your third day is a tribute to the serene surroundings of Hakodate. Begin with a leisurely stroll down the enchanting Hachiman Zaka, lined with historic houses and charming shops, a perfect window into local life. A short drive takes you to the picturesque Bay Area, where the awe-inspiring coastal scenery and tranquil ambiance are your companions. This leisurely day is punctuated by another exquisite kaiseki dinner, a culinary reflection of Hokkaido’s finest seasonal ingredients.
- Hachiman Zaka stroll
- Visit Bay Area
- Kaiseki dinner at ryokan
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Date : August 8, 2025
Journey from Hakodate to Otaru – Scenic Beauty Unveiled
As you leave Hakodate, a scenic express train journey transports you through the heart of Hokkaido's countryside to Otaru, a town celebrated for its historic charm. On arrival, immerse yourself in the town's beauty, from its well-preserved buildings to the enchanting Otaru Canal. The day is a blend of relaxation and exploration, topped off with a dinner that showcases the best of Hokkaido's seasonal produce.
- Scenic train ride to Otaru
- Gourmet bento lunch
- Explore Otaru’s historic town and canal
- Dinner showcasing seasonal produce
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Date : August 9, 2025
Otaru, Shakotan, Yoichi – A Day of Discovery
Venture out to the Shakotan Peninsula, a hidden gem where nature’s artistry is at its best, and enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch. Witness the stunning turquoise waters of the Sea of Japan and breathe in the fresh coastal air. A visit to the famous Nikka Whisky Distillery in Yoichi offers a peek into the art of Japanese whisky-making. The day concludes with a spectacular sunset at Mount Tengu, accompanied by some of Hokkaido’s finest sake.
- Visit Shakotan Peninsula
- Luxury Picnic Lunch
- Nikka Whisky Distillery tour
- Sunset at Mount Tengu with sake tasting
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Special - Sake Tasting at Mount Tengu)
Day 6
Date : August 10, 2025
From Otaru to Sapporo – The Urban Experience
After indulging in a special Michelin Star sushi lunch, bid farewell to Otaru and head towards Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital. Explore the city’s heart, from the lively Susukino district to the iconic landmarks dotting the cityscape. Your day in Sapporo is a delightful mix of urban exploration and culinary adventures.
- Michelin Star sushi lunch
- Explore Sapporo’s Susukino district
- Dinner in Sapporo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7
Date : August 11, 2025
Sapporo - Cultural Exploration & Summer Traditions
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Sapporo. Begin with a guided tour of the city's historical and cultural jewels – the serene Hokkaido Jingu Shrine and the lush greenery of Odori Park. Marvel at the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower and delve into contemporary art at the Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art. As the day winds down, a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum offers a delightful taste of one of Japan’s most famous brews, followed by a sumptuous dinner featuring Hokkaido’s renowned lamb.
- Guided tour of Sapporo's key sites
- Visit Sapporo Beer Museum
- Dinner featuring Hokkaido lamb
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8
Date : August 12, 2025
Furano and Biei - Nature's Palette
Embark on a journey to the magnificent countryside of Furano and Biei. Be captivated by the vibrant flower fields of Farm Tomita, a rainbow of colours and fragrances. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch amidst this idyllic setting of lavender. Then, marvel at the picturesque Patchwork Road in Biei, a breathtaking canvas of rolling hills and floral beauty. Try a Yubari Melon. Enjoy an evening's relaxation back at your hotel in Sapporo.
- Visit Farm Tomita and Patchwork Road
- Gourmet picnic lunch
- Evening relaxation in Sapporo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9
Date : August 13, 2025
Sapporo and Surroundings - Cultural Depth
Explore the outskirts of Sapporo with a visit to the Ainu Kotan, a traditional Ainu village. Gain insights into the unique culture, food and customs of the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Hokkaido. Lunch is Ainu cuisine. The afternoon offers free time for personal exploration in Sapporo, with detailed recommendations provided. For dinner, an exclusive experience awaits at the Two Michelin Star Tempura Araki, a culinary experience that's both intimate and exquisite.
- Visit Ainu Kotan
- Free time in Sapporo
- Two Michelin Star Tempura Araki
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Date : August 14, 2025
Departure - Memories to Cherish
Your Hokkaido adventure concludes with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, filled with reflections on the unforgettable experiences and friendships forged. As you check out and head to New Chitose Airport, you carry with you not just souvenirs, but a deeper appreciation of Japan’s northern island, its beauty, culture, and warmth.
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer to New Chitose Airport
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions
- Accommodation: High-end hotels and traditional ryokans, including upgraded rooms where available.
- Meals: Daily breakfast, selected lunches, and dinners as per the itinerary, including special meals like Michelin Star sushi, Michelin Star tempura and exclusive dining experiences.
- Private Vehicles: Comfortable and luxurious private vehicles for all city tours and inter-city transfers.
- Guided Tours and Activities: All guided tours and cultural activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tour Directors: Services of English and Japanese-speaking tour directors throughout the journey.
- Entrance Fees: Entry fees to museums, temples, parks, and other attractions as per the itinerary.
- Luggage Handling: Service for transferring luggage between accommodations.
- Special Experiences: Unique activities like onsen experiences, sake tastings, and gourmet picnics.
- Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers to and from Hakodate Airport and New Chitose Airport.
Exclusions
- International Airfare: Guests are responsible for their flights to and from Japan.
- Domestic Airfare: Guests are responsible for their flights to Hakodate.Â
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended for all travellers, to be purchased independently.
- Personal Expenses: Shopping, additional meals, personal entertainment, and other personal expenses.
- Optional Activities: Activities marked as optional in the itinerary.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides or service providers, at the guest’s discretion.
- Visa Fees: Responsibility of the guest if applicable.
- Additional Beverages and Snacks: Extra drinks or snacks not included in meal plans.
- Additional Transport Costs: Transportation costs for personal exploration outside of arranged tours.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances. Luxury Japan Travel does not sell travel insurance, but we advise getting a policy from a reputable company that suits your individual needs.
Japan is renowned for its safety, with an exceptionally low crime rate. It's tourist-friendly, and locals are often eager to help foreign tourists.
Our accommodations are 4 and 5-star standard, selected for comfort, location, and authenticity. We choose hotels and ryokans that provide an authentic Japanese experience, often unknown to international tourists.
Our tours require a low to moderate level of fitness as walking is a common mode of travel in Japan. We design our tours to include a mix of activities to suit various fitness levels.
The tours are conducted in English. A good understanding of English is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.
Yes, solo travellers are welcome. A single traveller supplement fee is applied at the time of booking, the amount of which will be provided to you then.
We specialize in the tour component within Japan and do not sell airfares. However, we can recommend flight routes and timings post-booking.
We offer a variety of premium transportation options, including first-class Shinkansen tickets and private vehicle services, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious travel experience within Japan.
You can book our tours and experiences through our website or by contacting our customer service team. We will guide you through the booking process and answer any questions you may have.
Luxury Japan Travel accepts various payment methods, including major credit cards and bank transfers. Please contact us for more details on payment options.
To get a custom quote, please contact us with your travel preferences, desired experiences, and any specific requests. Our team will craft a personalized luxury travel package tailored to your needs.
We offer a range of luxury tours, including cultural, historical, gastronomic, and adventure tours. Each tour is designed to provide an exclusive and immersive experience of Japan's unique offerings.
Our cancellation policy varies based on the tour and booking conditions. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions or contact us for specific details regarding cancellations.
For custom or private tours, please contact our team with your preferences and requirements. We specialize in creating tailor-made experiences that cater to your unique interests.
Yes, we can arrange exclusive cultural experiences such as private geisha entertainment, samurai workshops, tea ceremonies, and more, providing a deep dive into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
We can arrange luxury dining experiences, including reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants, private chef services, and unique culinary events that showcase Japan's gastronomic excellence.
Understanding Japan's cultural etiquette is key to a respectful and enjoyable travel experience. We provide guidance on local customs, dining etiquette, temple visit protocols, and more to ensure you navigate Japan's culture with ease and respect.
Our Terms and Conditions are available on our website 24/7 and upon request. They provide detailed information on booking policies, liability, cancellation procedures, and other important aspects of our services.
Our tours are intimate and exclusive, limited to either 6 or 8 guests. This small group size ensures a personalized and luxurious experience, allowing for deeper immersion into Japanese culture.
Japan experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, while winter (December to February) can be cold, with snow in some regions. We provide specific weather forecasts closer to your travel dates for more precise planning.
Packing depends on the season of your visit. Essentials include comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying temperatures, and an umbrella or rain gear. Luxury Japan Travel will provide you with personalized and tailored advice on packing, specific to your tour, prior to its commencement.
Yes, our tours require a minimum number of guests to depart. If this number isn't met, we will inform you in advance. For details on how we handle these situations, including alternatives and options, please refer to our terms and conditions.
Our tours are not just about luxury and comfort; they are an extraordinary blend of fun, enjoyment, and memorable experiences. Each day is filled with excitement, offering an unparalleled learning experience and a deep cultural connection. You'll delve into the heart of Japan's culture with expert-guided explorations, relish exceptional dining, and stay in premium accommodations. Expect each moment to be a delightful journey, one that leaves you with happy memories and a profound understanding of Japan's unique beauty.