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6-Day Winter Hiking Adventure in Shikotsu-Toya: Explore Japan’s Snow-Capped Wonders!
Volcanoes, Hot Springs & Winter Wonderlands: Hokkaido Adventure!
Duration: 6 days, 5 nights
Region: Hokkaido – Japan
Cost per person in JPY: from ¥336,000
Min: 4 persons
Tour Code: JPN-HHA-AH6
6 Days Guided tour
Japan
Level: Intermediate
Season: Jan, Mar
Date: 17-22 Mar 25
Get ready to explore the wild side of Japan! 🇯🇵 We’re taking you on an epic journey through Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where you’ll witness the power of Mother Nature up close.
What to expect:
- Active Volcanoes: Hike through steaming landscapes and witness the raw power of the earth.
- Winter Wonderlands: Don your snowshoes and discover hidden vistas only accessible in winter.
- Natural Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in soothing volcanic hot springs.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot Japanese deer and diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Ready for an unforgettable winter adventure?
Some Info
1. LEVEL – Intermediate
2. Style
Get ready to shake off those winter cobwebs! This adventure is all about getting active in the great outdoors (without turning into an icicle!). We’ll be exploring for about 4 hours at a time, then hopping back into our cozy van to warm up and head to the next awesome spot. Don’t worry, it’s not a boot camp – think “invigorating strolls” and “breathtaking views” rather than “marathon training.” Just remember to layer up like a pro (check out our packing list!) and leave the heavy lifting to the van. Oh, and did we mention you’ll get a taste of Hokkaido’s fascinating culture along the way? From ancient Ainu history to modern hot spring traditions, it’s an adventure for the mind and body!
3. ACCOMMODATION
Home Sweet Hokkaido Home! 🏡✨ You’ll be snuggling up in traditional Japanese Ryokans (think cozy inns with tatami mats and comfy futons). Each one has its own unique charm, and we’ve handpicked them for their awesome locations and amenities. Think steaming onsen baths (hot springs!), en suite bathrooms, and sometimes even laundry facilities. We’ll do our best to get you into our top picks, but sometimes we need to shuffle things around depending on availability. No worries though, you’re guaranteed a comfy and authentic experience!
Itinerary
From Sapporo New Chitose Airport – Jozankei
We may have to modify the indicated itinerary: either at the level of the organization (problem of overload of the accommodations, duplication of the groups, modification of the state of the ground, landslides, degraded trails, etc.), or directly because of the guide (weather, group level, etc.). These modifications are always made in your interest, for your safety and for a better comfort!
Day 1
Sapporo New Chitose Airport (CTS) [4.8km, +30m]
Let the Hokkaido adventure begin! We’ll be rounding up the troops between 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm at either New Chitose Airport or JR Chitose Station. (Don’t be late, the fun starts right away!) Make sure you’ve got a full belly because we’re hitting the road ASAP! First stop: Lake Shikotsu! But before we get there, we’ll make a pit stop at Lake Utonai, where you can try your bird-watching skills and spot some awesome winter visitors like Whooper Swans. (They’re way cooler than they sound!) Tonight, get ready for a steaming onsen with epic lake views, a delicious Japanese feast, and maybe even a few friendly deer strolling by. It’s going to be legen-dairy! 🦌♨️.
Meals: Dinner
Stay: Ryokan at Lake Shikotsu
Day 2
Mt. Monbetsu Hike [7.9km, +530m]
Snowshoe School & Summit Views! Today, we’re strapping on those snowshoes and becoming winter ninjas! ❄️🥷 Don’t worry, we’ll start with a quick lesson before tackling our first challenge: Mt. Monbetsu! This popular trail is a local favorite, with a gentle climb and epic views of Lake Shikotsu and surrounding volcanoes. (On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Eniwa puffing away in the distance!) After our descent, we’ll refuel with a yummy lunch in the village. And if you’re lucky enough to be here in late January, get ready for the awesome Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival! Think ice sculptures, frosty fun, and maybe even a snowball fight or two (just kidding… maybe!). Tonight, it’s back to the Ryokan for another delicious dinner and a relaxing onsen soak. Ahhh, bliss!
Meals: B,D
Stay: Ryokan at Lake Shikotsu
Day 3
Ainu Culture & Steamy Volcanoes! [4km, +80m]
Today, we’re swapping lake views for ocean views as we journey to Shiraoi. First, we’ll explore the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and dive into the rich history of Hokkaido’s indigenous people. Then, get ready for a walk on the wild side in “Hell Valley” (Jigokudani)! (Don’t worry, it’s not actually hellish, just super cool!) We’ll witness steaming volcanic vents and maybe even feel the earth’s heat beneath our feet. And for a truly unique experience, we’ll warm up our toes in a natural hot spring river! Tonight, it’s back to the Ryokan for another delicious dinner and onsen relaxation.
Meals: B,L,D
Stay: Ryokan in Noboribetsu
Day 4
Volcano Hike & Baby Volcano Sightseeing! [6km, +410m]
Time to lace up those boots and embrace Mt. Usu! This active volcano offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its own steaming crater. (Don’t worry, we won’t get too close to the lava!) After our hike, we’ll grab some grub and head to Showa Shinzan, a volcano so young, it’s practically a newborn! (Cue the “awws”!) Then, we’ll journey to Jozankei Onsen, a hidden hot spring paradise tucked away in Sapporo City. (It’s like a secret level in a video game!) Tonight, it’s another delicious dinner and onsen relaxation. Life is good!
Meals: B,D
Stay: Ryokan in Jozankei
Day 5
Snowshoe Shuffle & Souvenir Hunting! [6.2km, +480m]
Time to hit the trails again! We’re off to Mt. Kokimobetsu, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of “Ezo-Fuji” (aka Mt. Yotei). The hike is a winter wonderland walk in the park (literally!), so you’ll have plenty of energy to explore the quirky shops at Nakayama Pass afterwards. (Think local treats and unique souvenirs!) Then, it’s back to Jozankei Onsen for a celebratory dinner and a final soak in the hot springs. Don’t forget to pack your camera and your sense of adventure!
Meals: B,D
Stay: Ryokan in Jozankei
Day 6
Sayonara, Hokkaido
Our adventure has come to an end, but don’t worry, the onsen-induced zen will stay with you forever! Here’s the lowdown on getting back to Sapporo:
“Kappa Liner” Express Bus: Zoom back to Sapporo in just 1 hour! (Tickets: ¥2,200, book online by 5 pm the day before.)
Local Express Bus: Take your time and enjoy the scenery on bus No. 7 or 8. (Tickets: ¥790, pay on board.)
Have a safe journey home! And don’t forget to tag us in your awesome Hokkaido pics!
Meals: B
Cost includes
- 5 nights accommodation on a twin share basis
- 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 5 dinners
- Admission to the Upopoy National Ainu Museum
- Snowshoes & poles rental
- All transport as described in the itinerary
- English speaking local guide(s)
- Briefing before departure
Cost excludes
- All airfare & taxes
- All transfers except those mentioned in “includes”
- Drinks
- 3 lunches
- Personal gears
- Expenses of a personal nature like laundry, phone calls, alcohol, beverages, cigarettes
- Travel Insurance
- Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control.
- Single supplement (Add ¥38,000pp)
- Visa and Visa application fees
- All those not mentioned in “the price includes”
More Information
FOOD
4 breakfast, 1 lunch and 4 dinner are included.
Veggie & Vegan Travelers: Let us know your needs when booking! We’ll do our best to accommodate you, but please be aware that finding 100% vegan/vegetarian options in Hokkaido can be tricky. Flexibility is key!
GROUP
Min 4 people.
Wanna join our awesome group tour? We’re happy to have you, even if you’re flying solo! ✈️ To make the magic happen, we need at least four adventurers. If we don’t hit that number 60 days before departure, you can jump ship (with a full refund!) or upgrade to a VIP private tour. 😎 Just remember, we can’t cover any extra costs like flights, so plan wisely!
START / END
Start: between 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm at either JR Chitose Station or New Chitose Airport.
End: after breakfast at Jozankei
Extend your stay
You can extend your trip before or after the trek on request.
DATES
At your convenience,in Jan & Mar. Go out with friends or family at the dates that suit you. Customisation possible from 4 people. When you book the tour please give us one or two other departure dates in case your 1st choice is not possible. Price may differ from the above cost.
Getting There & Away
IF YOU ARRIVE BY PLANE
New Chitose Airport
IF YOU ARRIVE BY TRAIN
JR Chitose Station
You can search train timetables in English on Japan Transit Planner website.
DEPARTURE
Jozankei – Sappporo:
- By highway bus “Kappa Liner”( 1 hr, 2,200 yen – purchase online by 5pm the day before)
- By local Bus 7 or 8 (70-80 mins, 790 yen – no reservation required)
In Your Luggages
Booking & Cancellation Terms
Ready to lock in your adventure? Awesome! Here’s the quick and easy rundown:
- Book online
- Put down a deposit: JPY 80,000 per person or SGD 800 (if you prefer to pay in SGD) gets you a spot on the fun bus!
- Boom! You’re booked: Once we get your deposit, you’re officially in! 🎉
- Final payment time: We’ll send you a reminder email about 5 weeks before your trip to settle the rest.
- Easy peasy payment: Choose Wise (Japanese Yen only) or PAYNOW UEN No.199805829N. Additional charges apply if prefer to pay by credit card (4.5% surcharges apply).
P.S. Don’t forget to check out the fine print before you pay!
