West Hokkaido Before the Snow: History and Hikes

While counting itself among Japan’s four main islands, Hokkaido maintains an identity entirely its own, with distinctive flora and fauna and a rich cultural tapestry. It also bears a complex and fascinating history that reflects that of the nation itself. This tour invites you to experience the epic tale of Hokkaido, not through a book, but rather the charming towns and vast earth of the region itself.

The journey begins with a tour through the historical relics of the region’s greatest city, Sapporo. 

On the next day, canoe across the calm, clear waters of Lake Shikotsu, before learning about the indigenous Ainu people at Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park.

After overnighting at Noboribetsu Onsen, one of the nation’s premier hot spring resorts, hike through the sulfur and steam of Jigokudani (Hell Valley). Later, travel to Lake Toya, a massive caldera lake and the site of a recent volcanic eruption.

Head west for the the mysterious alpine swamps of Shinsennuma Pond in Niseko, followed by a visit to Cape Kamui, where the Sea of Japan crashes against epic cliffs. 

On the final day, return to urban life in Otaru, a major boom town during the height of Hokkaido’s development. In the afternoon, enjoy a final bit of individual sightseeing and relaxation in Sapporo. 

Check out and meet your guide in the lobby before heading to Jigokudani, or “Hell Valley,” Noboribetsu’s dramatic geothermal basin. Walk along steaming vents and sulfuric streams that highlight the volcanic forces beneath Hokkaido. The walk will even take you into the surrounding hills, which overflow with dynamic plant-life. You may even encounter an ashiyu foot bath along the way. 

After lunch in the area, travel by private vehicle to Lake Toya, approximately one hour and ten minutes away. Enjoy a guided walk along this scenic caldera lake, known for its clear waters and unimpeded views of the surrounding mountains, including the mighty Mount Yotei, often called the Mount Fuji of Hokkaido. Another area features the ruins of buildings destroyed in an eruption in the year 2000, evocative of the raw power of Hokkaido’s nature. 

Continue on to Niseko (approximately 45 minutes) and check in for your overnight stay in this renowned alpine region.

After breakfast, check out and meet your guide before heading into the mountains to hike around Shinsennuma, a highland marsh surrounded by gentle peaks and seasonal alpine scenery. The dynamicity of Hokkaido’s nature is on full display here.

Enjoy lunch in the Niseko area before traveling by private car to the Shakotan Peninsula (approximately two hours). Walk along Cape Kamui, where dramatic cliffs overlook the deep blue waters of the Sea of Japan.

Transfer to Otaru by private vehicle (approximately one hour) and check in for the evening.

Check out and meet your guide to explore historic Otaru, a former port town known for its preserved canal district and early 20th-century architecture. Enjoy a short cruise along the Otaru Canal for a different perspective of the city. 

After a final farewell lunch with your guide, transfer to Sapporo by rapid train (approximately 35 minutes), and enjoy an afternoon to yourself in the big city. Whether you choose to slurp up some miso ramen in Susukino’s Ramen Alley or fill your bags with sweet treats at the Shiroi Koibito Park, there’s much more to explore in Sapporo.

*Overnight in Sapporo and transfer to airport via private car in the morning.