3 day itinerary
Hokkaido, Tokyo And Surrounding Small Towns
Itinerary
Hokkaido and Tokyo in December are magical, especially with the winter scenery and festive vibes. Let’s create a romantic 3-day itinerary that combines shopping, delicious food, and cozy experiences.
Day 1: Tokyo - The Urban Wonderland
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Cozy Café: Start your day at a charming café in Harajuku, like , where you can enjoy a warm cup of coffee and some delightful pastries.
- Shopping in Harajuku: After breakfast, stroll through the vibrant streets of Harajuku. Don’t miss for quirky shops and unique fashion. For a more upscale experience, head to for designer boutiques.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Themed Restaurant: Treat yourselves to a fun lunch at in Shinjuku. The whimsical decor and delicious food will surely set a romantic tone.
- Explore : Take a leisurely walk in this beautiful park. The winter scenery can be quite enchanting, and it’s a perfect spot for some romantic photos.
Evening:
- Dinner in Shinjuku: Head to for a fine dining experience that showcases seasonal ingredients. Make sure to book in advance!
- : After dinner, visit the observation deck for stunning night views of the city. The twinkling lights create a perfect romantic atmosphere.
Day 2: Hokkaido - Winter Wonderland
Morning:
- Fly to Sapporo: Take an early flight to Sapporo, Hokkaido. The flight is about 1.5 hours.
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Once you arrive, enjoy a hearty breakfast at . Their coffee and baked goods are a great way to start your day.
Afternoon:
- Shopping in Sapporo: Head to , a shopping complex with a mix of local and international brands. Don’t forget to check out the local crafts and souvenirs!
- Lunch at a Ramen Shop: Sapporo is famous for its miso ramen. Try for a delicious bowl.
Evening:
- Visit the (if it’s happening): If you’re lucky, you might catch the early festivities of the , with stunning ice sculptures and winter activities.
- Dinner at a Local Izakaya: Experience a cozy dinner at an izakaya like , where you can enjoy local beer and delicious grilled meats.
- Stay at a Ryokan: For a romantic touch, consider staying at a traditional ryokan with an onsen (hot spring) experience. is a great option nearby.
Day 3: Otaru - A Romantic Day Trip
Morning:
- Travel to Otaru: Take a short train ride (about 30 minutes) to Otaru, a charming port town known for its romantic canals and glassworks.
- Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Start your day at , famous for its cheesecakes and pastries.
Afternoon:
- Explore : Stroll along the picturesque canal, lined with historic buildings. The winter scenery is breathtaking, especially with snow.
- Shopping for Glassware: Otaru is known for its glass art. Visit to shop for beautiful glass pieces or even try your hand at making your own.
- Lunch at a Seafood Restaurant: Enjoy fresh seafood at , where you can savor sushi made with local catches.
Evening:
- Return to Sapporo: Head back to Sapporo in the late afternoon.
- Dinner at a Romantic Restaurant: For your final dinner, consider , which offers a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine with a lovely ambiance.
- End the Night with a Stroll: If you have time, take a romantic evening walk through the illuminated streets of Sapporo, perhaps stopping by the for a final photo op.
Tips:
- Dress Warmly: December in Hokkaido can be quite cold, so layer up and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Reservations: Make dinner reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants.
- Transportation: Consider getting a JR Pass for convenient travel between cities.
This itinerary should give you a delightful mix of romance, shopping, and culinary experiences in the beautiful winter landscapes of Hokkaido and Tokyo. Enjoy your trip!
