5 day itinerary for Hokkaido

Itinerary

Hokkaido in winter is a magical experience, and I’m thrilled to help you plan a cozy and romantic 5-day itinerary. Let’s dive right in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

Morning:

• Arrive at New Chitose Airport and take a train or bus to Sapporo.
• Check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Sapporo Snow Festival (if you're visiting in February) to see stunning snow sculptures. If it’s not festival time, visit the Sapporo Clock Tower and the historic Former Hokkaido Government Office.

Evening:

• Enjoy a romantic dinner at a local izakaya. Try some Hokkaido specialties like fresh seafood, miso ramen, and maybe even some Sapporo beer!

## Day 2: Ningle Terrace and Furano

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive or bus ride to Ningle Terrace in Furano (about 2 hours from Sapporo). This charming village is filled with quaint wooden shops and beautiful winter scenery.

Afternoon:

• Explore the shops, and don’t forget to grab a hot drink to warm up! You can also visit the nearby Furano Cheese Factory for some delicious cheese tasting.

Evening:

• Head to a local restaurant for dinner, then check into a cozy hotel or ryokan in the Furano area. Enjoy a relaxing evening soaking in an onsen (hot spring) if available.

## Day 3: Biei and Blue Pond

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short drive or bus ride to Biei (about 30 minutes from Furano). The winter landscape here is breathtaking, with rolling hills and snow-covered fields.

Afternoon:

• Visit the famous Blue Pond (Aoiike), which is stunning in winter. The blue water surrounded by snow creates a surreal atmosphere.
• Explore the picturesque Patchwork Road area, where you can take photos of the beautiful winter scenery.

Evening:

• Return to your accommodation in Furano or head back to Sapporo for the night. Enjoy a warm dinner and perhaps a stroll through the snowy streets.

## Day 4: Noboribetsu Onsen

Morning:

• After breakfast, check out and head to Noboribetsu (about 2 hours from Sapporo). This area is famous for its hot springs and beautiful volcanic landscapes.

Afternoon:

• Check into a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and enjoy a delicious kaiseki lunch. Afterward, explore Hell Valley (Jigokudani) and see the steaming vents and sulfurous streams.

Evening:

• Indulge in a relaxing onsen experience at your ryokan. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the ryokan, where you can savor local delicacies.

## Day 5: Return to Sapporo

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the ryokan. Take some time to relax in the onsen one last time before checking out.

Afternoon:

• Head back to Sapporo. If time allows, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum or the historic village of Hokkaido for a glimpse into the region's past.

Evening:

• For your final night, enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Sapporo. Consider trying some fresh seafood or a hot pot dish to warm you up before your departure.

Bonus Tips:

• Make sure to dress warmly and layer up, as Hokkaido winters can be quite chilly!
• If you have extra time, consider adding a day for skiing or snowboarding at one of the nearby resorts like Niseko or Kiroro.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Hokkaido! Enjoy your romantic winter getaway!