8 day itinerary
Japan Northern Region
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo
Welcome to Japan! Start your adventure in the northern region by arriving in Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. After settling into your hotel, take a stroll through , a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe even catch a local festival or event happening in the park. In the evening, indulge in some delicious Hokkaido cuisine, such as fresh seafood or a bowl of miso ramen.
Day 2: Exploring Sapporo
Today, explore the city of Sapporo further. Begin your day with a visit to the , where you can learn about the history of beer in Japan and even sample some local brews. Next, head to the historic , known for its famous white chocolate cookies. Take a factory tour, try your hand at cookie decorating, and don't forget to pick up some souvenirs. In the evening, visit , Sapporo's entertainment district, and enjoy the bustling nightlife.
Day 3: Otaru Day Trip
Take a day trip to the charming coastal town of Otaru, located just a short train ride from Sapporo. Explore the picturesque , lined with old warehouses that have been converted into shops and cafes. Visit the , where you can admire a vast collection of beautifully crafted music boxes. Don't miss trying some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, as Otaru is known for its delicious seafood dishes.
Day 4: Asahikawa and Furano
Today, venture further into Hokkaido and visit the city of Asahikawa. Start your day by visiting the , known for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals up close. Afterward, make your way to Furano, a picturesque town famous for its lavender fields (best visited in summer). Enjoy the stunning scenery and take a leisurely stroll through the fields. In the evening, relax at a local hot spring and soak in the therapeutic waters.
Day 5: Biei and
Embark on a scenic drive to Biei, a small town known for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. Explore the Patchwork Road, a scenic route lined with colorful fields and farmhouses. Don't miss the iconic , a natural wonder with its vibrant blue waters. In the afternoon, make your way to , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its untouched wilderness and diverse wildlife. Take a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline and spot seals, dolphins, and even brown bears.
Day 6: Hakodate
Travel south to the city of Hakodate, located on the southern tip of Hokkaido. Start your day by visiting , known for its panoramic views of the city and the surrounding sea. Take a cable car ride to the summit and witness a breathtaking sunset. Explore the historic , filled with Western-style buildings and charming streets. Don't forget to try some fresh seafood at the , where you can indulge in delicious seafood bowls and local delicacies.
Day 7: and
Today, visit , a stunning caldera lake surrounded by mountains. Take a leisurely boat ride on the lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Afterward, make your way to , a hot spring resort town known for its geothermal activity. Explore the , a volcanic crater with steaming hot springs and sulfurous fumes. Relax in one of the many hot spring baths and rejuvenate your body and mind.
Day 8: Departure
Sadly, it's time to say goodbye to the northern region of Japan. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time to explore Sapporo once more or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. Remember to try some Hokkaido dairy products, such as ice cream or cheese, before you leave. Depart from Sapporo with wonderful memories of your time in Japan's northern region.