Ultimate Hokkaido Summer Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary for Nature and Culture Lovers
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, offers a perfect summer getaway with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural experiences. Here’s a detailed 7-day itinerary to help you make the most of your summer trip to Hokkaido.
Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo
Morning: Land at New Chitose Airport and take the JR train to Sapporo. The journey takes about 40 minutes.
Afternoon: Check into your hotel and head to Odori Park, the green heart of Sapporo. Walk through the park and visit the Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic city views.
Evening: Experience Sapporo’s culinary delights at Nijo Market, renowned for its fresh seafood. Afterwards, explore the vibrant nightlife in Susukino, Sapporo’s entertainment district.
Day 2: Sapporo and Otaru
Morning: Start with a visit to the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the history of Japan’s first beer brewery. Don’t miss the beer tasting at the end of the tour.
Afternoon: Take a scenic train ride to Otaru. Stroll along the Otaru Canal, lined with historic warehouses, and visit the famous Kitaichi Glass workshops and Otaru Music Box Museum.
Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of Otaru’s renowned sushi restaurants before returning to Sapporo.
Day 3: Furano and Biei
Morning: Rent a car and drive to Furano, famous for its stunning lavender fields. Visit Farm Tomita to enjoy the colorful flowers and sample lavender-flavored treats.
Afternoon: Continue to Biei, known for its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. Visit the Blue Pond and the Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields.
Evening: Stay in a cozy local ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in Biei and enjoy a sumptuous kaiseki (multi-course) dinner.
Day 4: Asahiyama Zoo and Sounkyo Gorge
Morning: Head to Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its interactive animal exhibits. Highlights include the penguin parade and the polar bear underwater viewing tunnel.
Afternoon: Drive to Sounkyo Gorge, home to impressive waterfalls like Ginga and Ryusei. Explore the area on foot and take the Kurodake Ropeway for magnificent views.
Evening: Relax in an onsen (hot spring bath) at a Sounkyo hot spring resort and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner.
Day 5: Shiretoko Peninsula
Morning: Drive to the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a wildlife cruise to see the rugged coastline, sea eagles, and possibly brown bears.
Afternoon: Explore the Shiretoko Five Lakes area on a guided nature walk, offering stunning views and a chance to see native wildlife.
Evening: Stay overnight in Utoro, enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant and reflecting on the natural beauty of Shiretoko.
Day 6: Lake Akan and Kushiro
Morning: Head to Lake Akan, known for its unique marimo (spherical algae). Take a lake cruise and visit the Ainu Kotan (Ainu village) to learn about the indigenous Ainu culture.
Afternoon: Drive to Kushiro and explore the Kushiro Shitsugen National Park, the largest wetland in Japan. Walk along the boardwalks and watch for the iconic red-crowned cranes.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood in Kushiro and stay overnight in a comfortable hotel.
Day 7: Return to Sapporo
Morning: Drive back to Sapporo, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. Consider a visit to the charming town of Yubari for its famous melon.
Afternoon: Back in Sapporo, explore the historic Former Hokkaido Government Office and do some last-minute shopping at Tanukikoji Shopping Street.
Evening: End your trip with a farewell dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub), savoring Hokkaido’s unique cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Travel Tips for Hokkaido
Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility, especially in rural areas. Japanese driving etiquette and GPS navigation systems are reliable.
Accommodation: Book your hotels and ryokans well in advance, particularly during the summer high season. Consider staying in traditional ryokans for a unique cultural experience.
Weather: Hokkaido’s summer is pleasantly mild, but evenings can be cool. Pack layers and a light jacket for outdoor activities.
Enjoy your unforgettable summer journey through the diverse and stunning landscapes of Hokkaido!
JTI | Japan Travel Itinerary
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