Tokachi Millennium Forest, Lake Shikaribetsu, Naitai Terrace, Tokachi Bokujo, Mikuni-toge Pass, Sounkyo, Asahiyama Zoo, Furano & Biei, Shirogane Onsen, Arte Piazza Bibai and Sapporo - 5 nights & 6 days (23A-5N6D-02)
23A-5N6D-02
Welcome to the Splendors of Autumn
and Winter in Hokkaido.
Hokkaido in autumn is an enchanting destination that captivates the hearts of foreign tourists. This scenic region unveils a mesmerizing spectacle of nature as trees transform into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows. The vibrant foliage paints a stunning backdrop against the landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park and central Hokkaido, leaving nature enthusiasts in awe.
Moreover, autumn in Hokkaido is a bountiful harvest season, beckoning visitors to indulge in an array of fresh and mouthwatering culinary delights. The region's renowned seafood offerings are a true delight, ranging from succulent sushi to flavorful seafood bowls. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Hokkaido by savoring its exceptional dairy products and vegetables, renowned for their outstanding quality and taste. Don't forget to treat yourself to creamy soft-serve ice cream and relish corn-based dishes that perfectly encapsulate the essence of autumn in Hokkaido.
New Chitose Airport = (1h50m, 134.5km) = Tokachi Millennium Forest = (37min., 33km) = Tokachi Sahoro Resort
Tokachi Sahoro Resort = (46min., 42.7km) = Lake Shikaribetsu = (52min., 54.5km) = Naitai Terrace = (38min., 38.6km) = Tokachi Bokujo = (46min., 42.1km) = Tokachi Sahoro Resort
Tokachi Sahoro Resort = (1h45m, 96.9km) = Mikuni-toge Pass = (17min., 18.4km) = Sounkyo = (1h10m, 74.3km) = Furano & Biei = (46min., 38.4km) = Shirogane Onsen
Shirogane Onsen = (51min., 42.8km) = Asahiyam Zoo = (1h13m., 93.7km) = Arte Piazza Bibai = (56min., 62km) = Sapporo
Sapporo = (45min., 38.3km) = Otaru = (35 min., 28.1km) = Shiroi Koibito Park = (25min., 9.1km) = Sapporo
Sapporo = (54min., 49km) ＝ New Chitose Airport
Hotel Accommodation for this tour:
Tokachi Sahoro Resort (or similar), Shirogane Onsen Hotel Parkhills (or similar), Sapporo Excel Hotel Tokyu (or similar)
Note: The order of the itinerary may change depending on the departure and arrival times of the flights and the duration of stay at stopover locations. The above program is suitable for small groups.
Highlights of the Tour
Day 1
Tokachi Millennium Forest 十勝千年の森
Created with the aim of leaving a significant legacy for humanity a thousand years from now, Tokachi Millennium Forest has received high acclaim both at home and abroad. It is a beautiful garden that is rustic yet sophisticated. Open until 15Oct.
Day 2
Lake Shikaribetsu 然別湖
Lake Shikaribetsu is the only natural lake within the Daisetsuzan National Park and is situated at an altitude of 810 meters, making it the highest lake in Hokkaido. With a maximum depth of approximately 100 meters and a circumference of 13.8 kilometers, the lake completely freezes over during winter, forming a one-meter-thick layer of ice.
As autumn arrives, the densely grown birch and rowan trees around Lake Shikaribetsu begin to change their colors. The autumn foliage spreading along the lake's shore, reflected on its surface, is truly a sight to behold. Various hues, including golden yellow, red, and orange, paint the lakeside scenery with a vibrant palette. In autumn, Lake Shikaribetsu allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the primeval forest and the ever-changing expressions of the seasons.
Naitai Terrace ナイタイテラス
Naitai Terrace, offering breathtaking green scenery, was completed in 1972. It is Japan's largest public pasture, covering approximately 1,700 hectares, equivalent to 358 Tokyo Domes. Around 2,000 cows graze on the pasture. "Naitai" means "deep ravine" in the Ainu language. Open until 01Nov.
Tokachi Bokujo Shirakaba Namiki 十勝牧場白樺並木
The avenue of approximately 660 white birch trees that stretches for about 1.3 kilometers from the entrance of Tokachi-bokujo Ranch is popular as a photo spot. The white birch avenue on a clear, blue day is a breathtaking sight.
Day 3
Mikuni-toge Pass 三国峠
Mikuni-toge Pass (elevation 1,139 meters) boasts the highest altitude among the mountain passes on national roads in the region. Fully paved and open year-round, the pass offers a breathtaking view of the vast sea of trees and the majestic peaks of the Daisetsuzan Mountains in the background. The autumn foliage, at its peak from late September to early October, creates a stunning contrast with the Matsumi Ohashi Bridge (330 meters in total length). Furthermore, the approximately 600-meter altitude difference between the vicinity of Lake Nukabira and Mikuni-toge Pass allows visitors to savor the gradual transformation of colors as they ascend.
Furano and Biei 富良野＆美瑛
In the Furano and Biei areas, you can find expansive rural landscapes where the grandeur of nature and the activities of the local people coexist. The beauty of these landscapes has captivated many people, leading to the filming of numerous movies, dramas, and commercials in the region. Visiting the Furano and Biei areas allows you to encounter nostalgic scenery that you may have once seen on screens or television.
The name Furano originates from the Ainu language ‘fura-nui,’ meaning a place with a sulfur smell. It was given this name due to the presence of many hot springs near Mount Tokachi, an active volcano located on the border between Kamifurano Town and Biei Town. On the other hand, Biei Town, which is situated to the south of Asahikawa City, derives its name from the Ainu word ‘piye,’ which means "oily." It is said that the name was inspired by the Biei River, which appears blue and cloudy due to the presence of dissolved sulfur and other elements.
Shirahige Falls 白髭の滝
The view from the bridge is a magnificent panorama, where the Aquamarine-colored, transparent Biei River flows below and creates splashes as it hits the rocks. There, numerous white streams flow down the steep rock face and merge with whooshing sounds. This landscape is even more dynamic than any photograph could capture. It's called "senryu-baku" (A waterfall where underground water drops from cracks of rocks.), and it's a rare waterfall in Japan.
Shirogane Onsen 白金温泉
When the hot springs were successfully developed, it was said that the hot water that sprang from the underground could be considered as precious as platinum (shirogane). Hence, the name "Shirogane Onsen" was given.
Day 4
Asahiyama Zoo 旭山動物園
The secret to the popularity of Asahiyama Zoo lies in its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to observe the animals' natural behaviors and movements, providing an experience close to their natural habitat.
Kan Yasuda Sculpture Museum Arte Piazza Bibai アルテピアッツァ美唄
Welcome to the Kan Yasuda Sculpture Museum – Arte Piazza Bibai, an enchanting open-air art park where the harmony of nature and artistic brilliance converge. Within these serene surroundings, visitors find solace from the bustle of the modern age, allowing them to immerse themselves in a world untouched by external worries. At this extraordinary museum, over 40 magnificent marble and bronze sculptures, crafted by the internationally acclaimed artist Kan Yasuda, grace the landscape. Despite spending most of his time in Italy, Kan Yasuda's roots lie in Bibai, where his birthplace has become a living testament to his artistic legacy.
Sapporo 札幌
Sapporo, the fifth-largest city in Japan in terms of population, combines urban functionality with the surrounding natural landscapes. The harmonious coexistence of the city and nature is a distinctive feature and charm of Sapporo.
Day 5
Otaru 小樽
Otaru, which developed through herring fishing in the latter half of the Edo period and port development since the Meiji era, is known for its nostalgic atmosphere with historical buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods standing side by side. It is one of its appealing features.
Shiroi Koibito Park 白い恋人パーク
At Shiroi Koibito Park, which represents Sapporo, you can observe the manufacturing process of the famous local confectionery "Shiroi Koibito" and participate in the Sweet Workshop at Dream Kitchen, where you can create your own original cookies.
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