General Information
Duration: 10 Days/ 9 Nights
Start/ End: Tokyo / Tokyo
Tour Route: Tokyo - Hokkaido - Kushiro - Sapporo - Aomori - Hirosaki Castle - Akita - Shirakami Mountain - Morioka - Tokyo
Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo and Transfer to Hokkaido
Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Observation in Hokkaido
Day 3: Canoe Ride in Kushiro
Day 4: Farm Experience
Day 5: Explore Sapporo
Day 6: Hot Spring and Nebuta Festival in Aomori
Day 7: Visit Hirosaki Castle and Kanton Festival in Akita
Day 8: Shirakami Mountain Walking
Day 9: Wanko Soba and Sansa Festival in Morioka
Day 10: Departure from Tokyo
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo and Transfer to Hokkaido
Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo, where you will be greeted by your tour guide. After a brief orientation, transfer to your accommodation for check-in. Take some time to rest and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll get your first taste of Japanese cuisine. After dinner, transfer to Hokkaido by domestic flight or bullet train. Arrive in Hokkaido and check into your hotel.
Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Observation in Hokkaido
After breakfast, begin your full-day wildlife adventure in Hokkaido. Known for its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, Hokkaido is a haven for nature lovers. Set out with your guide to explore the region’s national parks, forests, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for native species such as Ezo deer, red-crowned cranes, and even brown bears, depending on the season. Take a break to enjoy lunch surrounded by the beautiful natural scenery of Hokkaido.
Continue your wildlife exploration, delving deeper into Hokkaido’s wilderness. Your guide will share insights into the local ecosystems and conservation efforts. Experience the serenity of the untouched landscapes while learning about the importance of preserving Japan’s natural habitats. After a day filled with wildlife encounters, relax and savor a traditional sushi dinner made from the freshest seafood Hokkaido has to offer.
Day 3: Canoe Ride in Kushiro
Begin the day with breakfast before transferring to the town of Kushiro, famous for its wetlands and rich ecosystems. Upon arrival, take some time to explore the area. Enjoy a local meal in Kushiro before heading out for the day’s adventure.
Embark on a peaceful canoe ride through the Kushiro wetlands. Paddle along the waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. Your guide will point out the unique wildlife and plant species that thrive in this wetland environment, including rare birds and aquatic life. End your day with a delicious lamb meat BBQ, a popular dish in Hokkaido. Gather around the table with your group to share stories of the day’s adventures.
Day 4: Farm Experience
After breakfast, transfer to a traditional farm in the Hokkaido countryside. Upon arrival, meet the local farmers and learn about their way of life. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the daily routines of a working farm. Enjoy a fresh, farm-to-table lunch featuring local produce and homemade dishes.
Get hands-on with farm activities, such as feeding and caring for the animals. Learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of agriculture in Japan’s rural communities. This is a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience life in the Japanese countryside. Sit down to a home-cooked dinner with the farmers. This intimate meal will give you a chance to chat with your hosts and hear about their lives and traditions in rural Japan.
Day 5: Explore Sapporo
After breakfast, transfer to Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of this vibrant city, known for its lively streets, historical landmarks, and modern attractions. Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, sampling more of Hokkaido’s unique culinary offerings.
Visit some of Sapporo’s key sites, including the iconic Sapporo Clock Tower, the beautifully landscaped Odori Park, and the bustling Susukino entertainment district. Don’t forget to stop by the Sapporo Beer Museum to learn about the city’s brewing history. For dinner, indulge in Sapporo’s famous miso ramen, a beloved dish known for its rich, flavorful broth and hearty toppings. Experience the bustling ramen shops where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy this comfort food.
Day 6: Hot Spring and Nebuta Festival in Aomori
After breakfast, transfer to Aomori, known for its summer festivals and beautiful landscapes. The journey will take you across scenic regions, with plenty to see along the way. Upon arrival in Aomori, enjoy a local meal before your afternoon activities. Head to one of Aomori’s famous hot springs, where you can relax and unwind in the healing thermal waters. Soak in the natural hot springs while taking in the serene surroundings, a perfect way to rejuvenate after your travels.
After dinner, experience the vibrant Nebuta Festival, one of Japan’s most spectacular summer festivals. Marvel at the brightly lit lantern floats, accompanied by energetic dancers and musicians. The Nebuta Festival is a celebration of art, culture, and community, offering an unforgettable evening of excitement and color.
Day 7: Visit Hirosaki Castle and Kanton Festival in Akita
Enjoy breakfast before transferring to Akita, home to the famous Kanton Festival. Upon arrival, have lunch before visiting one of Akita’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the historic Hirosaki Castle, a well-preserved structure set amidst beautiful gardens. The castle offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, and its surroundings are especially stunning during the summer months, with vibrant greenery and flowers in full bloom.
After dinner, attend the Kanton Festival, where participants balance tall poles adorned with paper lanterns. The festival showcases strength, balance, and community spirit, with lively performances that light up the night sky.
Day 8: Shirakami Mountain Walking
After breakfast, set off for a full-day walking tour through the Shirakami Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mountains are home to ancient beech forests and a diverse range of wildlife. Take a break for lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery.
Continue your exploration of this pristine natural environment, learning about the significance of the beech forests and the efforts to preserve this important ecosystem. This is a day to reconnect with nature and appreciate the untouched beauty of Japan’s wilderness. After a full day of walking, enjoy a comforting dinner featuring Kiritanpo hot pot, a traditional dish from the Akita region made with rice sticks and hearty broth.
Day 9: Wanko Soba and Sansa Festival in Morioka
After breakfast, transfer to Morioka, a city known for its culinary traditions and vibrant summer festival. Experience the famous Wanko Soba challenge, where you are served small bowls of soba noodles continuously until you are full. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience that showcases the hospitality and food culture of Morioka.
Spend the afternoon exploring Morioka, taking in its historical landmarks and charming atmosphere. End the day by attending the Sansa Festival, which features rhythmic drumming, colorful parades, and joyful dancing. The festival is a celebration of unity and community, and you’ll be able to join in the festivities and experience the energy of this unique event.
Day 10: Departure from Tokyo
After breakfast, transfer to Tokyo for your departure flight. Thank you for choosing Educational School Trips for your travel adventures!
