Northern Japan Winter Discovery - 15 days
Northern Japan Winter Discovery - 15 days
Northern Japan Winter Discovery - 15 days
15 Days Starting and ending in Tokyo, Japan
Visiting: Tokyo, Tsurui, Kawayu Onsen, Abashiri, Sapporo, Hakodate, Kyoto, Kanazawa
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 14
Age range:
6-
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Polar, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through Northern Japan with the "Northern Japan Winter Discovery" tour. Begin your adventure in Tokyo, exploring iconic sites like Senso-ji and the Meiji Shrine. Venture to Tsurui for a unique bird-watching experience, seeking the rare red-crowned cranes. Cruise the icy Okhotsk Sea, spotting majestic Steller's Sea Eagles. Discover Sapporo's vibrant culture and indulge in a brewery tour. In Hakodate, admire Meiji-era architecture and panoramic views from Mount Hakodate. Immerse yourself in Kyoto's rich history, with a special audience with a maiko. Explore Kanazawa's renowned Kenrokuen garden and the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago. Travel seamlessly with included domestic flights, trains, and private transfers, staying in comfortable 3-4 star hotels. Enjoy a blend of cultural, wildlife, and sightseeing experiences, all guided by a knowledgeable tour leader. This unforgettable journey promises a perfect blend of nature, history, and modernity in the heart of Japan.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Upon arrival in Tokyo, your driver will be waiting at the airport to escort you to our hotel located in the traditional Asakusa district via a shared shuttle. The tour leader will greet you in the lobby, and later in the evening, you will meet with the group for an orientation meeting and an exquisite meal at one of the area's finest restaurants.
On day 2, get ready to explore the diverse and exciting attractions of Tokyo. Our itinerary is fluid, but we may start the day by wandering through Asakusa's charming market stalls and visiting the historic Senso-ji temple. Continue our exploration by visiting other unique districts of Tokyo, such as the electronic stores of Akihabara, the tranquil Meiji Shrine, or the bustling Shibuya crossing.
Accommodation: Gracery Asakusa Hotel or similar
Day 3: Tsurui
Location: Tsurui
Accommodation Name: Woody Hotel & Restaurant Yumekobo or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Tokyo - Tsurui. Today we take an included domestic flight north, to Hokkaido. This is Japan's second-largest island, known for its rare wildlife, rugged landscapes, volcanic terrain, and snow festivals. Despite its beauty, Hokkaido remains unvisited by many international visitors and even some Japanese. On arrival in Kushiro, we transfer by private coach to Tsurui, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner at our accommodation.
Accommodation: Woody Hotel & Restaurant Yumekobo or similar
Day 4: Kawayu Onsen
Location: Kawayu Onsen
Accommodation Name: Kawayu Kanko Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tsurui - Kawayu Onsen. Today we hope to observe the mating dance of the rare red-crowned crane on a bird-watching tour in Tsurui. This area is a well-known breeding ground for the species, and we will be accompanied by both a local guide and our tour leader to try and spot them. So be sure to bring your camera! Later, we travel by private coach to Kawayu Onsen near Lake Kussharo.
Accommodation: Kawayu Kanko Hotel or similar
Day 5: Abashiri
Location: Abashiri
Accommodation Name: Abashiri Koso or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kawayu - Abashiri. Begin today by boarding an icebreaker for a scenic cruise on the Okhotsk Sea. This cruise offers stunning views of the Shiretoko Peninsula and the opportunity to observe Steller's Sea Eagles on the ice floes. Later, we travel by private coach to Abashiri, where we visit the Abashiri Prison Museum. This collection of buildings was built during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Dinner will be provided at the hotel in the evening.
Accommodation: Abashiri Koso or similar
Day 6-7: Sapporo
Location: Sapporo
Accommodation Name: Cross Hotel Sapporo or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Abashiri - Sapporo. Day 6 sees us travel by train from Abashiri to Sapporo, the capital city of Hokkaido. The train ride will provide stunning views of Hokkaido's expansive snowy landscapes. Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1972. You can explore the city and try unique local dishes such as buttery ramen noodles. During the annual snow festival, Odori Park becomes a hub of activity with snow sculptures and food stalls offering a delightful experience for visitors. The city also boasts Meiji period architecture, including the iconic Clock Tower.
Day 7 is at leisure to enjoy the winter wonderland of Sapporo. We recommend visiting Nijo Fish Market, exploring the Ainu Museum to learn about Hokkaido's indigenous people, or climbing the TV tower for panoramic city views. The day will conclude with a dinner at the Sapporo Beer Brewery.
Accommodation: Cross Hotel Sapporo or similar
Day 8: Hakodate
Location: Hakodate
Accommodation Name: Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Sapporo - Hakodate. Travelling by train to Hakodate, we can explore Meiji period red-brick warehouses in the afternoon, now transformed into trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. We can also delve into the early modern history of the city at the unique star-shaped Goryokaku fort. Hakodate has a rich history, closely connected to Japan's re-opening to the world in the nineteenth century after centuries of isolation.
As the sun sets, we take a thrilling cable car ride to the summit of Mt Hakodate, where we can admire one of Japan's best panoramic nighttime views.
Accommodation: Hakodate Kokusai Hotel or similar
Day 9-11: Kyoto
Location: Kyoto
Accommodation Name: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hakodate - Kyoto. After exploring Hakodate's bustling morning market on day 9, it is time to bid farewell to Hokkaido and head back to Honshu, Japan's main island, via a flight from Hakodate to Itami Airport. From here, we hop on a train to Kyoto, a city that served as Japan's cultural and political hub for over a thousand years. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel and enjoy a delicious meal with your group. Kyoto's rich history as the centre of Imperial power has left behind a wealth of historical sites, including temples, shrines, palaces, and gardens that were fortunately spared from destruction during World War Two.
Our tour leader will lead an in-depth exploration of Kyoto on day 10, showcasing both famous landmarks and hidden gems. The highlight of the day will be a special meeting with a maiko (trainee geisha), offering insight into the enigmatic world of geisha culture.
Day 11 will offer free time to further explore Kyoto's attractions or to embark on a day trip to nearby destinations accessible by train. Your tour leader may lead an optional excursion to Nara, the former capital, located just a short train ride away. Alternatively, you are free to pursue your own interests and sights.
Accommodation: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo or similar
Day 12-13: Kanazawa
Location: Kanazawa
Accommodation Name: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Kyoto - Kanazawa - Shirakawago - Kanazawa. In the morning of day 12, we depart from Kyoto and travel by train to Kanazawa on the Japan Sea coast, a region known as "yukiguni" or snow country. Similar to Kyoto, Kanazawa was spared from bombing during World War II due to its significant religious sites and cultural assets, making it one of Japan's best-preserved historical cities. In the afternoon, we visit Kenrokuen, a famous garden in Japan known for its iconic "snow ropes" that protect the trees from heavy snowfall in winter. If time permits, consider visiting the local market, samurai district, or 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
On day 13, we embark on a day trip by private bus to Shirakawago, with a stop along the way to learn about traditional Japanese washi paper making. Once in Shirakawago, indulge in a hearty traditional lunch before exploring this UNESCO World Heritage designated village, known for its traditional thatched roofing, or gassho-zukuri. Returning to Kanazawa in the evening, the rest of today is at leisure.
Accommodation: Mitsui Garden Kanazawa or similar
Day 14-15: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation Name: Millenium Mitsui Garden or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kanazawa - Tokyo. Experience one last afternoon and evening in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo after arriving on a high-speed bullet train from Kanazawa. Take advantage of some free time to explore, shop for souvenirs, and savour a farewell dinner with our tour leader and group. On day 15, a shared shuttle bus will transport you to the airport for your journey home. Wishing you a safe trip back!
Accommodation: Millenium Mitsui Garden or similar
What's Included
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Accommodation
3-4 star hotels -
14 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 7 dinners
Enjoy 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 7 dinners during the tour.
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14 nights 3-4 star hotels
Stay in 3-4 star hotels for 14 nights.
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Escorted by a tour leader
The tour is escorted by a knowledgeable tour leader.
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Arrival and departure airport transfers
Receive airport transfers on arrival and departure days via a shared shuttle bus.
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All relevant transportation
All necessary transportation, including domestic flights and transfers by minibus, private coach, and train, is included.
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Transport card with 2,500 yen credit
A transport card with 2,500 yen credit is provided for city transport.
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Entrance fee to Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo
The entrance fee to Hamarikyu Gardens in Tokyo is included.
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Bird-watching guide in Tsurui
A bird-watching guide is provided in Tsurui.
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Icebreaker cruise on the Okhotsk Sea
An icebreaker cruise on the Okhotsk Sea is included.
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Brewery tour in Sapporo
Enjoy a brewery tour in Sapporo.
What's Not Included
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International flights
International flights are not included in the tour package.
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Entrance fees for temples, shrines, and museums
Entrance fees for temples, shrines, and museums are not included unless specified.
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Local transport in each destination
Local transport in each destination is not included unless specified.
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Baggage handling & luggage forwarding
Baggage handling and luggage forwarding are not included unless specified.
Age Policy
Minimum age: 6 years, accompanied by an adult
Mode of Transport
Travel seamlessly with included domestic flights, minibus, private coach, and train transfers. Arrival and departure airport transfers are provided by shared shuttle bus, and a transport card with 2,500 yen credit is included for city transport.
Accommodation
Enjoy 14 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, including stays at Gracery Asakusa Hotel, Woody Hotel & Restaurant Yumekobo, Kawayu Kanko Hotel, Abashiri Koso, Cross Hotel Sapporo, Hakodate Kokusai Hotel, The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo, Mitsui Garden Kanazawa, and Millenium Mitsui Garden.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to see rare red-crowned cranes in Tsurui and Steller's Sea Eagles on the ice floes of the Okhotsk Sea.
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a special meeting with a maiko, a trainee geisha, in Kyoto, and a hands-on washi paper making experience during the excursion to Shirakawago.
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How is luggage handled during the tour?
Luggage forwarding services are provided between Tsurui, Sapporo, Kyoto, and Tokyo to ensure a seamless travel experience.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
You will stay in comfortable 3-4 star hotels throughout the tour, including Gracery Asakusa Hotel, Woody Hotel & Restaurant Yumekobo, Kawayu Kanko Hotel, Abashiri Koso, Cross Hotel Sapporo, Hakodate Kokusai Hotel, The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo, Mitsui Garden Kanazawa, and Millenium Mitsui Garden.
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What transportation is included in the tour?
The tour includes domestic flights, minibus, private coach, and train transfers. Arrival and departure airport transfers are provided by shared shuttle bus, and a transport card with 2,500 yen credit is included for city transport.
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Are there any meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 7 dinners.
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Is there internet access during the tour?
Yes, shared portable Wi-Fi access is available throughout the trip.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Feb 03, 2025 - Feb 17, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Feb 05, 2025 - Feb 19, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.