Japan’s Winter Adventures

Arrive at Haneda Airport and be escorted to your hotel in Tokyo. You check in your room.

Your guide or conductor will show you around your hotel.

Begin your day in Harajuku with a peaceful visit to Meiji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife.

Afterward, stroll down Takeshita Street filled with quirky boutiques, animal cafés, and colorful sweets—you may even spot cosplayers.

In the afternoon, head to Shibuya to see the loyal Hachiko dog statue and the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.

Travel north by Shinkansen (bullet train) to Aomori, your first high-speed rail experience.

In the afternoon, transfer by shuttle to Sukayu Onsen, known as one of the snowiest inhabited places in the world. Enjoy the scenic snowy drive, check in, and unwind in the resort’s natural hot springs.

In the morning, head to the Hakkoda Mountains and ride the ropeway for views of the famous snow monsters. At the summit, enjoy a leisurely snow walk along a marked trail before returning by ropeway (optional downhill skiing).

Continue on a scenic drive to Hirosaki, a historic castle town. After check-in, explore Hirosaki Castle and the samurai district, then experience a traditional winter festival at the castle in the evening.

Day Trip from Hirosaki.

Ride an old-fashioned stove train through Tsugaru villages and snow-covered rice fields. In Goshogawara, visit the historic Shayokan, former home of renowned Japanese writer Dazai Osamu, known for his influential modern literature.

Continue to Tachibuta no Yakata to see the giant lantern floats used in Aomori festivals, with time to create a small souvenir.

Begin at Takayama Inari Shrine, where vivid red torii gates wind through deep snow, creating a dreamlike winter tunnel.

Continue to Hakodate, one of Japan’s earliest international ports, and stroll through the charming Motomachi District, with its hillside streets, historic homes, churches, and lingering European influence.

As evening falls, ride the Hakodate Ropeway for one of Japan’s most romantic night views, overlooking the glowing city and harbor.

Check out and visit a local morning fish market near the harbor, with time to sample fresh sashimi.

Travel onward by train to Sapporo and check in to your hotel.

In the late afternoon, take a short subway ride to the Sapporo Brewery for a sign-language–supported tour and optional beer tasting. The evening is relaxed and social, featuring an all-you-can-eat lamb and vegetable grill with drinks and time to connect with members of the local Deaf community.

Dive into the magic of the Sapporo Snow Festival at Odori Park, just steps from your hotel. Wander among towering snow and ice sculptures, try your hand at snow rafting, play in the snow labyrinth, or enjoy lively performances.

Browse the colorful food and handicraft stalls, and don’t miss Susukino Ice Sculpture Street nearby.

In the evening, you can toast the day with an optional tasting of Sapporo’s finest whiskey (reservation required).

Drive east to Kushiro, with stops along the way at scenic spots perfect for photos of snowy landscapes, rolling countryside, and charming villages—a wonderful chance to relax and capture the winter beauty of Hokkaido.

In the late afternoon, check in and head out for a sunset stroll to Nusamai Bridge, famous for one of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets.

Stay for the light-up event, then wander over to the fisherman’s wharf to explore, shop, and enjoy a delicious dinner by the water.

Check out early for a canoeing adventure through a sparkling winter wonderland of snow, frost, and rime. Paddle with your local guide and watch for wildlife along the shores, including graceful red-crowned cranes at Tsuri-ito Tencho Sanctuary.

In the afternoon, arrive at your hotel on Lake Akan, nestled in a village home to the Ainu, Japan’s Indigenous people. Explore Ainu Kotan, with galleries, shops, and exhibitions, and enjoy the village winter festival on the frozen lake, complete with snow activities and fireworks visible from your hotel window.

Enjoy a free day in Lake Akan, exploring Ainu Kotan village with its galleries, shops, and cultural exhibitions.

Try winter sports and activities at your own pace—downhill or cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and more.

Participate in workshops to learn Ainu wood carving or painting, or watch a traditional Ainu dance performance.

Don’t miss the permanent exhibition of wood sculptures by the late Deaf artist Masamitsu Takiguchi. In the evening, enjoy festive activities and fireworks on the frozen lake.

Check out and drive by private car to Utoro, with stops for exploration and photos along the way. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Akan Mashu National Park, including Lake Mashu and Bihoro Pass overlooking Lake Kussharo.

Arrive in Utoro and check in to your hotel, where natural hot springs and large windows offer the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset over the Okhotsk Sea.

In the morning, strap on snowshoes and step into a winter wonderland in Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Winter opens trails normally closed in summer, revealing pristine snowy forests, frozen lakes, and sparkling waterfalls. Watch carefully—the park is alive with wildlife, from graceful deer and foxes to soaring Steller’s eagles and playful winter birds, making every turn magical.

After lunch, visit the Shiretoko Nature Center to discover why this peninsula earned UNESCO recognition and pick up your thermal suits for tomorrow’s drift ice adventure.

Return to your hotel to unwind in the natural hot springs and cozy lounges, letting the magic of the frozen landscape linger into the evening.

Check out and travel to Abashiri Harbor for a ride on the Aurora icebreaker, gliding among the drifting sea ice of the Okhotsk Sea—a magical winter experience.

Afterward, transfer to Memanbetsu Airport for your flight to Tokyo.

Arrive in Tokyo the late afternoon and check in to your hotel, with the evening free to relax after a full adventure.

After breakfast, check out and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Reflect on an unforgettable journey through Japan’s winter wonderland, filled with festivals, snowy landscapes, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and warm moments along the way.