Here you can find up-to-date information about traveling to Hokkaido, Japan in the post-lockdown world, as well as the Covid-19 countermeasures taken by Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel private tours and our local partners.
Covid-19 situation in Hokkaido, Japan (Last updated: April 19th 2021)
Japan faced the third wave of Covid-19 infections in late 2020 and a State of Emergency was declared for the Tokyo Metropolitan area and several other prefectures. The emergency state was lifted in six prefectures in March 1st, and in Tokyo and the neighboring prefectures in March 22nd. The cases have however started to rise again after lifting of the emergency state.
As for Hokkaido, during the last week, there have been around 100-150 confirmed coronavirus cases per day reported in the prefecture. The cases were in rise in Hokkaido as well, but Hokkaido was not part of the official State of Emergency.
Tourists cannot yet enter the country for travel purposes. We will keep you updated as the situation develops.
Latest Covid-19 situation updates in Japan in English: https://covid19japan.com/
Japan travel instructions and entry bans: https://www.japan.travel/en/coronavirus/
The prefecture of Hokkaido is promoting “New Hokkaido Style”, which means altering our lifestyles and finding a new normal. People are requested to follow the basics, such as washing their hands regularly, wearing a mask and appropriate social distance.
New Hokkaido Style: http://www.pref.hokkaido.lg.jp/kz/kks/pictgram/english.pdf
Is HTIT operating private tours normally at the moment?
Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel continues future private tour operations normally for domestic travelers and those overseas travelers who are not part of any entry bans at the timing of their private tour. Designing a tailor-made private tour according to your wishes always takes some time. We are more than happy to take it slow and prepare for your well-deserved vacation for late 2021, 2022 or after, while monitoring the situation.
What is HTIT’s cancellation and insurance policy?
Cancellation: If the private tour has to be cancelled because of an order made by a third party such as the government of Japan or the prefecture of Hokkaido, there will be a planning fee, but no cancellation fee. Planning fee also takes place only if the client has already agreed to the budget, itinerary and our regulations. Sending us an inquiry and customizing the proposed itinerary is free of charge. However, please note that if the cancellation decision for a tour contract is made by the customer, a normal cancellation fee takes place along with the planning fee.
Insurance: We are part of a Japanese insurance package for foreign travelers that includes also hospitalization in case of coronavirus. Please ask for details when contacting us. We warmly recommend our customers to take also a travel insurance on their own. It is recommended that the insurance covers the novel coronavirus, including hospitalization due to the virus, fees in a quarantine hotel, plane fees for unplanned return to your home country etc. We are a local travel agency, so in case of any emergency situation, we will be here in Hokkaido together with you, supporting you through the process.
Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel’s countermeasures against the spread of Covid-19
All our tours are private, so there will not be other tourists traveling with you; you can travel comfortably with your close contacts only. We specialize in rural and off the beaten path locations of Hokkaido, so there is no need to visit any potentially crowded touristic places.
We will take care of the preparations for you, so that you can just concentrate on your long-anticipated trip. Some examples:
HTIT travel service
- Private tours with a personal driver: No public transportation. No other tourists. Travel just with your close contacts.
・Wearing a face mask: A common custom in Japan, especially in the current situation.
・Good hygiene: There will also be disinfection available in your private car. Cleaning the car and regular disinfection takes place between customers. During the private tour the car will be used only by your group.
・Ventilating the car regularly.
・Latest information: Your driver and guide will provide you with information on places where you can wash your hands etc.
・Monitoring personal health: There will be a no-contact infrared thermometer available in the car. Our drivers have been instructed to monitor their body temperature and any cold symptoms, so that they do not work when under the weather.
- Avoiding crowded places: HTIT specializes in off the beaten path destinations. You do not have to add any classic sightseeing locations or large cities to your personal itinerary if you are not comfortable with the idea.
- Social distancing: We will recommend to you a wide range of activities and locations where keeping the appropriate social distancing can easily be done, so that you do not have to stress.
- Good hygiene and frequent chances for disinfection and washing hands: The overall level of hygiene in Japan is very good. Your driver and guide will provide you with information regarding places where you can wash your hands etc.
- Choosing hotels and restaurants with care: We do not use hotels that can not take proper care of the safety of our clients. No crowded restaurants or buffets. We can make restaurant reservations for your private group only.
- Private onsen: Hokkaido is a famous “onsen” hot springs destination in Japan. Public onsen is a common practice, but we can arrange you a room with a private onsen if you feel uncomfortable with the idea of a public bath.
- Flexible deposit policy: We have a flexible deposit policy until August 2021. You can wait until two months prior to your booked private tour before the deposit has to be made. Please note the policy may differ according to hotel terms and conditions.
- Personal and professional travel service: Let us know any concerns you may have and we will search for the options that best suit your preferences. We will make it work!
Why should I choose HTIT for my post-corona trip?
We are a private tour operator based in Hokkaido, Japan. Our specialty is arranging off the beaten track multiple day private tours with a personal driver. Sustainable travel and supporting the local communities are important for us. Our service includes:
- Completely private tours tailored just for you
- Unique authentic Japanese culture experiences
- Luxury cars & minibuses with a personal driver
- Experienced, English speaking licensed tour guides
- No stress. Pick-up/drop off at your hotel. Leave everything to us!
Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel has deep connections with the local businesses of Hokkaido. We find supporting the small local businesses especially important in the current world situation. You can trust our high standards and that we will choose the accommodation, activities and restaurants that best fit your needs.
We kindly ask that everyone traveling with our private tours will cooperate with safe travel etiquette, for the protection and comfort of themselves and the people around them.
Please do not hesitate to come say hi and let us know if you have any questions or concerns regarding your travel plans to Hokkaido, Japan!