Hokkaido National Park Adventure: 9 Days of Hiking, Hot Springs, and Cultural Immersion
Hokkaido spring adventure and Ainu Traditions: 9-Day Hokkaido Hiking Tour
Nestled at the northernmost tip of Japan, Hokkaido offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and indigenous traditions. From towering mountains to pristine coastlines, this island boasts a diverse landscape unlike any other in the archipelago.
This tour will take you on a journey to discover Hokkaido’s endemic treasures. We’ll explore the vast expanses of Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park, one of Japan’s largest national parks, where you can hike through lush forests, spot wildlife, and marvel at the dramatic coastline. In Akan-Mashu National Park, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery of volcanoes, lakes, and the largest caldera terrain in Japan.
Throughout your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the Ainu people, the indigenous inhabitants of Hokkaido. Their rich culture, traditions, and connection to the land have shaped this region for centuries.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
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DAY01
New Chitose Airport - Nibutani
Arrival and Welcome to Hokkaido!!
Your Hokkaido adventure begins at New Chitose Airport, where our friendly tour guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. After meeting your travel companions, we’ll embark on a scenic journey to Nibutani, located in the Hidaka region. Upon arrival at our accommodations, we’ll have a brief team briefing to prepare for the exciting days ahead. To unwind after your travels, we encourage you to relax in a soothing hot spring. Let’s recharge our batteries for the adventures that await us tomorrow!
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DAY02
Nibutani - Nibutani
Embracing Ainu Culture in Nibutani
Today, we delve into the rich history and traditions of the Ainu people in Nibutani. As a warm-up to your Hokkaido adventure, we’ll have the opportunity to learn about the indigenous culture directly from local residents. Immerse yourself in the Ainu way of life as we explore the natural surroundings and gain a deeper appreciation for their harmonious relationship with nature. This unique experience will set the tone for your journey and provide valuable insights into Hokkaido’s cultural heritage.
Crafting Your Own Unique Table
Today, we’ll embark on a special woodworking experience. You’ll create your own lightweight wooden table, perfect for enjoying your meals during our hikes. We’ll guide you through the process of carving traditional Ainu patterns into your table, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir. This hands-on activity is a wonderful way to connect with the local culture and create a lasting memory of your trip.
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DAY03
Nibutani - Samani
Samani Adventure and Mountain Prep
Today, we’ll journey to Samani Town, a picturesque coastal town nestled in the heart of the Hidaka Mountain Range. After a scenic 2.5-hour drive, we’ll meet with a local expert on the Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park. They’ll provide us with valuable insights and tips for our upcoming mountain climb. Following our informative session, we’ll embark on a leisurely bike ride along the scenic coastline, admiring the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. To fuel our bodies for tomorrow’s adventure, we’ll participate in a trail food preparation workshop, using fresh, local ingredients to create delicious and nutritious snacks.
Cooking Adventure with Locals
Get ready for a hands-on culinary experience! Today, you’ll join local residents to create delicious trail food that we’ll enjoy on tomorrow’s hike. Learn traditional recipes and cooking techniques as you prepare a feast for your outdoor adventure. In the evening, we’ll come together again to cook dinner, sharing laughter and stories with our new friends.
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DAY04
Samani - Samani
Embark on Your Hokkaido Mountain Adventure
Get ready for an unforgettable hiking experience on Mount Apoi! Today, we’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding journey to the summit of this iconic mountain. Typically, the round trip takes about 8 hours for those with moderate hiking experience. However, we’re flexible and can adjust the difficulty level to suit your group’s preferences. That’s the beauty of a customized tour!
Mount Apoi, a UNESCO Global Geopark, is a geological wonder formed by the collision of two plates. As we ascend, we’ll be surrounded by unique rock formations and breathtaking views. After conquering the summit, we’ll celebrate our accomplishment with a delicious meal and some well-deserved rest.
Guardians of Mount Apoi's Natural Environment
Mount Apoi is home to rare alpine plants found nowhere else in the world. To protect this precious natural environment, local residents have formed the “Mount Apoi Fan Club,” dedicated to conservation efforts. Joining us on this hike will be a certified Mount Apoi Geopark guide who is intimately involved in these conservation activities. Together, we will explore the mountain and learn about the rich history and culture of the people who have lived in harmony with nature in this region.
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DAY05
Samani - Taiki
Nature's Sanctuary and a Peaceful Retreat
Today, we’ll take a well-deserved break from yesterday’s mountain adventure and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. We’ll visit “Tashiro no Mori”, a historic forest intertwined with Hokkaido’s pioneering spirit. Here, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking in the breathtaking blooms and savoring a unique coffee made from tree sap. Surrounded by lush greenery, you’ll feel rejuvenated and refreshed. For our night, we’ll be staying at a secluded lodge called “Moving Inn Tokachi,” nestled deep within the wilderness. Let’s embrace this opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience a truly unforgettable stay.
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DAY06
Taiki - Akan
Journey to Akan and Prepare for Tomorrow's Adventure
Today, we embark on a longer journey to the eastern part of Hokkaido, Akan. After a leisurely departure, we’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic views. Once we arrive, we’ll have a briefing with your guide about tomorrow’s hike up Mount Meakan. Before checking in, we’ll visit Akan Lake Ainu Kotan to learn about the unique Ainu culture here and compare it to the one we experienced in Nibutani. To prepare for our adventure, let’s relax and rejuvenate in the onsen!
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DAY07
Akan - Akan
Conquer Mount Meakan (*Meakandake) and Enjoy a Lake to Summit hiking
Today, we’ll embark on an unforgettable eight-hour hike up the active volcano, Mount Meakan. This unique trail takes us from the serene lake all the way to the summit, offering stunning views and a chance to experience the raw power of nature. As we ascend through lush forests, we’ll feel the increasing warmth of the volcano’s heart. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and renewal. To celebrate, let’s enjoy a lunch using the wooden tables you crafted on Day 2. After our hike, we’ll return to the hotel to relax and reflect on our adventure.
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DAY08
Akan - Akan
Paddle Through Pristine Waters
Today, we’ll put the volcanic energy we absorbed yesterday at Akan-Mashu National Park to good use with a thrilling canoe adventure on the stunning Lake Kussharo area. Our journey begins on the pristine waters of this caldera lake, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Midway through our trip, we’ll make a stop at a geothermal hot spring area where we’ll experience the wonders of nature firsthand by cooking eggs in the boiling water.
After a lakeside lunch, we’ll continue our adventure by paddling down a pristine river. The crystal-clear waters will provide a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape as we glide through this serene environment. As the day comes to a close, we’ll reflect on our unforgettable journey and prepare for our final night in Hokkaido.
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DAY09
Akan - Tancho Kushiro Airport
Farewell to Hokkaido
Today marks the end of our unforgettable adventure. We will be transferring to Tancho Kushiro Airport to catch our flight home. As we travel, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially during certain seasons. We may be lucky enough to spot some iconic Hokkaido animals from the comfort of our vehicle. Our journey together ends at the airport gate. Thank you for joining us on this incredible adventure, and we hope to see you again soon.
*Please note that this is a sample itinerary, and our tours can be customized to your specific needs and preferences. We can arrange departures and arrivals from different airports to accommodate your travel plans.
SERVICE INCLUDES
8 Nights Accommodation
8 Breakfasts / 2 Lunches / 8 Dinners
9 Days Jumbo Taxi with Local Japanese speaking Driver
Parking, Fuel and Highway Fees
9 Days English speaking Licensed Guide
Taxes (10% Consumption Tax)
10% Service Fee (non-refundable)
Outdoor/Cultural Activities
The CUSTOM
TRAVEL PRICE
Calculate the average price for this plan
*Prices are in JPY（Japanese yen）, per person, based on double occupancy.
