Active Northern Japan: Tokyo & Hokkaido
Active Northern Japan: Tokyo & Hokkaido
$4799
Active Northern Japan: Tokyo & Hokkaido
11 Days Starting in Tokyo and ending in Sapporo
Visiting: Tokyo, Shiretoko, Akan-ko, Asahikawa, Sapporo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26143
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Tokyo’s sleek, buzzing vibe is unmatched, and you could easily get lost in its magic for weeks. But why stop there? This 10-day adventure kicks off with the best of Tokyo before taking you far off the beaten path to Hokkaido. Lace up your boots for epic hikes through Shiretoko National Park, and dive deep into the culture of Japan’s Indigenous Ainu people. After a week of trekking through breathtaking landscapes, unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen and raise a glass to one unforgettable journey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Welcome to Japan! Arrive at anytime. Then meet your group and CEO this evening for a welcome meeting.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Today you have the chance to see the biggest city in Japan on a tour with your CEO. See highlights of this amazing city like Asakusa Sensoji Temple and Asakusa neighbourhood, Nakamise shopping street and the Imperial Palace. In the afternoon, spend your time in Tokyo how you'd like. Opt to visit cool neighborhoods like Akihabara or Harajuku. Find some green space in the famous Ueno Park. Or connect with Japanese history at Meijii Shrine.
ACTIVITY: Explore Sensō-ji Temple, a colourful Buddhist temple and the oldest temple in the entire city. Leading up to the temple the street is lined with shops selling yummy food and great souvenirs.
ACTIVITY: The Imperial Palace in Tokyo’s city centre is home to Japan’s Emperor and Empress. It is surrounded by a moat and three gardens, all open to the public. Stroll throughout the grounds, admire the azaleas and hydrangeas (when in season), discover the original stone wall that surrounded the palace back in 17th to 19th centuries during the days when samurai warriors defended the ruler. Visit nearby Sannomaru-Shozo-kan museum and see exquisite kimonos and Japanese paintings.
FREE TIME: Enjoy a free afternoon in Tokyo.
Day 3: Tokyo/Shiretoko
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
There's no time to waste as you join your fellow travelers in the morning and head towards the airport to board your flight to Memanbetsu airport in Hokkaido. Upon arrival, head to your hotel outside Shiretoko National Park and enjoy dinner together with your CEO and travel mates.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Day 4: Shiretoko
Location: Shiretoko
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
After a filling breakfast, depart the hotel en route to the Five Lakes area of Shiretoko National Park. This area is famous for its namesake five lakes that were formed years ago by the eruption of Mount Lo. The area now offers picturesque views of the mountains and the wilderness all around. In the afternoon, take a short walk to the Furepe Waterfall, a waterfall cascading into the Okhotsk Sea.
ACTIVITY: Hike through the Shiretoko Five Lakes. On this 4.8 km loop with an elevation of 43 m, walk by reflective lakes and stunning green mountainous scenery. Admire bright green foliage in the summer, gorgeous flower covered mountains in spring and impressive fall colors in autumn.
ACTIVITY: Hike to this waterfall that plunges down the side of the emerald cliffs into the sea. This forest hike with a 64 m elevation gain is will have you seeing blue water year round and reflective rainbow when the sun hits just right.
Day 5: Shiretoko
Location: Shiretoko
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Another morning hike in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shiretoko Peninsula awaits. Embark on a guided three to four hour hike through the Primeval Forest area of the park. Be sure to bring binoculars if you are a keen animal enthusiast, as there is ample opportunity to spot various species from the Steller's sea eagle to Japanese deer. The scenery is equally as dramatic as you witness the cliff edges hang over the turquoise water of the sea. The afternoon is at leisure, and you can choose to relax at your hotel bathing facilities, or walk into the village area some 20 minutes away.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend a free afternoon exploring Shiretoko how you'd like.
ACTIVITY: Hike through this part of Shiretoko, seemingly untouched by man. Walk through the forest and be on the look out for foxes and deer while admiring the incredible forest and cliff side views. You may even have the chance to see bear markings on the trees.
Day 6: Shiretoko/Akan-Ko
Location: Shiretoko
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, DINNER
Depart the Shiretoko area this morning and head slightly inland towards Lake Akan. En route stop to visit active volcano Mt Lo, which sits inside the Kussharo caldera. Watch the sulfurous smoke and steam rise from the craggy landmass. From there continue on to the shore of Lake Kussharo, where you can take a moment to get your hands dirty digging into the sandy shore and actually hitting hot spring water. Dig your own personal Onsen! Yet another sign of the volcanic activity still present underground in this area. Make a final stop at the observatory deck to take in views of Lake Kussharo and Lake Mashu before continuing on your overnight stay at a Ryokan. After a dinner with your fellow travelers, enjoy a cultural performance in tribute to the history of the local Ainu people of the region. Akan Yukar Lost Kamuy is a presentation of Ainu ancient ceremonial dance, contemporary dance and digital art.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the impressive caldera lake within Akan Mashu National Park. Take in the views from the best spot to see whats considered the clearest lake in the world.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Experience traditional Japanese life with a night at a traditional Japanese Inn. Stay in tatami-matted rooms and enjoy a glimpse into Japanese culture and history.
ACTIVITY: Visit the otherworldly sulphur mountain and breathe in the hot air. See the greenish yellow algae that grows around the fumaroles with a steady stream of steam released across the mountain. The head to Lake Kushharo. With a hot spring under the sand, dig a hole and relax in your hand-dug beachy hot spring.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Ainu Kotan Village. There are only two indigenous groups remaining in Japan and Akanko Ainu Kotan is one of the largest settlements still remaining in Hokkaido. During our visit, we'll see the village and experience their cultural performance in the evening.
Day 7: Akan-Ko/Asahikawa
Location: Akan-ko
Meals Included: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
Enjoy a leisurely start to the morning to spend the morning hours enjoying the Ryokan hot springs a second time. Or choose to join your CEO for a walk around Lake Akan. Then make your way towards Asahikawa. Don't fill up too much during the day, because dinner this evening is the famous Asahikawa ramen. This ramen is famed throughout Japan as one of the best in the country.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Nearly every region of Japan has their own style of ramen, so a trip to Hokkaido wouldn't be complete without trying Asahikawa specialty ramen. With thin noodles and savory broth, this is a dish you won't want to miss.
Day 8: Asahikawa
Location: Asahikawa
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
It's time to rise and shine and strap on those hiking boots once again. This morning, head to the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway. Board the ten minute gondola ride up to the start of the walk. Spend a couple of hours exploring the area on foot, and hope for glimpses of the mountain ranges as the fog comes and goes.
It's important to note that in Spring and Fall, its common to still have snow on the ground at Asahidake, so itinerary adjustments may be made. Cold weather clothing should be packed during this season.
ACTIVITY: Visit Daisetsuzan National Park and ride the gondola up to start your hike around Sugatami Pond Loop. This easy, loop hike will give you astounding views of volcanic rock and Mount Asahi-dake, the tallest mountain in Hokkaido reflecting off ponds. After the hike, take the gondola back down.
Day 9: Asahikawa/Sapporo
Location: Asahikawa
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Sapporo, the capitol of Hokkaido, is home to some of the island's most interesting spots. With a day at leisure, choose to join your CEO on a half day cycling tour of Otaru, a nearby town full of historical gems to explore. Or, choose to walk on foot to explore the Hokkaido Jingu shrine, a shinto shrine honoring 4 deities.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
FREE TIME: Spend a free afternoon in Sapporo.
Day 10: Sapporo
Location: Sapporo
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Spend today getting well acquainted with the city of Sapporo, home of the world famous beer. Begin your day with a visit to the Nijo Market. Walk through the stalls full of fresh seafood, most caught right of the coast of Hokkaido. You'll see crabs, fish and things you may have never seen before like fresh urchin and fish eggs. Afterwards, head to the home of the first Japanese made beer, Sapporo Beer Museum, and sample beer that can only be found at this location.
ACTIVITY: Visit Nijo Market, a market over 100 years old. You'll see fresh local seafood like urchins and salmon eggs, and other local vendors.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a tour and tasting of the popular brew. Known as the first beer made in Japan, we'll have a chance to sample a beer that can only be found at the museum. Opt for a fun all-you-can-eat-and-drink meal in the Beer Hall.
Day 11: Sapporo
Location: Sapporo
Meals Included: BREAKFAST
Depart at any time.
What's Included
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Welcome Moment
Meet Your CEO and Group upon arrival.
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Local Living Moment
Experience a Ryokan Stay at Akan-ko.
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Foodie Moment
Enjoy a Ramen Dinner in Asahikawa.
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Asakusa Senso-ji Temple
Visit the historic Asakusa Senso-ji Temple.
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Nakamise Shopping Street
Explore the Nakamise shopping street.
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Imperial Palace Visit
Visit the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
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Free Time in Tokyo
Enjoy free time to explore Tokyo.
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Shiretoko Five Lake Trek
Trek through the Shiretoko Five Lakes.
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Furepe Waterfall Hike
Hike to the Furepe Waterfall.
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Primeval Forest Hiking
Hike through the Primeval Forest in Shiretoko.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities during free time are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Japan are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.
Accommodation
Hotels (9nts), Ryokan stay (1nt)
Transport
Plane, private vehicle, local train, walking.
Meals Included
10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners
Group Size
Max 16, avg. 14
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Local Living Moment: Ryokan Stay, Akan-ko Your Foodie Moment: Ramen Dinner in Asahikawa, Asahikawa. Asakusa Sensō-ji Temple. Nakamise shopping street. Imperial Palace visit. free time in Tokyo. Shiretoko Five Lake trek. Furepe waterfall hike. Primeval Forest hiking. Sulphur mountain visit. Lake Kussharo hot spring beach. Lake Mashu Observation Deck. Akan Ryokan stay. Asahikawa Ramen dinner. Asahidake Ropeway. Sugatami Pong hike. free time in Sapporo. Nijo Market visit. Sapporo Beer Museum and beer sample. CEO. all transportation between activities.
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Highlights
Explore the highlights of Tokyo, Hike the Five Lakes of Shiretoko and visit Furepe Waterfall, Take the gondola up Asahidake and sample local Sapporo beer.
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Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg. 14
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Meals Included
10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners
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Transport
Plane, private vehicle, local train, walking.
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Accommodation
Hotels (9nts), Ryokan stay (1nt)
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My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
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Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS Arrival transfer representative: +81 50-3096-0911 (this is only for travellers who have an arrival transfer booked through G Adventures) G Adventures Local Office (Japan) During office hours: Mon-Fri (Excluding national holidays) 9:00-18:00 Local Time From outside Japan: 1st contact +81 3-6809-1212. (2nd contact +81 90 1223 2336 or +81 80 6779 1851) From within Japan: 1st contact 03-6809-1212 (2nd contact 090 1223 2336 or 080 6779 1851) After office hours emergency number Primary phone: +81 90 1223 2336 or +81 80 6779 1851 (from within Japan: 090 1223 2336 or 080 6779 1851) If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
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Packing List
Cold Weather: • Long-sleeved shirts or sweater • Scarf • Warm gloves • Warm hat • Warm layers • Warm waterproof jacket Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Hand sanitizer (required) • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear
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Optional Activities
Tokyo - Akihabara Visit (Free) - Harajuku Visit (Free) - Ueno Park Visit (Free) - Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingū) Visit (Free-1000JPY per person) Shiretoko - Hot Springs Village - Shiretoko World Heritage Conservation Centre Otaru - Half Day Cycling Tour of Otaru Sapporo - Hokkaido Jingu Shrine
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Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
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Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) and local guides throughout.
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Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent. If you would like to book an airport Arrival shuttle for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel. If you have paid in advance for an arrival shuttle, our driver will be waiting for you with a sign with the transfer company name "GREEN TOMATO" on it outside of the luggage hall. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call Emergency Phone number: +81 50-3096-0911 Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details! If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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