Welcome to Hokkaido Day Tours. We specialize in personalized small-group day tours with only 1 guest up to a maximum of just 4–5 guests. This offers a more comfortable, relaxed, and immersive travel experience.
Our full-day tours typically operate between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., allowing guests to explore the beauty of Hokkaido at a comfortable pace. We offer curated small group day tours to some of the most scenic and culturally significant destinations in Hokkaido. Our tours are carefully designed to provide a comfortable, personalized, and enriching experience for every valued guest.
Jozankei Gorge
Cape Kamui
MEETING POINT
MAP LINK: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JtDpyg8aG924e5ZL7
At Hokkaido Day Tours, the meeting point is inside of Sapporo Station at the South Exit doors, in front of the circular white stone structure. In fact, there are two South Exit areas, so be sure to go to the south exit next to Daimaru Dept. Store. Head toward the south exit on the west side not east side. The white stone structure is located directly in front of the south exit doors near the department store. The pictures of the meeting point will help guide you to the correct location.
White Circular Stone Structure. Nicknamed: "Myomu" in Japanese. Found at the South Exit Doors(west side) INSIDE of Sapporo St.
Daily tours generally depart at 9 a.m. from the iconic "Myomu" (circular white stone sculpture), located as your primary meeting point for travel. NOTE: upon request, the tour guide will be able to meet the guest in the hotel lobby of the hotel that the guest is staying
Tour Destinations
Ainu Museum Tour
The Ainu Cultural Center(Pirka Kotan/Beautiful Village) is a real hidden gem. Tucked away in lush natural surroundings an hour or so outside of Sapporo, this museum is sure to please. It is very informative with tons of artifacts of The Ainu. The center is well curated and visitors are encouraged to hold and touch the many authentic Ainu handcrafts. The outdoor village with traditional handcrafted Ainu houses and canoes are very cool to experience as well. This is a “must go” sight for those interested in indigenous groups. Led by your locally based native English-speaking guide, who will provide tour members with more in-depth information of The Ainu, to complement the abundant information gleaned from the center/museum tour.
Jozankei Onsen Village
Shikanoyu Hotel
Jozankei Onsen Village/Town is located within the lush green Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This area is characterized by topography and phenomena created by hundreds of years of volcanic activity. Thus, this volcanic activity has created numerous natural hot springs that dot the entire area of Jozankei Village. Your guide will show you around the area and make sure you see all the popular sights that Jozankei offers. These will include both the Jozankei Shrine and Temple, Gesen Park and footbath, Futami Park and Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge. This guided walking tour of Jozankei is breathtaking any season of the year.
Hot spring bath (“onsen” in Japanese) is an integral part of Japanese culture and have been enjoyed for centuries for their therapeutic and relaxing properties. Visitors to Japan, would be amiss not to experience an onsen bath. You will have the chance on this tour! Your guide will help you through the whole process of bathing amongst others and to inform each tour member of the rules and bathing etiquette that must be adhered to. This tour is sure to please and tour participants will have long lasting memories for years to come.
Itinerary and cost of this tour
Discover the cultural and natural beauty of Hokkaido on this full-day guided tour from Sapporo. Begin your journey with an immersive visit to the Ainu Culture Promotion Center(Pirta Kotan,) where you will learn about the traditions, beliefs, and heritage of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people. Continue to the serene hot spring town of Jozankei, known for its forested landscapes and therapeutic waters. Enjoy a scenic stroll, relax with a soothing footbath, and experience a traditional Japanese onsen(hot bath) at a local traditional onsen hotel named Shikanoyu(deer hot bath).
8 to 9 hour Ainu Culture and Jozankei Hot Spring Full-Day Tour.
Enjoy a perfect blend of cultural discovery and natural relaxation on this guided day tour from Sapporo.
A.M. (morning) The Ainu Museum
9:00 a.m. Meet your guide at the South Exit Doors(west side of Sapporo Station) in front of the circular white stone structure.
Travel by (subway & bu)s through Hokkaido’s scenic countryside toward the city’s southern outskirts.
Arrive at the Ainu Culture Promotion Center and explore the museum’s exhibits and multimedia presentations.
Learn about the traditions, lifestyle, and spiritual beliefs of the Ainu, Hokkaido’s indigenous people.
Continue to the Jozankei Information Museum and gain insight into the region’s local history and hot spring culture.
P.M. (afternoon) Jozankei Onsen Bath Experience
Enjoy a local lunch at a restaurant in the Jozankei area, offering seasonal dishes and regional specialties.
Take a guided walk through the picturesque town of Jozankei, known for its natural beauty and hot spring heritage.
Relax with a free footbath experience in one of the town’s open-air public spots.
Experience a full Japanese onsen (hot spring bath/1 to 1.5 hrs) at The Shikanoyu(deer hot bath)a long established traditional Jozankei hot spring/onsen hotel.
Choose from multiple bathing options including indoor and open-air baths with forest or mountain views.
Soothe your muscles in the therapeutic sodium-chloride waters known for easing fatigue and body aches.
Enjoy peaceful moments in the sauna, jet bath, or footbath area during your Jozankei stay.
4:30/5:00 p.m. Leave Jozankei and return to Sapporo St.
BY 6:00-6:30p.m. Arrive at Sapporo St at original meet up point.
What's Included:
*** The fee for the tour guide and guiding services.
*** Covers all applicable admission fees to the Ainu Culture
Museum(Pirta Kotan).
What's Excluded:
***All transportation costs. Subway & bus fees.
***Lunch or dinner.
***The admission fee to the onsen bath(1.500-1.800yen per adult
guest).
***Accommodation
***Snacks or drinks
***A foot towel to dry feet after a foot bath. (Guests should bring a
small foot bath towel).
Tattoos are generally not permitted in the public baths at Shika no Yu, in accordance with traditional Japanese onsen policies. Guests with small tattoos that can be fully covered with waterproof patches may still be allowed entry. Waterproof cover patches can be purchased at nearby convenience stores, and your guide can assist you if needed.
Please note that this tour does not include private baths or private rooms. Guests whose tattoos cannot be fully covered will not be permitted to use the public bath area. In this case, nearby footbaths are recommended as an alternative experience.
Tattoo Policy Please read carefully and keep in mind.
Tour Price
Payments accepted in either Jp yen or USA $dollars
￥ 19.500 per adult 13+
￥ 13.500 per child 6-12yr
Hill of The Buddha, Chop-Stick Making
& Sake Tasting
The Hill of The Buddha (Japanese: Atama Daibutsu). This a sculpted stone Buddha statue is encircled by a rotunda situated on a gently sloping artificial hill within the land belonging to a cemetery. It is 13.5-metre tall and weighs 1500 tonnes. When approaching it from afar, the lone head of the Buddha peeking from within the rotunda conveys a solemn, serene impression of the Buddha. The entrance to the Buddha has a water garden that visitors normally walk around. After this, you walk through an arched concrete tunnel at the end of which sits the Buddha statue, at the center of an open rotunda allowing sunlight to come in. The circular opening of the rotunda with light streaming in almost gives a “halo” like feel to the Buddha statue. Definitely a magnificent site to behold! A “must visit” anytime throughout the year.
Besides Buddha, upon entering this sacred cemetery visitors are immediately greeted by the strange sight of numerous giant Moai statues. It is assumed that these statues were put here as a way of honoring and deifying the ancestors. Lastly, visitors will observe a replica of Stonehenge! I guess the idea of Stonhenge possibly being a burial ground itself, has something to do with this replica created inside a Japanese cemetery.
Chop-stick Making Experience
After your visit to the Hill of The Buddha, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a cultural learning activity of chop-stick making. This will take place after lunch.
In this 1-hour workshop, guests will carve, sand, and smooth their own pair of chopsticks using traditional techniques. This unique cultural activity provides a memorable hands-on learning experience and allows guests to create a meaningful personal souvenir to take home.
Sake-Tasting Experience
We will cap off this tour with yet another cultural experience of "sake tasting". You will enjoy a sake- tasting set(3 cups) in a well established sake stand bar in the heart of Susukino, Sapporo’s lively entertainment.
A "typical" sake-tasting set of 3 cups:
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Junmai (pure, rice‑forward)
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Ginjo (aromatic, light, fruity)
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Daiginjo (premium, elegant, refined)
This gives guests the classic progression from rich → aromatic → ultra‑refined.
A visit to the Hill of The Buddha offers far more than sightseeing. It it is a peaceful cultural and sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. Combining world-class architecture, natural beauty, and spiritual atmosphere, it is one of Hokkaido’s most unique and memorable destinations.
In addition, craft your own pair of Japanese chopsticks using traditional tools—a hands‑on cultural experience that gives you a meaningful, personal souvenir to take home. Sample three premium styles of sake and learn how flavor, aroma, and craftsmanship shape Japan’s signature drink.
8-8.5 hour Full-Day Tour.
A.M. (morning) The Hill of the Buddha & Moai Statues
9:00 a.m. Meet you guide at the South Exit Doors(west side of Sapporo Station) in front of the circular white stone structure.
Travel by (subway & bus) through Hokkaido’s scenic countryside toward the city’s southern outskirts.
Arrive at Makomanai Takino Cemetery the home of The Hill of the Buddha.
Learn about the history, background story, design, etc., of the Hill of the Buddha(13.5 meters tall) and Moai Statues(33-40 massive replica heads/6.5-9.5 meters tall). Sightseeing time here: 1.5 hours.
P.M. (afternoon) (workshop,sight-seeing locations).
Return to Sapporo.
LUNCH in Central Sapporo. 12-1p.m. (or after 1p.m.)
1 to 4p.m. Time Frame:
After lunch, guests will partake in the "chop-stick making" class. This 1 hour class will take place sometime between the time frame of 1-4p.m. The class is held whenever the teacher has a free time slot "open" on that particular day.
NOTE: while waiting for the time slot to become available, the guide will show the guests some of the well known sightseeing spots of interest in and around central Sapporo. Some of these "sightseeing spots" include: The Hokkaido & Fushimi Inari Shrines, a relaxing stroll through Nakajima Park and a rowboat ride on the pond(fees apply) or visit The Court of Appeals Museum. The guide will select only one of these activiites. We will NOT do all of them due to time constraints.
4:30-5:30p.m. "sake tasting in Susukino.
BY 5:30p.m. This tour is expected to conclude.
What's Included:
***The fee for the tour guide and guiding services.
***Covers the admission fees to enter The Hill of the Buddha.
***The fees for the chopstick making class.
What's Excluded:
***All transportation costs. Subway, bus & taxi fees.
***Fees for the "sake-tasting" (minimal).
***Fee for the rowboat ride on the pond in Nakajima Park(optional)
***Lunch or dinner.
Itinerary and cost of this tour
In the event the chopstick‑making class is fully booked on the day of your tour, the guide will provide each participating guest with a full cash refund in Japanese yen. Then, in lieu of the chop-stick making class, we will visit one of the three sightseeing spots previously mentioned.
Tour Price
Payments accepted in either Jp yen or USA $dollars
￥24.500per adult 13+
￥20.900per child 6-12yr
Historical Village, Hokkaido Museum
& Sapporo Beer Museum
Historical Village
Historical Village, Hokkaido Museum & Sapporo Beer Museum.
Travel through time on this immersive full-day tour in Sapporo that brings Hokkaido’s fascinating frontier history to life.
Explore the beautifully preserved buildings of the Historical Village (Taisho & Meiji Periods) of Hokkaido, then discover the natural history of Hokkaido at the adjacent Hokkaido Museum.
Top off the tour with a crisp, cold tasting beer ("beer tasting"/3 sample glasses of Sapporo Beer) at the iconic Sapporo Beer Museum, Japan’s oldest beer brewery.
Itinerary and cost of this tour
A.M. Visit The Historical Village
9:00 a.m. Meet up at the south sxit doors(west side of
Sapporo Station in front of the circular white
Stone Structure.
BY 10:30 Arrive at The Historical Village.
10:30-12:00 Enjoy sightseeing and learning about the Meiji &
Taisho eras at The Historical Village.
12:00-1:00p.m. LUNCH at The Historical Village.
P.M. Visit The Hokkaido Museum & The Sapporo Beer
Museum.
BY 2:30p.m. Arrive at The Hokkaido Museum.
TOUR PRICE
Payments accepted in Jp yen or USA $Dollars
￥21.500 per adult 13+￥13.500 per child 6-12yr
2:30-4:00 Enjoy a great learning experience at the museum.
4:30-6:00pm Enjoy "beer tasting" (3 mugs of Sapporo Beer)
at the Sapporo Beer Museum.
6:30pm Arrive back at Sapporo St. Tour ends.
Discover the heart of Hokkaido through these three unforgettable experiences. Step back in time at the Historical Village of Hokkaido, where beautifully preserved streets and buildings bring Japan’s pioneer era to life. Explore the rich culture, nature, and history of the island at the Hokkaido Museum, a must-visit for curious travelers wanting a deeper connection to Hokkaido. Finish your journey with a refreshing tasting experience at the iconic Sapporo Beer Museum, where guests can enjoy the story and flavors of Japan’s oldest beer brand. Together, these attractions offer the perfect mix of history, culture, and local flavor for an authentic Sapporo experience.
What's included:
***Private Guide
***Admission fees to both The Historical Village & The
Hokkaido Museum.
What's excluded:
***All JR Train transportation costs
***Sapporo Beer Museum "beer tasting" 3mugs of beer.
***Lunch
***Any gifts or snacks
***Accomodation
Half Day(6hrs) Walking Tour of
Hokkaido's Capital
Overview of your Sapporo tour:
This 1-Day Walking Tour in Sapporo is perfect for travelers who want to experience the city’s history up close and at a comfortable pace. It’s not just a sightseeing walk, it’s a deep dive into Sapporo’s past, giving you context and connection to the city you won’t get from guidebooks alone.
This tour offers the perfect mix of education, culture, and leisurely exploration. Unlike large group tours that rush you from one spot to the next, this is a small, personal walking experience led by someone who has lived in Sapporo, Japan for decades and knows Sapporo inside out.
I’ll share not just historical facts, but also insider stories, cultural insights, and hidden details you won’t find in guidebooks. You’ll have time to ask questions, explore at a relaxed pace, and discover both the famous sights and the charming corners most visitors miss. I can customize this tour according to any specific requests you may have.
Itinerary and cost of this tour
●9:00a.m. Meet up at Sapporo St.
● Old Red Brick Government Building. The Former Hokkaido Government Office. Built in 1888.
● Clock Tower
● Visit JRTower38. Stunning 360 degree views of the entire city.
● LUNCH at the 2jo Fish Market or "ramen alley"(elsewhere if requested).
● Visit The Court of Appeals Museum.
● Visit Nakajima Park
● End tour with "sake or beer tasting" in Susukino (Sapporo's entertainment district).
●3:00p.m. Return to Sapporo St. Tour ends.
Wear "comfy" walking shoes.
6 hour walking tour of Sapporo. Frequent s stops/breaks.
What's included
***Private Guide
What's not included
***Food Drinks Snacks
***Accommodation
***Any and all admission fees
***Beer/sake tasting
***Lunch
TOUR PRICE
Payments accepts in Jp Yen or USA $Dollars
￥19.800 per adult 13yrs+
￥13.500 per child 6-12yr
Otaru Canal, Sakaimachi Street & Cold Beer
Step into the nostalgic charm of Otaru, a romantic port city just 30 minutes from Sapporo. This full-day(8.5 hour) guided tour takes you through Otaru’s most beloved sights, from its iconic canal lined with gas lamps and stone warehouses to the vibrant artisan boutiques of Sakaimachi Street ( the cultural and shopping heart of Otaru). This vibrant street blends history, craftsmanship, and local indulgences.
This tour will take you to the corner fish market, the Kitaichi Glass Factory, Music Box Museum, Candle Making Store, Steam Clock, Letao Cheesecake Eatery. Observe European style architecture as you wind your way along the side streets from Otaru St down to the canal.
Cap off your tour with a refreshing "craft beer tasting" at the Otaru Bavarian style Beer Factory overlooking the Otaru Canal.
Itinerary and cost of this tour
9:00a.m. Meet your guide at the south exit doors (west side of
Sapporo Station in front of the circular white stone
structure.
Travel on the JR Train from Sapporo Station to Otaru Station(35min).
Arrive at the main central Otaru Station.
Start off your sightseeing at the nearby station corner fish market.
Walk from Otaru St., south down to the Otaru Canal. Along the way, see the old Temiya Railway train lines. Also, see some fine architectural building wonder(designed historical landmarks) of former banks.
Arrive at Ishikari Bay and the Otaru Canal. Learn of its history as you stroll along the canal taking wonderful photos along the way.
P.M. Lunch, Sakaimachi Street and "Beer tasting".
12:00-1:00p.m. Lunch at any one of the numerous seafood restaurants
that serve some of the finest and freshest seafood in
Hokkaido.
1:00-4:00p.m. Sakaimachi Street.
Visit various souvenir shops along Sakaimachi Street to purchase unique and original handcrafts made in Hokkaido/Otaru only.
Visit Kitaichi Glass factory, one of the city’s most famous attractions. Housed inside a beautifully restored stone warehouse dating back to the late 1800s. Guests can browse themed showrooms filled with colorful handmade glass pieces, jewelry, cups, and decorative items.
Visit the Music Box Museum, one of Otaru’s most charming and popular attractions, located in a historic stone-and-brick building along Sakaimachi Street. The museum is famous for its nostalgic atmosphere, creaking wooden floors, and thousands of beautifully crafted music boxes ranging from tiny souvenirs to elaborate antique pieces. The Steam Clock in front of this museum is a site to behold as well. Watch the famous steam clock outside play every 15 minutes.
4:00-5:00 "Beer Tasting"
Cap off the tour by enjoying "beer tasting" of Otaru and German (Pilsner) beer at the Otaru Germaine Bavarian style Beer Factory.
5:30 Depart Otaru Station to return to Sapporo.
6:15-6:30pm Arrive back at Sapporo Station. Tour concludes.
What's included:
***Private Guide
***Beer Tasting (1 large mug of beer).
What's excluded:
***Round trip JR Train fare from Sapporo St to Otaru St.
***Lunch
***Any gifts or snacks
***Accomodation
Otaru & Sakaimachi Street
Otaru Station
Kitaichi Glass
Payments accepted in Jp yen or USA $Dollars
Tour Price
￥19.800 per adult 13+
￥13.800 per child 6-12yr
Hakodate Tour: Red Brick Warehouses
Mountain View and Cultural Sights.
1 day Full Tour: 9a.m. to 8p.m.
Discover the charm, history, and natural beauty of Hakodate on this immersive 1-full day guided tour. Begin your journey with a scenic tram ride through the city’s historic quarter, explore the nearby station fish market, the iconic Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, and stroll through the picturesque Motomachi District. Visit the star-shaped Goryōkaku Park and enjoy panoramic views from the Goryōkaku Tower.
At the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses you are stepping into one of Hakodate’s most atmospheric waterfront districts. These buildings were constructed in the late 1800s, when Hakodate first opened its port to the world. They once stored goods arriving from overseas: tea, textiles, ship supplies and today, they’ve been beautifully restored into a lively area filled with boutiques, cafés, and local craft shops.
Take a moment to enjoy the contrast of old Meiji‑era brickwork against the bay, and if you look across the water, you’ll see the same harbor that welcomed some of Japan’s earliest international traders. It’s a wonderful place to stroll, shop for Hokkaido specialties, or simply enjoy the sea breeze.
In the evening, the warehouses light up softly, creating one of Hakodate’s most romantic night views.” Witness the dazzling night view from the summit of Mount Hakodate, ranked among Japan's most stunning. On a clear night from atop Mt. Hakodate, you can see across The Strait of Tsugaru and onto the northern part of the Island of Honshu.
Meeting Point at 9 a.m.
Hakodate Port
The Parent & Child "Oyako" Red Sculpture
The bright red “Oyako” (Parent and Child) sculpture is on the WEST side of Hakodate Station. The main entrance side facing the taxi stand and bus terminal.
Directions from inside Hakodate Station:
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Walk to the West Exit / Main Exit (the side facing the city, not the ocean).
-
Step outside and look slightly to your right.
-
The red sculpture is directly in the plaza, between the taxi stand and the bus stops.
It is also possible for the guide to meet you at The Terminal Building located at The Hakodate Port.
Meeting time would be whatever time your ship is
expected to arrive at the port.
For this tour to operate, at least 2 participants are required, and it can accommodate up to 4.”
Itinerary and cost of this tour
Your Hakodate tour itinerary:
● 9:00 a.m. Meet your guide at the meeting point. (time could be changed to earlier) Meet at the striking red sculpture “Oyako” (Parent and Child) in front of Hakodate Station.
● Explore Hakodate Morning Market, where fresh seafood and local specialties are on display.
●Ride the iconic Hakodate tram through the city’s historic quarters.
●Enjoy a guided walking tour through the “old part” of Hakodate.
●Explore the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses.
●Savor a local lunchnear Hakodate Port.
●Discover the Motomachi District.]
●Visit Goryōkaku Park & ascend the tower.
●Travel to Mount Hakodate in the evening.
●Experience the breathtaking night view from the summit, often ranked among Japan’s top three night views.
●Return to your hotel in Hakodate anytime between 8-10pm for an overnight stay.
8:00 P.M. Tour ends, with guide.
What's included:
***Private Guide for logistics and translating.
What's excluded:
***All transportation fares/fees(trams, buses, taxis, trains, etc).
***Any meals (lunch, dinner).
***Admissions fees to Goryokaku Park and Tower.
***Admissions fee for the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway.
***Any entrance fees applicable at The Red Brick Warehouses.
***Accommodations(hotel)
***gifts and/or souvenirs
TOUR PRICE
Payments accepted in Jp yen or USA $Dollars
￥38.000yen per adult 13+
NOTE: this tour is for adult guests only age 13yrs or older.
For the tour to operate at least two(2) participants are required, and it can accommodate up to 4.
1-Day Walking Tour of Sapporo.
Historical Sights & "Hidden Gems"
Hills of Seasonal Colors & Shirogane Blue Pond Tour
via Furano & Biei
(late June to late September)
BanKei Ski Tour: 1-Day 4 hour
"Ski Package"
(late December to mid March)
Cape Kamui Peninsula (Shakotan Tour)
All seasons except winter.
Museums & Historic Streets
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Small Group Tours
02
Attentive Guides
03
We prioritize intimate connections, ensuring every traveler receives personalized attention and a deeper understanding of Hokkaido's hidden gems.
Our local guides are experts in the region's history and culture, providing insightful narratives that transform a simple walk into a memorable journey.
Local Experts
We partner with local specialists who share their passion for the outdoors, ensuring you discover the most authentic and scenic corners of Hokkaido.
Curating Hokkaido's Hidden Gems
We are a boutique travel operator based in Sapporo, dedicated to providing an exceptional one-day sightseeing experience. Our mission is to connect you with the authentic spirit of Hokkaido through small group tours and attentive local guides who know the best-kept secrets of the region.
Voices of the Snow Country
"An unforgettable journey through the mountains. Our small group felt truly cared for by the guide."
( Sarah J. )
"The hidden gems of Hokkaido were revealed to us. A serene and professional experience from start to finish."
( Mark T. )
"The most attentive guides we have ever encountered. We felt like we were part of a small family during our tour."
( Elena R. )
NOW BOOKING SUMMER SIGHTSEEING TRIP 2024 • THE HIDDEN GEMS OF HOKKAIDO • VISIT SAPPORO