This trip centres on a winter visit to Hokkaido, with a focus on Sapporo, Jozankei, and Otaru. You’ll arrive at Shin-Chitose Airport and transfer to Sapporo, where public transportation makes it easy to navigate the city. The Odori and Sapporo Station areas form the city’s main hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, including department stores such as Daimaru Sapporo and Sapporo Stellar Place. During your stay, you may attend the 76th Sapporo Snow Festival, featuring large snow sculptures in Odori Park, family snow activities at Tsudome, and ice sculptures in Susukino. The festival is expected to run from 4–11 February 2027 and typically attracts large crowds, especially on weekends and evenings.
You’ll engage in a guided snowshoe tour in Jozankei, exploring winter trails and enjoying a campfire experience. The day continues with a visit to the Jozankei Onsen for a hot spring bath, allowing you to relax in mineral-rich waters. The itinerary also includes a visit to the Sapporo Ainu Cultural Exchange Centre, where you’ll learn about the indigenous Ainu people through exhibits and cultural activities. A stop at Shiroi Koibito Park offers shopping opportunities for Hokkaido sweets and souvenirs, as well as a chance to see the Sweet Illumination light display in winter.
The trip proceeds to Otaru, a historic port city known for its canal and restored warehouses. You’ll explore Sakaimachi Street, visit the Otaru Music Box Museum, and see hand-blown glass pieces at Kitaichi Glass. In Yoichi, you’ll tour the Nikka Whisky Distillery, including the museum and tasting bar, where you can sample various whiskies and purchase distillery-exclusive bottles. The distillery also features Rita’s Kitchen, serving Scottish-style food and highballs. The trip concludes with a return to Sapporo or transfer to Shin-Chitose Airport, with an optional suggestion to visit Furano for those with additional time.
