Summary
- Start
New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station - Finish
New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station - Mileage
Total 1930km
195km per day - Travel Pace
Fast - Onsen Stay
Max.7 nights - Recommended Seasons
Beg May – Beg Nov
This itinerary takes 10 days to circle the whole of Hokkaido. Due to very long daily mileage and no consecutive stay, the travel pace is very fast. Not recommended for travelers with children or seniors.
If you want to stay in Sapporo after the road trip, you can return the car not to the airport but to Sapporo. Walking and the subway are more convenient for sightseeing in Sapporo.
New Chitose Airport – Noboribetsu(Sample)
Start: New Chitose Airport(新千歳空港)
Finish: Noboribetsu (登別)
Mileage:
From Sapporo: 130km
From Chitose Arirpot: 130km
Travel Pace: Relax
On this day, you will head from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo to Noboribetsu, one of Japan’s leading hot spring resorts.
1
Rental car branch at New Chitose Airport or Sapporo
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
New Chitose Airport is the gateway to Hokkaido. First of all, please complete the reception procedure at the rental car counter at the airport. It takes about 15 minutes by free shuttle bus to the rental car company branch.
The mileage of this day is about 130km, so you can travel at a relaxing pace. If you can leave by about 13:00, you can go to Noboribetsu while sightseeing at some spots. However, if the drive departs in the afternoon, please consider skipping some spots.
40 min
2
Lake Shikotsu
Parking MAPCODE:
867 063 568What is MAPCODE?
9:40
The first destination of this trip is [Lake Shikotsu]. It’s 30km west of the airport and you can enjoy a drive through the beautiful woods.
In addition to enjoying a walk or boating at Lake Shikotsu, we recommend delicious cream puffs.
Pattisier Labo
60 min
3
National AINU museum and park UPOPOY
Parking MAPCODE:
545 194 763What is MAPCODE?
12:00
You will arrive at the “National AINU museum and park UPOPOY”.
At UPOPOY, which opened in 2020, you can learn about the unique culture of the Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. There are also performances of unique musical instruments and dances, so don’t miss it.
UPOPOY
Event time table
40 min
4
Jigokudani(Hell Valley)
Parking MAPCODE:
603 287 235*71What is MAPCODE?
14:00
The biggest highlight of the day is Noboribetsu Jigokudani, which is also the place to stay. A desolate spectacle where sulfur vapor blows out spreads out. The walking path is 600m and you can walk in about 10 minutes.
It’s a 5-10 minute walk from the Noboribetsu Onsen Inn to the entrance of Jigokudani, so it might be a good idea to check in and take a break before heading there.
If you have time until sunset, you can enjoy other interesting strolling spots.
If you walk about 20 minutes from Jigokudani, you will arrive at [Oyu-numa], where steam is coming out of the swamp. Blue is very beautiful.
If you walk for another 15 minutes from there, you will arrive at [Oyunuma River Natural Footbath]. As the name suggests, this is a rare place where the stream flowing from Oyunuma has become a natural footbath. If you go there, please bring a towel.
5 min
5
Inn in Noboribetsu
Parking MAPCODE:
“Noboribetsu” where you stay on this day is a famous hot spring that represents Hokkaido. Please relax and heal the tiredness of the first day.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Noribetsu town(登別) which is the most famous Onsen town in Hokkaido. Many inns are located around “Jigokudani(Hell Valley)”.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsen and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Noboribetsu – Hakodate
Start: Noboribetsu(登別)
Finish: Hakodate (函館)
Mileage:230km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will drive from Noboribetsu to Hakodate along the Funka Bay.
1
Inn in Noboribetsu
Parking MAPCODE:
The mileage is a long distance of about 230km. About 150km of this is an expressway. There are many attractions in Hakodate, so we recommend that you leave from 8:00 to 9:00, especially if you stay in Hakodate only for one night.
9:00
If you didn’t walk in Jigokudani yesterday, why not get up a little early and enjoy a walk in the morning?
It is about a 5-10 minutes walk from most of the inns in Noboribetsu Onsen to the entrance of Jigokudani. The walking path itself is 600m, and you can walk in about 10 minutes.
Also, it is a 5-minute drive to [Oyunuma] near Jigokudani, so it is recommended to stop by when you leave Noboribetsu.
Oyunuma Parking Lot MAPCODE: 603 288 875
50 min
2
Cape Chikyu
Parking MAPCODE:
159 195 105What is MAPCODE?
10:50
The first destination of this trip is [Cape Chikyu].
It is an observatory where you can feel that the earth is a sphere from the horizon that draws a slight arc. It’s a very pleasant observatory, but if you want to spend a lot of time in Hakodate, please consider skipping it.
Another view point “Tokkarisyo observatory(トッカリショ展望台)” near Cape Chikyu is also recommended.
MC:159196753
After this, you will take the Hokkaido Expressway(E5) for a long-distance drive along the Eruption Bay.
120 min
3
Yakumo Parking area(To Hakodate)
Parking MAPCODE:
687 488 840What is MAPCODE?
13:00
[Yakumo Parking area(To Hakodate)] is highly recommended for a break.
It is a very pleasant parking area overlooking the Eruption Bay and the grasslands that spread from the hill.
From here, you can walk to restaurant “Harvester Yakumo”, where you can enjoy delicious fried chicken and pizza at a historic restaurant that was opened as an experimental farm for KFC(Kentucky Fried Chicken).
After lunch, you will head to Hakodate again on the expressway. It takes 2 hours to get to Hakodate, so please take a break on the way.
80 min
4
Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse
Parking MAPCODE:
86 041 707*37What is MAPCODE?
15:20
If you arrive in Hakodate while it is bright, we recommend the Red Brick Warehouse.
If you have time, we recommend taking a walk in Motomachi, Hakodate, where old Western-style buildings are lined up on the cobblestone slopes.
Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse
10 min
5
Inn in Hakodate
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
The night view seen from Mt. Hakodate is one of the three major night views in Japan and it is wonderful
If you visit Mt. Hakodate between 17: 00-22: 00, please use the ropeway as parking for general vehicles is restricted.
You can drive to the top of the mountain after 22:00, so it’s a good idea to check in at the hotel and have dinner first. However, please drive carefully as you will be driving on a narrow mountain road in the dark.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Hakodate(函館) city which is famous for its magnificent night view and morning market. Many inns are concentrated in the following two areas.
①Around Hakodate Morning Market
Most of the highlights in Hakodate are located near the Hakodate Morning Market and it is very convenient for sightseeing. However, there is no Onsen in this area.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Some inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee. - Onsen
Inns around the morning market don’t provide an onsen. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are many restaurants for dinner. It is also a good idea to have breakfast at “Hakodate Morning Market”. Therefore, booking a plan with breakfast or without meals is fine.
②Yunokawa Onsen(湯の川温泉) area
This area is located 5km east of the center of Hakodate and near Hakodate airport.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 4 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with onsen. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsen and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Hakodate – Lake Toya
Start: Hakodate(函館)
Finish: Lake Toya (洞爺湖)
Mileage:170km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will head from Hakodate to Lake Toya.
1
Inn in Hakodate
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is a little long, about 170km including 125km of expressway driving.
5 min
2
Hakodate Morning Market
Parking MAPCODE:
86 072 492What is MAPCODE?
9:05
You will get up early on this day and visit [Hakodate Morning Market]. Breakfast will consist of fresh seafood such as famous squid, sea urchins, and crab is the best.
It is also okay to visit on foot from your inn if possible.
5 min
3
Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse
Parking MAPCODE:
86 041 707What is MAPCODE?
10:10
[Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse] is also nearby, so if you haven’t been there yet, please stop by.
45 min
Once you depart Hakodate city, let’s drive along the hidden scenic road “Shirotai Skyline”.
4
Onuma National Park
Parking MAPCODE:
86 815 505What is MAPCODE?
11:50
After that, you will head to [Onuma National Park]. The small islands floating in the swamp are connected by 18 bridges, and you can enjoy a very pleasant walk. You can also enjoy a 30-minute tour boat, rental boat, and cycling. There are several recommended restaurants around Onuma Park, so please enjoy lunch before taking a walk.
120 min
5
Mt.Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
321 433 439What is MAPCODE?
15:30
After Onuma Park, it is a 2-hour drive on the expressway. The final destination of the day is “Mt. Usu Ropeway”. From the ropeway, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Showa Shinzan, which was created in 1944, Lake Toya, and the Pacific Ocean.
There is also Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch in the same place, so if you have children, please visit it as well.
10 min
Near Lake Toya, there is [Sobetsu Fruit Village] where 23 orchards are gathered.
You can enjoy fruit picking from Beg-Jun to End-Oct.
6
Inn in Lake Toya
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
On the south side of Lake Toya, there is the Toyako Onsen Hot Spring town, where a number of hot spring inns are gathered.
There are many inns where you can see Lake Toya from the open-air bath, so it is recommended to stay at one of them.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay at Lake Toya(洞爺湖). Many Onsen Ryokans are concentrated from the south to the west side of the lake.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsens and most of the inns have one. You can enjoy an open-air Onsen with a lake view. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Lake Toya – Otaru
Start: Lake Toya(洞爺湖)
Finish: Otaru (小樽)
Mileage:120km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head from Lake Toya to Canal town Otaru.
1
Inn in Lake Toya
Parking MAPCODE:
8:00
The mileage is about 120km, but if you go to the highlight, Cape Kamui, it will be very long, about 200km. In that case, we recommend that you leave from 8:00 to 9:00.
10 min
2
Mt.Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
321 433 439What is MAPCODE?
8:10
If you haven’t visited, please visit [Mt. Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm]. After that, you will head north toward Niseko while looking at the magnificent view of Mt. Yotei.
There are observatories overlooking Lake Toya and a delicious ice cream shop along the way, so stop by and proceed.
90 min
3
Shinsen Marsh
Parking MAPCODE:
398 551 606What is MAPCODE?
11:10
After that, you will head to [Shinsen Marsh]. After passing Niseko, you will enter the Niseko Panorama Line, which is the best drive route in Southern Hokkaido.
Shinsen Marsh is at the end of the panoramic line. There is a 25-minute walk to the beautiful marshland. Autumn leaves are also wonderful.
80 min
From Shinsen Marsh to Cape Kamui, you can enjoy a winding drive along the coast with a view of the Sea of Japan and the Shakotan Peninsula.
4
Cape Kamui
Parking MAPCODE:
932 582 268What is MAPCODE?
13:30
After that, you will head north to Cape Kamui, the biggest highlight of the day. In the olden days, the cape was considered a sanctuary forbidden to women, and the cape that stretches out into the turquoise sea is breathtakingly beautiful. Enjoy walking in the magnificent scenery.
60 min
5
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
Parking MAPCODE:
164 635 785What is MAPCODE?
15:30
The final destination of the day is “Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery”. You can tour the historic distillery of Japan’s leading whiskey brand.
30 min
6
Inn in Otaru
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
Otaru is your accommodation on this day, but most shops on Sakaimachihondori, which is the main street, close around 17:00, so you will take a walk here the next day. Instead, enjoy a stroll and Otaru sushi dinner with a spectacular night view of the canal.
In addition, there is [Mishima’s Shibazakura Garden-三島さんの芝ざくら庭園] the nice moss pink spot along the route of the day.
If you are traveling in the middle to end of May, we strongly recommend visiting.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Otaru city(小樽) which is famous for its canal and Sushi. Many inns are concentrated between Otaru Station and the canal. It is more convenient for sightseeing to stay as close to “Sakaimachi hondori street” as possible.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 4-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are many restaurants in and around the hotel for dinner, so please make reservations according to your preference.
Otaru – Asahikawa
Start: Otaru (小樽)
Finish: Asahikawa (旭川)
Mileage:200km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day, you will head from Otaru to Asahikawa the 2nd largest city in Hokkaido.
1
Inn in Otaru
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is about 200km to Asahikawa. Although you can drive most of the part by expressway, it is a long distance and the travel pace will be fast.
5 min
2
Otaru City
Parking MAPCODE:
493 661 486 or walk from your innWhat is MAPCODE?
9:05
First of all, please take a walk on Sakaimachihondori(境町本通り), which is the main street of [Otaru]. There are many attractions such as various sweets shops and the main building of Otaru Music Box Museum.
It is also recommended to eat famous Sushi for lunch.
30min
3
Ishiya Chocolate factory(Shiroi Koibito Park)
Parking MAPCODE:
9 602 296What is MAPCODE?
12:30
After that, take the expressway(E5A) to Sapporo direction. Just before Sapporo, there is [Ishiya Chocolate Factory (Shiroi Koibito Park)], which is well-known as a museum and factory of “White Lover Chocolate”.
[Sapporo market outside market] is where you can buy various seafood, fruits, and souvenirs, so nice to stop by. If you haven’t had lunch yet, it is also a good place to have fresh seafood lunch.
120min
Then, let’s skip Sapporo and head to Asahikawa. It is about 150 km from Sapporo to Asahikawa and takes about 2 hours. There are not many spots to see and take the expressway(E5). It is a long journey and please take a rest at Service Area(SA) along the expressway.
[Advice for those who want to travel Sapporo city]
Sapporo the Capitol of Hokkaido is a huge city. To avoid traffic jams and parking problems, traveling on foot in the city is more convenient.
If you would like to travel in Sapporo, it is better to return your car at Sapporo and stay there after the road trip.
4
Arashiyama Park Observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
79 456 019What is MAPCODE?
16:30
Once you reach Asahikawa city, this unknown observatory is recommended. If the weather is nice, you can see panoramic scenery with Asahikawa city and the amazing Daisetsuzan mountain range.
30min
5
Inn in Asahikawa
Parking MAPCODE:
17:30
Asahikawa, where you will stay tonight, is the second largest city in Hokkaido. Here you can enjoy various gourmet foods such as Genghis Khan and Asahikawa ramen.
There are many shops within walking distance that are open until late at night, so please check in before exploring the city.
Asahiyama Zoo is one of the most popular zoo in Japan because of their unique way to show the animals. Howeve, you need to be careful that Asahiyama zoo closes very early.
Beg May – Mid Oct 9:30-17:15(Last Ently16:00)
Mid Oct – Beg Nov 9:30-16:30(Last Ently16:00)
Mid Nov – Beg Apr 10:30-15:30(Last Ently15:00)
If you would like to visit here this day, please consider departing early and also skip some spots.
Or if you would like to enjoy Asahiyama zoo at a relaxing pace, you can consider staying at Asahikawa city one more night.
There are also amazing flower spots for Cherry Blossom and sunflowers along the drive route of the day.
[Sunflower field in Hokuryu town] is one of the best sunflower fields in Japan. If you will travel from end Jul-mid Aug, it is worth giving priority.
If you will travel from End Apr-Beg May, there is also amazing cherry blossom spots where is not well-known by foreign tourists and even local Japanese.
Please refer to the drive map and visit the place that suits your travel time.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in either Sapporo city, the capital of Hokkaido or Chitose town near the “New Chitose Airport”. Please choose the following options depending on your travel schedule.
①Staying in Sapporo
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and there are hundreds of accommodations from Sapporo Station to the Susukino area, the entertainment district. It is convenient to stay either on the south side of Sapporo Station or around “Odori Park”.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
Because there are more than 9,000 restaurants in Sapporo, it is recommended to make reservations with a breakfast-only plan.
②Returning to New Chitose Airport
If your flight is a morning flight, staying near Chitose Airport is a good idea. There is some hotel in and around the airport.
Once you return the car, rental car company bring you to the airport by free shuttle bus.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels. - Parking
It is better to return your car first and take public transportation or a shuttle bus to these hotels. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
Since there are many restaurants in the airport and around Chitose Station where you can have dinner, it is recommended to book breakfast only or stay overnight.
Asahikawa – Abashiri
Start:Asahikawa(旭川)
Finish:Abashiri (網走)
Mileage:250km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day, you will head from Asahikawa to Abashiri.
1
Inn in Asahikawa
Parking MAPCODE:
8:00
The mileage is 210km-280km, which is the longest on this trip, so it is recommended to leave Asahikawa to leave the latest at 9 o’clock.
90 min
2
Mt.Daisetsu Sounkyo Ropeway
Parking MAPCODE:
623 204 510What is MAPCODE?
9:30
The first destination is [Mt. Daisetsu Sounkyo Ropeway]. Especially in autumn, you can see the most magnificent autumn leaves in Hokkaido.
5 min
3
Ginga & Ryusei Falls
Parking MAPCODE:
623 177 805What is MAPCODE?
11:00
Also, 2km away from Sounkyo, there are two dynamic waterfalls, [Ginga & Ryusei Falls], with wonderful heights of 90m and 120m.
60 min
4
Kitakitsune Fox Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
402 600 404What is MAPCODE?
13:00
After that, you will cross the Ishikita Pass for about 60km and head for [Kitakitsune Fox Farm]. The foxes with adorable fluffy coats will welcome you. The roadside station is also adjacent, so it’s perfect for a break.
120min
5
Cape Notoro
Parking MAPCODE:
991 104 010What is MAPCODE?
15:55
The last spot of the day is [Cape Notoro]. It is a spot where you can watch the magnificent sunset over the Sea of Okhotsk.
15 min
6
Inn in Abashiri
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:10
Abashiri, where we stay on this day, is a hot spring resort. Make sure you arrive at the inn by 6 pm at the latest.
In addition, there are [Shibazakura Takigami Park] and [Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park] along the route of the day.
If you are traveling from early May to early June, we strongly recommend that you prioritize your visit to these locations. You can also enjoy coral grass in September and cosmos in October on this route.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay at Abashiri(網走). The inns are spread from the east side of Lake Abashiri to the Abashiri station area.
- Inn Type
There are various styles of accommodations in Abashiri, from 3-star western-style hotels to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokan with an Onsen. If you prefer a reasonably priced hotel, we recommend staying near Abashiri Station, and if you prefer a Ryokan with Onsen, we recommend staying on the east side of Lake Abashiri. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsens and most of the inns have one. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Abashiri – Shiretoko
Start: Abashiri(網走)
Finish: Shiretoko (知床)
Mileage:180km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will head from Abashiri to Shiretoko, a World Natural Heritage Site, via beautiful lakes such as Lake Kussharo and Lake Mashu.
1
Inn in Abashiri
2
Lake Kussharo(Bihoro Pass Observatory)
Parking MAPCODE:
638 225 399What is MAPCODE?
10:00
The first destination is Lake Kussharo [Bihoro Pass Observatory], which is the biggest highlight of the day. The panoramic view of Lake Kussharo, the largest caldera lake in Japan and the second largest in the world, is called the “superb view of the world”, and from here you can see the Shiretoko mountain range and Mt. Daisetsuzan.
In addition, Route 243 from Bihoro Pass to Lake Kussharo is a road where you can enjoy an exhilarating drive, which is ranked 28th in the touring course ranking of a motorcycle magazine. Drive through the beautiful contrast between the green of bamboo grass and the blue of the lake.
40 min
3
Mt.Iou
Parking MAPCODE:
731 713 737What is MAPCODE?
11:30
While driving along Lake Kussharo, you will aim for the next destination [Mt. Iou]. The eruption that blows out while making a rumbling noise is very dynamic. You can also see yellow sulfur crystals.
10 min
4
Lunch
Parking MAPCODE:
12:40
It is recommended to have lunch around Mt. Iou. If you like ramen, please try the local ramen [Teshikaga ramen] that represents Eastern Hokkaido.
20 min
5
Lake Mashu No.3 observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
613 870 530What is MAPCODE?
14:10
After lunch, you will head to the next lake, Lake Mashu. It is called Mashu Blue because of its second highest transparency in the world and a depth of 211m, and the appearance of the sky reflected on the surface of the lake is like a huge mirror. There are multiple observatories on Lake Mashu, but if you are traveling on a driving trip, the view of [Lake Mashu No.3 observatory], which is not accessible by bus, is the best, and parking is free, so it is recommended.
70min
6
Road to the Sky
Parking MAPCODE:
642 561 459What is MAPCODE?
16:00
After that, you will head to Shiretoko, a World Heritage Site. Stop by the observatory called “Road to the Sky” on the way. Originally known only to local bikers, the name comes from the sight of a 28km straight road leading to the sky. Must see.
30min
7
Inn in Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
Utoro town in Shiretoko where you stay on this day is a hot spring resort. About 8km before Shiretoko, there is Oshinkoshin Falls just next to the coastal main road. It is recommended if you have time.
In addition, there are [Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park] the best moss pink spot in Hokkaido along the route of the day.
If you are traveling in May, we strongly recommend visiting.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Shiretoko(知床). Because of the schedule for the next day, it is better to stay at “Utoro(ウトロ)” town on the west side of the Shiretoko peninsula. Most inns are concentrated around “Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku”.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 4 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities. There are few reasonably priced inns in Shiretoko. However, they all offer excellent food and hot springs, so we recommend that you stay at a better inn in Shiretoko even if you save money on lodging in other towns. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsen and most of the inns have one. You can enjoy an open-air Onsen and enjoy an Onsen with a magnificent view of the Sea of Okhotsk. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Shiretoko – Lake Akan
Start:Shiretoko (知床)
Finish:Lake Akan (阿寒湖)
Mileage:200km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day you will head from Shiretoko to Lake Akan through a scenic road.
1
Inn in Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is long and about 200km, and there is no expressway section. Also, since there are many highlight sites, we strongly recommend that you leave around 8 to 9 o’clock.
20 min
2
Shiretoko Five Lakes
Parking MAPCODE:
757 730 727What is MAPCODE?
9:20
The first destination is Shiretoko Five Lakes, a World Natural Heritage Site. You can stroll along the wooden path while watching Shiretoko’s magnificent mountains and lakes. If you want to see all five lakes, you must take a guided tour, so make a reservation in advance.
If you are lucky, you may also see wild brown bears along the way.
Shiretoko Five lakes
45 min
After leaving Shiretoko, cross the Shiretoko Peninsula and head toward Rausu town.
[Shiretoko Crossing Road] is a very popular route that ranks 13th in the touring course ranking of motorcycle magazines.
The Shiretoko Pass may be closed depending on the weather. If you can’t cross the Shiretoko Pass, return to the road you ran yesterday and head for Kaiyodai.
3
Lunch
Parking MAPCODE:
12:00
We recommend [Roadside Station Rausu] and [Jun no Banya] for lunch. You can enjoy seafood such as sea urchin, salmon roe, crab, and Kinki(Rare deep-sea fish, very expensive) at a much more reasonable price than in Tokyo or Sapporo. We definitely recommend eating here.
Roadside Station Shiretoko Rausu-MAPCODE 757 353 737
Jun no Banya-MAPCODE 757 353 276
60min
4
Kaiyodai Observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
976 104 326What is MAPCODE?
14:30
From here, drive along the sea to [Kaiyodai]. After passing through North Route 19, which is a farm road nicknamed Milk Road, there is Kaiyodai, which overlooks grasslands and farmland to the horizon. There is a famous yogurt drink shop nearby, so you can stop by.
80 min
5
Inn in Lake Akan
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:00
After that, it is a long drive of 85km to Lake Akan, about an hour and a half.
Because of long distance, please take rest at the road sidestation along the way.
Lake Akan, where you stay on this day, is also a famous hot spring resort. Relax in the hot springs and rest your body.
6
Lake Akan AINU Kotan
Parking MAPCODE:
Walking distance from innsWhat is MAPCODE?
19:30
One of the highlights at Lake Akan is [Akan AINU Kotan]. A place where you can experience the culture of the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido, you can not only see their traditional dances every night in the theater but also do shopping in various woodcraft shops.
The theater and shops open till night and you can visit them after dinner.
Ainu Kotan Traditional Dance Schedule
10 min
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay at Lake Akan(阿寒湖) the tiny Onsen town that is famous for “Ainu Kotan”, the village of Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. Many inns are concentrated on the south side of the lake.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
This town is famous for Onsen and most of the inns have one. You can enjoy an open-air Onsen with a lake view. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Lake Akan – Obihiro
Start: Lake Akan(阿寒湖)
Finish: Obihiro (帯広)
Mileage:160km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head from Lake Akan to Obihiro.
1
Inn in Lake Akan
2
Lake Onneto
Parking MAPCODE:
783 761 884What is MAPCODE?
9:20
The first destination is [Onneto]. It is a beautiful lake famous for its different colors of water depending on the season and time, and it is also a famous spot for autumn leaves.
100min
3
Naitai Highland Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
12:00
After that, you will head to [Naitai Highland Farm]. It is a 90km long drive from Onneto on a general road for an hour and a half, so please take a break at a roadside station on the way. In particular, Road Station Kamishihoro is one of the most fashionable road stations in Japan, which opened in 2020. From the Naitai Terrace on the farm on the mountain at an altitude of 800m, you can enjoy the best view of Hokkaido overlooking the vast Tokachi Plain.
GPS may not be able to properly direct you to this place. Please follow the below way.
1.Key in MC:679 103 687
2. Turn left at this junction.
3.Key in MC:679 127 048
100min
After leaving Naitai Highland Farm, you will head south toward Obihiro. There is a photo spot with beautiful birch trees along the way, so why not stop by?
Obihiro is famous for its Butadon. The juicy pork grilled over charcoal has a good reputation, and some people come all the way from Sapporo to eat it. Highly recommended.
4
Shichiku Garden
Parking MAPCODE:
124 040 140What is MAPCODE?
14:45
After lunch, you will drive south on the vast Tokachi Plain to Shichiku Garden. The garden, which was created by an old woman when she was 62 years old and has been built over 20 years, is now a famous place visited by more than 100,000 people a year.
40 min
5
Inn in Obihiro
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:20
Obihiro is one of the leading cities in Hokkaido. There are many restaurants and food stalls on the north side of the station, so please enjoy dinner while strolling after checking in at the hotel.
There are many other famous places for flowers, autumn leaves, gardens, and museums in Obihiro, so please travel according to the season and taste.
You can also head to Obihiro via Kushiro on this day. The mileage is over 200km, but you can enjoy walking in the vast Kushiro Marsh and seafood at Kushiro Port. In that case, we recommend using the expressway from Kushiro to Obihiro.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in Obihiro (帯広) city located in the center of the vast Tokachi Plain and it is famous for its delicious agricultural products.
Many inns are concentrated in the following two areas.
①Around Obihiro Station
The inns are concentrated around Obihiro station. Convenient for dinner and walking around Obihiro city but no inns offer Onsen.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 4-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.
②Tokachigawa Onsen(十勝川温泉)
This hot spring resort area is located 10km east of Obihiro station. If you would like to stay in better accommodation with Onsen, here is recommended.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 4 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities. - Parking
Most inns will offer free parking. - Onsen
Most inns provide Onsens. Tokachigawa Onsen is a “Mall spring” which is among only a few places in the world good for skincare. - Meal Plan Reservations
There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.
Obihiro – Sapporo or Chitose
Start: Obihiro(帯広)
Finish: Sapporo or Chitose Airport (札幌or千歳)
Mileage:
To Sapporo: 210km
To Chitose Arirpot: 180km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will head from Obihiro to New Chitose Airport or Sapporo.
1
Inn in Obihiro
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is as long as 210km to Sapporo. About 140km of this is an expressway trip, but we recommend that you depart between 8:00 and 9:00 because it’s a long-distance drive. We recommend leaving as early as possible, especially if you want to go to Otaru, as most stores close at 17:00.
If you plan to fly from New Chitose Airport on this day, please see the end of the article.
10 min
2
Mugioto Bakery
Parking MAPCODE:
124 503 523What is MAPCODE?
9:10
First of all, in the morning, we recommend the wonderful bakery [Mugioto Bakery] located 4km south of Obihiro. You can have breakfast on the terrace, or take it out to eat in the car as it’s a long way to go on this day.
Shintoku Town, north of Obihiro, is a soba-producing region, so Shintoku Soba is also recommended for lunch.
80 min
3
Sahoro resort Bear Mountain
Parking MAPCODE:
901 022 583What is MAPCODE?
11:00
After that, head to [Sahoro Resort Bear Mountain]. There are several places in Hokkaido where you can see brown bears, but this is the most recommended because you can see bears living in a natural way on a private bus in a safari park format.
170min
It is 130km, about 2 hours, by expressway from here to New Chitose Airport, and another 30km from there to Sapporo. As it is long, please take a break in the parking area on the way. For those who want to enjoy shopping, we also recommend stopping by “Mitsui Outlet Park Kitahiroshima”.
4
Rental car branch at New Chitose Airport or Sapporo
Parking MAPCODE:
Please refer driving mapWhat is MAPCODE?
16:20
This concludes your Hokkaido road trip.
①Returning a car at New Chitose Airport
When heading to New Chitose Airport, make sure you arrive at the car rental company branch 3 hours before your flight. You need to take the shuttle bus from the company branch to the airport. In addition, New Chitose Airport is the best in Japan. There are restaurants where you can enjoy all kinds of Hokkaido gourmet food and countless souvenir shops, so the waiting time for your flight feels short.
②Returning a car in Sapporo
When you return to Sapporo, the distance from the airport is about 60 km, 1 hour. Please refuel and then return the car to the car rental branch. Use the MAPCODE on the driving map for the nearest rental car stores and gas stations near Sapporo Station.
Sapporo offers a wide variety of culinary delights! For dinner, try Sapporo Miso ramen, Soup curry, Crab and Sushi.
It is also possible to go to [Otaru] on this day.
However, it takes 2 hours for a round trip from Sapporo to Otaru on the expressway. Even if you leave Asahikawa first thing in the morning and head straight, you will arrive at noon in Otaru, so please pay attention to the time allocation.
Also please note the following points.
・It is recommended to allocate 2-3 hours for sightseeing in Otaru as there are many attractions.
・Most shops close at 17:00
Also, at dusk, [Mt. Moiwayama] is recommended. You can enjoy a vast night view from the observatory overlooking Sapporo, the largest town in Hokkaido.
The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.
On this day, you will stay in either Sapporo city, the capital of Hokkaido or Chitose town near the “New Chitose Airport”. Please choose the following options depending on your travel schedule.
①Staying in Sapporo
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and there are hundreds of accommodations from Sapporo Station to the Susukino area, the entertainment district. It is convenient to stay either on the south side of Sapporo Station or around “Odori Park”.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star western-style hotels. - Parking
Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
Because there are more than 9,000 restaurants in Sapporo, it is recommended to make reservations with a breakfast-only plan.
②Returning to New Chitose Airport
If your flight is a morning flight, staying near Chitose Airport is a good idea. There is some hotel in and around the airport.
Once you return the car, rental car company bring you to the airport by free shuttle bus.
- Inn Type
Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels. - Parking
It is better to return your car first and take public transportation or a shuttle bus to these hotels. - Onsen
There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens. - Meal Plan Reservations
Since there are many restaurants in the airport and around Chitose Station where you can have dinner, it is recommended to book breakfast only or stay overnight.