Hokkaido 9 Days Itinerary-D

Summary

  • Start
    New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station
  • Finish
    New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station
  • Mileage
    Total 1310km
    150km per day
  • Travel Pace
    Relaxing
  • Onsen Stay
    Max.5 nights
  • Recommended Seasons
    Apr,May,Jun,Jul,Aug,Sep,Oct,Nov

This itinerary takes 9 days to circle the south and central areas of Hokkaido.
Due to standard daily mileage and staying consecutive nights in 2 cities, you can travel at a relaxing pace.
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.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Rental car branch at New Chitose Airport or Sapporo

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

New Chitose Airport

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?

Lake Shikotsu Sky Road through the forest

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.

Lake Shikotsu in early summer

In addition to enjoying a walk or boating at Lake Shikotsu, we recommend delicious cream puffs.

Shikotsuko Pattisier Labo Cream Puffs

Pattisier Labo



60 min

3

National AINU museum and park UPOPOY

Parking MAPCODE:

545 194 763What is MAPCODE?

“Chise,” an Ainu house in the Ainu Folk Museum Upopoi

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?

you can enjoy short walking at Jigokudani Hell Valley

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.

Oyunuma pond with beautiful cobalt blue color

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:

What is 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.




Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Noboribetsu

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.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Noboribetsu

Parking MAPCODE:

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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.

you can enjoy short walking at Jigokudani Hell Valley

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
OHYUMUMA with beautiful cobalt blue color




50 min

2

Cape Chikyu

Parking MAPCODE:

159 195 105What is MAPCODE?

From Cape Earth, you can see a panoramic view of the arcing horizon.

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?

Harvester Yakumo’s chicken is a must when you come to Yakumo Parking Area.

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.

The spot is located on the expressway. If GPS ask you, please choose “Toll”.




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.

More than 40 restaurants and stores are located in the Kanamori 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 Motomachi, with its exotic atmosphere of Western-style buildings on a cobblestone slope

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

Japan’s Three Greatest Night Views from Mount Hakodate

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.




Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Hakodate

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 – Hakodate

Start:Hakodate (函館)
Finish:Hakodate (函館)
Mileage:60km
Travel Pace:Relaxed

On this day, you will stay overnight in Hakodate following yesterday.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Hakodate

Parking MAPCODE:

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10:00

This day is centered on sightseeing in the city, and the mileage is short at about 18km, so you can take it easy.




10 min

2

Goryokaku Park&Tower

Parking MAPCODE:

86 135 897What is MAPCODE?

View from the Goryokaku Tower.

11:30

The first stop of the day is Goryokaku Park & Tower. This place is the first western-style castle in Japan surrounded by a star-shaped moat. From the observatory of the tower, you can enjoy not only Goryokaku Park, but also a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and Hakodate Bay.

There is the Lucky Pierrot Goryokaku Park Branch next to the parking lot, so it is highly recommended having lunch there. Lucky Pierrot is a crazy burger shop chain in Hakodate.

Lucky Pierrot is very famous in Hakodate.




20 min

3

Hakodate Motomachi Area

Parking MAPCODE:

86 040 622What is MAPCODE?

Hachiman-Zaka Slope in Motomachi Area.

12:30

Next, you will head south and explore the Hakodate Motomachi Area. Hakodate was one of the first cities to open its ports after a long period of national isolation, and in this area you can see the Western-style buildings of each country that were built about 150 years ago. The main recommended spots are as follows.
●Former British Consulate
●Hakodate magistrate’s office ruins
●Former Souma House
●Former Public Hall of Hakodate Ward
●Funatama Shrine
●Hakodate Orthodox Church
●Hachiman-Zaka Slope

If you get tired of walking, there are many stylish cafes, so please take a rest.




5 min

4

Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse

Parking MAPCODE:

86 041 707What is MAPCODE?

Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse which is one of the most famous tourist spots in Hakodate city.

14:30

After exploring the Motomachi Area, please head to the Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse. This is one of the most famous tourist spots in Hakodate city. There are many shops and cafes in old warehouses.




20 min

5

Trappistine Convent

Parking MAPCODE:

86 143 110What is MAPCODE?

Trappistine Convent is the first convent in Japan.

16:00

Next, you will head to the Trappistine Convent, which is the first convent in Japan. The lovable structure of the convent is offset by the lovely scenery and the proximity to the ocean and the cliffs in the distance. The cookies here are delicious and famous.




25 min

6

Cape Tachimachi

Parking MAPCODE:

951 296 177What is MAPCODE?

Cape Tachimachi that is a scenic cliffside area.

17:30

If you have time and want to see the Sea of Hakodate, we recommend going to Cape Tachimachi, which is a scenic cliffside area. If the weather is nice and the air is clear, you can see Honshu (the main island of Japan) across the sea.




10 min

7

Inn at Hakodate

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

18:20

On this day, you will stay in Hakodate for consecutive nights following the previous day. Please relax and enjoy the night in Hakodate.




In the morning in Hakodate, it is recommended to go to the famous Hakodate Morning Market and have breakfast.

Squid is a must at Hakodate morning market

Also, for those who want to drive around the suburbs of Hakodate instead of sightseeing in the city on this day, we recommend the following places.

Onuma Quasi-National Park is a very beautiful lake with a walking trail and a boat cruise.

The small islands of Onuma National Park are connected by 18 bridges and can be explored.

In Esashi, the battleship which was owned by the Edo Shogunate is on display, and you can also see the torii gate standing in the sea like Itsukushima shrine.

Kaiyo Maru, a warship owned by the Edo Shogunate.

During the spring cherry blossom season (End Apr-Mid May), you can enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms and the castle at Matsumae Castle.

Matsumae Castle is especially recommended during the cherry blossom season.

Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring is also recommended during the warmer months. Here is a magical place where rocky shores turn into hot springs at low tide. Please bring your bathing suit.

Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring is a hot spring in the sea.
Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show an additional 10-20 spots for the day. You will travel only to your favorite spots. Click the pin on the map and input the parking MAPCODE into your car navigation system (GPS). It will guide you to the nearest parking lot for each spot!

[Drive Map] Hakodate – Hakodate (函館 – 函館) – Google マイマップ
Japan Road Trip itinerary search "Drive Japan"

Where to stay in Hakodate

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.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Hakodate

Parking MAPCODE:

What is 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?

Hakodate morning market

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.

Squid is a must at Hakodate morning market
Grilled king crab
You can enjoy squid fishing in Hakodate morning market




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.

More than 40 restaurants and stores are located in the Kanamori Red Brick Warehouse.




45 min

Once you depart Hakodate city, let’s drive along the hidden scenic road “Shirotai Skyline”.

Shirotai Skyline, where the Shirotai Farm Observatory is located, is a road with an undiscovered spectacular view

4

Onuma National Park

Parking MAPCODE:

86 815 505What is MAPCODE?

The small islands of Onuma National Park are connected by 18 bridges and can be explored.

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.

Restaurant Rivage stands by the lakeside of Onuma




120 min

5

Mt.Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm

Parking MAPCODE:

321 433 439What is MAPCODE?

Mt.Showa Shinzan and Lake Toya view from the Mt.Usu Ropeway

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.

Bear farm is located right next to the ropeway station




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.

cherry picking
apple picking

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.

Long-run fireworks displays are held every day from May to October in the Toyako Onsen Hot Spring town area.




Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Lake Toya

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.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Lake Toya

Parking MAPCODE:

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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?

Showa Shinzan and Lake Toya seen from the Mt.Usu Ropeway

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.

Lake Hill Farm’s ice cream is a must-try. Over 20 flavors.
Rich gelato




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.

Niseko Panorama Line
the Shinsen marsh.

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.

Route 229 on the Shakotan coast toward Cape Kamui

4

Cape Kamui

Parking MAPCODE:

932 582 268What is MAPCODE?

Cape Kamui. It takes about 40 minutes round trip from the parking lot to the end of the cape.

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?

Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery, created by Masataka Taketsuru, NHK’s “Massan” TV series

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 Canal at night

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.

You must try sushi when you come to Otaru!




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.

Mr. Mishima’s Shiba-Zakura Garden (End May)

Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Otaru

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.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Otaru

Parking MAPCODE:

What is 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?

Otaru Canal

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.

Otaru’s main street “Sakai-cho Hon-dori”

It is also recommended to eat famous Sushi for lunch.

If you want to go all out, you’re going to have to go out of your way to eat delicious sushi.




30min

3

Ishiya Chocolate factory(Shiroi Koibito Park)

Parking MAPCODE:

9 602 296What is MAPCODE?

Shiroi Koibito Park is very popular with children

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.

Sapporo Wholesale Market is a cheap place to buy marine products, sweets, and other Hokkaido souvenirs.
Grilled king crab




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?

Arashiyama Park Observatory, a little-known spot in Asahikawa

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:

What is 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.

Sapporo has miso ramen, Asahikawa has soy sauce ramen
Asahikawa is famous for Genghis Khan. Daikokuya Is recommended.




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.

Asahiyama Zoo. Allow 2 hours for a visit.

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 largest field of sunflowers in Japan, Sunflower Village in Hokuryu Town (best time to visit is early August)
Little-known cherry blossom spots in Hokkaido.
Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Sapporo or Chitose

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 – Furano

Start: Asahikawa (旭川)
Finish: Furano(富良野)
Mileage:100km
Travel Pace: Relax

On this day, you will leave Asahikawa and drive through the beautiful hills of Furano and Biei to Furano.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Asahikawa

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

9:00

The mileage is about 60 to 100km, so you can travel at relaxing pace.




15 min

2

Asahiyama Zoo

Parking MAPCODE:

Please refer belowWhat is MAPCODE?

Asahiyama Zoo. Allow 2 hours for a visit.

9:30

The most famous zoo in Hokkaido, [Asahiyama Zoo], can be reached in 30 minutes from Asahikawa.

There are the following parking lots:
Main gate 1st parking(Free 65 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 856
Main gate 2nd parking(Free 125 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 856
East gate parking(Free 300 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 881

Please 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 enjoy Asahiyama zoo at a relaxing pace, please consider staying one more night.




30 min

3

Blue Pond

Parking MAPCODE:

349 569 454What is MAPCODE?

blue pond

12:30

After that, you will head to the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as a wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.

On the way to Blue Pond, there is a road you should definitely take. It is a farm road called [Fujino Loute 2 (Daini)]. You can drive through the beautiful hills for 7km. This is a secret scenic road that Drive Japan luckily found that is not listed in guidebooks. There are no signs, so please refer to the MAPCODE on the drive map.

Image of the scene from Fujino No. 2 agricultural road

The Shirahige Falls is near Blue Pond. It is not well known, but it is worth a visit as well.

Shirahige Water Falls, with the same vivid blue color as the blue pond




20 min

4

Shikisai no Oka

Parking MAPCODE:

349 701 217What is MAPCODE?

14:30

Shikisai-no-oka in Biei (season of September)

After that, you will head to the biggest highlight of the day [Shikisai no Oka]. The colorful flower fields on the vast hills will be a lifetime memory. You can enjoy it from the end of May to the end of October, but especially in September, and October, it is a wonderful place to visit.




25 min

5

Farm Tomita

Parking MAPCODE:

349 276 713What is MAPCODE?

Furano’s synonymous with Farm Tomita’s lavender fields

16:00

Your last destination of the day is [Farm Tomita]. Lavender from mid-July to early August is very famous. Various flowers such as poppies and lupines bloom at other times, and you can fully enjoy them from mid-April to mid-October.

On the way to Farm Tomita, please go through the [Roller Coaster Road]. The 4.5km straight road that repeats ups and downs is a unique road named like a roller coaster.

Roller Coaster Road




25 min

6

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

17:30

Furano has a limited number of shops that are open until late at night. It is recommended to include a supper when booking the inn or to go to the inn after having supper.




Along the drive route of the day, there are famous places of Kokia, Linaria, and lavender. Please refer to the drive map and visit the place that suits your travel time.

Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Furano

On this day, you will stay in Furano town(富良野) which is famous for its beautiful hills and flower fields.
The inns are spread over a wide area around Furano Station.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    Most inns don’t have onsen. If you would like to stay in an inn with an onsen, the “New Furano Prince hotel” is recommended. It is located just next to Ninngle Terrace and is convenient.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Because Furano is not a big city, restaurants that are open late at night are limited to the area around Furano Station. If you are not staying near Furano station, we recommend a plan with dinner and breakfast.

 

Furano -Furano

Start: Furano (富良野)
Finish:
Furano (富良野)
Mileage:
80km
Travel Pace:
Relaxed

On this day, you will stay in Furano for the second consecutive night.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

10:00
The mileage on this day is about 80km, so you can travel comfortably.




5min

2

Furano Marche

Parking MAPCODE:

349 001 745What is MAPCODE?

Source[Official Site]Furano Marche

10:05

Furano has many attractions. First of all, you will head to the [Furano Marche]. This is a vast and diverse facility, but we especially recommend the shops and cafes that offer freshly made sweets and freshly baked bread. How about a slightly late breakfast with freshly baked delicious bread?

Furano Marche



20min

3

Farm Tomita

Parking MAPCODE:

349 276 713What is MAPCODE?

11:20

Furano’s synonymous Farm Tomita’s lavender fields

Next, you will visit the very popular [Farm Tomita]. Lavender from mid-July to early August is very famous, but at other times, various flowers such as poppies and lupines bloom, and you can fully enjoy it from mid-April to mid-October.




40min

4

Mt.Tokachi Bogakudai Observatory

Parking MAPCODE:

796 093 404What is MAPCODE?

13:00

Mt.Tokachi Bogakudai Observatory

After that, you will head to [Mt. Tokachi Bogakudai Observatory]. This observatory is located at the bottom of Mt. Tokachi and you can look down, and see Furano town’s panoramic scenery. It is a very good spot to see autumn-colored leaves.




10min

5

Shirahigenotaki Falls

Parking MAPCODE:

796 182 482What is MAPCODE?

14:00

Shirahige Water Falls, with the same vivid blue color as the blue pond

Next, you will head to [Shirahigenotaki Falls]. You can see a lot of bluish water around here, and the Biei River where this Shirahige Waterfall flows down is one of the typical “blue rivers”. The waterfalls descend in dozens of thin threads and can be viewed from the Blue River Bridge.




5min

6

Blue Pond

Parking MAPCODE:

349 569 454What is MAPCODE?

15:00

Blue Pond is known worldwide

The last stop of the day is the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as a wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.




50min

7

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

16:45

Furano has a limited number of shops that are open until late at night. It is recommended to include a supper when booking the inn or to go to the inn after having supper.




Near the drive route of the day, there are famous places of Kokia, Linaria, and lavender. Please refer to the drive map and visit the place that suits your travel time.

Driving Map For The Day
Where to stay in Furano

On this day, you will stay in Furano town(富良野) which is famous for its beautiful hills and flower fields.
The inns are spread over a wide area around Furano Station.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    Most inns don’t have onsen. If you would like to stay in an inn with an onsen, the “New Furano Prince hotel” is recommended. It is located just next to Ninngle Terrace and is convenient.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Because Furano is not a big city, restaurants that are open late at night are limited to the area around Furano Station. If you are not staying near Furano station, we recommend a plan with dinner and breakfast.

 

Furano – Sapporo or Chitose

Start: Furano (富良野)
Finish: Sapporo or Chitose Airport (札幌or千歳)
Mileage: 140km
Travel Pace: Normal

On this day, you will head from Furano to New Chitose Airport.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

9:00

The mileage is about 140km. Depending on your fright schedule, you might skip some sightseeing sites we recommend here.




15 min

2

Farm Tomita

Parking MAPCODE:

349 276 713What is MAPCODE?

Furano’s synonymous with Farm Tomita’s lavender fields

9:15

Your first destination of the day is [Farm Tomita] if you haven’t been there. Lavender from mid-July to early August is very famous, but at other times, various flowers such as poppies and lupines bloom, and you can fully enjoy it from mid-April to mid-October.




40min

3

Sandantaki Falles

Parking MAPCODE:

450 033 647What is MAPCODE?

11:00

Sandanaki Waterfall

Next, you will head to [Sandantaki Falles]. The waterfall proceeds in three stages (the name translates to a three-tiered waterfall) with rock formations creating interesting contrasts and a background of lush green forest adding even more depth.You can enjoy the autumn-colored leaves too.




90min

4

Kacha Ice Cream & Restaurant

Parking MAPCODE:

230 297 851What is MAPCODE?

Various flavors of gelato

13:30

Hokkaido is known for its delicious ice cream. It might be a good idea to drop by [Kacha Ice Cream & Restaurant]. Find and enjoy your favorites from various flavors of ice cream. If you haven’t had lunch yet, you can also enjoy kiln-baked pizza and curry.

If you are traveling in June and July, [Roadside Station Yubari Merodo] is another ideal spot for a break. You can enjoy seasonal Yubari melons at a reasonable price there.

Yuubari melon (sweet orange melon grown in Yuubari City, Hokkaido)




15min

5

Rental car branch at Sapporo or New Chitose Airport

Parking MAPCODE:

Please refer driving mapWhat is MAPCODE?

15:00
This concludes your Hokkaido road trip.

①Returning a car in Sapporo
When you return to Sapporo, 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.

②Returning a car at New Chitose Airport
When heading to New Chitose Airport, the distance from Sapporo is about 60 km, about 1 hour. 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.

New Chitose Airport has a full range of stores to enjoy even during long waits.
Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, where all of Hokkaido’s best stores are gathered.
You would love to try soup curry in Sapporo!




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

Otaru Canal

Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Sapporo or Chitose

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 are some hotels in and around the airport.
Once you return the car, the 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.
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