Summary
- Start
New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station - Finish
New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station - Mileage
Total 1860km
150km per day - Travel Pace
Fast - Onsen Stay
Max. 10nights - Recommended Seasons
Dec,Jan,Feb,Mar,Apr
This itinerary takes 13 days to circle the whole of Hokkaido in winter.
Daily mileage is standard but it includes consecutive stays only in 2 cities, the travel pace is fast. In winter, the sun sets by 4-5 pm, so arrive at your inn before dark!
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. You can enjoy the beautiful winter scenery of Lake Shikotsu there.
In addition to enjoying a walking 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.
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:200km
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 200km. 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.
120 min
2
Yakumo Parking area(To Hakodate)
Parking MAPCODE:
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11:00
[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
3
Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse
Parking MAPCODE:
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14:00
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
4
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, please use the ropeway as the road to the summit is closed during the winter season.
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 – Niseko/Lake Toya🔒
Start: Hakodate(函館)
Finish: Niseko or Lake Toya (ニセコ/洞爺湖)
Mileage:
To Lake Toya: 175km
To Niseko: 220km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will head from Hakodate to Lake Toya or Niseko.
1
Inn in Hakodate
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is long, about 175-220km including 125km of expressway driving.
5 min
2
Hakodate Morning Market
Parking MAPCODE:
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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:
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10:10
[Hakodate Red Brick Warehouse] is also nearby, so if you haven’t been there yet, please stop by.
45 min
4
Onuma National Park
Parking MAPCODE:
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11:50
After that, you will head to [Onuma National Park]. The winter scenery is beautiful and you can enjoy various winter activities there. There are also several recommended restaurants around Onuma Park, so please enjoy lunch around there.
120 min
5
Mt.Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
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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
6
Inn in Lake Toya/Niseko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
There are 3 recommended area for this day.
If you would like to stay snow resort for ski and snow activities, either Niseko or Rusutsu is recommended. If you don’t plan to do skiing, Lake Toya is recommended. Please refer below “Where to stay” part.
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.
Niseko/Lake Toya – Otaru 🔒
Start: Niseko or Lake Toya (ニセコ/洞爺湖)
Finish: Otaru (小樽)
Mileage:130km
Travel Pace: Normal
On this day, you will head from Niseko or Lake Toya to Canal town Otaru.
1
Inn in Lake Toya
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage of this day is normal about 130km. But we recommend to leave the hotel at 9:00.
10 min
2
Mt.Usu Ropeway & Showashinzan Bear Farm
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:10
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
Fukidashi Spring Water Park
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:30
Next you will head to [Fukidashi Spring Water Park] with the famous water that springs from Mount Yotei. A tremendous amount of water is springing out, and you can put water in your bottle and take it the hotel if you like.
90 min
4
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
Parking MAPCODE:
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15:00
The final destination of the day is “Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery”. You can tour the historic distillery of Japan’s leading whiskey brand.
40 min
5
Inn in Otaru
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:40
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.
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 – Furano 🔒
Start: Otaru (小樽)
Finish: Furano (富良野)
Mileage:160km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day, you will head from Otaru to Furano.
1
Inn in Otaru
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is about 160km to Furano. 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:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
9:05
First thing in the morning, please go to places in Otaru city that you couldn’t go to the day before. For parking in Otaru, please use the hotel where you stayed or [Otaru City Parking (小樽駐車場)].
In Otaru city, you will be sightseeing on foot. Here are some spots you will be interested to visit: the area around the “Otaru Canal” and the “Sakaimachi-dori shopping street” are the main areas.
After this, you will need to take a long drive to Furano, so please finish your tour of Otaru by noon at the latest and head to your next destination.
●[Otaru Canal] is a symbol of the city and a must spot. You can also have a fantastic and romantic time on a popular canal cruise.
●[Canal Plaza] (Otaru City Tourist Product Plaza)—Otaru is known as the city of glass, and representative works of art will be displayed in the Canal Plaza.
●[Denuki Koji]—A food stall village located at the Asakusabashi crossing of the Otaru Canal. You can climb the symbolic fire tower for free, and you can also see the beautiful Otaru Canal and the Otaru sea.
●[Taisho Glass Hall Main Store] displays and sells hand-made glass, mainly Japanese-style glassware.
●[Kitaichi Glass No. 3 Building] is a renovated stone warehouse that was built as a fishery warehouse and is designated as an Otaru Historic Building. The store offers a wide variety of glass products, from everyday glasses and tableware to accessories that are perfect for gifts.
●[Night Light] is installed at the “Marchen Crossroads” and is a reproduction of the wooden lighthouse on the hill in Nobukacho, Otaru City during the Meiji period.
●The [Steam Clock] installed in front of the Otaru Music Box Museum ticks the time with white smoke and a steam whistle every 15 minutes.
●The 3-story brick building [Music Box Museum] is a music box specialty store that boasts a large number of items.
60min
3
Ishiya Chocolate factory(Shiroi Koibito Park)
Parking MAPCODE:
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13:30
Next, you will head to [Ishiya Chocolate Factory (Shiroi Koibito Park)], which is well-known as a museum and factory of “White Lover Chocolate”.
Near the Shiroi Koibito Park, there is [Sapporo market outside market], 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 a fresh seafood lunch.
150min
4
Ningle Terrace
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
17:00
[Ningle Terrace] is recommended. You can buy various works by local artists such as crafts and accessories at the log houses lined up in the woods.
It opens till 20:45 so it is also okay to visit after dinner.
10min
5
Inn in Furano
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
18:00
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.
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 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: Relax
On this day, you will be staying in Furano for the second consecutive night. Enjoy the winter of Furano and Biei at your leisure.
1
Inn in Furano
Parking MAPCODE:
10:00
The mileage is about 80km, so you can travel at relaxing pace. It is enough to leave the inn around 10 o’clock.
10 min
2
Furano Marche
Parking MAPCODE:
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10:10
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?
60min
3
Blue Pond
Parking MAPCODE:
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13:00
Your next destination will be the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.
10 min
4
Shirahige Falls
Parking MAPCODE:
14:30
Your last destination of the day is [Shirahige Falls]. It is not well known, but it is worth a visit as well.
70 min
5
Inn in Furano
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:20
On this day, you will be staying in Furano for the second consecutive night. Please spend a relaxing time at the inn.
If you want to enjoy winter sports, you can try skiing and snowboarding at Furano Ski Resort instead of driving. Furano Ski Resort has a very long run distance of about 4km, and is a ski resort with the best snow quality and abundant snowfall. It is a ski resort that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced players with a total of 28 courses. The Kitanomine Premium Zone is only available for cruising in good conditions, and is popular with advanced riders for enjoying off-piste. Kitanomine’s Family Slope has a wide course, so even beginners can ski with confidence. And in the Furano zone, you can reach the mountaintop station on the 101-passenger high-speed Furano Ropeway. Enjoy long cruising on a wide variety of courses.
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 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 – Asahikawa 🔒
Start: Furano(富良野)
Finish: Asahikawa (旭川)
Mileage:95km
Travel Pace: Relax
On this day, you will leave Furano and drive through the beautiful hills of Furano and Biei to Asahikawa.
1
Inn in Furano
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is about 95km, so you can travel at relaxing pace. However, if you want to spend a long time in Asahiyama Zoo, please leave as early as possible in the morning and try to arrive at least 2 hours before closing.
60 min
2
Blue Pond
Parking MAPCODE:
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10:00
Your first destination of the day is the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.
10 min
3
Shirahige Falls
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:15
You will go to [Shirahige Falls] next. It is not well known, but it is worth a visit as well.
45 min
4
Seven Star Tree & Patchwork Hills
Parking MAPCODE:
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12:30
Next, you will head to [Seven Star Tree & Patchwork Hills]. The area around Biei’s Seven Star Tree is famous as Patchwork Hills in summer. In winter, too, the appearance of this tree dignifiedly standing in the wide snowfield is very tasteful. Please enjoy driving the hills around here.
45 min
5
Asahiyama Zoo
Parking MAPCODE:
Please refer belowWhat is MAPCODE?
13:30
The most famous zoo in Hokkaido, [Asahiyama Zoo], can be reached in about an hour and a half from Furano and about 20 minutes from Asahikawa (The snow road will take longer).
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.
Mid Nov – Beg Apr 10:30-15:30(Last Ently15:00)
Beg May – Mid Oct 9:30-17:15(Last Ently16:00)
Mid Oct – Beg Nov 9:30-16:30(Last Ently16:00)
Asahiyama Zoo in winter has a lot to offer, just like in summer.
● Asahiyama Zoo is famous for penguin walks, but it is much better in the snowy landscape.
● Drift ice plaza appears in the outdoor enclosure of the “Seal Museum” only during the cold winter season. It’s only in the cold winter that you can see their faces popping out of the holes in the ice floes.
● Monkeys don’t like the cold. On colder days, you can see monkey dumplings that cling together to keep warm.
● In early February, the opening hours of the zoo will be extended. You can experience Asahiyama Zoo at night under the snow light.
● Polar bears also look better in snow and ice.
If you would like to enjoy Asahiyama zoo at a relaxing pace, please consider staying one more night.
45min
6
Inn in Asahikawa
Parking MAPCODE:
17:00
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.
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 Asahikawa city(旭川) which is 2nd largest city in Hokkaido.
The inns are concentrated on the north side of Asahikawa Station.
- 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.
Asahikawa – Abashiri 🔒
Start:Asahikawa(旭川)
Finish:Abashiri (網走)
Mileage:220km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day, you will head from Asahikawa to Abashiri.
1
Asahikawa
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is 230km, which is the longest on this trip, so we recommend leaving Asahikawa before 9:00 at the latest. You will be driving on the expressway (E39) for the first half and on the public road for the second half.
150 min
2
Revolving Sushi Toriton(Engaru)
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11:30
After driving a long distance on the expressway, please enjoy lunch at a sushi restaurant. This is a revolving sushi restaurant, but you can eat very fresh sushi at a more reasonable price than in Sapporo.
120 min
3
Cape Notoro
Parking MAPCODE:
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14:15
Next, you will head to Cape Notoro, which is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the beautiful and mysterious drift ice and the white world of icefalls. Road Abashiri Park Line, also known as the “Misaki Line”, is a scenic road where you can enjoy a comfortable drive even in winter. Drift ice can usually be seen from early February to early March.
25 min
4
Okhotsk drift ice museum
Parking MAPCODE:
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15:30
After that, you will go to the Okhotsk drift ice museum and learn about drift ice, preparing for tomorrow’s drift ice cruise.
10 min
5
Abashiri
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
16:30
Abashiri, where we stay on this day, is a hot spring resort. Since the number of restaurants is quite limited, it is recommended to make a reservation at a hot spring inn with a plan to half board. Make sure you arrive at the inn by 5 pm at the latest.
Every year in early February, the Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival is held at Abashiri Port. It is highly recommended anyone traveling right around this time to go. Snow and ice sculptures are set up at the venue, and you can enjoy the taste of Abashiri along with various stage events. Abashiri Port is located 2.5 km east of Abashiri Station. Please refer to the Drive Map for more information.
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!
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:90km
Travel Pace: Relaxed
On this day, you will head from Abashiri to Shiretoko, a World Natural Heritage Site.
1
Abashiri
Parking MAPCODE:
8:50
The mileage is about 90km. You must have checked in for Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora by 9:15 on this day, so please leave the hotel by 8:50 at the latest. Also, the departure time of the Icebreaker Aurora may change depending on the season, so please check the information on the website (https://www.ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/).
10 min
2
Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora
Parking MAPCODE:
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9:00
The first destination is [Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora], which is the biggest highlight of the day. This is a large ship that sails on the sea while breaking ice. You can see the ice floes that arrive every year off the coast of Abashiri Port up close, and you can enjoy a thrilling cruise as the vibrations and sounds of breaking the ice are transmitted directly to the boat.
Icebreaker Aurora departs at 9:30 most days. Please arrive at the platform by 9:00 and complete her check-in procedures. Also, the departure time of the Icebreaker Aurora may change depending on the season, so please check the information on the website (https://www.ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/). The cruise time is a little over an hour.
Time table and detail about Aurora
10 min
3
Abashiri Prison Museum
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:00
After enjoying a winter sea cruise, you will head to The Abashiri Prison Museum, where the Abashiri Prison buildings made in the Meiji era (1868–1912) are preserved and open to the public.
15 min
4
Lunch at Kaniya
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:00
Please enjoy delicious seafood in Abashiri. We recommend “Okhotsk direct market Kaniya”.
65 min
5
Road to the Sky
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
14:10
After lunch, you will head to [Road to the Sky]. While driving on the road, it provides a terrific view of itself. Originally known only to local bikers, the name comes from the sight of a 28km straight road leading to the sky. Must see.
30 min
6
Yuhidai Observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:40
Next you will head to Yuhidai Observatory. Here, the surface of the sea, which is covered with drift ice, turns a golden color, creating a beautiful and impressive impression.
10 min
7
Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
Shiretoko, where you stay on this day, is a hot spring resort. Since the number of restaurants where you can have dinner is very limited, it is recommended to make a reservation at a hot spring inn with a plan with half board. Make sure you arrive at the inn by 5 pm at the latest.
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!
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 an 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 – Shiretoko 🔒
Start: Shiretoko (知床)
Finish: Shiretoko (知床)
Mileage:20km
Travel Pace: Relaxed
On this day, you will stay in Shiretoko for the second consecutive night.
1
Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
8:00
The mileage on this day is 20km and you hardly drive a car. However, if you participate in the “Winter Shiretoko Five Lakes Tour”, you need to leave the hotel at 8:00 and wake up early in the morning. On the other hand, if you choose the RYUHYO (Drift Ice) Walk, the morning will be a little more leisurely.
2
Winter Activities in Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
See belowWhat is MAPCODE?
8:00
Winter in Shiretoko, which is rich in nature, can be severely cold with drift ice drifting, but you can enjoy activities unique to winter to your heart’s content. A couple of options are shown below.
(Option 1) There are guided tours of the Shiretoko Five Lakes during the harsh winter season, where you can enjoy a walk in the wetlands and lakes that are not accessible during the summer season. In particular, [Winter Shiretoko Five Lakes Tour] by Shiretoko Nature Office is recommended. Reservations are required (please go to https://en.activityjapan.com/publish/plan/3379 for booking in English).
Depending on which Shiretoko tour you book, normally your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel at 8:00. The tour guide will then take you to the activity location and drop you off at your hotel after the activity. The duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours.
(Option 2) Drift ice lands on the coast of Okhotsk in Hokkaido from around the end of January. Especially around Utoro on the Shiretoko Peninsula, the sea is covered with ice like a pure white land during the peak season. [RYUHYO (Drift Ice) Walk] is an activity unique to Utoro where you can experience such phenomena and sights like those in the Arctic Circle. You can see the activity in action in the video below.
https://youtu.be/XLZNBYvNYFY
Reservations are required (please go to https://shinrashiretoko.wixsite.com/shinra/ice-walking for booking in English).
10 min
3
Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:30
For lunch on this day, we recommend [Roadside Station Utoro Shirietoku]. You can easily enjoy a wide variety of meals.
5 min
4
Oronko Rock Observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
14:30
After lunch, please enjoy the spectacular drift ice views from the Oronko Rock Observatory. You can go there on foot or by car. It takes about 10 minutes if you walk.
However, the path leading up to the observatory is narrow and steep, so if you think it is dangerous due to accumulated snow, please skip this observatory and enjoy the drift ice near the next waterfall. Please put safety first.
10 min
5
Oshinkoshin Falls
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:30
This spectacular waterfall, located just next to the coastal main road heading toward Shiretoko, provides visitors a unique experience. After a short walk up some stairs, you can enjoy the waterfall in all of its glory. An observatory is located at the top of the falls and provides a view of the Sea of Okhotsk.
There is also a sidewalk on the opposite side of the road from the parking lot. From there you can enjoy the drift ice of the sea of Okhotsk.
10 min
6
Shiretoko
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
On this day you will stay at a hotel in Shiretoko following yesterday. Please spend a relaxing time in Shiretoko, a World Heritage site.
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!
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 an 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:185km
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 185km, 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.
100 min
2
Lake Kussharo Sunayu
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
10:40
Your first destination of the day is [Lake Kussharo Sunayu]. This is a popular destination for photographers due to the abundance of swans and the stunning backdrop. Sunayu on the shores of Lake Kussharo is a natural hot spring. Therefore, the center of the lake is covered with ice in winter, but the lakeside is not frozen and becomes an open-air bath for swans. There is also a footbath here, so you can relax while watching the swans from the footbath.
20 min
3
Mt.Iou
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:00
Next, you will head to [Mt.Iou]. It is an active volcano covered in solidified lava and emits a great deal of smoke.
20 min
4
Teshikaga Ramen Main branch (Lunch)
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
13:30
For lunch on this day, Teshikaga Ramen Main branch is recommended. Ramen is perfect for lunch on a cold winter trip.
We recommend trying the Seafood soy sauce(魚介たまり醤油) Ramen and Miso(味噌) ramen.
20 min
5
Lake Mashu
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
14:30
After enjoying lunch, you will head to [Lake Mashu]. The north side of Route 52 is closed in winter, so you will head to Lake Mashu No. 1 Observatory from the south side. Lake Mashu is famous as a beautiful lake with highly transparent water. Especially from the end of January to around February 20th every year, Lake Mashu is in the freezing season. It is especially beautiful to see the frozen ice in progress. The sapphire blue surface of the lake shines with the white frozen ice.
90 min
6
Inn in Lake Akan
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
17:00
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 or Tomamu (帯広/トマム)
Mileage:
To Obihiro: 200km
To Tomamu: 250km
Travel Pace:Fast
On this day you will head from Lake Akan to Obihiro or Tomamu.
1
Lake Akan
Parking MAPCODE:
9:00
The mileage is long and about 195km to Obihiro or 245km to Tomamu. Depending on the weather in Hokkaido in winter, road conditions can deteriorate, and road regulations may be tightened. Please be careful when driving.
Before checking out of the hotel, it is recommended to enjoy the natural phenomenon of the frigid Lake Akan. You may be able to see Frost Flowers, Diamond Dust, Kearashi (Frost smoke), etc. if the weather conditions are good in the early morning.
60 min
2
Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
10:00
Next, you will head to [Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary]. You can see red-crowned cranes here. Winter here is a photographer’s paradise. During the feeding season from November to March, photographers gather along the fence to capture the beauty of the red-crowned cranes in the viewfinder. Here you will find the scenery that symbolizes Hokkaido in winter.
30 min
3
Kushiro Marsh Observatory
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
12:00
After seeing the red-crowned cranes, you head to the [Kushiro Marsh Observatory]. This is a representative base where you can see, learn about, and explore the Kushiro Marsh. From the observation room on the 3rd floor and the rooftop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wetlands, the city of Kushiro, and the mountains of Akan.
120min
4
Ikeda Wine Castle
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
15:00
Next, you will head to “Ikeda Wine Castle” via Expressway (E38). This is the most famous winery in Hokkaido, and you can see the inside of a brewery that imitates a castle in medieval Europe.
0:40
5
Obihiro
Parking MAPCODE:
Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?
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. In particular, Obihiro is famous for pork rice bowls as a local gourmet. Please try it.
17:00
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!
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 an Onsen. 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/Chitose Airport🔒
Start: Obihiro (帯広)
Finish: Sapporo or New Chitose Airport (札幌or千歳)
Mileage:
To Sapporo: 210km
To Chitose Airport: 170km
Travel Pace: Fast
On this day, you will head from Furano to New Chitose Airport or Sapporo.
1
Inn in Obihiro
Parking MAPCODE:
10:00
The mileage is about 170-210km. Depending on your fright schedule, Please adjust the time for snow activities for this day.
80 min
2
Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU
Parking MAPCODE:
🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?
11:20
On this day, please enjoy some light snow activities at Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU. Firstly, please take the gondola from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain and enjoy Muhyo (rime) Terrace. This place becomes Unkai (sea of clouds) Terrace in the summer. You can experience the superb view of Tomamu in winter. Enjoy the snow-covered trees and the majestic view of the snowy mountains.
You can also enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVksREPIKKk
If you want to enjoy more snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding in Tomamu, we recommend staying another night in Tomamu.
120min
3
Rental car branch at Sapporo or New Chitose Airport
Parking MAPCODE:
Please refer driving mapWhat is MAPCODE?
16:30
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.
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 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.
Unlock MAPCODE & Maps
We provide “Travel Kit” to make your journey much more attractive.
- Get “Hidden Gems” info along this itinerary
- Maximize travel time by parking MAPCODE for all spots
- Discover local delicacies with Restaurants List
Car Booking
Rental Car Booking
Please rent a car with below “Rentalcars.com” link.
- The abundant number of rental cars
- Price comparisons with several major car rental companies
- Free cancellation
Pick-up & Drop-off Location Guide
- New Chitose Airport
The main international airport in Hokkaido. Recommended for Pick-up.
If you arrive after 14:00, consider staying overnight around the airport or in Sapporo and departing the next morning.
It takes 1 hour to Sapporo station by train. - Sapporo City
The capital and biggest city in Hokkaido. Most car rental shops are located around Sapporo Station.
Important reminder for renting a car
- GPS(Car Navigation System)
MAPCODE from Drive Japan navigates you precisely to the parking lot. GPS from major car rental companies(Nippon, ORIX, Nissan, Times) are always MAPCODE compatible. However, if you are renting a car from another company, we recommend that you check with the rental company after making a reservation, just to be sure. - One-way Rental
You can rent at New Chitose Airport and return at Sapporo Station, and vice versa. Normally, the one-way charge is about JPY2000 only. - Child Seat
In Japan, the use of a child safety seat or baby seat is mandatory for children under 5 years old.
Be sure to request one from “Extras”. - Snow Tire
If you travel from the beginning of November to the end of April, you must book a car with snow tires. It should be installed without requests from rental car companies in Hokkaido, but if you are concerned, you can double-check with them after making a reservation.