Nature, Wildlife, and Scenic Wonders
Embark on a 6-day Hokkaido adventure designed for travelers who love active experiences and encounters with nature
Start in Asahikawa, visiting the renowned Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its innovative enclosures that allow up-close observation of animals. From playful penguins to curious polar bears, it’s a perfect introduction to Hokkaido’s wildlife. Then drive to Sounkyo, a dramatic gorge along the Ishikari River, and witness the breathtaking Ginga and Ryusei waterfalls. Spend the night at a mountain onsen resort, soaking in hot springs amid serene natural surroundings.
On day two, take a cable car ride for panoramic views of Mt. Daisetsu and the Sounkyo gorges before heading to Abashiri. Here, experience the unique Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum and learn about the region’s history at the Abashiri Prison Museum. Witnessing the icy drift on the Sea of Okhotsk is a rare and unforgettable natural phenomenon.
Travel to Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Explore the pristine Shiretoko Five Lakes, walk along scenic trails, and keep your eyes open for wild deer and brown bears. For a truly immersive experience, take a cruise along Shiretoko’s rugged coastline and admire waterfalls plunging into the sea. This is Hokkaido at its most untamed and spectacular.
Next, journey south to Lake Akan and Kushiro, stopping at volcanic landscapes including Lake Mashu, Lake Kussharo, and Mt. Io. At Lake Akan, a sightseeing cruise to the Marimo Observation Center offers a close look at these rare green algae balls. In Kushiro, sample fresh seafood at the famous Washo Market, a highlight for food lovers.
Drive to Sapporo, Hokkaido’s largest city, stopping along the way at Ikeda Wine Castle and Ryugetsu Sweetpia Garden. In Sapporo, explore the Ishiya Chocolate Factory, Odori Park, and the Former Hokkaido Government Office, while enjoying local specialties such as Sapporo ramen, Genghis Khan BBQ, and soup curry.
Itinerary:
Arrive at Asahikawa airport and head for Asahiyama zoo – one of the most famous zoo in Japan. Then drive to Sounkyo – gorges stretching for 24 kms along the Ishikari River. See waterfalls called “Ginga-no-Taki” and “Ryusei-no-Taki”. Stay overnight this mountain onsen resort.
Overnight in Sounkyo
After breakfast take a ropeway ride for gorgeous view of Mt. Taisetsu and Sounkyo gorges. Then drive to Abashiri. It takes 2.5 hours drive. At Abashiri experience drift ice at Okhotsk Drift Ice museum and visit Abashiri Prison museum.
Overnight in Abashiri

Drive to the world natural heritage site, Shiretoko, today. Stopover at Oshinkoshin waterfall and arrive at Utoro – the center of Shiretoko. Enjoy the natural wonders especially the Five Lakes and National Park. May be able to see wild bears and deer here from the canopy. And how about taking a cruise boat?
Overnight in Utoro

After breakfast drive down to Lake Akan today. Sightseeing spots will be the Lake Kussharo, Mt.Iou-zan, Lake Mashu etc. Enjoy great view and scenic drive you have expected in Hokkaido. At lake Akan, sightseeing cruise boat for Marimo Observation Center available. Tonight you stay at Kushiro city
Overnight in Kushiro

First visit famous seafood market-Washo market today. Then 3.5 hours drive by express way take you to Sapporo, the biggest city of Hokkaido. Along the way stopover at the Ikeda Wine castle and the Ryugetsu sweets factory. After check in the hotel in Sapporo, visit the famous Ishiya Chocolate factory, the Old Government house of Hokkaido and Odori Park.
Overnight in Sapporo
Head for New Chitose airport. It takes almost one hour. If you have a time, visiting Sapporo central market is good idea. New Chitose airport is a kind of Hokkaido show case. Do not forget to buy Hokkaido products and souvenirs in last minutes.