Autumn Colors & Hot Spring(Sep-Oct)
Experience the rich colors and flavors of Hokkaido through its mountains, hot springs, and charming towns
Embrace the Season of Colors and Comfort in Hokkaido’s Autumn Landscape. As the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the hills in gold and crimson, find yourself immersed in the quiet beauty and warmth of Hokkaido.
Starting from New Chitose Airport, drive north to Asahikawa, Hokkaido’s second-largest city. Enjoy a bowl of local ramen at the famous Ramen Village, then visit a sake brewery to taste Japan’s iconic rice wine — a perfect way to begin your Hokkaido adventure.
The next day, head toward Sounkyo Gorge, one of Hokkaido’s most spectacular spots for autumn leaves. Here, the twin waterfalls — Ginga-no-Taki and Ryusei-no-Taki — cascade dramatically down the cliffs. Nearby Mt. Asahidake, the highest peak in Hokkaido, offers panoramic mountain views blanketed in fall colors. Continue to Biei, where the Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall create an unforgettable contrast against the golden foliage.
On Day 3, drive through Furano, famous for its wide open landscapes and local produce. Visit Farm Tomita, cheese and jam factories, and Furano Marche, where you can sample lavender ice cream and shop for seasonal fruits and sweets. The scenic drive to Noboribetsu, one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, offers endless views of autumn leaves glowing in red and gold. End the day relaxing in a hot spring surrounded by nature.
In Noboribetsu, explore the historical theme park Date Jidaimura, where you can step back into Japan’s samurai era, then visit Hell Valley (Jigokudani) — a dramatic volcanic landscape of steam vents and bubbling pools. Continue south to Lake Toya, stopping by Mt. Usu and Showashinzan, both active volcanoes offering spectacular views. Don’t miss a taste of local mushroom miso soup, a comforting seasonal specialty.
Next, travel to Otaru, a picturesque port town known for its nostalgic canal, charming glass workshops, and music box museum. Savor fresh sushi on Otaru Sushi Street before heading to Sapporo, Hokkaido’s lively capital.
Visiting Jozankei Onsen, located in the suburbs of Sapporo, is also a great option. It is a famous spot for autumn leaves, and a fall stroll there is sure to be a wonderful experience.
On the last day, return to New Chitose Airport, with time for last-minute shopping at the airport or nearby outlet mall. From golden leaves to warm onsen baths and Hokkaido’s seasonal cuisine, this journey captures the very best of autumn in Japan’s northern island.
Itinerary:
Touch down at New Chitose and drive more than 2 hours to Asahikawa, 2nd biggest city in Hokkaido. If you are hungry, Ramen at Ramen village is good for lunch. Asahikawa is famous for Japanese sake. So why don’t you visit Sake factory and taste?
Overnight in Asahikawa
First drive to Sounkyo – very beautiful autumn leaves spot there. See twin waterfalls called “Ginga-no-Taki” & “Ryusei-no-Taki”. Mt. Asahidake is also good to visit to enjoy autumn leaves. Then go to Biei, stopover at Aoi-ike, blue pond and Shirahige waterfalls for viewing more autumn leaves.
Overnight in Shirogane

Today you go to Furano first. Farm Tomita, cheese factory, jam garden and Furano marche are on the list to visit. Taste lavender ice cream, buy Hokkaido vegetable and milk products and have a break at sweets cafe. After Furano, 3 hours drive to Noboribetsu. It will be breathtaking autumn leaves drive. Today you stay famous onesn resort town, Noboribetsu.
Overnight in Noboribetsu

In Noboribetsu area enjoy and learn Japanese old culture at Date Jidaimura (Ninja village) and visit Hell Valley. Then drive to two volcanoes area Mt. Usu and Showashinzan. You can enjoy great view of Lake Toya from top of the mountain. On the way to Otaru, autumn leaves are very beautiful. Recommend to taste a mushroom miso soup this area.
Overnight in Otaru
In Otaru, old canal, Glass factory and Music box museum are on the list to visit. Do not miss to eat Sushi at Otaru Sushi street. You can visit Jozankei,famous autumn leaves area, on the way to Sapporo. A walk to enjoy the autumn leaves is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
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.