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【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）

Asahikawa / Biei / Furano / Abashiri / Shiretoko / Lake Akan / Kushiro city - with private car & expert guide

This journey explores eastern Hokkaido at its most primal— where untouched wilderness, wildlife, lakes, and wetlands define the rhythm of life. From the dramatic landscapes of Shiretoko to the spiritual forests of Akan and the vast Kushiro Marshlands, travelers connect deeply with nature, indigenous culture, and seasonal change, experiencing Japan at its wildest and most authentic.

  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）

Seasonal Hightlights

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Wildlife awakening in Shiretoko, ice melt at Lake Akan, fresh greenery in Kushiro Wetlands.
  • Summer (Jul–Aug): Blue seas and whale watching in Shiretoko, canoeing in Akan, cool sunsets in Kushiro.
  • Autumn (Sep–Oct): Salmon run and foliage in Shiretoko, vibrant lakeside colors in Akan, golden wetlands with cranes in Kushiro.
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Drift ice adventures in Shiretoko, ice festival and fishing on Lake Akan, red-crowned cranes in snowy Kushiro.

Travel Itinerary

DAY City／Area Highlight Details & Experiences Accomodation Style Photo
DAY1 Tokyo →
Asahikawa Airport
(1h45 flight) →
Asahikawa City
(30min) →
Asahidake Onsen(1h)		 Arrive in Asahikawa, gateway to northern Hokkaido. Enjoy local ramen, explore Ueno Farm’s artistic gardens, and meet wildlife at Asahiyama Zoo before settling into a mountain inn near Asahidake.
  • Ramen Village – A collection of famous Asahikawa ramen shops under one roof, perfect for sampling different broths and noodles unique to the region.
  • Ueno Farm – Stroll through an English-style garden harmonized with Hokkaido nature.
  • Asahiyama Zoo – Observe polar bears, penguins, and unique wildlife.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch: Asahikawa ramen / Dinner:Seasonal Japanese cuisine at your inn.
 Upscale Japanese inn at Asahidake area Tokyo →<br> Asahikawa Airport<br> (1h45 flight) →<br> Asahikawa City<br> (30min) →<br> Asahidake Onsen(1h)
DAY2 Asahidake area →
Asahidake Ropeway →
Biei (1h30) →
Furano (30min)		 Enjoy an alpine walk on Mt. Asahidake, where clean air, summer wildflowers, and autumn foliage invite you to experience nature with all your senses. Continue to Biei and Furano for rolling hills and flower fields.
  • Asahidake Nature Walk –Ride the ropeway up Hokkaido’s highest peak to stroll along easy boardwalks surrounded by steaming fumaroles, alpine meadows, and clear ponds. In summer, delicate wildflowers bloom; in autumn, the slopes are ablaze with brilliant reds and golds, creating one of Japan’s most spectacular highland landscapes.
  • Biei Patchwork Hills – Scenic farm landscapes painted with seasonal colors.
  • Blue Pond – Brilliant cobalt-blue waters framed by birches.
  • Farm Tomita – Lavender & seasonal flower fields.
  • Optional:Winery tour and tasting.
    • Optional:
    Cheese-making at Furano Cheese Factory.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine made with fresh local produce, Furano cheese, and Hokkaido wine from nearby vineyards.
 Upscale Japanese inn at Asahidake area Asahidake area →<br> Asahidake Ropeway →<br> Biei (1h30) →<br> Furano (30min)
DAY3 Asahidake → Sounkyo
(1h30) →
Engaru (1h30) →
Abashiri (1h30)		 Travel east, visiting Sounkyo Gorge and enjoying forest adventures in Engaru before reaching a lakeside resort in Abashiri.
  • Sounkyo Gorge – Walk to Ginga & Ryusei waterfalls.
  • Optional:
    Kurodake Ropeway for Daisetsuzan views.
  • Engaru Adventure Park – Tree Top Walk, zipline, and local crafts.
  • Optional:
    Saroma sunset cruise
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy the flavors of the Okhotsk Sea — fresh crab, scallops, and salmon roe, as well as local dairy products from Hokkaido’s northern farms.
 Upscale lakeside resort in Abashiri Asahidake → Sounkyo<br> (1h30) →<br> Engaru (1h30) →<br> Abashiri (1h30)
DAY4 Abashiri →
(optional: Lake Notoro /
Saroma Lake) →
Koshimizu Genseikaen →
Shiretoko Utoro
(2.5–3h)		 Enjoy Abashiri’s cultural sights before driving along the Okhotsk coast to Shiretoko. Pause at wetlands and wildflower reserves, then relax at a hot-spring resort overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk..
  • Abashiri Prison Museum – Insight into local history.
  • Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum – Learn about sea ice ecology.
  • Optional:
    Lake Notoro – Seasonal coral grass walk.
  • Optional:
    Saroma Lake – Scallop/oyster tasting.
  • Koshimizu Genseikaen – Wildflowers with sea views.
  • Scenic drive along the Okhotsk coast to Utoro.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy Shiretoko’s bounty from both sea and land — fresh seafood such as salmon, trout, and crab, complemented by mountain vegetables and dairy from local farms.
 Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood Abashiri →<br> (optional: Lake Notoro /<br> Saroma Lake) →<br> Koshimizu Genseikaen →<br> Shiretoko Utoro<br> (2.5–3h)
DAY5 Shiretoko Utoro →
Shiretoko Goko Lakes →
Utoro Port → hotel		 Spend a full day exploring the Shiretoko World Heritage area. Walk among serene forest paths around the Five Lakes, take a scenic cruise along the peninsula’s rugged cliffs, and savor the untouched beauty of Hokkaido’s eastern wilderness.
  • Shiretoko Five Lakes – Guided walk,stroll along elevated boardwalks and forest trails; enjoy mirrored lake views framed by mountains. (short/long full course).
  • Shiretoko Sightseeing Cruise – Sail along towering cliffs and waterfalls, watching for brown bears, seabirds, and marine wildlife.
  • Optional:
    Cape long cruise to peninsula tip.
  • Optional:
    Short walk to Oshinkoshin or Furepe Waterfalls.
 Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Shiretoko Goko Lakes →<br> Utoro Port → hotel
DAY6 Shiretoko Utoro →
Shiretoko Pass
(40 min by car) →
Utoro Port (for cruise) →
hotel		 Enjoy a second day in Shiretoko, venturing to scenic passes and the open sea. Take in sweeping views from Shiretoko Pass, then head out on a whale-watching adventure for a chance to see orcas, dolphins, and other marine life.
  • Shiretoko Pass – Panoramic views of Rausu & Okhotsk.
  • Whale Watching Cruise – Spot whales, dolphins, orcas.
  • Optional:
    Kamuiwakka Hot Falls – Hot-spring waterfall (summer only).
  • :Extended Shiretoko Cape Cruise (half-day)
  • :Canoeing on Shiretoko River or Rausu side
  • :Wildlife safari to spot brown bears and deer
 Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Shiretoko Pass<br> (40 min by car) →<br> Utoro Port (for cruise) →<br> hotel
DAY7 Shiretoko Utoro →
Rausu (1h) →
Shibetsu or Rausu rivers
(seasonal stop) →
Lake Kussharo & Sunayu
(1.5h) →
Lake Mashu (40 min) →
Lake Akan (1h30)		 Leave Shiretoko and journey south through the varied landscapes of eastern Hokkaido. See salmon run (seasonal),Stop at scenic waterfalls and rustic wetlands before reaching the tranquil shores of Lake Akan, famous for marimo moss balls and rich Ainu culture.
  • Rausu Drive – Scenic coastal route with Kunashiri views.
  • Mt. Iou – Steaming sulfur vents.
  • Lake Kussharo Sunayu – Natural lakeside hot springs.
  • Lake Mashu Observatory – Famous clear blue caldera lake.
  • Evening:
    Kamuy Lumina – Forest walk with Ainu legends & light art.
  • Optional:
    Salmon run viewing (seasonal, Rausu/Shibetsu rivers).
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy regional dishes featuring lake fish such as marimo trout and smelt, along with venison and wild plants from the surrounding forests.
 Upscale resort on Lake Akan Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Rausu (1h) →<br> Shibetsu or Rausu rivers<br> (seasonal stop) →<br> Lake Kussharo & Sunayu<br> (1.5h) →<br> Lake Mashu (40 min) →<br> Lake Akan (1h30)
DAY8 Lake Akan Relax at Lake Akan. Walk forested trails, see marimo moss balls, and explore Ainu culture. Weather-dependent.
  • Lakeside Nature Walk – Boardwalks with mountain views.
  • Marimo Exhibition Center – Learn about rare algae.
  • Ainu Kotan – Traditional crafts and cultural shows.
  • Optional:
    Bokke Trail – Geothermal vents forest walk (1h).
  • Optional:
    Mt. Shirayudake Hike – Moderate ascent with lake panorama (2–3h).
  • Optional:
    Marimo Eco Walk – Observe birds and forest wildlife (1.5h).
  • Optional:
    Canoeing or cycling around the lake.
 Upscale resort on Lake Akan Lake Akan
DAY9 Lake Akan →
Kushiro Wetlands
(various spots) →
Lake Akan
(Drive 約1h30〜2h each way)		 Day trip to Kushiro Wetlands: Japan’s largest wetland, a vast marshland home to rare wildlife including the iconic red-crowned crane.cSeasonal canoe tours, scenic trains, and observatories allow visitors to experience the untouched beauty of this unique ecosystem. All activities weather-dependent and arranged by preference.
  • Canoe Tour – Paddle through wetlands, spot cranes, foxes, deer.
  • Norokko Train – Scenic ride across marshlands.
  • Hosooka Observatory – Iconic panoramic view.
  • Wetland Center – Learn ecosystem and wildlife.
  • Optional: Eco-walk / Tancho Crane Center.
 Upscale resort on Lake Akan Lake Akan →<br> Kushiro Wetlands<br> (various spots) →<br> Lake Akan<br> (Drive 約1h30〜2h each way)
DAY10 Lake Akan →
Kushiro City
(1h30) →
Kushiro Airport
(30min)		 Conclude your Hokkaido adventure with a relaxing drive from Lake Akan to Kushiro. Enjoy local seafood and browse the city’s lively market before heading to Kushiro Airport for your flight.
  • Washo Market – Try Katte-don seafood bowl.
  • Optional:
    Nusamai Bridge or Fisherman’s Wharf stroll.
  • Culinary note:
    Explore Kushiro’s Washo Market and try a katte-don seafood bowl, or enjoy freshly grilled seafood in the city’s famous robatayaki style.
 − Lake Akan →<br> Kushiro City<br> (1h30) →<br> Kushiro Airport<br> (30min)

Travel Itinerary

DAY1

City / Area
Tokyo →
Asahikawa Airport
(1h45 flight) →
Asahikawa City
(30min) →
Asahidake Onsen(1h)
Highlight
Arrive in Asahikawa, gateway to northern Hokkaido. Enjoy local ramen, explore Ueno Farm’s artistic gardens, and meet wildlife at Asahiyama Zoo before settling into a mountain inn near Asahidake.
Details & Experiences
  • Ramen Village – A collection of famous Asahikawa ramen shops under one roof, perfect for sampling different broths and noodles unique to the region.
  • Ueno Farm – Stroll through an English-style garden harmonized with Hokkaido nature.
  • Asahiyama Zoo – Observe polar bears, penguins, and unique wildlife.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch: Asahikawa ramen / Dinner:Seasonal Japanese cuisine at your inn.
Accomodation Style
Upscale Japanese inn at Asahidake area
Photo
Tokyo →<br> Asahikawa Airport<br> (1h45 flight) →<br> Asahikawa City<br> (30min) →<br> Asahidake Onsen(1h)

DAY2

City / Area
Asahidake area →
Asahidake Ropeway →
Biei (1h30) →
Furano (30min)
Highlight
Enjoy an alpine walk on Mt. Asahidake, where clean air, summer wildflowers, and autumn foliage invite you to experience nature with all your senses. Continue to Biei and Furano for rolling hills and flower fields.
Details & Experiences
  • Asahidake Nature Walk –Ride the ropeway up Hokkaido’s highest peak to stroll along easy boardwalks surrounded by steaming fumaroles, alpine meadows, and clear ponds. In summer, delicate wildflowers bloom; in autumn, the slopes are ablaze with brilliant reds and golds, creating one of Japan’s most spectacular highland landscapes.
  • Biei Patchwork Hills – Scenic farm landscapes painted with seasonal colors.
  • Blue Pond – Brilliant cobalt-blue waters framed by birches.
  • Farm Tomita – Lavender & seasonal flower fields.
  • Optional:Winery tour and tasting.
    • Optional:
    Cheese-making at Furano Cheese Factory.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine made with fresh local produce, Furano cheese, and Hokkaido wine from nearby vineyards.
Accomodation Style
Upscale Japanese inn at Asahidake area
Photo
Asahidake area →<br> Asahidake Ropeway →<br> Biei (1h30) →<br> Furano (30min)

DAY3

City / Area
Asahidake → Sounkyo
(1h30) →
Engaru (1h30) →
Abashiri (1h30)
Highlight
Travel east, visiting Sounkyo Gorge and enjoying forest adventures in Engaru before reaching a lakeside resort in Abashiri.
Details & Experiences
  • Sounkyo Gorge – Walk to Ginga & Ryusei waterfalls.
  • Optional:
    Kurodake Ropeway for Daisetsuzan views.
  • Engaru Adventure Park – Tree Top Walk, zipline, and local crafts.
  • Optional:
    Saroma sunset cruise
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy the flavors of the Okhotsk Sea — fresh crab, scallops, and salmon roe, as well as local dairy products from Hokkaido’s northern farms.
Accomodation Style
Upscale lakeside resort in Abashiri
Photo
Asahidake → Sounkyo<br> (1h30) →<br> Engaru (1h30) →<br> Abashiri (1h30)

DAY4

City / Area
Abashiri →
(optional: Lake Notoro /
Saroma Lake) →
Koshimizu Genseikaen →
Shiretoko Utoro
(2.5–3h)
Highlight
Enjoy Abashiri’s cultural sights before driving along the Okhotsk coast to Shiretoko. Pause at wetlands and wildflower reserves, then relax at a hot-spring resort overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk..
Details & Experiences
  • Abashiri Prison Museum – Insight into local history.
  • Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum – Learn about sea ice ecology.
  • Optional:
    Lake Notoro – Seasonal coral grass walk.
  • Optional:
    Saroma Lake – Scallop/oyster tasting.
  • Koshimizu Genseikaen – Wildflowers with sea views.
  • Scenic drive along the Okhotsk coast to Utoro.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy Shiretoko’s bounty from both sea and land — fresh seafood such as salmon, trout, and crab, complemented by mountain vegetables and dairy from local farms.
Accomodation Style
Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood
Photo
Abashiri →<br> (optional: Lake Notoro /<br> Saroma Lake) →<br> Koshimizu Genseikaen →<br> Shiretoko Utoro<br> (2.5–3h)

DAY5

City / Area
Shiretoko Utoro →
Shiretoko Goko Lakes →
Utoro Port → hotel
Highlight
Spend a full day exploring the Shiretoko World Heritage area. Walk among serene forest paths around the Five Lakes, take a scenic cruise along the peninsula’s rugged cliffs, and savor the untouched beauty of Hokkaido’s eastern wilderness.
Details & Experiences
  • Shiretoko Five Lakes – Guided walk,stroll along elevated boardwalks and forest trails; enjoy mirrored lake views framed by mountains. (short/long full course).
  • Shiretoko Sightseeing Cruise – Sail along towering cliffs and waterfalls, watching for brown bears, seabirds, and marine wildlife.
  • Optional:
    Cape long cruise to peninsula tip.
  • Optional:
    Short walk to Oshinkoshin or Furepe Waterfalls.
Accomodation Style
Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood
Photo
Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Shiretoko Goko Lakes →<br> Utoro Port → hotel

DAY6

City / Area
Shiretoko Utoro →
Shiretoko Pass
(40 min by car) →
Utoro Port (for cruise) →
hotel
Highlight
Enjoy a second day in Shiretoko, venturing to scenic passes and the open sea. Take in sweeping views from Shiretoko Pass, then head out on a whale-watching adventure for a chance to see orcas, dolphins, and other marine life.
Details & Experiences
  • Shiretoko Pass – Panoramic views of Rausu & Okhotsk.
  • Whale Watching Cruise – Spot whales, dolphins, orcas.
  • Optional:
    Kamuiwakka Hot Falls – Hot-spring waterfall (summer only).
  • :Extended Shiretoko Cape Cruise (half-day)
  • :Canoeing on Shiretoko River or Rausu side
  • :Wildlife safari to spot brown bears and deer
Accomodation Style
Upscale hot-spring resort in Shiretoko Utoro with ocean views and fresh seasonal seafood
Photo
Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Shiretoko Pass<br> (40 min by car) →<br> Utoro Port (for cruise) →<br> hotel

DAY7

City / Area
Shiretoko Utoro →
Rausu (1h) →
Shibetsu or Rausu rivers
(seasonal stop) →
Lake Kussharo & Sunayu
(1.5h) →
Lake Mashu (40 min) →
Lake Akan (1h30)
Highlight
Leave Shiretoko and journey south through the varied landscapes of eastern Hokkaido. See salmon run (seasonal),Stop at scenic waterfalls and rustic wetlands before reaching the tranquil shores of Lake Akan, famous for marimo moss balls and rich Ainu culture.
Details & Experiences
  • Rausu Drive – Scenic coastal route with Kunashiri views.
  • Mt. Iou – Steaming sulfur vents.
  • Lake Kussharo Sunayu – Natural lakeside hot springs.
  • Lake Mashu Observatory – Famous clear blue caldera lake.
  • Evening:
    Kamuy Lumina – Forest walk with Ainu legends & light art.
  • Optional:
    Salmon run viewing (seasonal, Rausu/Shibetsu rivers).
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy regional dishes featuring lake fish such as marimo trout and smelt, along with venison and wild plants from the surrounding forests.
Accomodation Style
Upscale resort on Lake Akan
Photo
Shiretoko Utoro →<br> Rausu (1h) →<br> Shibetsu or Rausu rivers<br> (seasonal stop) →<br> Lake Kussharo & Sunayu<br> (1.5h) →<br> Lake Mashu (40 min) →<br> Lake Akan (1h30)

DAY8

City / Area
Lake Akan
Highlight
Relax at Lake Akan. Walk forested trails, see marimo moss balls, and explore Ainu culture. Weather-dependent.
Details & Experiences
  • Lakeside Nature Walk – Boardwalks with mountain views.
  • Marimo Exhibition Center – Learn about rare algae.
  • Ainu Kotan – Traditional crafts and cultural shows.
  • Optional:
    Bokke Trail – Geothermal vents forest walk (1h).
  • Optional:
    Mt. Shirayudake Hike – Moderate ascent with lake panorama (2–3h).
  • Optional:
    Marimo Eco Walk – Observe birds and forest wildlife (1.5h).
  • Optional:
    Canoeing or cycling around the lake.
Accomodation Style
Upscale resort on Lake Akan
Photo
Lake Akan

DAY9

City / Area
Lake Akan →
Kushiro Wetlands
(various spots) →
Lake Akan
(Drive 約1h30〜2h each way)
Highlight
Day trip to Kushiro Wetlands: Japan’s largest wetland, a vast marshland home to rare wildlife including the iconic red-crowned crane.cSeasonal canoe tours, scenic trains, and observatories allow visitors to experience the untouched beauty of this unique ecosystem. All activities weather-dependent and arranged by preference.
Details & Experiences
  • Canoe Tour – Paddle through wetlands, spot cranes, foxes, deer.
  • Norokko Train – Scenic ride across marshlands.
  • Hosooka Observatory – Iconic panoramic view.
  • Wetland Center – Learn ecosystem and wildlife.
  • Optional: Eco-walk / Tancho Crane Center.
Accomodation Style
Upscale resort on Lake Akan
Photo
Lake Akan →<br> Kushiro Wetlands<br> (various spots) →<br> Lake Akan<br> (Drive 約1h30〜2h each way)

DAY10

City / Area
Lake Akan →
Kushiro City
(1h30) →
Kushiro Airport
(30min)
Highlight
Conclude your Hokkaido adventure with a relaxing drive from Lake Akan to Kushiro. Enjoy local seafood and browse the city’s lively market before heading to Kushiro Airport for your flight.
Details & Experiences
  • Washo Market – Try Katte-don seafood bowl.
  • Optional:
    Nusamai Bridge or Fisherman’s Wharf stroll.
  • Culinary note:
    Explore Kushiro’s Washo Market and try a katte-don seafood bowl, or enjoy freshly grilled seafood in the city’s famous robatayaki style.
Accomodation Style
−
Photo
Lake Akan →<br> Kushiro City<br> (1h30) →<br> Kushiro Airport<br> (30min)

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  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）
  • 【Timeless Hokkaido】Savor Untouched Nature with All Your Senses（10 Days / 9 Nights）

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