Travel site for foreigners visiting Japan Lumina Travel

【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days

Sapporo / Otaru / Yoichi / Shakotan / Niseko / Lake Toya / Noboribetsu / Upopoy (Shiraoi) / Lake Shikotsu - With Private Vehicle & English-Speaking Guide

Begin with Sapporo’s refined urban culture, explore Otaru and Yoichi’s history and gastronomy, marvel at the cobalt-blue seas of Shakotan, unwind in Niseko’s luxury resorts, and embrace the natural beauty and hot springs of Lake Toya and Noboribetsu – a journey into the many unique charms of Hokkaido. Private guide & car throughout the journey

  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days

Seasonal Hightlights

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms in Sapporo & Otaru, fresh greenery in Niseko, ideal for lake strolls.
  • Summer: Shakotan Blue and Blue Cave cruise, peak sea urchin season, rafting & outdoor adventures.
  • Autumn: Brilliant foliage in Niseko, Lake Tōya, and Shikotsu; wine & fruit harvest season.
  • Winter : World-class skiing in Niseko, Sapporo Snow Festival, and snowy hot spring experiences.

Travel Itinerary

DAY City/Area Highlight Details & Experiences Accomodation Style Photo
DAY1 New Chitose Airport →
Sapporo City(1h)
by private car
Local transfers between sight
(10–20min each).
Arrive in Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital that blends modern sophistication with a relaxed northern charm. Today offers a gentle introduction with iconic city sights and a taste of local flavors, setting the stage for your journey through western Hokkaido.
  • Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium – Panoramic city views at the 1972 Winter Olympics venue.
  • Hokkaido Shrine – Serene Shinto grounds within Maruyama Park, offering cultural insight.
  • Odori Park & Sapporo Clock Tower – Historic landmarks and green axis through the city.
  • Optional:- Sapporo Beer Museum & tasting
  • -Evening gourmet tour in Susukino.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch : soup curry, Sapporo Miso Ramen or jingisukan
  • Dinner : sushi or seafood kaiseki in Susukino
Sapporo:Upscale city hotel in (5-star or luxury boutique) New Chitose Airport →<br>
Sapporo City(1h)<br>
by private car<br>
Local transfers between sight<br>
(10–20min each).
DAY2 Sapporo →
Otaru(1h)
Otaru →
Yoichi(30min)
Local transfers
in Yoichi(5–15min).
Discover Otaru’s romantic canal and artisan heritage, then continue to Yoichi for whisky and wine. End the day with a gourmet dinner and stay at a refined auberge amid vineyards or by the coast.
  • Otaru Canal – Picturesque waterway lined with historic stone warehouses and gas lamps.
  • Glass Workshops & Music Box Museum – Hands-on visit to Otaru’s artisan culture.
  • Otaru Sushi Lunch – Premium counter experience with ultra-fresh seafood.
  • Yoichi Distillery (Nikka) – Guided tour of Japan’s iconic whisky distillery.
  • Wine & Fruit Farm – Taste Hokkaido wines and seasonal fruits; learn about local terroir.
  • Optional:
    - Glassblowing workshop
  • - Canal cruise
  • - Private whisky tasting of rare labels.
  • Culinary note:
    Otaru,Renowned for fresh seafood and sushi; enjoy crab, salmon roe, and canal-side dining.Yoich,Known for whisky, wine, and fresh local produce from sea and farms.i,
Yoichi:Upscale auberge or boutique inn (vineyard or seaside setting) Sapporo →<br>
Otaru(1h)<br>
Otaru →<br>
Yoichi(30min)<br>
Local transfers<br>
in Yoichi(5–15min).
DAY3 Yoichi →
Shakotan Peninsula (1h)
Sight transfers on
Shakotan
(10–25min each)
Shakotan →
Niseko
(2h scenic drive
via inland route).
Trace the dramatic coastline of the Shakotan Peninsula, renowned for glowing “Shakotan Blue” waters. Enter the mystical Blue Cave by cruise, savor celebrated uni, and transfer to Niseko for an alpine luxury stay.
  • Cape Kamui – A dramatic cape offering sweeping 270° ocean vistas over cobalt seas.
  • Blue Cave Cruise – Small-boat excursion into a luminous marine grotto (summer only; advance ).
  • Shimamui Coast – Hidden cove of turquoise water; one of Japan’s most beautiful seasides.
  • Seasonal Uni Lunch – Premium sea urchin at its best (peak May–Aug).
  • Scenic Drive to Niseko – Rolling farmland and vistas of Mt. Yotei, the “Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido.”
  • Optional:
    - Helicopter scenic flight over Shakotan & Mt. Yotei
  • -Snorkeling or diving
  • Notes:
    All outdoor sightseeing is weather-dependent
  • Culinary note:
    Famous for “Shakotan Blue” seas and fresh uni (sea urchin) in summer. Enjoy grilled seafood and ocean-view dining.
Niseko:Luxury alpine resort in Niseko (5-star resort or boutique retreat)- Onsen under the stars Yoichi →<br>
Shakotan Peninsula (1h)<br>
Sight transfers on<br>
Shakotan<br>
(10–25min each)<br>
Shakotan →<br>
Niseko<br>
(2h scenic drive<br>via inland route).
DAY4 Stay in Niseko
(no major transfers)
Tailored Activities Day
A full day to tailor experiences in Niseko. From guided hikes and cycling to wellness, craft, and gastronomy, every activity can be curated to match your interests and the season.
  • Hiking & Nature Walks – Guided treks on Mt. Yotei’s lower slopes, Annupuri scenic trails, or gentle valley walks (2h to full day).
  • Adventure Sports – Rafting on the Shiribetsu River, cycling; in winter, skiing or snowboarding.
  • Wellness – Private yoga session with mountain views; spa treatments; meditative experiences.
  • Cultural Encounters – Local cooking class; pottery or craft workshop with Hokkaido artisans.
  • Gastronomy Experience – Exclusive farm visits; seasonal foraging; curated wine & cheese tasting.
  • Local sake tasting at Niseko Shuzo / Distillery tour & tasting
  • Culinary note:
    okkaido’s gourmet hub, offering farm-to-table cuisine, fine dining with local wines, and seasonal cheese or vegetable dishes.
Niseko:Luxury alpine resort Stay in Niseko<br>
(no major transfers)<br>
Tailored Activities Day
DAY5 Niseko →
Volcanic Lake Tōya (1.5h)
Lake Tōya →
Noboribetsu (1h).
Discover the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Lake Tōya and Mount Usu, where earth’s raw power has shaped the scenery. After exploring caldera lakes, smoking craters, and sweeping views from the ropeway, continue to Noboribetsu, Japan’s most famous hot spring resort. End the day soaking in mineral-rich waters at a luxury ryokan
  • Lake Tōya – Serene caldera lake with views of Nakajima Island; ideal for a lakeside stroll.
  • Mt. Usu Ropeway – Ascend to smoking craters and panoramic views over Lake Tōya and Showa Shinzan.
  • Showa Shinzan – A lava dome born in 1943, still breathing with geothermal steam.
  • Lake Cruise (seasonal) – Appreciate the caldera scenery from the water.
  • Jigokudani – A dramatic valley of vents and bubbling springs revealing Hokkaido’s geothermal force.
  • Summer (May–Oct):
    nightly fireworks on Lake Tōya;
  • Optional:
    Chef’s volcano-themed dinner.
  • Mt. Usu – from hot spring–steamed eggs and vegetables to lava stone–grilled seafood and meat, a unique taste of Hokkaido’s volcanic heritage.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy local specialties such as fresh scallops from Uchiura Bay, seasonal uni (sea urchin, summer), grilled hokke (Atka mackerel), or Toya’s classic pork chop
Noboribetsu:Upscale hot spring ryokan Niseko →<br>
Volcanic Lake Tōya (1.5h)<br>
Lake Tōya →<br>
Noboribetsu (1h).
DAY6 Noboribetsu →
Upopoy / Shiraoi
(30min) Upopoy →
Lake Shikotsu (1.5h)
Lake Shikotsu →
Sapporo (1h).
Immerse yourself in Ainu culture at Upopoy through exhibitions, performances, and crafts. Continue to Lake Shikotsu, famed for crystal clarity and mountain scenery, before returning to Sapporo for your final night.
  • Upopoy (National Ainu Museum & Park) – Learn Ainu history and living culture via exhibits and live shows.
  • Ainu Craft & Cuisine – Optional embroidery, woodcarving, or tasting traditional dishes.
  • Lake Shikotsu – Clear caldera lake; lakeside stroll or short boat/glass-bottom ride.
  • Sapporo Evening – Time for shopping or a curated farewell dinner in the city.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch: local specialties in/near Upopoy (option for Ainu-inspired cuisine)
  • Dinner: fine dining in Sapporo (seafood kaiseki, fusion, or curated private dinner)
Sapporo:Upscale city hotel in (5-star or luxury boutique) Noboribetsu →<br>
Upopoy / Shiraoi<br>
(30min)
Upopoy →<br>
Lake Shikotsu (1.5h)<br>
Lake Shikotsu →<br>Sapporo (1h).
DAY7 Hotel in Sapporo →
New Chitose Airport
(1h by private car).
Spend your final morning at leisure in Sapporo—visit lively markets, shop for last-minute gifts, or relax at the hotel— before a smooth private transfer to New Chitose Airport.
  • Nijo Market or Central Wholesale Market – Taste fresh crab, uni, and shop for gourmet souvenirs.
  • Shopping – Tanukikoji arcade or department stores for quality crafts and sweets.
  • Hotel Leisure – Spa or lounge time before departure.
  • Notes: Activities are flexible depending on flight time.
- (Departure day) Hotel in Sapporo →<br>
New Chitose Airport<br>
(1h by private car).

Travel Itinerary

DAY1

City / Area
New Chitose Airport →
Sapporo City(1h)
by private car
Local transfers between sight
(10–20min each).
Highlight
Arrive in Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital that blends modern sophistication with a relaxed northern charm. Today offers a gentle introduction with iconic city sights and a taste of local flavors, setting the stage for your journey through western Hokkaido.
Details & Experiences
  • Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium – Panoramic city views at the 1972 Winter Olympics venue.
  • Hokkaido Shrine – Serene Shinto grounds within Maruyama Park, offering cultural insight.
  • Odori Park & Sapporo Clock Tower – Historic landmarks and green axis through the city.
  • Optional:- Sapporo Beer Museum & tasting
  • -Evening gourmet tour in Susukino.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch : soup curry, Sapporo Miso Ramen or jingisukan
  • Dinner : sushi or seafood kaiseki in Susukino
Accomodation Style
Sapporo:Upscale city hotel in (5-star or luxury boutique)
Photo
New Chitose Airport →<br>
Sapporo City(1h)<br>
by private car<br>
Local transfers between sight<br>
(10–20min each).

DAY2

City / Area
Sapporo →
Otaru(1h)
Otaru →
Yoichi(30min)
Local transfers
in Yoichi(5–15min).
Highlight
Discover Otaru’s romantic canal and artisan heritage, then continue to Yoichi for whisky and wine. End the day with a gourmet dinner and stay at a refined auberge amid vineyards or by the coast.
Details & Experiences
  • Otaru Canal – Picturesque waterway lined with historic stone warehouses and gas lamps.
  • Glass Workshops & Music Box Museum – Hands-on visit to Otaru’s artisan culture.
  • Otaru Sushi Lunch – Premium counter experience with ultra-fresh seafood.
  • Yoichi Distillery (Nikka) – Guided tour of Japan’s iconic whisky distillery.
  • Wine & Fruit Farm – Taste Hokkaido wines and seasonal fruits; learn about local terroir.
  • Optional:
    - Glassblowing workshop
  • - Canal cruise
  • - Private whisky tasting of rare labels.
  • Culinary note:
    Otaru,Renowned for fresh seafood and sushi; enjoy crab, salmon roe, and canal-side dining.Yoich,Known for whisky, wine, and fresh local produce from sea and farms.i,
Accomodation Style
Yoichi:Upscale auberge or boutique inn (vineyard or seaside setting)
Photo
Sapporo →<br>
Otaru(1h)<br>
Otaru →<br>
Yoichi(30min)<br>
Local transfers<br>
in Yoichi(5–15min).

DAY3

City / Area
Yoichi →
Shakotan Peninsula (1h)
Sight transfers on
Shakotan
(10–25min each)
Shakotan →
Niseko
(2h scenic drive
via inland route).
Highlight
Trace the dramatic coastline of the Shakotan Peninsula, renowned for glowing “Shakotan Blue” waters. Enter the mystical Blue Cave by cruise, savor celebrated uni, and transfer to Niseko for an alpine luxury stay.
Details & Experiences
  • Cape Kamui – A dramatic cape offering sweeping 270° ocean vistas over cobalt seas.
  • Blue Cave Cruise – Small-boat excursion into a luminous marine grotto (summer only; advance ).
  • Shimamui Coast – Hidden cove of turquoise water; one of Japan’s most beautiful seasides.
  • Seasonal Uni Lunch – Premium sea urchin at its best (peak May–Aug).
  • Scenic Drive to Niseko – Rolling farmland and vistas of Mt. Yotei, the “Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido.”
  • Optional:
    - Helicopter scenic flight over Shakotan & Mt. Yotei
  • -Snorkeling or diving
  • Notes:
    All outdoor sightseeing is weather-dependent
  • Culinary note:
    Famous for “Shakotan Blue” seas and fresh uni (sea urchin) in summer. Enjoy grilled seafood and ocean-view dining.
Accomodation Style
Niseko:Luxury alpine resort in Niseko (5-star resort or boutique retreat)- Onsen under the stars
Photo
Yoichi →<br>
Shakotan Peninsula (1h)<br>
Sight transfers on<br>
Shakotan<br>
(10–25min each)<br>
Shakotan →<br>
Niseko<br>
(2h scenic drive<br>via inland route).

DAY4

City / Area
Stay in Niseko
(no major transfers)
Tailored Activities Day
Highlight
A full day to tailor experiences in Niseko. From guided hikes and cycling to wellness, craft, and gastronomy, every activity can be curated to match your interests and the season.
Details & Experiences
  • Hiking & Nature Walks – Guided treks on Mt. Yotei’s lower slopes, Annupuri scenic trails, or gentle valley walks (2h to full day).
  • Adventure Sports – Rafting on the Shiribetsu River, cycling; in winter, skiing or snowboarding.
  • Wellness – Private yoga session with mountain views; spa treatments; meditative experiences.
  • Cultural Encounters – Local cooking class; pottery or craft workshop with Hokkaido artisans.
  • Gastronomy Experience – Exclusive farm visits; seasonal foraging; curated wine & cheese tasting.
  • Local sake tasting at Niseko Shuzo / Distillery tour & tasting
  • Culinary note:
    okkaido’s gourmet hub, offering farm-to-table cuisine, fine dining with local wines, and seasonal cheese or vegetable dishes.
Accomodation Style
Niseko:Luxury alpine resort
Photo
Stay in Niseko<br>
(no major transfers)<br>
Tailored Activities Day

DAY5

City / Area
Niseko →
Volcanic Lake Tōya (1.5h)
Lake Tōya →
Noboribetsu (1h).
Highlight
Discover the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Lake Tōya and Mount Usu, where earth’s raw power has shaped the scenery. After exploring caldera lakes, smoking craters, and sweeping views from the ropeway, continue to Noboribetsu, Japan’s most famous hot spring resort. End the day soaking in mineral-rich waters at a luxury ryokan
Details & Experiences
  • Lake Tōya – Serene caldera lake with views of Nakajima Island; ideal for a lakeside stroll.
  • Mt. Usu Ropeway – Ascend to smoking craters and panoramic views over Lake Tōya and Showa Shinzan.
  • Showa Shinzan – A lava dome born in 1943, still breathing with geothermal steam.
  • Lake Cruise (seasonal) – Appreciate the caldera scenery from the water.
  • Jigokudani – A dramatic valley of vents and bubbling springs revealing Hokkaido’s geothermal force.
  • Summer (May–Oct):
    nightly fireworks on Lake Tōya;
  • Optional:
    Chef’s volcano-themed dinner.
  • Mt. Usu – from hot spring–steamed eggs and vegetables to lava stone–grilled seafood and meat, a unique taste of Hokkaido’s volcanic heritage.
  • Culinary note:
    Enjoy local specialties such as fresh scallops from Uchiura Bay, seasonal uni (sea urchin, summer), grilled hokke (Atka mackerel), or Toya’s classic pork chop
Accomodation Style
Noboribetsu:Upscale hot spring ryokan
Photo
Niseko →<br>
Volcanic Lake Tōya (1.5h)<br>
Lake Tōya →<br>
Noboribetsu (1h).

DAY6

City / Area
Noboribetsu →
Upopoy / Shiraoi
(30min) Upopoy →
Lake Shikotsu (1.5h)
Lake Shikotsu →
Sapporo (1h).
Highlight
Immerse yourself in Ainu culture at Upopoy through exhibitions, performances, and crafts. Continue to Lake Shikotsu, famed for crystal clarity and mountain scenery, before returning to Sapporo for your final night.
Details & Experiences
  • Upopoy (National Ainu Museum & Park) – Learn Ainu history and living culture via exhibits and live shows.
  • Ainu Craft & Cuisine – Optional embroidery, woodcarving, or tasting traditional dishes.
  • Lake Shikotsu – Clear caldera lake; lakeside stroll or short boat/glass-bottom ride.
  • Sapporo Evening – Time for shopping or a curated farewell dinner in the city.
  • Culinary note:
    Lunch: local specialties in/near Upopoy (option for Ainu-inspired cuisine)
  • Dinner: fine dining in Sapporo (seafood kaiseki, fusion, or curated private dinner)
Accomodation Style
Sapporo:Upscale city hotel in (5-star or luxury boutique)
Photo
Noboribetsu →<br>
Upopoy / Shiraoi<br>
(30min)
Upopoy →<br>
Lake Shikotsu (1.5h)<br>
Lake Shikotsu →<br>Sapporo (1h).

DAY7

City / Area
Hotel in Sapporo →
New Chitose Airport
(1h by private car).
Highlight
Spend your final morning at leisure in Sapporo—visit lively markets, shop for last-minute gifts, or relax at the hotel— before a smooth private transfer to New Chitose Airport.
Details & Experiences
  • Nijo Market or Central Wholesale Market – Taste fresh crab, uni, and shop for gourmet souvenirs.
  • Shopping – Tanukikoji arcade or department stores for quality crafts and sweets.
  • Hotel Leisure – Spa or lounge time before departure.
  • Notes: Activities are flexible depending on flight time.
Accomodation Style
- (Departure day)
Photo
Hotel in Sapporo →<br>
New Chitose Airport<br>
(1h by private car).

For quotes and course arrangements, please feel free to contact us here.

  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days
  • 【Hokkaido’s Western Wonders】From Sophisticated Sapporo to Coastal Splendor and Mountain Retreats 7days