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21-Day Self-Drive Culinary and Scenic Tour Across Hokkaido, Japan

Viewed by 104 travelers

Day 1: Sapporo City & Food

Sapporo, Japan on July 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sapporo Ramen Kyowakoku

Kick off your trip with a delicious bowl of Hokkaido’s famous miso ramen at this ramen village with multiple options to choose from.
JPY1100, 1h

10:00am

Moerenuma Park Drive & Explore

Drive to Moerenuma Park, park your car at the entrance and explore the vast sculpted park blending nature and artful landscape design.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Nijo Market

Drive to Nijo Market and enjoy fresh seafood bowls featuring crab, scallops and salmon roe in lively surroundings.
JPY2000, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Hokkaido Shrine

Short drive to the tranquil Hokkaido Shrine nestled in a forest setting for cultural immersion and relaxation.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Odori Park and Sapporo TV Tower visit

Drive and park near Odori Park, stroll through it, and ascend the TV Tower for a city panoramic view before sunset.
JPY720, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Sapporo Genghis Khan Daruma

Drive to the renowned grilled lamb barbeque restaurant and savor flavorful locally loved Genghis Khan grilled meat.
JPY3500, 2h

Day 2: Asahikawa Zoo & Ramen

Asahikawa, Japan on July 26, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Asahikawa

Morning drive north to Asahikawa (approx. 2h15m) for adventure in wildlife and culinary delights.
Fuel approx. JPY3000, 2h15m

9:30am

Breakfast at Asahikawa Ramen Village

Enjoy a hearty bowl of soy sauce-based ramen at one of the famous ramen shops to fuel up for the day.
JPY1000, 1h

11:00am

Asahiyama Zoo visit

Park nearby and spend time exploring interactive exhibits, including penguin walks and local wildlife.
JPY1000, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at local Izakaya

Discover fresh, local fish dishes paired with sake at a cozy izakaya near downtown Asahikawa.
JPY2200, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Kamikawa Shrine and Forest

Short drive to the serene Kamikawa Shrine and enjoy a peaceful forest walk in the late afternoon.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Baikohken Ramen

End your day with a savory bowl of Asahikawa's best ramen, popular for its rich broth and flavor.
JPY1300, 1h30m

8:00pm

Stay overnight in Asahikawa

Relax at a hotel for a restful night before driving to scenic Furano tomorrow.
Varies, Overnight

Day 3: Furano & Biei Countryside

Furano & Biei, Japan on July 27, 2025

7:30am

Drive to Furano

Depart early for a 1h drive to Furano, renowned for sprawling flower fields and farm-fresh ingredients.
Fuel approx. JPY1500, 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at Farm Restaurant Azemichi Yorimichi

Enjoy farm-fresh breakfast featuring local dairy and vegetables in a charming rustic setting.
JPY1800, 1h

10:00am

Farm Tomita & Lavender Fields

Park and explore colorful flower gardens, including iconic lavender fields (peak bloom in July).
JPY500, 1h30m

12:00pm

Drive to Biei

Drive 30 minutes east to Biei to admire its famed rolling hills and vibrant flower patches.
Fuel approx. JPY500, 30m

12:30pm

Lunch at local Biei café

Light lunch with fresh vegetables and local seasonal produce in an inviting countryside café.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Blue Pond & Patchwork Road drive

Drive scenic roads visiting the surreal Blue Pond and panoramic Patchwork Road scenic viewpoints.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Drive back to Furano

Return to Furano to prepare for dinner after a day of wonderful countryside explorations.
Fuel approx. JPY500, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Furano Delice

Taste exquisite local cheese, wine, and desserts created with Furano's fresh ingredients.
JPY3000, 2h

8:00pm

Overnight in Furano

Stay at a countryside inn surrounded by nature.
Varies, Overnight

Day 4: Drive to Abashiri & Prison Museum

Abashiri, Japan on July 28, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Abashiri

Early morning self-drive northeast (approx. 4h) with scenic stops possible along coastal roads.
Fuel approx. JPY4000, 4h

12:00pm

Lunch at local seafood diner

Enjoy fresh oysters, salmon, or other seafood caught in the cold seas near Abashiri.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Abashiri Prison Museum visit

Park and explore this open-air museum showing Meiji-era prison history amidst forested surroundings.
JPY800, 1h30m

3:30pm

Okhotsk Ryuhyo Museum & Aquarium

Short drive to this informative hands-on museum focused on drift ice and local marine species.
JPY900, 1h

5:00pm

Leisurely stroll along Abashiri coast

Explore beautiful coastal views, parks and sunset spots near town.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ryuhyo-tei

Dine on warming seafood dishes highlighting local freshness and warming broths.
JPY3000, 1h30m

8:00pm

Overnight in Abashiri

Stay overnight in a hotel to prepare for Shiretoko Peninsula exploration.
Varies, Overnight

Day 5: Explore Shiretoko Peninsula

Shiretoko Peninsula, Japan on July 29, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Shiretoko Peninsula

Morning drive approx. 1h30m to Shiretoko National Park entrance, park and prepare for hikes.
Fuel approx. JPY1200, 1h30m

9:00am

Guided Shiretoko Five Lakes walk

Participate in a guided walk to appreciate the pristine lakes, forest and mountain environment safely.
JPY500 plus guide fee recommended, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Rausu local restaurant

Drive and dine on fresh sea urchin, crab, and local seafood specialties around Shiretoko.
JPY2500, 1h

1:30pm

Coastal boat tour

Boat tour admiring waterfalls, cliffs and wildlife including sea eagles and harbor seals (check schedules in advance).
JPY3500, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at natural Shiretoko Onsen

Soak in scenic hot springs with mountain and ocean views for a relaxing afternoon.
JPY1000, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at local ryokan

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki style meal emphasizing wild vegetables and fresh fish of the region.
JPY6000, 2h

8:30pm

Overnight in Shiretoko

Stay in a comfortable ryokan with serene nature surroundings.
Varies, Overnight

Day 6: Kushiro Marsh & Lake Akan

Kushiro & Lake Akan, Japan on July 30, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Kushiro Marsh

Early morning 3h drive south with stops possible to appreciate coastal and forest landscapes.
Fuel approx. JPY3500, 3h

11:30am

Lunch at Washo Market

Enjoy seafood rice bowls loaded with top quality crab, salmon and shellfish in a bustling local market.
JPY2200, 1h

1:00pm

Boat ride in Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

Explore Japan’s largest wetland and seek the endangered red-crowned crane by boat or hiking trails.
Boat ride approx. JPY1500, 2h

3:30pm

Drive to Lake Akan

Drive 1h30m to enchanting caldera lake, rich in Ainu culture and surrounded by forest and mountains.
Fuel approx. JPY1500, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in & Rest at Lake Akan Onsen

Relax in lakeside accommodations with hot springs and peaceful lake views.
Varies, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Akan Izakaya

Sample regional Ainu cuisine with wild herbs, fresh fish, and mountain vegetables in relaxed tavern setting.
JPY3500, 2h

9:00pm

Overnight at Lake Akan Onsen

Enjoy a calm night enveloped by nature sounds and gentle lake breezes.
Varies, Overnight

Day 7: Volcanic Noboribetsu Onsen

Noboribetsu, Japan on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Noboribetsu

Longish 3h drive west to Noboribetsu through scenic forested and volcanic landscapes.
Fuel approx. JPY3500, 3h

11:30am

Jigokudani (Hell Valley) exploration

Walk amid volcanic vents and hot springs in this dramatic geothermal craterscape near Noboribetsu.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at local soba restaurant

Enjoy freshly prepared buckwheat noodles and mountain vegetables just a short drive away.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Relax in Noboribetsu Onsen

Indulge in a mineral-rich hot spring bath with views of volcanic valleys and forests.
JPY1000, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ryotei Hanayura

Savor an elegant multi-course kaiseki dinner with fresh and seasonal Hokkaido ingredients.
JPY8000, 2h

8:30pm

Overnight at Noboribetsu ryokan

Stay in traditional Japanese inn exuding warm hospitality and tranquil atmosphere.
Varies, Overnight

Day 8: Lake Toya & Volcano Views

Lake Toya, Japan on August 1, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Lake Toya

Short 1h drive from Noboribetsu to picturesque volcanic lake renowned for onsen and views.
Fuel approx. JPY1000, 1h

9:30am

Breakfast at Lakeside Café

Enjoy coffee and freshly baked pastries with breathtaking lake scenery.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Usu Volcano Ropeway & Showa Shinzan

Cable car ride to lake viewpoint with vistas of volcanic craters and newly formed terrain.
JPY1600, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Toya Lake Onsen restaurant

Sample local trout dishes expertly prepared overlooking the lake.
JPY2200, 1h

2:30pm

Scenic lakeshore walk

Leisurely walk or light hiking admiring the pristine lake surrounded by forest and mountains.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Lake Toya hot springs

Unwind in outdoor hot spring baths with panoramic views of the lake and volcanic mountains.
JPY1000, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at ryokan

Enjoy exquisite seasonal kaiseki featuring fresh Hokkaido seafood and produce.
JPY7000, 2h

9:00pm

Overnight at Lake Toya Onsen ryokan

Rest overnight by the tranquil lakeside in traditional accommodation.
Varies, Overnight

Day 9: Drive to Hakodate & Market

Hakodate, Japan on August 2, 2025

9:00am

Drive to Hakodate

Morning drive south approx. 3h along scenic coastal and rural roads to Hakodate city.
Fuel approx. JPY3500, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Hakodate Morning Market

Taste fresh squid, sea urchin, and other seafood specialties at vibrant, bustling market stalls.
JPY2000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Goryokaku Fort & Observation Tower

Drive to and explore the star-shaped historic fort and enjoy panoramic views from the observation tower.
JPY900, 1h30m

4:00pm

Motomachi Historical District

Drive and walk quaint streets lined with churches and colonial architecture blending cultures.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Ajisai Ramen

Feast on Hakodate’s renowned seafood miso ramen in an authentic local setting.
JPY1500, 1h

8:00pm

Mt. Hakodate Night View

Drive or take the cable car to the mountain’s summit for one of Japan’s best illuminated cityscapes.
Cable car JPY1280 or drive parking fee, 1h30m

10:00pm

Overnight in Hakodate

Stay overnight at a hotel.
Varies, Overnight

Day 10: Onuma Park & Local Eats

Hakodate & Onuma, Japan on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Drive to Onuma Quasi-National Park

Enjoy a morning 40-minute drive northwest to the beautiful lake area featuring volcano views and outdoor activities.
Fuel approx. JPY500, 40m

9:00am

Breakfast at a café near Onuma Station

Freshly baked breads and coffee with lush mountain views to start your day right.
JPY1200, 1h

10:00am

Bike or Hike Around Onuma Lakes

Rent a bike or hike trails around the peaceful lakes surrounded by majestic Mount Komagatake.
Bike rental JPY1000, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Onuma Rest House

Enjoy trout dishes and soba noodles freshly prepared with local ingredients.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Return to Hakodate

After lunch, drive back to Hakodate for afternoon sightseeing.
Fuel approx. JPY500, 40m

4:00pm

Visit Trappistine Monastery

Drive to visit the serene historic monastery surrounded by forests, gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Lucky Pierrot

Sample popular locally-themed burgers at Hakodate’s beloved fast-food chain for a fun casual dinner.
JPY1200, 1h

8:00pm

Overnight in Hakodate

Enjoy another restful night at your hotel.
Varies, Overnight

Day 11: Return Drive to Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Drive from Hakodate to Sapporo

Start your 4-hour scenic drive back to Sapporo along beautiful coastal and rural areas.
Fuel approx. JPY4000, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch in Maruyama area

Enjoy fusion Japanese-western cuisine in a creative café featuring Hokkaido’s fresh ingredients.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Maruyama Zoo & Park

Park your car and stroll through the zoo’s spacious animal habitats and the adjoining tranquil park.
JPY800, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Susukino District

Drive to and wander around Sapporo’s lively nightlife district with many izakayas and street food stalls.
Free (dining extra), 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Susukino Ramen Alley

Savor a variety of ramen styles from different stalls in this energetic ramen street.
JPY1000, 1h30m

9:30pm

Overnight in Sapporo

Rest comfortably at your hotel for upcoming northern explorations.
Varies, Overnight

Day 12: Biei Blue Pond & Scenic Drive

Biei, Japan on August 5, 2025

7:30am

Drive to Biei

Morning 2-hour drive north to the picturesque town of Biei famous for scenic countryside landscapes.
Fuel approx. JPY1500, 2h

9:30am

Breakfast at local bakery

Fresh breads and coffee at a charming bakery with beautiful rural views.
JPY1000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Blue Pond

Park and visit the mesmerizing Blue Pond known for its striking blue waters due to mineral content.
Free, 30m

11:30am

Scenic drive along Patchwork Road

Drive through rolling hills, vibrant flower fields, and patchwork farmland with stunning photo stops.
Fuel approx. JPY500, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at countryside café

Enjoy vegetable-focused dishes and baked delights made from local seasonal ingredients.
JPY1500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Rokugo Exhibition Hall

Learn about Biei and Furano’s agricultural and cultural heritage in this local museum.
JPY300, 1h

4:30pm

Stroll Shirahige Waterfall

See the elegant waterfall cascading into striking blue pools surrounded by forest.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Furano restaurant

Savor tender Hokkaido beef and fresh produce dishes in a warm local setting.
JPY3000, 2h

8:00pm

Overnight in Furano or Biei

Relax overnight at a countryside inn.
Varies, Overnight
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