Hokkaido Nature Itinerary - July 2023

1. Day 1: Shikotsu-Toya National Park
   1 hour 20 minutes (43.6 miles) from Sapporo

   Morning: Hike the Mount Usu Trail and see the sulfuric steam vents. Afternoon: Have a picnic by the Lake Toya and take a relaxing dip in one of the hot springs. Evening: Visit the Showa Shinzan Ropeway and watch the sunset over the volcanic crater.

2. Day 2: Daisetsuzan National Park
   3 hours 30 minutes (124 miles) from Shikotsu-Toya National Park

   Morning: Take the Kurodake Ropeway and enjoy the panoramic view of the park. Afternoon: Hike the Asahidake Summit Trail and see the active volcano. Evening: Relax in the natural hot springs of Sounkyo Onsen.

3. Day 3: Shiretoko National Park
   4 hours 40 minutes (208 miles) from Daisetsuzan National Park

   Morning: Take a boat tour to see the Shiretoko Goko Lakes and watch the brown bears. Afternoon: Visit the Shiretoko Nature Center and learn about the local flora and fauna. Evening: Have dinner at the Shiretoko Village and try the fresh seafood.

Recommendations

Other attractions and experiences to consider are the Furano and Biei Flower Fields, the Otaru Canal, and the Sapporo Summer Festival. For a side trip, visit the Asahiyama Zoo and see the penguins and polar bears. To maximize your fun, rent a car and explore the countryside at your own pace. Lastly, try the local delicacies such as the Hokkaido milk and the Jingisukan lamb.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mount Usu Trail (2-3 hours, free)
• Lake Toya (1-2 hours, free)
• Showa Shinzan Ropeway (1-2 hours, 2000 yen)
• Kurodake Ropeway (1-2 hours, 2900 yen)
• Asahidake Summit Trail (3-4 hours, free)
• Sounkyo Onsen (2-3 hours, 500-1000 yen)
• Shiretoko Goko Lakes Boat Tour (2-3 hours, 5000 yen)
• Shiretoko Nature Center (1-2 hours, 600 yen)
• Shiretoko Village (1-2 hours, 2000-3000 yen)
• Total Estimated Costs: 11,600-14,100 yen (~$105-128 USD)