14-Day Eastern Hokkaido Adventure Itinerary - Nature and Relaxation

Day 1: Arrival in Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on January 5, 2026

12:00PM

Check-in at your hotel

Settle into your hotel in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, well-known for its vibrant city life.
Reach your hotel via the Sapporo subway system from New Chitose Airport using the Rapid Airport Express.
JPY1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Ramen Sapporo Junren

Enjoy a local Sapporo specialty - miso ramen, perfect for warming you up on a winter day.
Walk approximately 10 minutes from your hotel.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower

Explore this iconic landmark built in 1878, symbolizing Sapporo's history.
Walk for 15 minutes from the lunch spot.
JPY200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Exploration at Odori Park

Take a leisurely stroll through this central park, particularly beautiful in the winter with snow-covered trees.
A 10-minute walk from the clock tower.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Susukino

Enjoy dinner in the liveliest district of Sapporo, sampling local seafood and izakaya-style dishes.
Head to Susukino by subway, which is 1 stop from Odori Station.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Sapporo Cultural Exploration

Sapporo, Japan on January 6, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at LiT Coffee

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and delightful pastries.
Walk 7 minutes from your hotel.
JPY1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum

Discover the history of Sapporo beer and taste some of their renowned brews.
Take the subway to Higashi-Kuyakusho-Mae Station, about 20 minutes.
JPY500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sapporo Beer Garden

Savor Genghis Khan, a lamb BBQ dish popular in Hokkaido, at the famous beer garden.
Walk to the garden, approximately 5 minutes from the museum.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Moerenuma Park

Enjoy this beautiful park designed by Isamu Noguchi, blending art and nature.
Take a bus from Sapporo Station that takes around 45 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Warm-up with a visit to a hot spring (onsen)

Relax and unwind at a traditional onsen to soothe your muscles.
Return to the subway and ride to Jozankei, about 30 minutes.
JPY2000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Sushi Dinner at Sushiro

Indulge in sushi at this popular chain known for its quality and affordability.
Catch a bus back to Sapporo Center, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Abashiri

Abashiri, Japan on January 7, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel's buffet.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Abashiri

Take an Express train (Okhotsk) from Sapporo to Abashiri, enjoying the scenic winter landscape.
At Sapporo Station, board the Express train.
JPY6500, 5 hours

3:30PM

Check in at your hotel in Abashiri

Arrive and settle into your accommodation in Abashiri.
Walk from Abashiri Station to your hotel, approximately 15 minutes.
JPY2000, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit the Abashiri Prison Museum

Explore this unique historical museum showcasing the history of the infamous Abashiri Prison.
Take a taxi from your hotel, about 10 minutes.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Katsuura

Try the local specialty, Ishikari Nabe, a rich salmon hot pot.
Walk back to your hotel vicinity, approximately 15 minutes.
JPY2200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Abashiri

Abashiri, Japan on January 8, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Prepare for a day full of exploration with a fulfilling breakfast.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shiretoko National Park

Embark on a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its breathtaking natural beauty.
Join a guided tour bus from Abashiri.
JPY6000, 6 hours

4:00PM

Return to Abashiri

Head back to Abashiri from your tour, feeling rejuvenated by nature.
Bus will return you to your hotel.
Included in tour, 1 hour

5:00PM

Free Time

Spend some free time exploring the local shops and soaking in the local culture.
Walk around the town at your leisure.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Aji no Shizuku

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring seasonal Hokkaido dishes.
A short 10-minute walk from the hotel.
JPY2400, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Shiretoko

Shiretoko, Japan on January 9, 2026

7:30AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up for a day of travel with breakfast at your hotel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Shiretoko

Take a bus from Abashiri to Shiretoko National Park Village.
Board the bus at Abashiri Station.
JPY2000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at your accommodation

Settle in and prepare for a delightful stay in this serene environment.
Arrive at your inn, just a short walk from the bus stop.
JPY4000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Chimney Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood uniquely served at this charming restaurant in Shiretoko.
Walk approximately 10 minutes from your inn.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Shiretoko Five Lakes

Take an afternoon hike around the beautiful Five Lakes, a prime spot for winter scenery.
Join a guided group from your inn.
JPY3000, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at your accommodation

Savor local dishes featuring fresh ingredients from Shiretoko's nature.
Dinner served by the inn.
Included, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Shiretoko Nature Excursion

Shiretoko, Japan on January 10, 2026

8:00AM

Traditional Japanese breakfast

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast featuring seasonal local dishes.
At your inn.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shiretoko Nature Cruise

Experience the stunning coastline of Shiretoko from a boat, seeing wildlife including seals and sea eagles.
Check in for the cruise near the harbor.
JPY5000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a local café

Have a light lunch, enjoying the warm atmosphere and local flavors.
Simple walk to the nearest café.
JPY1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shiretoko Nature Center

Learn about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts at this informative center.
It's a 30-minute walk or a short bus ride from your café.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Free Time

Enjoy some personal exploration in the nearby wilderness or relax at your accommodation.
Exploring is encouraged!
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local izakaya

Experience a traditional Japanese meal surrounded by locals, savoring delicious small plates.
A short walk from your inn.
JPY2200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Travel to Kushiro

Kushiro, Japan on January 11, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the inn

Get ready to travel with a nourishing breakfast at your inn.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kushiro

Take a bus from Shiretoko National Park Village to Kushiro, another scenic cold-season ride.
Board the bus with other tourists.
JPY3000, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at your hotel in Kushiro

Arrive and relax in your hotel, conveniently located by the city center.
Walk from the bus station to your hotel, approximately 10 minutes.
JPY2800, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kushiro Fisherman’s Wharf MOO

Savor fresh seafood at this lively market area known for its local delicacies.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Kushiro Wetlands

Take a guided nature walk through these beautiful wetlands, famous for rare wildlife.
Join a local tour group for transportation.
JPY3500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a local izakaya

Experience traditional Hokkaido dishes such as grilled fish and nabe served in a cozy setting.
Walk back to the city center, approximately 10 minutes.
JPY2200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Kushiro Nature Excursion

Kushiro, Japan on January 12, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a full day of exploration.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kushiro Shitsugen National Park

Explore Japan's largest wetland area, known for its stunning marshlands and diverse wildlife.
Take a bus from your hotel to the park entrance.
JPY2000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a nearby café

Relax while enjoying a lunch filled with local flavors, perfect to refuel your energy.
Accessible by short walk within the park.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue exploring Kushiro Shitsugen

Follow trails and spots within the park to appreciate the delicate ecosystem.
Self-led exploration in the park.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Kushiro

Take the bus back to your hotel after a day amidst nature.
Public transportation route back.
Included, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsuya

Enjoy a delicious meal filled with local ingredients, rounding off your day nicely.
Short 5-minute walk from your hotel.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Travel to Lake Akan

Lake Akan, Japan on January 13, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Prepare for travel with a good breakfast at your Kushiro hotel.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Lake Akan

Take a bus from Kushiro to Lake Akan, relishing more scenic views en route.
Catch the direct bus at the bus terminal.
JPY3000, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at your accommodation

Arrive at the tranquil Lake Akan and check in to your lodge.
Walk from the bus station to your accommodation, approximately 10 minutes.
JPY3200, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Lake Akan

Enjoy traditional Hokkaido cuisines featuring local fish and rice dishes.
Dining at a local restaurant near your accommodation.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Lake Akan Ainu Theater

Experience the rich Ainu culture through performances and exhibitions at this dedicated theater.
About a 15-minute walk from the lodge.
JPY1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Leisure Time by Lake Akan

Spend some relaxing time by the beautiful lakeside, perfect for reflection and soaking in nature.
A stroll around the lake.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the lodge

Indulge in a hot meal featuring ingredients of the season, prepared with care.
Dine at your lodge.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Explore Lake Akan

Lake Akan, Japan on January 14, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Start your day with a delightful breakfast overlooking the lake.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ice Fishing experience

Join a guided ice fishing trip to catch some local species, a captivating winter activity.
Nearby ice fishing areas, ski equipment included.
JPY4000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a lakeside café

Enjoy a light lunch at a whimsical café with lake views.
Walk a few minutes from the ice fishing site.
JPY1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Lake Akan Ice Festival

If available, enjoy the stunning art displays made from ice at this yearly festival.
It’s easily accessible from your café.
JPY500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Leisure Time

Relax in the peaceful surroundings, enjoying the serene winter landscape.
Exploring around the lake or reading.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the lodge

Savor a delightful seafood buffet, letting the local flavors shine.
At your lodge.
Included, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to Nemuro

Nemuro, Japan on January 15, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Fuel up for your travel day with a nourishing breakfast.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Nemuro

Take a bus from Lake Akan to Nemuro, cruising through the beautiful countryside.
Board the bus at the station.
JPY3000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check in at your hotel in Nemuro

Settle into your hotel and get ready for a day exploring the area.
Walk from the bus stop, approximately 10 minutes.
JPY2800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at a local sushi restaurant

Indulge in the freshest sushi prepared using local catches, a must-try in Nemuro.
A short walk from your hotel.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Cape Nosappu

Enjoy stunning views and wildlife sightings at the easternmost point of Hokkaido.
Join a shuttle bus service or take a taxi from the hotel.
JPY1500, 2 hours

5:30PM

Leisure Time

Spend your evening either relaxing at your hotel or exploring the local surroundings.
Walk around town at your leisure.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a local izakaya

Experience the warmth of local hospitality with delicious Hokkaido dishes.
Close to your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Explore Nemuro

Nemuro, Japan on January 16, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on another day of exploration.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Nemuro Historical Museum

Learn about the rich history and culture of Nemuro at this insightful museum.
Take a short taxi ride, around 10 minutes.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Cape Ochiishi Exploration

Hike to Cape Ochiishi for breathtaking views, a perfect spot for photos.
Taxi ride to the cape takes about 20 minutes.
JPY1500, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at a seaside café

Enjoy a light meal with stunning views of the ocean while tasting fresh seafood.
Nearby, located a short walk from the cape.
JPY2500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Spot wildlife on a local boat tour

Take a boat cruise to see sea lions and various seabirds up close.
Cruise departs from a nearby harbor, about 15 minutes from the café.
JPY4000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return and relax

Return to your hotel for some leisure time before dinner.
Take a taxi back to the hotel.
JPY2000, 20 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at a Yakitori restaurant

Wind down your day with delicious grilled skewers at a local eatery.
Close to your hotel.
JPY1800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Return to Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on January 17, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Nemuro before the return trip.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel back to Sapporo

Take a bus back to Sapporo, reflecting on the adventures enjoyed.
Board the bus near your hotel.
JPY5000, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check in at Sapporo hotel

Return to your hotel and rest after the journey back.
A welcome stretch after the long bus ride.
JPY2000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Historic Village of Hokkaido

Explore the reconstructed buildings in this historical open-air museum.
Take the streetcar from Susukino to the village, about 30 minutes.
JPY800, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Soup Curry

Savor Sapporo’s specialty dish, soup curry, at this cozy restaurant.
Travel back by streetcar and walk about 10 minutes.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Explore Sapporo

Sapporo, Japan on January 18, 2026

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast before concluding your Hokkaido adventure.
At your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Moerenuma Park

Dive into art and nature at this beautifully designed park by Isamu Noguchi.
Take the subway to Moerenuma Park, about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at a café within the park

Enjoy a light meal or snacks at a park café while enjoying the view.
Café located within the park.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at a local café

Spend your afternoon sharing stories and reminiscing over coffee.
Return to Sapporo city center, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade

Explore this famous shopping street, picking up souvenirs to remember your trip.
A short walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Sapporo Beer Garden

Celebrate the end of your trip with a farewell dinner in a lively environment.
Take the subway to the beer garden, about 20 minutes.
JPY3000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability