Japan Private Tour (JPN015): Explore Hokkaido 6 Days 5 Nights

Arrive in Tokyo, meet at Haneda Airport, and continue on to Chitose Airport (Hokkaido).

Afterward, head to Odori Park, a tranquil park located in the heart of Sapporo that serves as an oasis in the city. It is a relaxing retreat for locals as well as a popular attraction for international visitors. The park features numerous fountains and sculptures, and during the summer, fresh trees and ornamental flowers are planted.

Then, visit the Sapporo TV Tower, located adjacent to Odori Park. Built in 1957, this high tower was originally used for analog television and radio broadcasting. It has two levels open to visitors: the Observation Deck, offering sweeping views of Odori Park, and a sky dining area where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the views of Odori Park.

Today, we travel to Otaru, a port town in Shiribeshi Subprefecture located just 30 kilometers from Sapporo. It is an extremely romantic town with well-preserved buildings and many charming attractions.

Enjoy free time strolling along the beautiful Otaru Canal, the town's most iconic and famous landmark. Stretching approximately 1 kilometer, the canal is lined with Victorian-style lamps on both sides and historic red-brick warehouses, creating an exceptionally warm and inviting atmosphere.

Next, we take you to visit the Otaru Musicbox Museum, a historic landmark of Otaru.

Admire the antique English-style steam clock that is still operational today—one of only 2 remaining in the world—and explore the wonderful exhibits inside the museum.

Then, continue your stroll along Sakaimachi Street, located in central Otaru not far from the canal. This street is another major landmark of the town. When visiting, a must-try is LeTAO, widely praised by travelers for having the most delectable sweets on the street. Besides LeTAO, there are many charming restaurants and dessert shops for you to enjoy all along the way.

In the morning, visit the Former Hokkaido Government Office, one of the most popular and photographed sights in Sapporo. Built in 1888, the building's central roof was once damaged by fire, and the structure seen today has been faithfully restored. Admission is free, featuring exhibitions on Hokkaido's history, indigenous culture such as the Ainu, historic conflicts, and diplomacy.

Afterward, head for some shopping at Tanukikoji Shopping Street, an arcade gathering souvenirs, gifts, daily essentials, and plenty of delicious food. Stretching over 900 meters, both sides of the street are packed with diverse stores, including souvenir shops, general goods, cosmetics, drugstores, and dining spots. The arcade is fully covered, so you never have to worry about sun or rain. Notable shops include the famous Don Quijote, well known for selling everything at affordable, tax-free prices, along with other duty-free drugstores such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi.

Head to Sapporo Beer Museum. As Hokkaido is renowned as Japan's first beer production site, Sapporo is the oldest and most popular brewing hub in Japan, with beer brewing first beginning in 1877. The museum itself was established in 1987; originally a brewery in the Meiji era, it was later renovated into the Sapporo Beer Museum. Inside, the museum showcases the history of beer in Japan and the brewing process. In addition, free beer tastings are also available.

Today, visit the Sapporo Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, a ski jumping competition venue featuring an observation deck atop the hill with breathtaking panoramic views over Sapporo. You can ride the chairlift to the top to enjoy the views of the city. Also located at the summit is the Sapporo Winter Sports Museum, featuring exhibits on the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, including ski jumping, bobsledding, and biathlon.

Afterward, enjoy shopping in Susukino, Sapporo's famous entertainment district home to over 4,000 shops, bars, restaurants, karaoke venues, and pachinko parlors. Visitors love taking photos with the neon-lit Susukino signs and checking out the giant Noria Ferris Wheel.

Head to Hokkaido Shrine, a historic Shinto shrine in Hokkaido built in 1871. The shrine grounds connect to Maruyama Park, offering scenic views, and host the annual Sapporo Festival (Sapporo Matsuri) from June 14–16.

Next is Maruyama Zoo, Sapporo's famous zoo, known for its thoughtfully designed habitats that closely recreate the animals' natural environments.

Wrap up the day with a visit to Shiroi Koibito Park, operated by local confectionery maker Ishiya. The company's renowned treat is the Shiroi Koibito cookie—a butter cookie filled with white chocolate, considered Hokkaido's most iconic souvenir. In winter, the European-style buildings are illuminated, making you feel as if you have stepped into a romantic European town. Beyond the theme park attractions, the grounds feature shops, cafes, restaurants, a chocolate factory museum selling an array of chocolates, and cookie-making workshops.

Depart from Chitose Airport to Haneda Airport.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out. Then travel to Chitose Airport and fly to Haneda Airport for a safe return journey to Bangkok.