TOUR ITINERARY
6 SEP (SAT) HONOLULU,
Leave Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. A meal and snack will be served aboard the flight. Free Movies and Drinks.
7 SEP (SUN) CHITOSE,
ANA CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL CHITOSE
Arrive at Haneda International Airport After clearing government formalities, transfer to our Japan Airline connecting flight to Chitose Airport in Hokkaido. Upon arrival, go directly to the hotel (15 minutes by bus from the airport).
8 SEP (MON) ASAHIKAWA,
HOTEL WBF GRANDE ASAHIKAWA (ONSEN) ♨
Japan’s northernmost prefecture “Hokkaido” is an attractive and beautiful land with amazing National Parks. Each of Hokkaido’s National Parks offers different charms. Today we will visit Shikotsu-Toya National Park which is an ideal place to experience the rugged splendor of Hokkaido. Its most prominent feature is Lake Shikotsu which is praised as Japan’s most striking caldera lake. Spectacular views of the quiet crystal-clear blue lake and encircled active volcanoes are called “Natural Museum of Volcanic Activity.” After enjoy entrancingly beautiful lake scenery, we will head to hidden local spot Sunagawa called and loved as “Hokkaido's Dessert Town.” Famous sweets shops are lined up along the Sunagawa Sweets Road. We will visit an Apple Pie Shop which is baking the one of the best 3 Apple pies in Hokkaido. The crispy, crunchy, flaky, and buttery scented dough goes perfectly with large, sweet, and delicious local apples. You will get a chance to taste fresh Apple pie whose expiration date is only one day. You have to visit here to taste such a yummy pie! Then go to Asahikawa, Hokkaido’s 2nd largest city in the center of Hokkaido. We will stay 2 nights at hotel located close to Asahikawa train station and Aeon Shopping Mall. After hotel arrival, tour guide will take you Holo-Holo around the hotel. You can also enjoy a relaxing soak in Onsen Hot Spring bath.
9 SEP (TUE) ASAHIKAWA / MT. ASAHIDAKE,
HOTEL WBF GRANDE ASAHIKAWA (ONSEN) ♨
Today, we will head to Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido’s 2nd largest National Park which preserves a mountainous area of virtually unspoiled wilderness. Iconic Mt Asahidake is the highest peak in Hokkaido at a towering 7,513 ft. We will ride an Asahidake Ropeway as we make our way up 5,249 ft. to the main peak of Taisetsu Mountain range which is called the “Roof of Hokkaido.” From this breathtaking vantage point, you can look down at the superb view of Mt. Asahidake reflected on the Sugatami Pond below. Later we will enjoy seasonal Fruit Picking (Sumomo Plum or other fruit depends on climate of the year). You will taste fresh and juicy Japanese fruit in season. Later, we will visit the Otokoyama Sake Park just opened in September 2024. Otokoyama Brewery with a Sake-brewing tradition for over 360 years and has won many gold medals in Japan and foreign liquor competition. Thus, they are called "Best Sake brewery in Hokkaido." At their new facility, you can taste not only their Fresh Sakes but also Iced Rice Latte using special Sake rice fermented syrup, Shaved ice and Coffee that made from water used for brewing their Sakes. Later visit Tsuboya Kibana no Mori. This complex facility is operated by a long-established Asahikawa confectionery shop that specializes in chocolates and pastries. You will get a chance to buy their signature almond cookie which has a distinctive crispy texture and sanded with white chocolate. A shop assembling a collection of select craft goods created in Asahikawa, a city long known for its woodworking. After going back to the hotel, it will be your Free Time to continue shopping or relax at the Onsen Hot Spring bath with Jet bath, Electric bath, etc.
10 SEP (WED) WAKKANAI,
WAKKANAI GRAND HOTEL (ONSEN) ♨
Head to Wakkanai the northernmost city of Japan with full of great nature comprised of the Japan Sea and the Okhotsk Sea with the greenery vast land. On the way, we will visit the Sturgeon Aquarium located by Teshio river where Sturgeon used to run up the river. You will get an up close view of the prehistoric Sturgeon that have been in existence for 120 million years ago. We will also visit Reindeer Farm where they raise 60 reindeers brought from Finland. You can try feeding them if you wish to. Then head to Wakkanai while passing Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park, the northernmost National Park in Japan. Our hotel is in the downtown area of the city. Enjoy the relaxing Onsen Hot Spring bath and a delicious Sukiyaki Kaiseki dinner with crab in the evening.
11 SEP (THU) REBUN ISLAND / RISHIRI ISLAND,
ISLAND INN RISHIRI (ONSEN) ♨
Today we will have an interesting journey to the Northernmost Island in Japan "Rebun Island" often called "the undiscovered retreat of Hokkaido." Upon arrival to the island by ferry, we will transfer by bus to South of the island which characterized by a scenic steep coastline. Visit the observatory look down island’s most popular landmark Neko (Cat) Rock and Momo (Peach) Rock distinctively shaped huge rocks that look like a Cat and Peach. Then go to Cape Sukoton, the northernmost viewpoint where you can overlook Soya Strait and the uninhabited island called "Sea lion Island." Also visit Cape Sukai, known as the best viewpoint to witness the magnificent beauty but mysterious unexplored region of Rebun’s blue sea and sheer cliffs. Then catch a ferry to Rishiri Island with the National Park’s iconic symbol Mt. Rishiri towering at 5,646 feet in the center of the island. After arrival we will go to hotel located close to a park that offer amazing scenery. Enjoy relaxing soak in the Onsen Hot Spring bath and Open-air bath that overlooks the Japan Sea and Rebun Island. In the evening enjoy delicious Buffet dinner with many fresh local seafood, Konbu seaweed, vegetables, etc.
12 SEP (FRI) WAKKANAI,
WAKKANAI GRAND HOTEL (ONSEN) ♨
This Northernmost National Park is blessed with wild, untamed nature which providing the dynamic and diverse landscapes. Today we will explore around the fascinating Rishiri Island that offers tranquil, peaceful, lovely sea and mountain views. Visit Senhoushi Misaki Park which provides the best view of Mt. Rishiri often called “Northern most Mt. Fuji” and oddly shaped rocks. At the store you can purchase famous Rishiri Konbu that is one of the best three Konbu seaweeds in Japan. The exquisite quality is used by many top-quality Japanese restaurants. Next, we will visit the biggest pond on the Island along with the best scenic spot Otatomari Pond. The view of the clear blue waters of the pond with Mt. Rishiri as backdrop is just splendid. Then we will catch a ferry going back to Wakkanai. Upon arrival, visit Karafuto (Sakhalin) Museum to learn about Sakhalin Island (Current Russian held territory) which used to be inhabited by the indigenous people of Japan and was also jointly possessed by Japan and Russia in the past.
13 SEP (SAT) LAKE SAROMA,
LAKE SAROMA TSURUGA RESORT (ONSEN) ♨
Today we will visit Cape Soya, the Northernmost Tip of Japan that is surrounded by the ocean on three sides. You will see a monument that indicates Cape Soya as Japan’s Northernmost piece of real estate. On a clear day you can see actual Sakhalin Island (Russian-held island) located only 26 miles away. Later we will drive along the Okhotsk sea to Engaru to visit its famous Cosmos Festival. A mind-blowing 10 million Cosmos flowers will be in bloom across the huge park. Enjoy dynamic floral scenery created by colorful Cosmos flowers in an impressive number of varieties. Then proceed to Japan’s third largest lake, the picturesque Lake Saroma. The lake surface is a uniquely beautiful blue color which described as “Saroman Blue.” Our accommodation tonight is a nice resort hotel that faces the lake. You will admire the beautiful blue lake from your room. Enjoy delicious buffet dinner featuring local sea foods, etc., and enjoy a relaxing soak at the Onsen Hot Spring bath and Open air Rotenburo bath with a beautiful lake view.
14 SEP (SUN) LAKE KUSSHARO,
KUSSHARO PRINCE HOTEL (ONSEN) ♨
It will be the most beautiful season to visit Lake Notori. We will see the Crimson Coral Grass that spreads throughout the lakeside like a red carpet. Depending on the climate of the year, Lake Notori could assemble the brightest and biggest collection of this very rare plant that can only be seen during this time of season. Later go to Abashiri, “City of Drift Ice” that drift ice arrives on its coastline from the far-off Arctic Ocean in winter. We will visit Okhotsk Ice Floe Museum. You can experience the beautiful World of Drift Ice through the new 3-D projection mapping with the illusionary effect of light and sound. You can enter the 5 degree F freezing experience room where you will get a chance to see and touch real drift ice. Here you can feel how cold it can be in Abashiri in winter. Later go to Mt. Tento lacated in the center of Abashiri Quasi-National Park. We will visit its Flower Garden if timing is right, you will see the Heavenly Views of colorful seasonal flowers such as Marigold, Cockscomb that will be in bloom throughout the huge garden. Then proceed to Akan-Mashu National Park via Bihoro Pass that overlooks the beautiful Lake Kussharo, Japan’s biggest caldera lake which offers stunning views of untouched natural scenery. Our hotel is located by the lake and one of the top resort hotels in eastern Hokkaido. Enjoy a relaxing soak at the Hot Spring bath and Open air bath.
15 SEP (MON) OBIHIRO,
HOTEL NIKKO NORTH LAND OBIHIRO
Today, you will be able to feel the dynamism of an active volcano “Mt. Io” or “Sulfur Mountain.” We will visit 2023 renewal opened Mt. Io MOKMOK Base. Here you can see Mt Io's dramatic steaming volcanic vents. More than 1,500 bright yellow vents of all sizes continuously spew volcanic gases, making for an otherworldly sight. the dramatic volcanic mountain landscape at this steaming national park If you wish to, you can try famous boiled eggs cooked in hot spring water at the shop. Then head to Kushiro Marsh National Park that preserve Japan’s largest wetland and marsh habitat which is registered under the Ramsar Convention. We will visit the Observatory where you can see Japan’s most amazing wetlands that once was completely under the ocean. Then we will head to Tokachi area to visit the newly renovated Wine Castle to see the process of the making the local “Tokachi Wine” which has recently received high appraisal throughout the world. Try tasting the famous Tokachi Wine and various sweets using rich and fresh farm products that are popular in Obihiro. Tonight's hotel is located right next to the Train Station and its shopping building. Within easy walking distance to the supermarket. Enjoy shopping after hotel check in.
16 SEP (TUE) SAPPORO,
SOLARIA NISHITETSU HOTEL SAPPORO
Exploring Hokkaido by train is another delightful way to enjoy the biggest prefecture in Japan. We will walk to Obihiro station to ride the Express Train “Ozora.” This train is very popular for tourists that travel around Hokkaido. You will enjoy the spectacular views of the vast open green fields in huge northern island. After we will get off the train, transfer by bus to Northern Horse Park a popular Horse-themed park offering interaction with horses in the great nature of Hokkaido. About 80 horses, including retired racehorses and ponies, live freely on the premises surrounded by a rich variety of natural landscapes. The park will give you a chance to be in close contact with nature and horses. We will enjoy watching “Happy Pony show” a fun and enchanting entertainment show entertained by lovely ponies. For those who wish to, can enjoy feeding at stable. Then proceed to Sapporo, the capital and largest city in Hokkaido. The city is called “A Northern Paradise” which has all the charms of a small town, great natural landscapes, and the entertainment of a big city. The city offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. We will stay 2 nights at hotel located easy walking distance to Sapporo station with a department store and underground shopping mall. after hotel check in. Tour guide will take you shopping area with some breathtaking scenery.
17 SEP (WED) SAPPORO,
SOLARIA NISHITETSU HOTEL SAPPORO
Hokkaido is a world-renowned “Foodie Paradise.” Thanks to its rich natural environment, Hokkaido is Japan’s leading producer of Seafood, Meat, Vegetables, Fruits and Dairy products. For many travelers, visiting Hokkaido is indulging in its delicious eats. Today, we will visit Sapporo Autumn Festival offering you the chance to try the local cuisines of the entire Hokkaido. It’s an annual celebration of Hokkaido gourmet that attracts foodies from all over Japan and the world. Hundreds of food vendors span several blocks of the Oodori Park and converge to create a Hokkaido Gourmet Wonderland, stalls selling fresh crab, juicy high-quality meat dishes, tasty regional ramen, sizzling BBQ, Hokkaido ice cream, upscale dining, etc. It will be unforgettable experience with its diverse array of flavors, friendly atmosphere, and the vibrant spirit of autumn. It’s no wonder this culinary extravaganza has become a cherished annual tradition in Hokkaido. Then head to Aeon Shopping mall for lunch and shopping. We will also visit Sapporo Central Wholesale Market. Here you can buy dried seafood, local specialties, etc., all at wholesale prices. It will be good chance to buy Hokkaido goodies for your souvenir. Then going back to the hotel. Upon hotel arrival, Free Time to continue shopping, packing, etc. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense.)
18 SEP (THU) SAPPORO / HONOLULU,
At checkout time our agent will come to tape and tie-up our boxes and take down baggage to be checked in. We will leave the hotel by bus to Chitose Airport to catch domestic flight to Haneda Int’l Airport. Upon arrival at Haneda, transfer to International Airline Flight to Honolulu. Arrive in Honolulu the same morning, 18 SEP (Thursday). After clearing U.S. Customs, proceed home. (Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense.)
Clients remaining back will be assisted in obtaining plane, train, and hotel reservations. Members may return to Honolulu individually, but no later than 90 days from day of departure. Weekend returns will cost more per person. Please call our office if you are extending your stay. MAHALO!
*Price, Itinerary, and Meals are subject to change without notice.*
*** TOUR CONDITIONS ***
INCLUDES: Land Transportation included in the itinerary, all hotel accommodations, meals, sightseeing listed, all transfer of passenger and baggage, and souvenir group picture.
DOES NOT INCLUDE: Individual expenses after tour termination as stated in the itinerary—the cost of obtaining all personal items, passport/visa, and other necessary documents.
AIR: JAL's TFS (Fuel Surcharge) determines the final price for the group economy booking. For premium economy, business, and outer-island bookings, please don't hesitate to contact our office for a price quote whenever you can. For more information, please refer to the Airline Questions segment of our Frequently Asked Questions.
LAND TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY PER PERSON:
DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE. Once the tour itinerary is posted on the Tohoku Travel website, a $250.00 per person is required. This deposit will be applied to the full payment.
90 DAYS - 30 DAYS --- $1,500.00*
29 DAYS - 01 DAYS --- $2,500.00*
NO REFUND ONCE THE TOUR STARTS
*There may be Hotel cancellation charges along with the preordered event tickets for Miyako Odori show tickets, Tokyo Disney Sea tickets, Shinkansen ticket fees, etc. If the yen has already been purchased to pay for this tour, then the yen exchange rate at the time of refund will affect the refund since we have to convert the yen back to U.S. dollars again.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL TOHOKU TRAVEL SERVICES
PH: 808-536-8618 or 808-538-7854
EMAIL: tohoku.travel.hi@gmail.com
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