Japan hiroshima 8 days 2026

Touching down at New Chitose Airport (CTS), we are immediately ushered into the enchanting embrace of Hokkaido. A seamless transfer delivers us to our haven in Noboribetsu, a town famed for its restorative geothermal power. The evening culminates in a delightful exploration of local delicacies, savoring a delicious dinner at the hotel, a perfect welcome to the North. We settle in after 3:00 PM, ready for the adventure to come.

🍽️🏨 Park Hotel Miyabitei or similar

After a nourishing breakfast, we delve into the primal heart of the region at Noboribetsu Hell Valley (Jigokudani), a spectacular volcanic crater that serves as the main source of the town's legendary hot springs. The air is thick with the scent of sulfur, a powerful reminder of the earth's living energy. Next, a walk of pure tranquility awaits at the River Oyunuma Natural Footbath, where a natural stream offers a moment of blissful immersion and healing. (A gentle reminder to bring your own towel for this natural spa experience.) Our path then leads us back in time at Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura, a lively history-themed village. Wander past authentic houses and witness the skillful world of ninjas and samurais, getting a glimpse of the venerable Edo period. The afternoon is crowned by the stunning, sea-swept panorama of Cape Chikyu, where the sheer cliffs plunge into the cerulean ocean. Finally, we stand before the majestic waters of Lake Toya, a caldera lake famed for its spectacular, calming beauty, before journeying onward to the vibrant heart of Sapporo.

🍽️ B/L/D🏨 Tokyu Rei Sapporo or similar🚌 COACH

A morning departure takes us to the historic, romantic port city of Otaru. We stroll alongside the picturesque Otaru Canal, where brick warehouses whisper tales of a bygone era. Our senses are then treated to the delicate artistry within the Otaru Music Box Museum, the largest of its kind, filled with the enchanting melodies of countless tiny mechanisms. Returning to Sapporo, we raise a glass to history at the Sapporo Beer Museum, the nation's only museum dedicated to the brewing legacy of this iconic beverage. A visit to Shiroi Koibito Park offers a sweet interlude in a whimsical, confectionary-themed wonderland. Seasonal Wonders: Late May ~ Early Jun: We replace the usual visit with a pilgrimage to the revered Tenjin Wisteria, where the oldest wisteria in Hokkaido, with a history spanning over two centuries, cascades in fragrant, purple splendor. October: Our view shifts to the autumn spectacle as we ascend via the Mt. Moiwa Ropeway to admire the mountainside ablaze with the beautiful red hues of maple leaves. The day concludes with the bright lights and lively atmosphere of Tanuki Koji Street, where you are free to explore and select your own delightful dinner experience.

🍽️ B/L🏨 Tokyu Rei Sapporo or similar🚌 COACH

We continue our eastward exploration into the scenic majesty of Eastern Hokkaido! We begin with the stately Former Hokkaido Government Office, a symbol of the island's development, marked by the iconic red star. Seasonal Transitions: Mid & Late May: We are enveloped by a dazzling sea of yellow at Takikawa Canola Flower fields, stretching as far as the eye can see. Late Jul ~ Late Aug: We bask in the warm, golden glow of millions of delightful sunflowers at the Hokuryu Sunflower Village. Our path continues to the ethereal Blue Pond, its waters renowned for their breathtaking, mystical hue. We then find a hidden gem at Ningle Terrace, a charming village of log-houses nestled deep within the Furano forests. The journey culminates with a breathtaking ride on the Daisetsuzan Asahidake Ropeway, revealing magnificent, soaring scenery. 

Seasonal Grandeur: Jul ~ Aug: We are treated to a riot of color at Farm Tomita, Hokkaido's largest farm, showcasing over 150 varieties of vibrant flowers. Jul ~ Oct: We explore the colorful tapestry of Shikisai no Oka, a sprawling landscape of cultivated beauty. We arrive for the night in Sounkyo, savoring a well-deserved dinner and rest.

🍽️ B/L/D🏨 Sounkaku Hotel Hokkaido or similar

Our day unfolds with the dramatic artistry of the Sounkyo Valley, where we pause to admire the powerful rush of the Ginga Falls and Ryusei-no-taki Falls. Next, we journey to Abashiri to experience the icy realm of the Okhotsk Ryu-hyo Museum. Here, you can feel the chill of the icy world and encounter the mesmerizing "sea angel," Clione limacina. Nature’s Calendar of Flowers: Mid & Late May: We witness the pink carpet of Higashimokoto Shibazakura Park. Jun ~ Aug: We enjoy the sweeping coastal splendor and sea of blossoms at the Koshimizu Primeval Flower Garden. Aug ~ Sep: We are greeted by the delicate beauty of cosmos flowers at Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park. Mid & Late Sep: We marvel at the breathtaking red sea of grass at the Ubaranai Glasswort Community. Late Sep ~ Early Oct: We find a late-season bloom of sunflowers at Omagari Lakeside Park. The dramatic landscape continues as we overlook the vast Okhotsk Sea from Notoro Cape. Finally, we arrive in Shiretoko to visit the spectacular Oshinkoshin Waterfall, poetically nicknamed "Sobi no Taki," or the twin beauties waterfall, for its gracefully split stream.

🍽️ B/L/D🏨 Shiretoko Hotel or similar🚌 COACH

A day dedicated to nature's masterpiece: Shiretoko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For the adventurous, a visit to the warm mountain stream of Kamuiwakka Hot Falls offers a unique experience. We then take a peaceful walk along the elevated wooden path of the Shiretoko Goko Lakes, soaking in the pristine wilderness and magnificent scenery. The afternoon takes us to the crystal-clear shores of Lake Kussharo and the smoking majesty of Atosanupuri Mountain, an active volcano with sporadic sulfur eruptions. Here, we can admire unique alpine flora that thrives in this rugged environment. Our day concludes with a transfer to our charming hot spring hotel near Lake Akan, where an exquisite dinner awaits.

🍽️ B/L/D🏨 New Akan Hotel or similar🚌 COACH

We begin with a serene cruise on Lake Akan, gliding past the habitat of the unique Chlorella and enjoying the ever-changing vistas of this natural jewel. We explore Ainu Kotan, one of Hokkaido's largest indigenous Ainu villages, learning about their rich culture. The vast Naitai Highland Farm showcases the wide-open, pastoral feel that is quintessential Hokkaido. We capture a moment of nostalgic charm at Kofuku Station (Happiness Station), its pink walls adorned with wishes of good fortune. Our journey through local heritage continues at Ikeda Wine Castle, an exquisite European-style winery, famed for its role in revitalizing the local economy. The evening is a culinary delight, featuring an exquisite Japanese-style dinner that showcases premium Hokkaido beef and fresh, seasonal vegetables straight from the farm.

🍽️ B/L/D🏨 Daiheigen Hotel or similar🚌 COACH

After a final Hokkaido breakfast, we are transferred to New Chitose Airport (CTS), carrying a treasure trove of memories from the land of fire, ice, and flowers. We recommend flights departing after 1:00 PM to allow for the smooth 2.5-hour transfer from the hotel.

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