Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Nature Tour

Upon arrival at New Chitose Airport, meet your private driver for a smooth transfer to your hotel in Sapporo. Settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Sapporo in autumn is well known for its outstanding dining scene. If you prefer, take advantage of its fresh seafood and harvest ingredients sourced across the island, and enjoy Hokkaido's seasonal flavors at its autumn peak.

Begin your Hokkaido trip with a short photo stop at the historic landmark of Sapporo Clock Tower, and head to Odori Park for a relaxed walk, where golden ginkgo trees and open skyline views create a refreshing autumn atmosphere in the heart of Sapporo.

Not very far from the park is the lively Tanukikoji Shopping Street for your wonder: explore local shops, try street snacks, and casually dine on authentic dishes at your own pace.

In the afternoon, your gentle walking experience continues at Maruyama Park, a popular autumn foliage viewing spot favored by locals. Follow the winding paths to Hokkaido Shrine inside the dense woodland, and cap off your day with an interesting Omikuji (paper fortune).

Extend your peaceful rural landscape sightseeing in Biei. Spend the morning exploring the scenic countryside route of Patchwork Road, travel through its rolling farmland with solitary trees, vast fields, and distant mountain ranges, and make those popular stops like Ken & Mary Tree, Seven Stars Tree, and Mild Seven Hill as your Instagram photo drop-off.

Transfer to Sounkyo in the afternoon, and the rest of the day is at leisure to relax and prepare for the mountain experience ahead.

Your Hokkaido autumn foliage tour today begins with a ropeway ride up to Mount Asahidake, the highest peak in Daisetsuzan. Admire volcanic landscapes, as well as those winding ridges covered in fiery red and golden leaves. The hike to Sugatami Pond is especially scenic. If possible, linger around the pond a little bit longer for your ideal angle to capture the colorful foliage mirrored on the calm water.

After today's autumn leaves hunting, return to your onsen hotel at Sounkyo for a soothing hot spring soak.

Today, continue your autumn journey eastward to Lake Akan. After about 4 hours, you will upon arrival this scenic volcanic caldera lake surrounded by forests and mountains. Check into your lakeside onsen hotel and relax in the hot springs overlooking the tranquil waters.

Leave your afternoon to visit Akanko Ainu Kotan, Hokkaido's largest Ainu village, ideal for your immersive Ainu culture experience. Take a glimpse at its tradition through crafts, dance, and authentic Ainu cuisine served at local restaurants.

Don't miss a cultural performance at the Lake Akan Ainu Theater (Ikoro) to experience the music, dance, and storytelling of Hokkaido's indigenous people.

Begin the morning with a relaxing cruise on Lake Akan, enjoying panoramic views of Mt. Oakan, forested shorelines, and crystal-clear waters. Make your drop by Churui Island, home to the marimo moss balls, a rare natural phenomenon carefully preserved in Lake Akan.

Continue south to Japan's largest wetland, the Kushiro Marsh. In autumn, vast reed fields turn shades of gold and amber. Enjoy views from one of the marsh observatories, with optional short boardwalk walks for those who wish to get closer to nature.

Your Hokkaido nature tour concluded today. After breakfast, check out and transfer to Kushiro Airport. Take a domestic flight from Kushiro to New Chitose Airport in Sapporo for your onward journey.