7-Day Explore Hokkaido With Skiing

Today, you'll travel to the charming port city of Otaru, located northwest of Sapporo. Known for its beautiful, historic canals lined with century-old brick warehouses and gas lamps, Otaru is a romantic destination famous for its glassworks, music boxes, and delicious fresh seafood.

Start your day with a stroll down Sakaimachi Street, just a short walk from the canal area. Here, you can indulge in gourmet treats and shopping. Be sure to check out Kitaichi Glass, where you can admire an incredible collection of unique glassworks. This top glass manufacturer in Hokkaido also offers workshops where you can learn to create your own glass art and watch the fascinating glass-making process.

Next, visit the Music Box Museum, where you can enjoy the enchanting sounds of beautifully crafted music boxes. Don't miss the chance to sample the delicious Kaisendon, a seafood rice bowl, at the Sankaku Fish Market. Finally, wrap up your day with a visit to Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura, where you can witness the sake brewing process and taste a variety of sakes!

Get ready for a full day of adventure in Noboribetsu, a place famous for its onsen (hot springs) and the fascinating Hell Valley, known as Jigokudani. Start your day by exploring Hell Valley, a stunning crater created by the eruption of the Kuttara volcano. As you walk through, you'll notice the strong scent of sulfur and see white steam rising from the ground. The hissing vents and the strikingly colored rocks add to the mysterious atmosphere of this unique landscape.

Next, make your way to the River Oyunuma Natural Footbath. Here, you can soak your feet in the warm, soothing water and relax after your hike.

In the afternoon, visit Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura, a theme park that offers a glimpse into Japan's Edo period. Step back in time and enjoy traditional games, activities, and street performances. Don't miss the exciting Ninja and Samurai shows, but be sure to check the schedule in advance so you won't miss out on the fun!

After breakfast, you'll head out to Niseko, with a fantastic stop at Lake Toya along the way. This beautiful crater lake is nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, home to various birds and deer. At the Silo Observatory, you can soak in stunning panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.

Next, enjoy a sightseeing cruise on the picturesque waters of Lake Toya. If you're curious about how Lake Toya came to be, don't miss the nearby Toyako Volcano Science Museum, which explains the fascinating geological history of the area.

Niseko is known as Japan's most famous ski resort, thanks to its perfect powder snow, incredible off-piste terrain, and stunning backcountry options. With world-class facilities and amazing snowfall each year, Niseko offers the ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

Today, you'll have a free day to enjoy a variety of exciting winter activities. Whether you choose to ski, snowboard, or try sledding, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this snowy paradise. Make the most of your time on the slopes and have fun in the winter wonderland!