Hokkaido Nature Tour With Fall Colors

Touching down at New Chitose Airport, a private transfer for an hour will take you to your hotel in Sapporo. Settle in and unwind the rest of the day.

Journey from Sapporo to Furano and begin your day at Ningle Terrace, a charming forest village of wooden cottages where local artisans showcase handcrafted works and cozy cafés invite you to pause for a seasonal treat.

Continue to Farm Tomita, which transforms into a vibrant tapestry of autumn hues. Instead of lavender, the fields are adorned with late-blooming flowers such as marigolds, salvias, and dahlias, creating a colorful contrast against the crisp blue sky. The surrounding hills and countryside gradually shift into warm shades of red, gold, and amber, offering a tranquil yet picturesque atmosphere. Strolling through the fields and tree-lined paths captures the essence of Hokkaido's serene autumn beauty.

Drive eastward toward Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. The route passes colorful mountain valleys and scenic coastal plains. Upon arrival, check in at a hot spring hotel where outdoor baths overlook the autumn-colored forest or the sea. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner made with local seafood, and prepare for the upcoming exploration of one of Japan's most pristine natural environments.

Take a guided walk through the Shiretoko Five Lakes, where forests are painted in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Elevated boardwalks and trails offer opportunities to spot deer, foxes, and other wildlife while admiring the reflections of colorful trees in the calm lakes. Continue to Shiretoko Pass for panoramic views of the rugged peaks framed by autumn foliage, or choose a shorter nature walk nearby.

Join a nature cruise from Utoro Port along the rugged coastline, with cliffs, waterfalls, and hidden coves highlighted by autumn colors. Keep watch for seabirds, orcas, and dolphins active during the season. In the afternoon, take a short walk to Furepe Falls, where the stream cascades into the Sea of Okhotsk, contrasting beautifully with the golden and crimson forest backdrop.

Depart Shiretoko in the morning and drive south toward Lake Akan, a scenic volcanic caldera lake surrounded by forests and mountains. Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside onsen hotel and relax in the soothing hot spring baths with views of the tranquil waters.

In the afternoon, explore Akanko Ainu Kotan, the largest Ainu village in Hokkaido, where you can learn about traditional Ainu crafts, clothing, and cultural practices. 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. Enjoy a leisurely evening by the lake.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Kushiro Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have a short stop at scenic spots along the way. Board your domestic flight from Kushiro to New Chitose Airport in Sapporo for your onward journey.