Hokkaido Group Tour – Snow Lights & Ice Trails

Experience the magic of Hokkaido in winter on this exclusive small-group tour.
From the dazzling Sapporo Snow Festival, where giant snow sculptures illuminate the city, to the breathtaking drift ice of the Okhotsk Sea, where you can walk across frozen seas in a dry suit—this journey captures the true essence of Japan’s northern winter.

Travel in comfort through Sapporo, Otaru, Tomamu, and Shiretoko, each offering its own unique charm. Marvel at snow-covered landscapes, take part in thrilling activities like drift ice walking and snowshoeing, and savor exquisite local cuisine along the way.

Perfect for travelers seeking authentic winter experiences, scenic beauty, and a more personal pace, this limited small-group tour offers an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the serene wonder of Hokkaido’s winter.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Iconic Winter Highlights, One Itinerary

Sapporo Snow Festival, Otaru’s canal streets, Tomamu’s Terrace of Frost Tree, Ice Village, Abashiri ice fishing, and Shiretoko drift ice walking—curated so you experience Hokkaido’s signature winter moments without juggling logistics.

Exclusive Small-Group Attention

Limited participants mean unhurried pacing, better photo opportunities, and more time with your guide—ideal for travelers who value depth over speed and comfort over crowds.

Guided by Local Experts

Led by experienced Hokkaido-based guides who know the region’s hidden gems, stories, and seasonal rhythms, ensuring an authentic and insightful journey beyond the guidebooks.

Handpicked Stays in Scenic Locations

Each accommodation has been carefully selected for comfort, atmosphere, and location—from riverside elegance in Sapporo to mountain serenity in Tomamu and ocean views in Shiretoko.

Local Flavor, Thoughtfully Curated:

Saké tasting at Tanaka Kikkogura, market dining, and handpicked restaurants balance included meals with free time—so you can explore, linger, and savor Hokkaido your way.

Tour Period and Tour Pricing

Scheduled Departures Price (Per Person)
Feb 8 (Sun) – Feb 15 (Sun), 2026 USD 5,934

*Exchange rate used: 1 USD = 150 JPY

*Minimum 5 Pax Operating. Maximum 14 Pax Per Group

Itinerary

Day 1 |  Sapporo

Let It Snow | The Wonders of Sapporo Begin

Snow sculpture castle at Sapporo Snow Festival, Odori Park, Hokkaido, Japan

Fly from Haneda Airport to New Chitose Airport, where your guide will meet you to begin your winter adventure in Hokkaido.
After a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Sapporo, take some time to settle in before heading out to Odori Park for the spectacular Sapporo Snow Festival.

Marvel at the illuminated snow and ice sculptures that light up the city each winter, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

  • Sapporo Snow Festival

Note: Please make your own way to Haneda Airport for the domestic flight to Hokkaido. If you require assistance with this arrangement, please contact us in advance.

Day 2 | Otaru

Craft & Tradition | Discover Otaru’s Artistic Spirit

Snowy Otaru Canal with brick warehouses and winter boat ride, Hokkaido, Japan

Meet your guide and travel to the charming port town of Otaru, known for its romantic canal, glass workshops, and nostalgic atmosphere.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Otaru Canal, explore local shops, and have lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit Tanaka Sake Brewing Kikkogura to discover the art of traditional sake-making and sample their signature brews.
Return to Sapporo in the evening for dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Otaru City
  • Tanaka sake Brewing Kikkogura Brewery

Day 3 | Sapporo and Tomamu

Snowbound Serenity | Discover Tomamu’s Enchanted Ice Village

Ice Bar inside the Ice Village at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Hokkaido, Japan

Explore Sapporo on foot with your guide, visiting some of the city’s lively districts and local highlights.
Then, head to the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, where you can browse the seafood stalls and enjoy lunch on your own at one of the local eateries.

In the afternoon, travel to Tomamu, a picturesque mountain resort surrounded by snow-covered forests.
After dinner, visit the enchanting Ice Village, where glowing ice domes and sculptures create a magical winter wonderland. You can explore the area freely at your own pace.

  • Sapporo Central Wholesale Market
  • Ice Village

Day 4 | Tomamu

Whispers of Winter | The Magic of Tomamu’s Frosted Forests

Snow-covered birch trees and winter mountain view at Tomamu Ski Resort, Hokkaido

Begin your morning with a scenic gondola ride to the breathtaking Terrace of Frost Tree, where snow-covered trees shimmer in the crisp mountain air.
Take in panoramic views of the white landscape and the serene beauty unique to Hokkaido’s winter.

In the afternoon, join a guided snowshoeing hike through the tranquil forests of Tomamu.
Surrounded by untouched snow and fresh mountain air, it’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and experience the stillness of winter.

  • Terrace of Frost Tree
  • Snowshoeing Hiking Experience

Day 5 | Kitami and Shiretoko

Road to the North | Discover the Stillness of Shiretoko

Coastal winter road trip along the Sea of Okhotsk in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, Japan

Today’s journey takes you deep into eastern Hokkaido.
Travel through wide open landscapes blanketed in snow, passing rural towns and farmlands that showcase the quiet beauty of Hokkaido’s countryside.

Stop in Kitami for lunch before continuing toward the remote Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its untouched nature and dramatic winter scenery.
Arrive in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of Shiretoko.

Day 6 | Abashiri

Frozen Frontiers | Ice Fishing & Drift Ice Adventure

Icebreaker Ship Aurora cruising through drift ice in Abashiri, Hokkaido, Japan

Head to Lake Abashiri for a truly local winter experience — ice fishing on the frozen lake.
Drill a hole in the ice, drop your line, and try catching smelt while enjoying the crisp outdoor air.

After lunch, visit the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum, where you can learn about the natural wonder that defines Hokkaido’s winter coast.
Later, board the Icebreaker Ship Aurora for an unforgettable cruise through the drifting sea ice of the Okhotsk Sea.
Watch massive ice floes up close as the ship breaks through the frozen waters — a spectacular highlight of the season.

Return to Shiretoko in the evening for dinner and a restful night.

  • Ice Fishing Experience
  • Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum
  • Abashiri Drift Ice Sightseeing & Icebreaker Ship Aurora

Day 7 | Shiretoko

Touch the Arctic | A Once-in-a-Lifetime Drift Ice Experience

Tourists walking on drift ice during guided winter tour in Shiretoko, Hokkaido

Begin the day with a gentle snowshoeing trek to the Furepe Waterfall, where you can admire dramatic coastal cliffs and the endless expanse of the frozen sea.
The silence of the snow-covered forest and the distant sound of waves create a breathtakingly serene atmosphere.

In the afternoon, gear up in a dry suit and join your guide for a once-in-a-lifetime drift ice walking experience on the Sea of Okhotsk.
Step out onto the floating ice and feel the crisp Arctic air as you walk across a frozen world — a truly unforgettable highlight of your Hokkaido winter journey.

  • Snowshoeing Experience and Furepe Waterfall Sightseeing
  • Shiretoko Drift Ice Walking

Day 8 | Shiretoko

Departure Day | A Gentle Farewell to Hokkaido

Drift ice floating on the Sea of Okhotsk under pastel sunset near Shiretoko, Hokkaido

After a week of unforgettable winter adventures, depart Shiretoko and transfer to Memanbetsu Airport for your flight back to Tokyo.
Take with you lasting memories of sparkling snow, dramatic drift ice, and the serene beauty of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes.

Accommodation

Sapporo | PREMIER HOTEL -TSUBAKI- SAPPORO (Day1 and Day2)

Unusually spacious for central Sapporo, PREMIER HOTEL -TSUBAKI- SAPPORO combines comfort with classic sophistication.
Nestled along the peaceful Toyohira River, it offers a calm retreat from the city’s bustle.
Guests can enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet featuring Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes crafted by the hotel’s in-house chefs — the perfect start to each winter morning.

Tomamu | Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower (Day3 and Day4)

Set amid the vast natural landscapes of Hokkaido, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu The Tower is an ideal base for winter adventure.
Here, you can immerse yourself in exclusive seasonal experiences such as the magical Ice Village and the stunning Terrace of Frost Tree.
Known for its powdery snow and breathtaking mountain scenery, Tomamu offers a truly otherworldly atmosphere found nowhere else.

Shiretoko | KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort (Day 5, Day6, and Day7)

Located on a hill overlooking the Sea of Okhotsk, KIKI Shiretoko Natural Resort offers panoramic views and a relaxing stay surrounded by nature.
Unwind in the resort’s hot springs and sauna, or simply watch the sunset over the icy coastline from your room.
Dinner showcases the rich flavors of eastern Hokkaido, featuring fresh local seafood—such as scallops, salmon, and crab—alongside seasonal mountain delicacies from the Shiretoko region.

Inclusions

  • Group tour
  • Dedicated English-speaking guide
  • Transportation in Hokkaido
  • Detailed daily itinerary
  • 13 nights accommodation in 3-4 star accommodation
  • Breakfast everyday
  • Meals – Excluded on Day 1 (Lunch), Day 3 (Lunch), and Day 8 (Lunch & Dinner)
  • All entry fees to sites, activities as specified
  • Domestic Flights
  • Arrival airport transfer at the New Chitose Airport  / Departure airport transfer at the Memanbetsu Airport

Exclusions

  • International airfares
  • Visas
  • Tipping
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Noted

1. The tour is NOT available for the following guests, as it includes activities such as drift ice walking and snowshoeing:

・Children under 12 or adults over 65

・Guests over 90 kg or under 130 cm / over 190 cm

・Pregnant guests

・Those advised by a doctor to limit activity

・Guests with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or chronic back pain

2. We will ask for the following information: Age, Height, Weight and Shoe size for drift ice experience.

3. You must bring your own gloves, hat, and scarf.

・Guests may not be able to join without all three.

・We also recommend preparing your own inner layers, warm socks and winter boots for comfort.

4. Rental of snow jacket and pants is available for those who do not have their own (JPY 38,000 per person – Designs and colors cannot be chosen.)

5.This is a popular tour with limited spots available, so bookings will close once full.

Ready to join this exclusive winter journey?

If you’re seeking an exclusive journey that connects you with nature, this small-group tour offers the perfect way to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty and wonder of Hokkaido’s winter.

It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic landscapes, and the serenity of Japan’s northern frontier.

Seats are limited and tend to fill quickly. Contact us early to secure your place and begin planning your unforgettable winter adventure with ENJYU JAPAN. Just reply with “Interested in the Winter Hokkaido Group Tour” to begin.

Hokkaido Group Tour – Snow Lights & Ice Trails

Sea eagles resting on drift ice in Shiretoko, Hokkaido, Japan during winter season

Let's Plan a Special Holiday Just for You.

Speak to One of Our Travel Specialists

Other Plans