City: Hokkaido
Top Things to do in Hokkaido
Countries
The 10 Best Cultural Tours in Hokkaido, Japan
Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaidō, literally "Northern Sea Circuit") (Japanese: [hokkaꜜidoː] ( listen)), formerly known as Ezo, Yezo, Yeso, or Yesso, is the second largest island of Japan, and the largest and northernmost prefecture. The Tsugaru Strait separates Hokkaido from Honshu. The two islands are connected by the undersea railway Seikan Tunnel. The largest city on Hokkaido is its capital, Sapporo, which is also its only ordinance-designated city. About 43 km north of Hokkaido lies Sakhalin Island, Russia, whereas to its east and north-east are the disputed Kuril Islands.
Restaurants in Hokkaido
1. Otaru Private Tour with Licensed Guide
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
This is not only sightseeing but also a great chance to talk with a local for a better understanding of Hokkaido, Otaru and locals. This 8-hour tour features friendly English speaking licensed guides who have knowledge of history and culture, and also are pleased to answer your questions about the local's life and topics. No rush, comfortable and flexible with your requests. On this tour, you will visit the landmarks and a local sake brewery with the background stories. For sake lovers, a special sake tour is also available. A licensed brewer who is making sake at Tanaka Sake Brewery will let you go in the brewery room and explain how to make. He also gives you an opportunity of tasting several kinds of Sake chosen by the brewer. If you are a whiskey lover, Nikka Whisky Yoichi distillery is a must to visit. It will be included instead of Sankaku Market and Tanaka Sake Brewery. Lunch and entrance fees are not included. You can pay just for what you have, where you visit.
Inclusions: English speaking licensed guide, Private tour, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sake tasting
Exclusions: [Guide only] Transportation for you and guide: Train 1500 yen per person + about 3000 yen per taxi, [w/ Vehicle] Highway fee 2480-2740 yen and Parking fee about 1500-2000 yen , Lunch, Entrance fees, [Option / Guide only] Transportation to Nikka for you and guide: @860 yen *Please apply in advance, [Option] Otaru pickup and drop-off: 2500 yen per group *Please apply in advance
Reviewed By luzonersseetheworld
We spent a most amazing 10 days in Hokkaido thanks to Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel. The attention to details and our preferences were much appreciated. Our travel consultant Eriko Kakudate san took the extra mile by personally meeting with us prior to the trip. Our preferences and interests as well as our budget and the length of our stay were taken into consideration to carefully plan a trip that was unique, fulfilling and enjoyable. We enjoyed the suggested destinations largely because they weren't the usual tourist traps. We had private lessons in glass blowing, soba making and Japanese sweets. We enjoyed our interaction with the locals and the exposure to the culture. We did not feel rushed at all in our itinerary and had time to spend in places where we wanted to stay longer. Eriko san was very thorough and communicated with us as needed specially when we had to reschedule our trip. We appreciate her work and dedication. We are thankful that she took the time to meet us upon arrival and again on two other occasions to ask how we were and even share a meal. She is an asset to HTIT. Our personal driver Shuji Takeuchi san was likewise excellent. He was very professional and recommended good places to eat in and experiences to try (like the onsen and eating local food). He made sure we were comfortable with the vehicle we used and offered even free use of his wifi and AC to charge our phones. He even volunteered to take our photos. We appreciate that he was mindful that one of us had physical limitations. He assisted us each time we checked in our hotels and helped us with room preferences. Our trip was made memorable largely because of HTIT. It was the best way to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Our thanks to HTIT, Eriko san, Shu san and all the wonderful people we met. We shall return.
2. Osaka Private Tour: From Historic Tenma To Dōtonbori’s Pop Culture - 8 Hours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Spend the day with one of our hosts to discover the true nature of Osaka - head’s up, it’s got a wild sense of humor and is obsessed with food. Explorer (not tourist) is what we’re aiming for here, and in that spirit, you could explore neighborhoods like the fashionable Shinsaibashi or crazy Dotonbori and maybe you’ll discover hidden gems like the smaller shrines and historic streets. Grab a quick bite to eat and see why Osaka is known as the ‘Nation’s Kitchen’ before continuing your adventure through the neon streets of this enigmatic port city. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You'll also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do
Inclusions: Private and personalised experience, 8 hours with a host, Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options), Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Tickets to any attractions, Transportation costs, Gratuities
Reviewed By Renaiika
Our guide Haruhi was very nice and told us a lot about specific characterics from Osaka. We tried Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki and Kushikatsu which was all very tasty. She also showed us some secret passages in Osaka and gave us tips where we could spend time Osaka on our next days. The only thing that I was missing was to try out some other foods that are maybe not too known too. But in overall we had a lot of fun!
3. Sapporo Custom Private Tours By Locals, See the City Unscripted
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
On a personalised and private experience, discover the real Sapporo with a Local Host, exploring the city on an itinerary totally customised to your interests, needs and wishes! Whether you want to get off the beaten path and discover some quirky local neighbourhoods or tick the famous sights and landmarks off your bucket list, your Local Host will introduce you to the very best of their city. Discover the best places to see, eat, drink and explore, loved by locals for a totally authentic touch. You'll experience Sapporo just as if you were visiting an old friend who lived there, so ditch the guidebook and live like a local for the day!
Inclusions: 100% Private and personalised experience, 3, 4, 6 or 8 hours with a Local Host - Pick your preferred duration when booking! , Authentic local insider knowledge, Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options), Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Tickets to any attractions, Transportation costs, Gratuities
Reviewed By akeiw12
Some friends and I were in Hokkaido over New Years and we wanted to do something fun and special while we were in Sapporo. Since we were only in Sapporo for a few days, I thought this tour would be a great way for us to see the city and find some good places to eat and drink. Our host, Asuka, was great! She emailed me well ahead of our trip with a rough plan for our tour, and with some input from me, she put together a great itinerary for us. She took us to a stand-up sake bar, and then to a small izakaya where we got to taste several different types of sake and had a great dinner with lots of local dishes (the dinner was extra), and then we ended at a parfait cafe where we had very elaborate and decadent desserts. All of the places that Asuka chose for us were very representative of, and unique to, the Japanese culture, and she walked us through the main shopping districts and gave us a good understanding of the layout of the city. Asuka was also such a good sport, answering all of the questions we had for her, about herself and Japanese culture in general. Also, I should mention that we had 10 people in our group, so it was so great that Asuka was able and willing to take us around the city and find places big enough for all of us, especially when most places were closed for the holiday. I would definitely recommend this tour for anyone who wants a personal guide to show them around the city and lead them to some great spots. And I would highly recommend Asuka as a great guide!
4. Lake Toya and Noboribetsu Hell Valley Day Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Private 10-hour tour conducted by professional licensed local English-speaking tour guide to incredible attractions in Lake Toya and Noboribetsu: • Local English-speaking tour guide • Accommodates up to 5 persons • Child, elderly and handicap-friendly tour • Travel around on a licensed sightseeing taxi - the remaining cost of the sightseeing taxi of 43,000 JPY per group shall be paid to the driver in cash. As this is a private tour, we can customise the itinerary according to your needs and preferences. The tour is suitable for children, elderly and the handicapped as well.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Private tour
Exclusions: Admission Tickets, Food and drinks, Licensed sightseeing taxi available upon request at 43,000JPY
Reviewed By emilyb889
A great full day of adventure with plenty of time to see what we wanted. Tony was kind to show us the best place for bubble tea and where to buy local snack. We would definitely do this again and feel with was worth the price.
5. Furano and Biei Taxi Day Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Private 10-hour tour conducted by professional licensed local sightseeing taxi to incredible attractions in Furano and Biei: • Accommodates up to 5 persons; • 10-hours tour; • Child, elderly and handicap-friendly tour; and • Travel around on a licensed sightseeing taxi (the remaining cost of the sightseeing taxi of 40,000 JPY + highway fees per group shall be paid to the driver in cash) As this is a private tour, we can customise the itinerary according to your needs and preferences. The tour is suitable for children, elderly and the handicapped as well.
Inclusions: Deposit for:, Professional licensed driver, Private transport (Toyota Crown/ Toyota Alphard), Private tour
Exclusions: The remaining cost of 40,000 JPY + highway fees shall be paid to the driver in cash after the tour, Food and drinks, Highway Fees
Reviewed By emilyb889
A great full day of adventure with plenty of time to see what we wanted. Tony was kind to show us the best place for bubble tea and where to buy local snack. We would definitely do this again and feel with was worth the price.
6. Explore Yoichi & Shakotan Blue
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
Enjoy the famous Shakotan Blue ocean , to view the stunning penninsula and walk through some fantastic views. and then taste some local seafood to make the most of the experience. And after that ,visit Yoichi Distillary, where the world-famous Nikka Whiskey is produced. Hope your group would like this experience!
Inclusions: Local taxes, Lunch, Driver/guide, Round-trip shared transfer
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By vicentejoseb966
We were only 4 so we felt more personal and intimate. Meal exceeded all our expectations. Beautiful scenery in both lakes enhanced by the amazing tour to the volcano (Mount Usu). Being an all day tour, we had plenty of time at each stop to enjoy all there was to see and do (maybe the recommendation would be to have more time at the volcano since the entire trial takes significant time to complete). Even though an English speaking tour guide was not available, we were given a lot of detailed information in advance in a tour print out booklet. Overall, a really nice and memorable experience. Highly recommended.
7. Ice Village Tour (Lake Shikaribetsu Kotan and Tomamu Ice Village)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
“Kotan” means “Village” and these two mysterious villages will only appear in the winter of Hokkaido. One appears on Lake Shikaribetsu, the highest lake in Hokkaido. There are a lot of ice buildings in the Kotan, such as an ice bar, ice concert hall, ice chapel, and lots to see. Though it sounds crazy, the most famous attraction there is the Ice Hot Spring on the frozen lake! (Please take your own towel for the hot spring.) We also love the ice village surrounded by forest in Tomamu. There you can find an ice café, ice bar, ice slide, and there is also an ice skating rink! Indoor activities such as ice glass workshops are also provided. *For people who would like to ski in Tomamu only, we could offer you transportation. All the details could be negotiable.
Inclusions: Local taxes, Driver/guide, Round-trip shared transfer
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By vicentejoseb966
We were only the 2 of us (due to Covid limited trip bokings) so we felt really personal and intimate. Beautiful scenery around Yoichi & Shakotan Blue enhanced by the explanations of the guide. The guide (Yama-san) has a very good English understanding so the communication was easy. It was very nice from him of taking pictures of us on the different locations. Being an all day tour, we had plenty of time at each stop to enjoy all there was to see and do (the guide adapted very well to our more "adventurer" personal expectations). Overall, a really nice and memorable experience. Highly recommended.
8. Sapporo / Hokkaido Half-Day Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Enjoy an efficient, half-day walking tour of Sapporo accompanied by a nationally/state licensed, experienced multilingual guide! Your guide will help you explore Sapporo while introducing both modern and traditional sides of this dynamic, ancient city. Sapporo City, on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido, may be more famous for its winter activities, but your private guide will tell you that it is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round. Our tours feature a morning pickup at your hotel in Sapporo, then a visit to any number of possible sites. Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour, half-day tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: Nationally and State Licensed Tour Guide-Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Inclusions: Free Photos, Hotel Pick up and Drop-off, Licensed Local Guide
Exclusions: Other personal expenses, Lunch - Lunch (for yourself and your guide), Entrance fee (for yourself), Private Vehicle, Transportation fee (for yourself and your guide)
Reviewed By Cwshaman
The flexibility to chose locations that suited our wants and abilities was great. Hiro San was very quick to put together an itinerary that accommodated a family with a stroller-baby (no monkey park due to long unpacked walking paths). Taking in the beautiful temples and view of the Kyoto from the west was breath taking and the guide was able to explain many things we as new Japanese learners could not read or know through cultural knowledge. Overall a great experience, a wonderful and lively guide, and some great memories.
9. Explore Otaru & Yoichi
Overall Ratings
4.9 based on 9 reviews
Visit the beautiful seaside city of Otaru, known for glasswork, great seafood, desserts and distilleries. In the morning, head into Yoichi Distillary, where the world-famous Nikka Whiskey is produced. Continue on for a tour of Otaru city for some relaxing time spent along the canal and historic Sakaimachi street area and a delicious seafood lunch. Finally, take the ropeway up Tengu Mountain to see the panoramic views of Otaru Port and Ishikari Bay.
Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Lunch, All activities, Driver/guide, Local guide, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By vicentejoseb966
We were only the 2 of us (due to Covid limited trip bokings) so we felt really personal and intimate. Beautiful scenery around Yoichi & Shakotan Blue enhanced by the explanations of the guide. The guide (Yama-san) has a very good English understanding so the communication was easy. It was very nice from him of taking pictures of us on the different locations. Being an all day tour, we had plenty of time at each stop to enjoy all there was to see and do (the guide adapted very well to our more "adventurer" personal expectations). Overall, a really nice and memorable experience. Highly recommended.
10. Sapporo Private Full-Day Tour with Local Licensed Guide
Overall Ratings
4.8 based on 6 reviews
This is not only a sightseeing tour but also a great chance of talking with a local, your guide, about food, culture, and any questions of your Hokkaido stay. Your guide will pick you up at the hotel you' will be staying and take you to the itinerary includes landmarks of Sapporo, from historical shrine to seafood market. All fees are paid by you onsite directly so the itinerary can be flexible. You can explore your own pace without a rush. *There is a stop for lunch, but lunch is at the customer's expense. *Shiroi Koibito Park will be replaced with another destination since the main building is closed until July 11th, 2019.
Inclusions: English or Mandarin speaking licensed guide, Private tour, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Walking tour (w/ Guide only), Private vehicle (w/ Vehicle), Local taxes
Exclusions: Entrance fees: 600-1520 yen per person. Depending on the facilities you go in, [Guide only] Transportation for you and guide: 740 yen per person or 7500 yen per taxi, [w/ Vehicle] Parking fee: 1000-2000 yen per vehicle, Lunch
Reviewed By luzonersseetheworld
We spent a most amazing 10 days in Hokkaido thanks to Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel. The attention to details and our preferences were much appreciated. Our travel consultant Eriko Kakudate san took the extra mile by personally meeting with us prior to the trip. Our preferences and interests as well as our budget and the length of our stay were taken into consideration to carefully plan a trip that was unique, fulfilling and enjoyable. We enjoyed the suggested destinations largely because they weren't the usual tourist traps. We had private lessons in glass blowing, soba making and Japanese sweets. We enjoyed our interaction with the locals and the exposure to the culture. We did not feel rushed at all in our itinerary and had time to spend in places where we wanted to stay longer. Eriko san was very thorough and communicated with us as needed specially when we had to reschedule our trip. We appreciate her work and dedication. We are thankful that she took the time to meet us upon arrival and again on two other occasions to ask how we were and even share a meal. She is an asset to HTIT. Our personal driver Shuji Takeuchi san was likewise excellent. He was very professional and recommended good places to eat in and experiences to try (like the onsen and eating local food). He made sure we were comfortable with the vehicle we used and offered even free use of his wifi and AC to charge our phones. He even volunteered to take our photos. We appreciate that he was mindful that one of us had physical limitations. He assisted us each time we checked in our hotels and helped us with room preferences. Our trip was made memorable largely because of HTIT. It was the best way to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Our thanks to HTIT, Eriko san, Shu san and all the wonderful people we met. We shall return.
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