Hokkaido 7 Days Itinerary-W

Summary

  • Start
    New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station
  • Finish
    New Chitose Airport or Sapporo Station
  • Mileage
    Total 1090km
    160km per day
  • Travel Pace
    Fast
  • Onsen Stay
    Max. 5 nights
  • Recommended Seasons
    Dec,Jan,Feb,Mar,Apr

This itinerary takes 7 days to circle east and central Hokkaido.
Due to long daily mileage and by staying consecutive nights in 1 city only, the travel pace is fast.
In winter, the sun sets by 4-5 pm, so arrive at your inn before dark!

If you want to stay in Sapporo after the road trip, you can return the car not to the airport but to Sapporo. Walking and the subway are more convenient for sightseeing in Sapporo.

 

Chitose Airport/Sapporo – Furano(Sample)

Start: New Chitose Airport or Sapporo(新千歳空港or札幌)
Finish: Furano (富良野)
Mileage: 155km
Travel Pace: Normal

On this day, you will head from New Chitose Airport to Furano famous for Snow resort and blue pond.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Rental car branch at New Chitose Airport

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

New Chitose Airport

10:00

New Chitose Airport is the gateway to Hokkaido. First of all, please complete the reception procedure at the rental car counter at the airport. It takes about 15 minutes by free shuttle bus to the rental car company branch.

The mileage is about 155km. Please use the expressway (E38) on the way to shorten the travel time. If you arrive in Chitose in the afternoon, consider skipping some spots.




150 min

2

Glass Forest In FURANO

Parking MAPCODE:

550 798 046What is MAPCODE?

12:30

Source: Grass Forest in Furano official website 出典:グラス・フォレストin富良野 公式ウエブサイト

First of all, you will visit [Glass Forest In FURANO]. Many handmade glass products such as glasses and accessories are sold. Because of the elaborate glass work, people tend to think that it is expensive, but all the products in this shop are reasonably priced, making them ideal gifts.




30min

3

Furano Cheese Factory

Parking MAPCODE:

550 840 171What is MAPCODE?

14:00

Source: Furano Cheese Factory Official Website 出典:富良野チーズ工房 公式ウエブサイト

Next, you will head to [Furano Cheese Factory]. At this cheese factory, you can see the production room and aging warehouse through the glass. At the direct sales corner on the 2nd floor, you can sample cheese, and cheese made at the cheese factory, milk, and sweets made with butter are sold.

This place is popular and should be booked in advance. Please make a reservation in advance at the email address below.
cheese@furano.ne.jp




10min

4

Ningle Terrace

Parking MAPCODE:

919 553 423What is MAPCODE?

ningle terrace

15:30

[Ningle Terrace] is recommended. You can buy various works by local artists such as crafts and accessories at the log houses lined up in the woods.

It opens till 20:45 so it is also okay to visit after dinner.




10 min

5

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

16:40

Furano has a limited number of shops that are open until late at night. It is recommended to include a supper when booking the inn or to go to the inn after having supper.




Driving Map For the Day
Where to stay in Furano

On this day, you will stay in Furano town(富良野) which is famous for beautiful hills and flower fields.
The inns are spread over a wide area around Furano Station.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    Most inns don’t have Onsen. If you would like to stay in an inn with an Onsen, the “New Furano Prince hotel” is recommended. It is located just next to Ninngle Terrace and convenient.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Because Furano is not a big city, restaurants that are open late at night are limited to the area around Furano Station. If you are not staying near Furano station, we recommend a plan with dinner and breakfast.

 

Furano – Furano 🔒

Start: Furano(富良野)
Finish: Furano(富良野)
Mileage:80km
Travel Pace: Relax

On this day, you will be staying in Furano for the second consecutive night. Enjoy the winter of Furano and Biei at your leisure.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

10:00

The mileage is about 80km, so you can travel at relaxing pace. It is enough to leave the inn around 10 o’clock.




10 min

2

Furano Marche

Parking MAPCODE:

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10:10

Furano Marche Source: Furano Marche Facebook account 出典:フラノマルシェ・フェースブックアカウント

Furano has many attractions. First of all, you will head to the [Furano Marche]. This is a vast and diverse facility, but we especially recommend the shops and cafes that offer freshly made sweets and freshly baked bread. How about a slightly late breakfast with freshly baked delicious bread?




60min

3

Blue Pond

Parking MAPCODE:

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13:00

Blue Pond in winter

Your next destination will be the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.




10 min

4

Shirahige Falls

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

14:30

Your last destination of the day is [Shirahige Falls]. It is not well known, but it is worth a visit as well.

Shirahige Water Falls, with the same vivid blue color as the blue pond




70 min

5

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

16:20

On this day, you will be staying in Furano for the second consecutive night. Please spend a relaxing time at the inn.




If you want to enjoy winter sports, you can try skiing and snowboarding at Furano Ski Resort instead of driving. Furano Ski Resort has a very long run distance of about 4km, and is a ski resort with the best snow quality and abundant snowfall. It is a ski resort that can be enjoyed by beginners to advanced players with a total of 28 courses. The Kitanomine Premium Zone is only available for cruising in good conditions, and is popular with advanced riders for enjoying off-piste. Kitanomine’s Family Slope has a wide course, so even beginners can ski with confidence. And in the Furano zone, you can reach the mountaintop station on the 101-passenger high-speed Furano Ropeway. Enjoy long cruising on a wide variety of courses.

Furano Ski Resort Source: Instagram Furano ski resort 出典:インスタグラム富良野スキー場(furanoski_official)
Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.

Where to stay in Furano

On this day, you will stay in Furano town(富良野) which is famous for its beautiful hills and flower fields.
The inns are spread over a wide area around Furano Station.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    Most inns don’t have onsen. If you would like to stay in an inn with an onsen, the “New Furano Prince hotel” is recommended. It is located just next to Ninngle Terrace and is convenient.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Because Furano is not a big city, restaurants that are open late at night are limited to the area around Furano Station. If you are not staying near Furano station, we recommend a plan with dinner and breakfast.

 

Furano – Asahikawa 🔒

Start: Furano(富良野)
Finish: Asahikawa (旭川)
Mileage:95km
Travel Pace: Relax

On this day, you will leave Furano and drive through the beautiful hills of Furano and Biei to Asahikawa.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Furano

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

9:00

The mileage is about 95km, so you can travel at relaxing pace. However, if you want to spend a long time in Asahiyama Zoo, please leave as early as possible in the morning and try to arrive at least 2 hours before closing.




60 min

2

Blue Pond

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

10:00

Blue Pond in winter

Your first destination of the day is the famous [Blue Pond]. It has become known worldwide for being used as wallpaper for Mac on Apple Computer.




10 min

3

Shirahige Falls

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

11:15

You will go to [Shirahige Falls] next. It is not well known, but it is worth a visit as well.

Shirahige Water Falls, with the same vivid blue color as the blue pond




45 min

4

Seven Star Tree & Patchwork Hills

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

12:30

Seven Star Tree & Patchwork Hills

Next, you will head to [Seven Star Tree & Patchwork Hills]. The area around Biei’s Seven Star Tree is famous as Patchwork Hills in summer. In winter, too, the appearance of this tree dignifiedly standing in the wide snowfield is very tasteful. Please enjoy driving the hills around here.




45 min

5

Asahiyama Zoo

Parking MAPCODE:

Please refer belowWhat is MAPCODE?

13:30

Asahiyama Zoo Penguin Walks in the snow

The most famous zoo in Hokkaido, [Asahiyama Zoo], can be reached in about an hour and a half from Furano and about 20 minutes from Asahikawa (The snow road will take longer).

There are the following parking lots.
Main gate 1st parking(Free 65 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 856
Main gate 2nd parking(Free 125 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 856
East gate parking(Free 300 slots) MAPCODE:79 357 881

Please be careful that Asahiyama zoo closes very early.
Mid Nov – Beg Apr 10:30-15:30(Last Ently15:00)
Beg May – Mid Oct 9:30-17:15(Last Ently16:00)
Mid Oct – Beg Nov 9:30-16:30(Last Ently16:00)

Asahiyama Zoo in winter has a lot to offer, just like in summer.
● Asahiyama Zoo is famous for penguin walks, but it is much better in the snowy landscape.
● Drift ice plaza appears in the outdoor enclosure of the “Seal Museum” only during the cold winter season. It’s only in the cold winter that you can see their faces popping out of the holes in the ice floes.
● Monkeys don’t like the cold. On colder days, you can see monkey dumplings that cling together to keep warm.

Monkey dumplings that cling together to keep warm

● In early February, the opening hours of the zoo will be extended. You can experience Asahiyama Zoo at night under the snow light.
● Polar bears also look better in snow and ice.

If you would like to enjoy Asahiyama zoo at a relaxing pace, please consider staying one more night.




45min

6

Inn in Asahikawa

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

17:00

Asahikawa, where you will stay tonight, is the second largest city in Hokkaido. Here you can enjoy various gourmet foods such as Genghis Khan and Asahikawa ramen.
There are many shops within walking distance that are open until late at night, so please check in before exploring the city.

Sapporo has miso ramen, Asahikawa has soy sauce ramen
Asahikawa is famous for Genghis Khan. Daikokuya Is recommended.




Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.

Where to stay in Asahikawa

On this day, you will stay in Asahikawa city(旭川) which is 2nd largest city in Hokkaido.
The inns are concentrated on the north side of Asahikawa Station.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 3 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee.
  • Onsen
    There is no Onsen in this town and no inns have Onsens.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.

 

Asahikawa – Abashiri 🔒

Start:Asahikawa(旭川)
Finish:Abashiri (網走)
Mileage:220km
Travel Pace:Fast

On this day, you will head from Asahikawa to Abashiri.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Asahikawa

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

9:00

The mileage is 230km, which is the longest on this trip, so we recommend leaving Asahikawa before 9:00 at the latest. You will be driving on the expressway (E39) for the first half and on the public road for the second half.




150 min

2

Revolving Sushi Toriton(Engaru)

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

Revolving Sushi

11:30

After driving a long distance on the expressway, please enjoy lunch at a sushi restaurant. This is a revolving sushi restaurant, but you can eat very fresh sushi at a more reasonable price than in Sapporo.




120 min

3

Cape Notoro

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

Cape Notoro and the Sea of Okhotsk

14:15

Next, you will head to Cape Notoro, which is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the beautiful and mysterious drift ice and the white world of icefalls. Road Abashiri Park Line, also known as the “Misaki Line”, is a scenic road where you can enjoy a comfortable drive even in winter. Drift ice can usually be seen from early February to early March.




25 min

4

Okhotsk drift ice museum

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

15:30

After that, you will go to the Okhotsk drift ice museum and learn about drift ice, preparing for tomorrow’s drift ice cruise.




10 min

5

Abashiri

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

16:30

Abashiri, where we stay on this day, is a hot spring resort. Since the number of restaurants is quite limited, it is recommended to make a reservation at a hot spring inn with a plan to half board. Make sure you arrive at the inn by 5 pm at the latest.




Every year in early February, the Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival is held at Abashiri Port. It is highly recommended anyone traveling right around this time to go. Snow and ice sculptures are set up at the venue, and you can enjoy the taste of Abashiri along with various stage events. Abashiri Port is located 2.5 km east of Abashiri Station. Please refer to the Drive Map for more information.

Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show an additional 10-20 spots for the day. You will travel only to your favorite spots. Click the pin on the map and input the parking MAPCODE into your car navigation system (GPS). It will guide you to the nearest parking lot for each spot!

Where to stay in Abashiri

On this day, you will stay at Abashiri(網走). The inns are spread from the east side of Lake Abashiri to the Abashiri station area.

  • Inn Type
    There are various styles of accommodations in Abashiri, from 3-star western-style hotels to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokan with an onsen. If you prefer a reasonably priced hotel, we recommend staying near Abashiri Station, and if you prefer a Ryokan with onsen, we recommend staying on the east side of Lake Abashiri.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    This town is famous for onsens and most of the inns have one.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.

 

Abashiri – Lake Akan 🔒

Start:Abashiri (網走)
Finish:Lake Akan (阿寒湖)
Mileage:160km
Travel Pace:Normal

On this day you will head from Abashiri to Lake Akan.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Abashiri

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

8:50

The mileage on this day is 160km and normal, but it is early in the morning to get on the Icebreaker Aurora. Please arrive at the platform of the Icebreaker Aurora before 9:00 and complete the check-in procedures, so you will need to leave the hotel by 8:50 at the latest. Also, the departure time of the Icebreaker Aurora may change depending on the season, so please check the information on the website (https://www.ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/).




10 min

2

Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

9:00

Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora

If you haven’t been yet, please take the [Abashiri Sightseeing Icebreaker Aurora] first thing of the day. This is a large ship that sails on the sea while breaking ice. You can see the ice floes that arrive every year off the coast of Abashiri Port up close, and you can enjoy a thrilling cruise as the vibrations and sounds of breaking the ice are transmitted directly to the boat.

Icebreaker Aurora departs at 9:30 most days. Please arrive at the platform before 9:00 and complete her check-in procedures. Also, the departure time of the Icebreaker Aurora may change depending on the season, so please check the information on the website (https://www.ms-aurora.com/abashiri/en/). The cruise time is a little over an hour.

Time table and detail about Aurora



80 min

3

Lake Kussharo (Bihoro Pass Observatory)

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

12:00

Next, you will head to [Bihoro Pass Observatory]. This is a popular spot to view the Lake because from here visitors can experience one of the most panoramic views of Lake Kussharo. Especially in winter, you can see the mystical scenery of the sun shining on the surface of the lake in the morning.

National Route 243 has traffic restrictions on Bihoro Pass 1-3 times a year due to heavy snowfall, so be sure to check the weather and traffic information in advance. And even if there are no regulations, if you feel that driving on a mountain pass is dangerous, please skip this place without hesitation.




40 min

4

Lake Kussharo Sunayu

Parking MAPCODE:

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Lake Kussharo Sunayu which become an open-air bath for swans in winter

13:30

Next, you will head to [Lake Kussharo Sunayu]. This is a popular destination for photographers due to the abundance of swans and the stunning backdrop. Sunayu on the shores of Lake Kussharo is a natural hot spring. Therefore, the center of the lake is covered with ice in winter, but the lakeside is not frozen and becomes an open-air bath for swans. There is also a footbath here, so you can relax while watching the swans from the footbath.




20 min

5

Mt.Iou

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

14:20

Mt. Iou

Next, you will head to [Mt.Iou]. Mt. Iou is an active volcano covered in solidified lava and emits a great deal of smoke.




40 min

6

Lake Mashu

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

16:00

Lake Mashu in winter

After enjoying Lake Kussyaro, you will head to [Lake Mashu]. The north side of Route 52 is closed in winter, so you will head to Lake Mashu No. 1 Observatory from the south side. Lake Mashu is famous as a beautiful lake with highly transparent water. Especially from the end of January to around February 20th every year, Lake Mashu is in the freezing season. It is especially beautiful to see the frozen ice in progress. The sapphire blue surface of the lake shines with the white frozen ice.




90 min

7

Inn in Lake Akan

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

18:30
Afterwards, you will head to Lake Akan via Route 241. There is also a mountain pass here on the way, so please drive carefully.

Lake Akan, where you stay on this day, is also a famous hot spring resort. Relax in the hot springs and rest your body.




7

Lake Akan AINU Kotan

Parking MAPCODE:

Walking distance from innsWhat is MAPCODE?

After dinner, depart for a stroll around Lake Akan Ainu Kotan!

19:30

One of the highlights at Lake Akan is [Akan AINU Kotan]. A place where you can experience the culture of the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido, you can not only see their traditional dances every night in the theater but also do shopping in various woodcraft shops.
The theater and shops open till night and you can visit them after dinner.

Ainu dance performed in Ainu Kotan

Ainu Kotan Traditional Dance Schedule



10 min

If you are interested in activities in the snow, we recommend the snowshoe tours held at Lake Mashu or Lake Kussharo.
https://en.visit-hokkaido.jp/destinations/snowshoeing-under-the-lake-mashu-stars

Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show an additional 10-20 spots for the day. You will travel only to your favorite spots. Click the pin on the map and input the parking MAPCODE into your car navigation system (GPS). It will guide you to the nearest parking lot for each spot!

Where to stay in Lake Akan

On this day, you will stay at Lake Akan(阿寒湖) the tiny Onsen town that is famous for “Ainu Kotan”, the village of Ainu, the indigenous people of Hokkaido. Many inns are concentrated on the south side of the lake.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    This town is famous for Onsen and most of the inns have one. You can enjoy an open-air Onsen with a lake view.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    There are few restaurants in this area, be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.

 

Lake Akan – Obihiro 🔒

Start:Lake Akan (阿寒湖)
Finish:Obihiro or Tomamu (帯広/トマム)
Mileage
To Obihiro: 200km
To Tomamu: 250km
Travel Pace:Fast

On this day you will head from Lake Akan to Obihiro or Tomamu.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Lake Akan

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

9:00

The mileage is long and about 195km to Obihiro or 245km to Tomamu. Depending on the weather in Hokkaido in winter, road conditions can deteriorate, and road regulations may be tightened. Please be careful when driving.

Lake Akan in winter

Before checking out of the hotel, it is recommended to enjoy the natural phenomenon of the frigid Lake Akan. You may be able to see Frost Flowers, Diamond Dust, Kearashi (Frost smoke), etc. if the weather conditions are good in the early morning.

Frost Flowers




60 min

2

Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

10:00

Source: SUPER FANTASTIC Kushiro Lake Akan Official Website 出典:釧路・阿寒湖観光公式サイト

Next, you will head to [Tsurui-Ito Tancho Sanctuary]. You can see red-crowned cranes here. Winter here is a photographer’s paradise. During the feeding season from November to March, photographers gather along the fence to capture the beauty of the red-crowned cranes in the viewfinder. Here you will find the scenery that symbolizes Hokkaido in winter.




30 min

3

Kushiro Marsh Observatory

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

12:00

Kushiro Marsh in winter

After seeing the red-crowned cranes, you head to the [Kushiro Marsh Observatory]. This is a representative base where you can see, learn about, and explore the Kushiro Marsh. From the observation room on the 3rd floor and the rooftop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the wetlands, the city of Kushiro, and the mountains of Akan.




120min

4

Ikeda Wine Castle

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

Ikeda Wine Castle

15:00

Next, you will head to “Ikeda Wine Castle” via Expressway (E38). This is the most famous winery in Hokkaido, and you can see the inside of a brewery that imitates a castle in medieval Europe.




0:40

5

Obihiro

Parking MAPCODE:

Please head to the hotel you reserved.What is MAPCODE?

Obihiro is one of the leading cities in Hokkaido. There are many restaurants and food stalls on the north side of the station, so please enjoy dinner while strolling after checking in at the hotel. In particular, Obihiro is famous for pork rice bowls as a local gourmet. Please try it.

17:00

Obihiro’s lunch is a bowl of pork on rice (butadon ippin honten)




Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show an additional 10-20 spots for the day. You will travel only to your favorite spots. Click the pin on the map and input the parking MAPCODE into your car navigation system (GPS). It will guide you to the nearest parking lot for each spot!

Where to stay in Obihiro

On this day, you will stay in Obihiro (帯広) city, located in the center of the vast Tokachi Plain and it is famous for its delicious agricultural products.
Many inns are concentrated in the following two areas.

①Around Obihiro Station
The inns are concentrated around Obihiro station. Convenient for dinner and walking around Obihiro City, but no inns offer onsen.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 3 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee.
  • Onsen
    There is no onsen in this town and no inns have onsens.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    As many restaurants are open till midnight, it is recommended to book your inns with breakfast only or without meals.

②Tokachigawa Onsen(十勝川温泉)
This hot spring resort area is located 10km east of Obihiro station. If you would like to stay in better accommodation with Onsen, here is recommended.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 4 to 5-star Japanese-style Ryokans with Onsen facilities.
  • Parking
    Most inns will offer free parking.
  • Onsen
    Most inns provide an Onsen. Tokachigawa Onsen is a “Mall spring” which is among only a few places in the world good for skincare.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    There are few restaurants in this area, so be sure to make a reservation with a plan that includes dinner and breakfast.

 

Obihiro – Sapporo/Chitose Airport🔒

Start: Obihiro (帯広)
Finish: Sapporo or New Chitose Airport (札幌or千歳)
Mileage:
To Sapporo: 210km
To Chitose Airport: 170km
Travel Pace: Fast

On this day, you will head from Furano to New Chitose Airport or Sapporo.

Recommended Itinerary

1

Inn in Obihiro

Parking MAPCODE:

What is MAPCODE?

10:00

The mileage is about 170-210km. Depending on your fright schedule, Please adjust the time for snow activities for this day.




80 min

2

Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU

Parking MAPCODE:

🔒Book rental car or hotelWhat is MAPCODE?

11:20

On this day, please enjoy some light snow activities at Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU. Firstly, please take the gondola from the foot of the mountain to the top of the mountain and enjoy Muhyo (rime) Terrace. This place becomes Unkai (sea of clouds) Terrace in the summer. You can experience the superb view of Tomamu in winter. Enjoy the snow-covered trees and the majestic view of the snowy mountains.

Muhyo Terrace Source: Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU Official Homepage 出典:星野リゾート トマム公式ホームページ

You can also enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and more.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVksREPIKKk

If you want to enjoy more snow activities such as skiing and snowboarding in Tomamu, we recommend staying another night in Tomamu.

Tomamu ski slopes Source: Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU Official Homepage 出典:星野リゾート トマム公式ホームページ




120min

3

Rental car branch at Sapporo or New Chitose Airport

Parking MAPCODE:

Please refer driving mapWhat is MAPCODE?

16:30
This concludes your Hokkaido road trip.

①Returning a car in Sapporo
When you return to Sapporo, refuel, and then return the car to the car rental branch. Use the MAPCODE on the driving map for the nearest rental car stores and gas stations near Sapporo Station.
Sapporo offers a wide variety of culinary delights! For dinner, try Sapporo Miso ramen, Soup curry, Crab, and Sushi.

②Returning a car at New Chitose Airport
When heading to New Chitose Airport, the distance from Sapporo is about 60 km, about 1 hour. Make sure you arrive at the car rental company branch 3 hours before your flight. You need to take the shuttle bus from the company branch to the airport. In addition, New Chitose Airport is the best in Japan. There are restaurants where you can enjoy all kinds of Hokkaido gourmet food and countless souvenir shops, so the waiting time for your flight feels short.

New Chitose Airport has a full range of stores to enjoy even during long waits.
Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, where all of Hokkaido’s best stores are gathered.
You would love to try soup curry in Sapporo!




Driving Map For the Day

The driving map will show additional 10-20 spots for the day! You will travel only to your favorite spots.
Check pin color and MAPCODE usage.

Where to stay in Sapporo or Chitose

On this day, you will stay in either Sapporo city, the capital of Hokkaido or Chitose town, near the “New Chitose Airport”. Please choose the following options depending on your travel schedule.

①Staying in Sapporo
Sapporo is the largest city in Hokkaido and there are hundreds of accommodations from Sapporo Station to the Susukino area, the entertainment district. It is convenient to stay either on the south side of Sapporo Station or around “Odori Park”.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 3 to 5-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    Most inns have official parking, but the parking lot fee will be charged separately in addition to the accommodation fee.
  • Onsen
    There is no onsen in this town and no inns have onsens.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Because there are more than 9,000 restaurants in Sapporo, it is recommended to make reservations with a breakfast-only plan.

②Returning to New Chitose Airport
If your flight is a morning flight, staying near Chitose Airport is a good idea. There are some hotels in and around the airport.
Once you return the car, the rental car company bring you to the airport by free shuttle bus.

  • Inn Type
    Most of these inns are 2 to 4-star western-style hotels.
  • Parking
    It is better to return your car first and take public transportation or a shuttle bus to these hotels.
  • Onsen
    There is no onsen in this town and no inns have onsens.
  • Meal Plan Reservations
    Since there are many restaurants in the airport and around Chitose Station where you can have dinner, it is recommended to book breakfast only or stay overnight.

Your Perfect Travel Companion!
Our Travel Kit makes your road trip safer and more memorable!

What is DJ Travel Kit?


Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our expertly designed travel kit, perfect for uncovering Japan’s hidden treasures! Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or driving in Japan for the first time, this kit guarantees a seamless mix of excitement, culture, and relaxation.

What’s Inside:

Why Choose Our Travel Kit?

Unforgettable Memories: Each day promises unique experiences, from iconic landmarks to hidden treasures off the beaten path, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Flexibility in Your Itinerary: Our maps are packed with top attractions, hidden gems and eateries along the day’s route. Dive into the places that spark your interest and craft an itinerary that’s uniquely yours. The adventure is in your hands—make it unforgettable!

Stress-Free Travel: With everything you need in one convenient kit, you can focus on enjoying your road trip. Our comprehensive tools and expert tips ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Kit 1: Day-by-day Driving Map

Plan your perfect road trip day-by-day with our Google Maps-based driving maps. Each day’s itinerary, such as “Day.1 Tokyo to Hakone,” is packed with curated routes featuring 15-20 sightseeing spots and restaurants along the way, each pinpointed with a MAPCODE(Kit 2).

Sample Day-by-day Driving Map(Tokyo – Hakone)

[Drive Map]Tokyo - Hakone/Atami - Google マイマップ
Japan Road Trip itinerary search "Drive Japan"

  • Scenic Routes:
    We designed for scenic drives, not just the shortest path, ensuring a memorable journey.
  • Flexibility:
    Spend your time only on your preferred tourist spots and dining venues.
  • Safety First:
    Routes are optimized for appropriate driving distances, avoiding risky roads for a secure road trip.
  • Find Hidden Gems:
    Discover spots Google misses or public transport can’t reach.
    • Example: Ukiha Inari Shrine
      This photogenic shrine is located along the route from Fukuoka to Yufuin, and within 20 minutes you can have the wonderful scenery all to yourself. Few Japanese, let alone foreigners, know about it, and its inconvenient location makes it difficult to visit except by car.
      https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ENmDp69E6V7V3B49

      Drive Japan day-by-day driving map will introduce you the these hidden gems everyday and make your road trip more wonderful experience!
Ukiba Inari Shrine with torii gate leading to the sky

Kit 2: Parking MAPCODE

MAPCODE
MAPCODE will navigate the most convenient parking

Tired of hunting for parking? Enter MAPCODE instead of addresses in your car’s navigation system! It lead you straight to the most convenient parking at each tourist hotspot, ensuring you spend less time circling and more time adventuring.

  • Accurate Navigation:
    With MAPCODE, you’re guided straight to the parking spots, not to the middle of a lake or inside a garden! For road trippers visiting 5-6 destinations each day, accurate parking guidance is crucial to make the most of your journey.
  • Time is Money:
    Why waste precious travel time searching for parking or researching routes? International travel is an investment, costing an average of USD 16 per person per hour. For a group of three on a 7-day trip, that’s over 10 hours lost to parking hunts alone. Let MAPCODE streamline your travels, so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying your adventure!
Kit 3: Restaurant List

Explore curated restaurant lists for each town you stay in, featuring recommended dining options.

Sample Restaurant List(Asahikawa)

  • Local Cuisine:
    Taste regional specialties and must-try dishes at our handpicked spots. We do not accept advertising fees from restaurants. Our selected restaurants are chosen solely based on their appeal and our firsthand experience.
  • Convenience:
    Easily access Google Maps links for each restaurant, allowing quick checks on photos and operating hours.
  • Practical Advice:
    Provides things you should know about dinner in the town you’re staying in, such as “towns with few restaurants” and “towns with very fast last orders by ordinance.”

Car Booking

 

Rental Car Booking

Please rent a car with below “Rentalcars.com” link.

  • The abundant number of rental cars
  • Price comparisons with several major car rental companies
  • Free cancellation
*Please change the location and date by yourself
Pick-up & Drop-off Location Guide

  • New Chitose Airport
    The main international airport in Hokkaido. Recommended for Pick-up.
    If you arrive after 14:00, consider staying overnight around the airport or in Sapporo and departing the next morning.
    It takes 1 hour to Sapporo station by train.
  • Sapporo City
    The capital and biggest city in Hokkaido. Most car rental shops are located around Sapporo Station.
Important reminder for renting a car
  • GPS(Car Navigation System)
    MAPCODE from Drive Japan navigates you precisely to the parking lot. GPS from major car rental companies(Nippon, ORIX, Nissan, Times) are always MAPCODE compatible. However, if you are renting a car from another company, we recommend that you check with the rental company after making a reservation, just to be sure.
  • One-way Rental
    You can rent at New Chitose Airport and return at Sapporo Station, and vice versa. Normally, the one-way charge is about JPY2000 only.
  • Child Seat
    In Japan, the use of a child safety seat or baby seat is mandatory for children under 5 years old.
    Be sure to request one from “Extras”.
  • Snow Tire
    If you travel from the beginning of November to the end of April, you must book a car with snow tires. It should be installed without requests from rental car companies in Hokkaido, but if you are concerned, you can double-check with them after making a reservation.
 
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