National Parks of Hokkaido Adventure
Explore the nature highlights of the Hokkaido Island and learn about Ainu culture
Self-Guided
National Parks of Hokkaido Adventure Overview
Discover Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and Ainu traditions on this immersive 9-day private hiking tour. Begin your adventure with an introduction to Ainu heritage, then explore the lush forests and rugged coastlines of Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park. Experience Mount Apoi’s geological wonders and unwind in the region’s serene hot springs. Journey east to Akan-Mashu National Park for a scenic hike up the active volcano, Mount Meakan, and canoe on Lake Kussharo’s pristine waters. With local guides, comfortable accommodations, and fully customizable options, this tour offers the perfect blend of nature and cultural immersion.
Browse all Hokkaido tours on 10Adventures to explore more guided and self-guided adventures across Japan's wildest island. For all tours across Japan, visit guided tours of Japan.
Trip highlights
Experience the traditions and lifestyle of Hokkaido’s indigenous Ainu people, offering a unique cultural insight and hands-on activities.
Conquer the geological marvels of Mount Apoi and the active volcano Mount Meakan, with spectacular views and diverse landscapes.
Enjoy Hokkaido’s famous hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration and embracing the Japanese onsen culture.
Paddle through serene caldera lake waters, surrounded by volcanic landscapes, with stops for unique geothermal experiences.
Day By Day Itinerary
Begin your Hokkaido adventure with a warm welcome at New Chitose Airport, followed by a scenic journey to Nibutani in the Hidaka region. Settle into your accommodations, enjoy a team briefing, and unwind in a relaxing hot spring to recharge for the days ahead.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Nibutani
- Meals:
- Dinner
Dive into the history and traditions of the Ainu people with local insights from residents of Nibutani. Experience the Ainu way of life, exploring their natural surroundings and gaining a deep appreciation of their harmonious relationship with nature.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Nibutani
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to Samani Town, a scenic coastal area in the Hidaka Mountains, and meet a local expert for an introduction to the Hidakasanmyaku-Erimo-Tokachi National Park. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coastline and participate in a trail food preparation workshop to fuel up for tomorrow's hike.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Samani
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a full-day hike to the summit of Mount Apoi, a UNESCO Global Geopark with unique rock formations and breathtaking views. Enjoy a tailored hiking experience with an optional difficulty level adjustment, then celebrate with a well-deserved meal.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Samani
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Take a day to rest and explore “Tashiro no Mori,” a historic forest known for its beautiful blooms and unique tree-sap coffee. Enjoy the tranquility of the forest before a night’s stay at the secluded “Moving Inn Tokachi” lodge, deep within the wilderness.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Taiki
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Travel east to Akan, with scenic stops along the way. Arriving in Akan, enjoy a briefing on tomorrow’s Mount Meakan hike, visit Akan Lake Ainu Kotan to learn more about Ainu culture, and unwind in a traditional onsen.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Akan
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Dinner
Set out on an unforgettable eight-hour hike up the active volcano, Mount Meakan, experiencing everything from serene lake views to the warmth of volcanic soil. Celebrate at the summit with a lunch on the wooden tables crafted on Day 2, then relax back at the hotel.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Akan
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paddle through the pristine waters of Lake Kussharo in Akan-Mashu National Park. Along the way, stop at a geothermal hot spring for a unique cooking experience and enjoy a scenic paddle down a clear river, taking in the serene landscape.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Akan
- Meals:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to Tancho Kushiro Airport for your flight home. Enjoy a final scenic drive with a chance to spot Hokkaido wildlife along the way.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
We know Adventure
10Adventures only does Hiking, Cycling and Adventure Holidays. Its our mission to help you explore the world!
Inclusions
Included
- 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 8 dinners are included.
- Accommodations for 8 nights are included.
- The transfers listed in this itinerary are included.
- Transportation with Local Japanese speaking Driver
- Parking, Fuel and Highway Fees
- English-speaking Licensed Guide
- Taxes (10% Consumption Tax)
- All the activities listed in the itinerary
Not included
- Meals or transfers not mentioned as included
- Entry fees to local objects
- Airfare to get into Hokkaido
Optional Extras
- Single Room upgrades
- Hotel upgrades
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
Travellers love 10Adventures
View all
FAQ
We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. The itinerary includes activities such as multi-hour hikes on mountains and volcanoes like Mount Apoi and Mount Meakan, which require a good level of fitness and hiking experience. However, the tour is customizable, allowing adjustments to activity intensity based on the group's preferences.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 8 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
New Chitose Airport (CTS) is the main gateway, serving international and domestic flights. Many major cities in Japan, such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, offer direct flights, as do cities in nearby countries. From here you will be picked up by a driver.
Yes, tour guide is English-speaking.
The tour ends in with a drop-off at Tancho Kushiro Airport.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book National Parks of Hokkaido Adventure with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
Let's start talking about your next adventure!