Welcome to Sapporo, Hokkaido
Upon arrival at Chitose Airport, Sapporo Hokkaido, make your own way to the hotel. Enjoy your first evening exploring the vibrant city of Sapporo at your leisure.
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12 Day Fly & Tour Holiday through Northern Japan's rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities.
Book By 31 May 2025
Select Dates Apr 2026 - Sep 2026
12 Day Fly & Tour Holiday through Northern Japan's rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities.
International flights to Sapporo, returning from Tokyo
Experience the perfect blend of culture, history, nature, and cuisine on this immersive journey through Northern Japan. Explore breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and historic sites while savouring local delicacies and engaging in unforgettable cultural experiences.
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Upon arrival at Chitose Airport, Sapporo Hokkaido, make your own way to the hotel. Enjoy your first evening exploring the vibrant city of Sapporo at your leisure.
Begin the day with a departure from the hotel and head to the historic Hokkaido Shrine, where you can take in the serene atmosphere and traditional architecture. Next, visit Shiroi Koibito Park, a charming spot known for its delicious confectionery and picturesque surroundings.
Continue to Odori Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Then, enjoy free time at Tanukikoji Shopping Street, a bustling arcade filled with shops and eateries, where you can explore and have lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, where you can learn about the brewing history of Sapporo beer and enjoy a tasting.
Meals included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a visit to Okurayama Ski Jump, where you can enjoy panoramic views from the top and learn about its significance in winter sports history.
Next, enjoy lunch before visiting the Upopoy National Ainu Museum, an immersive cultural center dedicated to the history and traditions of the indigenous Ainu people.
Continue to Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley, a dramatic volcanic landscape known for its steaming vents and bubbling hot springs. Afterward, return to the hotel to relax before enjoying a group dinner featuring local flavours.
Meals included: Breakfast and dinner
Depart from the hotel and journey to Showa Shinzan, an impressive volcanic lava dome that continues to emit steam, offering a glimpse into Hokkaido’s dynamic geological history.
Next, visit Michi-no-Eki Nanairo Nanae, a charming roadside station where you can explore local products, fresh produce, and regional specialties.
Continue to Goryokaku Park, a stunning star-shaped fort with scenic walking paths and historical significance. After a day of exploration, arrive at the hotel and unwind for the evening.
Meals included: Breakfast
For the early risers, start the day with a dawn visit to the Hakodate Morning Fish Market and Auction, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and see the freshest seafood on display. Return to the hotel for breakfast and rendezvous with the guide.
Travel to Shinhakodate Station, where you’ll have time for lunch before boarding the bullet train to Shin Aomori Station. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant Nebuta Museum, showcasing the artistry and history of Aomori’s famous Nebuta Festival.
Continue to A-Factory, a stylish market featuring local Aomori products, including cider and specialty goods. Conclude the day by arriving at the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Meals included: Breakfast
Depart from your hotel in Aomori in the morning and travel to Hachinohe Hasshoku Center, a lively marketplace offering a vast selection of fresh seafood, local delicacies, and specialty products. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you explore the market stalls and perhaps sample some regional treats.
Continue your journey to a local restaurant for an authentic Wanko Soba experience, a unique and interactive way to enjoy traditional Japanese noodles. Participate in the fun challenge of eating small bowls of soba, where the serving staff will continue refilling your bowl until you indicate you’ve had enough.
In the afternoon, visit Morioka Tezukurimura, a handicraft village where you can immerse yourself in Japanese craftsmanship. This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for local artistry and heritage.
Arrive at your hotel in the evening, where you can relax after a day filled with cultural exploration.
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Begin the day’s journey with a visit to the Nanbu Toji Traditional Museum, where you can learn about the art of Nanbu-style sake brewing and traditional craftsmanship.
Continue to Chusonji Temple, a historic site known for its stunning Golden Hall and rich cultural heritage. Take time to explore the serene surroundings and admire the temple’s intricate architecture.
Next, visit Genbikei, a picturesque gorge famous for its rugged rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Conclude the day by arriving at the hotel in Sendai.
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out and head to Matsushima Kaigan, a scenic coastal area known for its breathtaking island views. Board a relaxing Matsushima Bay Cruise, offering a unique perspective of the famous pine-covered islets.
Enjoy free time in Matsushima to explore and have lunch, taking in the charming atmosphere and local delicacies.
Continue to the Kanezaki Sasakama Kan, where you can learn about the traditions of the Sendai Tanabata Festival, followed by time for shopping.
Arrive at the hotel in the mid afternoon in Koriyama.
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin the day’s journey with a visit to Kashiwaya, a renowned sweet shop offering traditional confections.
Next, explore Sasanokawa Sake Brewery, where you can learn about the brewing process and sample locally crafted sake.
Enjoy free time for lunch at Ama Terrasse, a charming spot with a variety of dining options.
Continue to Takashiba Deko Yashiki, a traditional craft village, where you’ll take part in a hands-on Little Daruma painting experience.
Arrive at the hotel in the afternoon after a day of cultural discoveries.
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin the day’s journey with a visit to Tsuruga Castle, a historic landmark known for its striking architecture and samurai history.
Continue to Aizu Samurai House, where you can explore the well-preserved residence and learn about the lifestyle of the Aizu samurai.
Enjoy an included lunch before heading to Imoriyama-Sazaedo Tomb, a unique double-helix pagoda with a fascinating design and historical significance.
Next, visit Oyakuen Garden, a serene Japanese garden where you can take part in a traditional matcha experience.
Arrive at the hotel in the afternoon to relax and before enjoying the onsen hot springs and an included dinner at the hotel in the evening. A truly Japanese experience.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and head to Ouchi-juku, a picturesque post town known for its traditional thatched-roof houses and charming atmosphere. Stroll along the preserved Edo-period street, where you can admire the historic buildings that once served as lodging for traveling samurai and merchants.
Stop for lunch before traveling back to Tokyo, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon. Enjoy your last evening at leisure.
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and make your own way to Narita or Haneda International Airport
Price based on tour starting 20 April 2026
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Melbourne, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Pace
The pace of this tour is medium paced. The tour covers several areas of Japan and can involve early starts and long travel days. The on-the-go nature of multi-location tours rewards you with maximum sightseeing opportunities. One to two nights at each destination is standard.
Fitness
A medium level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels, terminals and stations. Airport transfer services may not arrive directly at the hotel reception and a short walk between the station and the hotel may be required. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Please note that there will be a fair amount of walking on tour and many locations in Japan will have stairs.
Coach
Our elegant coaches are equipped with safety belts, reclining seats, air-conditioning, onboard toilets, huge windows and plenty of legroom to ensure that your coach tour is a pleasure from the moment you set foot on the bus and throughout your journey.
Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader will be experienced, friendly and passionate to share each destination with you. They will be on hand to offer suggestions for extra activities, local dining options and more while you are on tour.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Japanese accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Group Size
On a tour you will meet like-minded travellers and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 25 people and a maximum group size of approximately 34 people. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit.
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. They may not all be centrally located, but your friendly guide will provide a helpful advice in all locations you visit. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3-star or higher local rating. Hotels are subject to change and a confirmed list will be provided on your final documentation.
Important Information
Exclusions
Airport transfers, meals not noted in itinerary, entry costs to sites not listed in itinerary, Alcoholic beverages not listed in itinerary, gratuities, travel insurance.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Itinerary
Our multi-stop Japan tours are carefully designed to give a real insight into the highlights, culture and beauty of each region. Each day will be different, with a combination of travel days, sightseeing and free time to explore or take a breather as you wish.
Meals
Breakfasts offered by the Japanese accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your tour leader whilst on tour.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Group Size
On a tour you will meet like-minded travellers and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of approximately 25 people and a maximum group size of approximately 34 people. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit.
Change & Cancellation Fees
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees. Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:
0-29 days before departure 100% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply;
30-60 days before departure 65% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply;
61-99 days before departure 50% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply;
100-180 days before departure 30% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply;
181+ days before departure 10% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply.
Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website.
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and stay behind, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed within two weeks of the tour commencement date, not factoring any pre-accommodation requests. For packages consisting of multiple tours, documentation will be emailed individually within two weeks of the tour commencement date of each respective tour
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $1200 per person and is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy. Single rooms are typically smaller than twin rooms in Japan.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Extra Accommodation
Pre and post tour accommodation is not included. Should you choose to arrive prior or extend your stay, you will need to source your own accommodation and transportation. The deviation fee policy will also apply. See Deviation conditions below.
Child
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travelers and is not suitable for children.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Flights
The outbound flight may depart one day prior to day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one day after the final day shown on the itinerary. Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-1988
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