Japan is a country rich in culture, history, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. Exploring from the bright lights and energy of Tokyo to the serene mountain landscapes of Hokkaido, a tour of Japan offers a chance to experience the country’s remarkable diversity. Traveling from the capital city to the northern island of Hokkaido provides visitors with an insight into some of the best this island nation has to offer.
Start in the massive metropolis of Tokyo, a city that seamlessly blends the ancient and ultra-modern. Wander through peaceful Shinto shrines before getting lost in the flashing neon and bustling crowds of districts such as Shibuya and Shinjuku. Sample top-notch sushi and slurp down steaming bowls of ramen.
Then make your way north to Hokkaido, Japan’s pristine northern frontier. Visit Sapporo, Hokkaido’s charming capital, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and tour historic sites. Tour the idyllic countryside filled with flower fields, hot springs, lakes, and volcanoes. Finally, stop in Otaru to stroll along the city’s charming canal lined with cafes and restaurants.
This article explores the must-see highlights of a trip through Japan and Hokkaido. From world-class cuisine to stunning scenery, cultural sites, and more, discover why this tour offers an unforgettable way to explore the very best of Japan.
Tokyo: The Metropolis Marvel
As Japan’s massive capital city, Tokyo dazzles visitors with its sheer size and energy.
Traveling to Japan offers an incredibly exciting opportunity to explore a country rich in culture, traditions, and contradictions. The journey begins in Tokyo, the massive capital city that leaves many visitors awe-struck with its sheer size and pulsating energy.
Traveling to Japan offers an incredibly exciting opportunity to explore a country rich in culture, traditions, and contradictions. The journey begins in Tokyo, the massive capital city that leaves many visitors awe-struck with its sheer size and pulsating energy.
Behind the towering skyscrapers and neon lights lies a quintessential Japanese metropolis steeped in history and customs. To avoid any discrepancies and ensure a smooth journey, it’s advisable to opt for trusted Japan tours providers offering travel packages. With their expertise, you can immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Japan, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Iconic Landmarks
No trip to Tokyo is complete without visiting the landmark Tokyo Tower. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, this orange and white structure has been defining the city’s skyline since 1958. For panoramic views, head to the main observation deck 250 meters above the city. The ancient Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa provides a serene contrast to the modern tower.
Walk under the massive Kaminarimon Gate to explore the temple’s grounds, majestic pagoda, and stalls selling local snacks and souvenirs. The Meiji Shrine is set within an evergreen forest in the heart of the city. This Shinto shrine provides a peaceful space to experience traditional Japanese architecture and watch locals pay respects through rituals such as bowing and clapping.
Cultural Experiences
Japan has many unique cultural traditions, including the elegant Japanese tea ceremony. At venues such as Happoen Gardens, you could learn about the meaning behind every precisely choreographed step of preparing and serving matcha green tea.
Kabuki theatrical shows offer another way to experience traditional Japanese culture. The performances feature dramatic costumes, makeup, and highly stylized acting. Sumo wrestling is Japan’s national sport, and tournaments are held several times a year in Tokyo. At a sumo match, you may see these massive athletes crash against each other to push their opponent out of the ring.
Culinary Delights
One of the top places to enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi in Tokyo is the lively Tsukiji Fish Market. Restaurants surrounding the outer market serve sushi straight from the source. For piping hot ramen noodles, shops in the Shinjuku area offer seemingly endless takes on this Japanese staple, from hearty miso to creamy tonkotsu styles.
Izakaya restaurants specializing in small dishes and local beer are popular nightlife spots. Under neon signs, you could sample Japanese favorites such as yakitori, fried chicken, and grilled fish at izakayas in Shibuya.
Journey to Hokkaido: Nature’s Wonderland
Leaving the crowds of Tokyo behind, you can take a domestic flight or overnight train to reach Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido. The landscapes here are defined by rich farmlands, majestic volcanoes, and expansive wilderness perfect for outdoor adventures.
Hokkaido’s Natural Beauty
Even within Sapporo city, you’re surrounded by nature. The Hokkaido Shrine has towering cryptomeria trees and offers views of Maruyama Park’s forested hills.
Odori Park bisects Sapporo with its lush lawns and flower gardens set against high-rise buildings. Escape deeper into nature by heading to Maruyama Park, where you can wander through old-growth forests to reach Hokkaido’s tallest waterfall.
Outdoor Adventures
Hokkaido is a winter wonderland, with ski resorts such as Niseko receiving up to 15 meters of light powder snow each year. These world-class conditions create a skier’s and snowboarder’s paradise. For snow-free adventures, Noboribetsu Onsen is acclaimed for its extensive volcanic hot spring baths tucked within forested hills. Or bike through the flower fields and rolling hills surrounding Furano to enjoy Hokkaido’s countryside.
Wildlife Encounters
One of Japan’s largest zoos, Asahiyama Zoo, offers the chance to safely view arctic foxes, penguins, polar bears, and other animals in natural enclosures. See Hokkaido’s official bird, the red-crowned crane, in habitats around Kushiro. These elegant white cranes can grow over 1.5 meters tall and were revered as spiritual messengers.
Otaru Canal is a popular spot to watch wild seals swim and playfully pose for cameras. You may even spot dolphins frolicking off the coast of Otaru as you walk along the seaside canal.
Sapporo: Capital of Hokkaido
As Hokkaido’s vibrant capital, Sapporo makes a perfect base for exploring the island’s highlights. This fast-paced modern city also holds onto its historic and natural charms.
Urban Attractions
The Sapporo Clock Tower is an enduring landmark dating back to the late 19th century. This timeworn red brick clock tower overlooks Odori Park and still keeps accurate time today. Odori Park hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.
Stretching 1.5 kilometers through Sapporo, it’s a gathering place for locals and sightseers alike. At the classic Sapporo Beer Museum, you could learn about Japan’s first beer brewery and sample freshly made beer and Genghis Khan lamb barbecue.
Winter Wonderland
For one week in February, Sapporo’s snow festival transforms the city into a magical frozen world. Massive snow and ice sculptures line Odori Park illuminated beautifully at night. Professional teams compete to create the most intricate ice sculptures during the festival.
Just outside Sapporo, hit the slopes at Sapporo Teine for winter sports with a backdrop of mountain vistas. Night skiing gives you the chance to see the city lights from the slopes.
Culinary Adventures
Be ready to walk through crowded alleys filled with the aroma of simmering broth at the famous Sapporo Ramen Yokocho. Here you’ll find row after row of ramen shops, each with their own specialty broth and noodles. Jingisukan, meaning Genghis Khan, is Hokkaido’s signature lamb dish.
Restaurants across the city serve the tender, smoky meat alongside local beer. At Nijo Fish Market and Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, you can shop for ultra-fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot as sushi and sashimi.
Whether you’re exploring futuristic cityscapes, jaw-dropping nature, or spiritual ancient sites, a trip from Tokyo up to the wonders of Hokkaido provides the quintessential Japan experience. With so many diverse attractions, cuisine, and activities, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories on this journey across Japan’s most dynamic regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best time to visit Hokkaido for a tour?
Hokkaido’s climate brings four distinct seasons, each with its own perks. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and exploring nature at its greenest. Late fall foliage draws visitors for the changing leaves. For winter sports, ideal snow conditions are from December to February. Sapporo’s Snow Festival takes place in early February. Summer’s cooler weather makes it a good time to escape the heat in other parts of Japan.
- Are there any cultural etiquettes or customs travelers should be aware of when visiting Japan and Hokkaido?
In Japan, it is polite to bow when greeting others. Removing shoes before entering temples, homes, and some shops and restaurants is also customary. When dining, slurping noodles is not considered rude. Temples and shrines have specific rituals such as hand washing and not taking photos of inner sanctums. Be respectful when viewing religious ceremonies. Speaking quietly on public transportation is expected. Understanding these norms will enhance your cultural experience.
- How can travelers navigate between Tokyo and Sapporo efficiently?
Taking a domestic flight is the fastest way to cover the 1090 km distance between Tokyo and Sapporo. There are flights between the cities several times daily. The Hokkaido Shinkansen bullet train covers the trip in around 4 hours. Overnight buses take 10-12 hours but allow you to save on accommodation. Bring entertainment and book early, as buses fill quickly during holidays. Flying or taking the Shinkansen between the cities allows you to maximize your time exploring each destination.