Best of Hokkaido and Northern Japan Tour | 2023-2024 Guided Vacation | Private Tour

Day 1	Welcome to Japan! Japan Deluxe Tours has arranged transportation services to meet you at your airport's arrival lobby and will take you to your hotel. Keep an eye out for a sign with your name on it to find your driver. Rest at the hotel and be ready to start your exciting tour tomorrow. INFORMATION From Narita Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 90 mins(Bus) From Haneda Airport to downtown hotel in Tokyo - about 30 mins(Bus)	Haneda Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar
Day 2	We embark on our journey by boarding a flight from Haneda Airport to Sapporo. Upon arrival, we'll explore the iconic landmarks of Sapporo, starting with a visit to the historic Sapporo Clock Tower, followed by a peaceful stroll through the sprawling Odori Park. After acquainting ourselves with the city, we'll stop for a delightful lunch. Post-lunch, we'll continue our city tour with a visit to Shiroi Koibito Park, home to the famous chocolate factory. You'll have a chance to explore the magical, Willy Wonka-like environment and perhaps even try the beloved white chocolate sandwich cookies. We'll round off the day with a trip to Sapporo Beer Garden. This is your chance to savor the flavors of Sapporo's renowned brews and experience a staple of local life. After soaking in the city's vibrant culture and flavors, we'll conclude our day's journey.	JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo or similar	Breakfast Dinner
Day 3	We begin our day by departing from Sapporo and making our way to Otaru Canal. This historic canal is flanked by gaslights and brick or Sapporo freestone warehouses, now transformed into restaurants, variety stores, and souvenir shops. While there, you'll have the opportunity to visit Kitaichi Glass and Otaru Music Box Museum, and enjoy some shopping on Sakaimachi Street. In this charming port area, make sure to try the famous Otaru-style Soup Japanese Curry for lunch, a local specialty that's a must-try. Following our time in Otaru, we'll head to Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, one of Japan's leading whisky makers and renowned worldwide. Here, you'll have the chance to learn more about the meticulous distillation process and the effort that goes into crafting the perfect glass of whisky. After an enlightening visit to the distillery, we then proceed to the hotel.	JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo or similar	Breakfast
Day 4	We begin our day with a visit to Tomita Farm, where a vibrant array of flowers create a breathtaking spectacle against the backdrop of the Tokachi Mountain Range. As we stroll through the fields, you'll be captivated by the delicate fragrance and dazzling colors that envelop you. Next, we proceed to the mystical Blue Pond. Its mesmerizing, cobalt blue water against the stark white birch trees creates an enchanting scene straight out of a fairy tale. Afterwards, we head to Shikisai no Oka, also known as the Hills of Seasonal Colors. This sprawling hill offers a panoramic view of beautiful flowers spanning over 15 hectares, creating a natural palette of colors that changes with the seasons. Our final stop for the day is the Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum. Here, we'll delve into the intricate art of sake brewing, getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the time-honored techniques that make this traditional Japanese spirit. We'll conclude the day, enriched by the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Hokkaido. *Lavender fields are viewable from July through mid-August.	JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo or similar	Breakfast
Day 5	Our day begins as we board a train, setting off on our journey to explore the rich history and breathtaking views of Hakodate. As we traverse the city, we get to immerse ourselves in its unique blend of Edo period charm and Western influences. Our first stop is the iconic Goryokaku, a star-shaped fortress filled with cherry trees. As we stroll around, we'll learn about the historical significance of this stunning site, which was once the stage for the last battle of the Edo period. Following our exploration of Goryokaku, we proceed to the Hakodate Ropeway. We'll ascend Mount Hakodate in a cable car, reaching a height that offers panoramic views of the city. It's here we'll witness the stunning vista that is often counted among Japan's top three night views. After a day of memorable sightseeing, we'll indulge in a well-deserved dinner, savoring the local flavors of Hakodate. Our fulfilling day comes to a close as we check into our hotel, ready to rest and recharge for our continuing adventures.	La Vista Hakodate Bay or similar	Breakfast Lunch
Day 6	We start our journey as we step aboard the Shinkansen, Japan's iconic high-speed train. As we whisk through the countryside, we look forward to exploring the rich cultural heritage of Aomori. Upon our arrival, our first stop is the Nebuta Museum WA RASSE. Here, we are granted a rare glimpse into the vibrant world of the Nebuta Festival. The museum allows us to experience the majesty and grandeur of Nebuta floats up close, every day of the year, a spectacle typically reserved for the peak summer festival season. After immersing ourselves in this unique local tradition, we make our way to the Oirase Keiryu Hotel. Nestled in the verdant surroundings of the Oirase Mountain Stream area, the hotel is an oasis of calm and natural beauty. As we check in, we can't help but anticipate the serene tranquility and rejuvenating atmosphere that awaits us. The rest of our day is spent basking in the peacefulness of our surroundings, as we rest and prepare for more adventures on the morrow.	Hoshino Resorts Oirase Keiryu Hotel or similar	Breakfast Dinner
Day 7	Our morning begins with a stroll through the breathtaking scenery of the Oirase Mountain Stream. As we wander along the path, the vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, and clear, rushing water immerse us in an atmosphere of tranquil beauty. This unique location, regarded as one of Japan's most picturesque landscapes, provides a splendid start to our day. In the afternoon, we shift gears from the serene natural beauty of Oirase Stream to the bustling urban atmosphere of Aomori City. Our destination is the distinguished Aomoriya Hotel, a welcoming haven that seamlessly combines the traditional beauty of Tohoku's local culture with modern convenience. Known for its exceptional hospitality, this luxurious hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, and a variety of top-tier amenities for guests to relish in. Upon arrival at the Aomoriya Hotel, we have time to settle in, freshen up, and explore the hotel's notable features. With expansive, beautifully maintained Japanese gardens, locally-inspired dining options, and inviting onsen hot springs, the hotel offers a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. As we unwind and prepare for the evening, the hotel's unique charm enhances our experience of this vibrant region. In the evening, we dive into the vibrant local culture at the Michinoku Traditional Dance Festival. This spectacle, brimming with the bright hues and rhythmic beats of traditional music and dance, captivates our senses, creating an unforgettable conclusion to our day in Aomori.	Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya or similar	Breakfast Dinner
Day 8	We embark on our day with a scenic ride aboard the Aoimori Railway, a journey that treats us to stunning views of Aomori's lush greenery and pristine landscapes. As we traverse through the tranquil countryside, the train's leisurely pace allows us to immerse ourselves in the region's natural beauty and serenity. Our destination is the venerable Chuson-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the town of Hiraizumi. Renowned for its golden hall, Konjikido, which is entirely covered in gold leaf, this sacred temple provides us a unique window into the refined culture and religious practices of the Heian period. At Chuson-ji, we have the chance to stroll through the temple grounds, appreciate the exquisite Heian-era architecture, and learn about the history of the Buddhist Pure Land sect in Japan. The temple's serene environment, rich history, and the fascinating stories behind its treasures create an enriching cultural experience. Following our visit to Chuson-ji, we make our way back to Tokyo on the shinkansen, Japan's world-famous high-speed train. As we watch the diverse landscapes of Japan zip past our windows, we reflect on our journey and the unforgettable experiences we've had. Our return to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo marks the conclusion of our extraordinary exploration through northern Japan.	The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome or similar	Breakfast
Day 9	Your pleasant and memorable Japan tour ends today. The tour will disband after breakfast. Fly home with cherished memories or enjoy your extended stay in Japan. INFORMATION From downtown hotel in Tokyo to Narita Airport - about 90 mins(Bus) From downtown hotel in Tokyo to Haneda Airport - about 30 mins(Bus)		Breakfast