Northern Japan Tours & Trips
Ever thought about soaking in Hokkaido's volcanic hot springs or seeing Sapporo's Snow Festival's ice sculptures? Northern Japan calls with Noboribetsu's Hell Valley, Otaru's romantic canal, Lake Shikotsu's perfect waters, and Asahikawa's Asahiyama Zoo. Try Ainu culture and cruise through drift ice. Japan's northern wonderland is ready.
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- Choose from 24 Northern Japan tours
- 27 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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- MJ
Maria • traveled in September
I have enjoyed and learned a lot in the workshops. On the other hand, the work and dedication of the staff is admirable. Finally, the participants have constituted a homogeneous group despite their different nationalities and ages. I have a great experience. Best regards.
Environmental Conservation Volunteering, Cultural Immersion and Temple Stay on Sado Island - K
KokoPoppyWalsh • traveled in April
I traveled as a solo traveler to Eastern Hokkaido earlier this year. What an experience. I have been to many other parts of Japan but this is certainly something like no where else in Japan. Amazing bird watching. Beautiful cranes. Stunning lakes. Outstanding food throughout. It would not have been possible to see this part of Japan on my own. We traveled by private car for most of the journey (apart from taking the train from Sapporo across to Kusshiro). Our local guide was from the area which made the experience even better. My highlight on the trip was the onsen baths, spectacular scenery, and meeting with indigenous Ainu people. I had read lots about Japan's ancient people so to meet them in person was probably the biggest highlight. I would highly recommend this tour and going with Unique Japan Tours. They were amazing to travel with.
Journey to the East, featuring Sapporo Snow Festival
The best Northern Japan tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Japan travel expert at TourRadar
- 【Japan】Hokkaido 7 Days Noboribetsu, Asahikawa, Biei Package
- Journey to the East, featuring Sapporo Snow Festival
- Japanese Scenes
- Environmental Conservation Volunteering, Cultural Immersion and Temple Stay on Sado Island
- Northern Japan & Hokkaido Adventure
- Active Northern Japan: Winter in Hokkaido
- Active Northern Japan: Winter in Tokyo & Hokkaido
- Culinary Internship Program + Cooking & Japanese lessons in Japan
- North Japan End Sapporo (from Tokyo to Otaru)
- Customized 5 Days Japan Hokkaido Charms Tour with 4-stars Hotel, Private Guide
【Japan】Hokkaido 7 Days Noboribetsu, Asahikawa, Biei Package
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The 7-day Hokkaido tour with Delightful Travel was a relaxing and well-organised trip — from stunning landscapes to cozy hotels.”
Michelle, traveled in July
Asahikawa Shrine, Shirahige Waterfall, and Noboribetsu's Hell Valley showcase northern treasures. Sapporo's vibrant Tanuki Koji Street and historic Otaru Canal complement premium hotels with traditional onsen baths.
Duration 7 days Destinations Sapporo, Noboribetsu, Otaru, Biei Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Delightful Travel From
- NZ$5,730
Journey to the East, featuring Sapporo Snow Festival
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing bird watching. Beautiful cranes. Stunning lakes. Outstanding food throughout.”
KokoPoppyWalsh, traveled in February
Winter magic spans from Sapporo's illuminated snow sculptures to Shiretoko's wilderness. Tsurui Crane Sanctuary, Lake Akan's Ainu culture, and drift-ice walking at Abashiri highlight stays at premium 4-star hotels.
Duration 8 days Destinations Sapporo, Kushiro, Lake Akan, Shiretoko National Park, Abashiri Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Oomi Travel From
- NZ$8,737
Duration 17 days Destinations Tokyo, Hiroshima, Matsuyama, Unzen, Kotohira, Takamatsu, Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto, TsumagoSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
- NZ$10,009
Environmental Conservation Volunteering, Cultural Immersion and Temple Stay on Sado Island
6 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great to mix with younger people who want to make a difference in the world and a heap of new experiences for me!”
Alwyn, traveled in June
Conservation work on Sado Island reveals northern Japan's natural treasures. From managing biotopes in Iwakubi to collecting herbs in ancient forests, the island's diverse ecosystems come alive. Chokokuji Temple provides historic lodging while guests contribute to environmental preservation and traditional farming.
Duration 8 days Destinations Sado Island Age Range Ages 14+ Operator World Unite Japan KK From
- NZ$1,157
Northern Japan unfolds from Aomori's prehistoric Sannai-Maruyama site to Hirosaki's feudal castle. Traditional ryokan stays, volcanic onsens in Noboribetsu, and Furano's colorful Tomita Farm lead to mountainous Sapporo.
Duration 12 days Destinations Tokyo, Aomori, Hakodate, Noboribetsu, Asahikawa, Furano, Sapporo Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $9,160
30% Off- NZ$6,412You save $2,748
Duration 9 days Destinations Tokyo, Shiretoko National Park, Lake Akan, Asahikawa, Sapporo Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From $7,199
25% Off- NZ$5,399You save $1,800
Duration 11 days Destinations Tokyo, Shiretoko National Park, Asahikawa, Sapporo Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From
25% Off- NZ$8,199
Professional culinary training in Tokyo leads to internship opportunities in Iwate Prefecture. Local specialties from fresh seafood to traditional sake production showcase rural Japan's authentic food culture.
Duration 90 days Destinations Tokyo, Sado Island Age Range Ages 18+ Operator World Unite Japan KK From
25% Off- NZ$5,144
Duration 8 days Destinations Tokyo, Nikko, Sendai, Matsushima, Hiraizumi, Morioka, Hirosaki, Aomori, Hakodate, NoboribetsuSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Europamundo From
25% Off- NZ$3,991
Duration 5 days Destinations Sapporo, Otaru, Noboribetsu, Hakodate Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Agate Travel From
25% Off- NZ$3,295
What our customers ask about Northern Japan Tours & Trips
Why Visit Northern Japan Instead of Tokyo or Kyoto?
You know what's amazing about Northern Japan? While everyone flocks to Tokyo and Kyoto you'll discover this incredible mix of untouched landscapes and authentic culture at a way more relaxed pace. Travelers absolutely love exploring Hokkaido's national parks especially Shiretoko National Park where you can wander around the famous Five Lakes. The canals in Otaru are super charming and if you time it right you can catch the Nebuta Matsuri festival in Aomori with these massive glowing floats that tell stories from Japanese mythology.
What Can I Eat That's Special to Northern Japan?
The food scene up north is incredible and totally unique. When you're in Hokkaido definitely head to Hakodate's morning market for the freshest king crab and uni (sea urchin) you'll ever taste. If you're in Sapporo you've got to try their famous miso ramen - there's this amazing spot called Ramen Yokocho in Susukino where the rich miso broth is just perfect. Over in Aomori they're really proud of their apples and make everything from fresh cider to amazing apple pies.
How Do I Get Around Northern Japan?
Getting around is actually pretty straightforward thanks to Japan's amazing rail system. The bullet trains connect all the major spots like Sapporo Hakodate Aomori and Sendai and the views are incredible especially when you're zooming through the Seikan Tunnel between Hokkaido and Honshu. For smaller towns you've got regional trains like the Super Hokuto Limited Express. If you're planning to do lots of traveling grab a Japan Rail Pass it'll save you loads and local buses in cities are super convenient and won't break the bank.
What Makes Northern Japan Different from the Rest?
The north just feels different you know? It's got this untouched natural beauty preserved traditions and moves at its own pace. In Hokkaido you'll find these incredible national parks amazing volcanic hot springs (check out Noboribetsu's 'Hell Valley') and you can learn about Ainu culture at places like the Kawamura Kaneto Museum. Tohoku's got the most beautiful autumn colors historic samurai areas and these gorgeous traditional villages like Ouchi-juku with its thatched roofs. Plus you'll deal with way fewer tourists which means a more genuine Japanese experience.
Which Festivals Should I Plan My Trip Around?
The festivals up north are absolutely incredible. If you're around in August the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori is mind-blowing with these huge illuminated floats mythical figures and such energetic music and dancing. February brings the Sapporo Snow Festival where you'll see the most amazing snow and ice sculptures in Odori Park and Susukino created by artists from all over the world. For something really special time your visit for the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival in April-May when 2500 cherry trees bloom around the castle it's absolutely magical.
More about Northern Japan
HonshuSouthern JapanCentral JapanKansaiShikokuMount FujiKantoHokkaidoKyushu