Hokkaido
HIGHLIGHTS
Forget Niseko, Sapporo and Hakodate. Embark on an extraordinary adventure as we journey way off the beaten path to the area of Eastern Hokkaido. Experience the fun of fishing for wakasagi (pond smelt) and then having them cooked as tempura on a serene frozen lake.
Visit the small fishing village of Rausu with a population of 5,000 residents on the Shiretoko Peninsula. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Rausu Kombu, the most coveted kelp in the world. Learn all there is to know about this special Kombu from local fisherman and taste their local sanpe jiru (stew) with daikon radish and locally caught cod in Rausu kombu broth.
Learn about and taste one of Japan's most cherished uni (bafun uni). Bafun uni is in season in Rausu starting in February. In other parts of Hokkaido, uni seasons start later or even around summer. Enjoy this local delicacy with an array of other seafood.*
Marvel at the majestic Steller’s sea eagles that have migrated down from Siberia for the winter. Indulge your senses with an enchanting sushi feast, featuring the freshest seafood caught by local fishermen, perfectly complemented with the finest Hokkaido sake, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Journey south stopping at the spectacular Notsuke peninsular. Here you can see an area of the bay completely frozen over in winter. You may also be lucky enough to spot wild Hokkaido deer and other wildlife in this area.
Immerse yourself in the culture of Hokkaido as you delve deep into the rich heritage of the indigenous Ainu people. Hear first hand from our friend Hiromi a respected local chief, and gain an understanding of their fascinating customs and traditions. Join him and his wife for a short nature walk that is only accessible with them as our guides.
Visit a sanctuary for Red crowned cranes, experience the delectable flavors of local Akeshi Oysters, and much more on this captivating journey of Eastern Hokkaido.
Join us for a Hokkaido Experience like no other.
*Please note - many activities and also the availability of Uni is dependant on the weather conditions.
The group will travel from Haneda to Memanbetsu on Monday 3rd - we can assist with booking the flight if needed. The tour starts at Memanbetsu Airport and finishes at Kushiro Airport. Travel to Memanbetsu Airport on the first day and from Kushiro on the last day are not included in the tour.
Hokkaido Sake Tour - Feb 2025
Dates- Monday Feb 3rd- Saturday Feb 8th (2025)
This tour is now full.
Contact us today info@saketours.com to be put on the waitlist.
Tour Destination: Eastern Hokkaido
Dates & Duration: Feb 3-8th (2025)
Group size: Maximum 14 guests
Tour Cost: Final Price TBC
PLEASE NOTE: We do not visit any Sake Breweries on this tour (we do however have a lot of Hokkaido sake!) Also the itinerary of this tour is subject to slight changes and many activities and also the availability of uni is highly dependant on the weather conditions.
If you are thinking inside your head - “well I have already been to Hokkaido” - our response is “you haven’t been there with us.”
The photos below are from previous Hokkaido tours. Whilst we try and offer experiences as close to what we have shown here, some things may change (weather, food, people etc.)
* The photos of tents are for ice-fishing - don’t worry we won’t be sleeping in tents.
