Chitose’s most worthwhile tours combine culture with outdoor adventure. I’m especially fond of the Art of Ice Snowshoe Tour ($52) – it’s a fantastic winter experience that won’t break the bank. The Jozankei Walking Tour ($175) offers authentic insights into Ainu culture, while the budget-friendly Kikkoman Factory Tour ($37) shows Japan’s industrial heritage. For nature lovers, the clear-bottom kayak tour ($441) delivers stunning views, though it’s pricey. The Noboribetsu day trip ($65) packs excellent value with multiple stops. Let’s check out the standout tours that deserve your time and money.
Key Points
- The Art of Ice Nanajo Shichijo Otaki Snowshoe Tour offers a unique winter adventure in Lake Shikotsu National Park for $51.79.
- The Early Morning Premium Private Kayak Tour provides an exclusive clear-bottom kayaking experience with breakfast included at $441.28.
- The Hokkaido Kikkoman Factory Tour offers an affordable factory experience at $37.34 with convenient airport pickup options.
- The Indigenous Ainu People tour combines cultural learning with relaxation at Jozankei hot springs for a comprehensive 9.5-hour experience.
- The Lake Toya and Noboribetsu day tour provides excellent value at $64.68 with wheelchair accessibility and multiple attraction visits.
Art of Ice ” Nanajo Shichijo Otaki Snowshoe Tour Difficulty (Medium)
Nestled in Chitose’s Lake Shikotsu National Park, the Art of Ice Nanajo Shichijo Otaki Snowshoe Tour offers an affordable winter adventure at $51.79 per person.
This medium-difficulty excursion requires moderate physical fitness and welcomes groups of up to 20 travelers.
The tour provides essential equipment including boots, snowshoes, and trekking poles, along with guide services and insurance coverage.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, the flexible booking policy allows visitors to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Art of Ice ” Nanajo Shichijo Otaki Snowshoe Tour Difficulty (Medium) Review
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Sapporo: the Indigenous Ainu People & Jozankei Walking Tour
For travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience, the Indigenous Ainu People & Jozankei Walking Tour offers a comprehensive 9.5-hour journey through Japan’s rich heritage.
Starting at $175.14 per person, visitors explore the Ainu Cultural Center, Japan’s first facility dedicated to its indigenous people, where they’ll learn about traditional crafts and customs.
The tour continues to Jozankei hot spring village in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, featuring visits to local shrines, Gesen Park, and the Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge.
It concludes with a relaxing 2-hour bath at Hotel Shika no Yu. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Sapporo: the Indigenous Ainu People & Jozankei Walking Tour Review
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Hokkaido Kikkoman Factory Tour
Moving from cultural heritage to culinary traditions, the Hokkaido Kikkoman Factory Tour presents a budget-friendly way to explore Japan’s renowned soy sauce production.
For just $37.34 per person, Go Hokkaido offers this comprehensive experience that includes private transportation, all fees, and lunch.
The tour features convenient pickup from New Chitose Airport’s domestic and international terminals. While the factory tour itself is free, the package’s value lies in its complete service – transportation, guided experience, and dining.
With a small group maximum of four travelers, it’s an intimate look at Kikkoman’s operations. Advance booking is flexible, allowing payment later and free cancellation within 24 hours.
Read our full review: Hokkaido Kikkoman Factory Tour Review
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Hokkaido, Sappro,Noboribetsu & Lake Toya | One-Day Tour
Spanning three iconic Hokkaido destinations, this comprehensive day tour offers exceptional value at $64.68 per person.
The itinerary packs major attractions including Lake Toya’s panoramic views, Noboribetsu’s geothermal wonders, and the unique Showa Shinzan Bear Farm.
Visitors can enjoy English or Japanese guided tours, with convenient pickup from Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel or Sapporo TV Tower.
While some reviewers note the predominant Japanese and Chinese commentary, the well-organized stops and flexible booking options make it worthwhile.
The tour’s wheelchair accessibility and free cancellation policy add extra convenience.
From February 2025, the Shikotsu Ice Festival replaces the outlet mall visit.
Read our full review: Hokkaido, Sappro,Noboribetsu & Lake Toya | One-Day Tour Review
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Early Morning Premium Private Clear-Bottom Kayak Tour
Adventure seekers can explore Lake Shikotsu‘s crystal-clear waters through a premium private kayaking experience at $441.28 per person.
This early morning tour starts at 7:00 AM from Ocean Days in Chitose, offering a personalized experience with clear-bottom kayaks exclusively for your group.
The package includes breakfast, coffee or tea, instructor fees, and private transportation.
It’s easily accessible from major locations like Sapporo (70 minutes) and New Chitose Airport (40 minutes).
While most travelers can participate, it’s not suitable for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Read our full review: Early Morning Premium Private Clear-Bottom Kayak Tour Review
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Sum Up
Chitose’s top tours offer diverse experiences for various budgets and interests. The Art of Ice snowshoe tour provides winter adventure, while the Ainu cultural tour shares indigenous heritage. Budget travelers can enjoy the free Kikkoman Factory tour, and nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss the clear-bottom kayak experience. For those short on time, the one-day tour covering Sapporo, Noboribetsu, and Lake Toya delivers maximum value.