Sapporo: The Indigenous Ainu People & Jozankei walking tour

This tour offers an eye-opening look into Hokkaido’s roots, combining cultural insight with natural beauty and relaxation. It’s a well-rounded experience designed to give travelers a taste of the indigenous Ainu culture, scenic landscapes, and soothing hot springs.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to learn directly about the Ainu people at a dedicated Cultural Center, which is unique in Japan. Second, the visit to Jozankei, a charming hot spring village set amid lush scenery, perfect for a slow, scenic walk. Lastly, the chance to unwind in a hot spring bath at Hotel Shika no Yu, which caps off the day with true relaxation.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, so plan accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy cultural encounters, scenic outdoor walks, and relaxing bath experiences. It’s especially good for those wanting to combine a deeper understanding of local history with leisure.

Key Points

• Cultural Immersion: Learn about the Ainu people and their traditions at an authentic Cultural Center.
• Scenic Walks: Explore Jozankei, a picturesque hot spring village, with visits to parks, shrines, and suspension bridges.
• Relaxation: End your day with a hot spring bath at Hotel Shika no Yu, offering multiple baths at different temperatures.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Scott and others make the experience engaging and personalized.
• Convenience: The tour includes all transportation and admission fees, making planning straightforward.
• Value for Money: At $178, the experience offers a comprehensive cultural and scenic day out, with tailored attention and access to exclusive spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transport: Easy & Organized

The tour kicks off at Sapporo Station, with clear instructions to meet just outside the main JR gates. The guide, easily recognizable by a tour tag, ensures a smooth start. The transport takes care of the logistics, whisking you away to the first stop, the Ainu Cultural Center.

Visiting the Ainu Cultural Center: A Window into Japan’s Indigenous Roots

Once there, we’re introduced to the Ainu people’s history, lifestyle, and art. The center is notable for being the first of its kind in Japan dedicated solely to the original inhabitants of Hokkaido. Visitors can touch traditional craftworks made by Ainu artisans, which adds a tactile element to the learning experience.

According to reviewers, the guides are well-informed. Sylvain mentions, “The museum visit was very interesting thanks to the guide’s explanations,” emphasizing how much the guides enhance the visit. You’ll get to see traditional clothing, tools, and even participate in craft activities, making the history come alive.

Transition to Jozankei: A Picturesque Hot Spring Village

Leaving the cultural center, the tour moves to Jozankei, which is set within the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. You’ll notice that the landscape is shaped by volcanic activity, resulting in thermal springs and lush greenery. It’s a quiet, scenic place, perfect for a leisurely walk.

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Exploring Jozankei’s Key Spots: Shrines, Parks, and Bridges

Your guide will lead you through Jozankei Shrine and Temple, which are serene spots that offer insight into local spiritual practices. Gesen Park is a highlight, featuring a footbath where you can soak your feet in warm, mineral-rich waters, a favorite detail among visitors like Sylvain who appreciated the “experience in an onsen with multiple baths at different temperatures.”

Futami Park and the Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Jozankei’s natural beauty. Nick and others appreciated how their guides took them to places of historical and cultural significance, sharing stories about the local ecosystem and legends like the Kappa mascot.

The Onsen Experience: Relaxation at Hotel Shika no Yu

The final highlight is the hot spring bath at Hotel Shika no Yu. The experience includes a 2-hour onsen day-bath, where you can unwind and enjoy the therapeutic mineral waters. Reviewers like Edrick describe it as “the icing on the cake,” a perfect way to relax after a day of walking and sightseeing.

The guide provides instructions on bathing etiquette, ensuring you feel comfortable and respectful of the tradition. Bringing a towel and change of clothes is recommended, and many travelers find this part of the tour to be a genuine highlight.

Ending the Day: Return to Sapporo

After a rejuvenating soak, the trip concludes with transport back to Sapporo. The whole experience lasts around a full day, making it manageable for most travelers seeking cultural depth and relaxation in one go.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $178, this tour presents a comprehensive package. It’s inclusive of all transportation and admission fees, saving you the hassle and unexpected costs. The guided element ensures you’ll get local insights that enhance the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The tour’s structure, with a focus on authentic cultural experiences and scenic walks, makes it particularly appealing. The small group size, as noted by reviewers, means a more personalized experience, with guides like Scott making accommodations for guests with different needs.

Authentic Encounters That Matter

The knowledgeable guides stand out as a major plus. From explanations of Ainu crafts to stories about local legends, their insights make the experience richer. Sylvain pointed out that the explanations from the guide made the museum visit especially worthwhile, and others appreciated how guides balanced storytelling with practical info.

Scenic and Relaxing

The setting of Jozankei within a national park means you’ll enjoy lush scenery, calming parks, and a suspension bridge, perfect for photography or just soaking in the peaceful environment. The footbath and hot spring bath are not just luxuries — they’re therapeutic, especially after a day of walking.

Practical Aspects

The meeting point is well-organized, with clear instructions, and the timing allows for a full but not overly rushed day. Carrying comfortable shoes, water, and a change of clothes will ensure you get the most out of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in cultural history and indigenous peoples, particularly those who value guided insights. It’s perfect for scenic lovers who want to combine nature walks with a relaxing onsen visit.

While it’s quite active, the walks are on uneven surfaces, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this. It suits those looking for a well-rounded day that balances education, scenic exploration, and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, all transportation from Sapporo Station to the attractions and back is covered, making it easy to focus on the experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is designed as a full-day experience, from 9 a.m. start to return in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, all entry tickets for the Cultural Center, parks, shrines, and other spots are included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, a change of clothes for the onsen, and water are recommended. Be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain and is not recommended for wheelchair users or people with back problems.

Can I participate if I don’t want to do the onsen?
The hot spring bath is a key part of the experience, but if you prefer not to soak, you can still enjoy the walking and cultural parts of the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides providing detailed explanations.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic blend of cultural education, scenic beauty, and relaxation. The chance to learn about the Ainu people directly from knowledgeable guides makes it stand apart from typical sightseeing. The scenic Jozankei area, with its parks, shrine, suspension bridge, and thermal waters, guarantees a peaceful, visually rewarding experience.

Most importantly, the hot spring bath provides a satisfying finish, turning a day of exploration into a true rejuvenation. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to deepen their understanding of Hokkaido’s heritage while enjoying a tranquil natural setting.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, comfortable, and well-organized day trip that balances culture, nature, and relaxation, this tour is hard to beat. It’s suitable for curious travelers eager to connect with local history and unwind in soothing hot springs — a memorable way to spend a day in Hokkaido.

You can check availability for your dates here: