Small Group Hokkaido Sapporo Abashiri 9-Guest 2-Day Tour

Experience the Best of Hokkaido in Two Days

Traveling through Japan’s northernmost island, Hokkaido, offers a unique blend of icy landscapes, wildlife, and cultural sights. We’ve examined a 2-day small-group tour that covers some of the most iconic winter attractions from Sapporo to Abashiri—perfect for those craving authentic, scenic adventures without the hassle of planning every detail.

What draws us to this experience are the intimate group size—only nine guests—making it easier to connect and enjoy personalized insights. We also love the diverse mix of activities: from feeding animals at a farm, meeting penguins at the zoo, to the exhilarating drift ice cruise. Plus, the Ice Waterfall Festival promises one of the most visually stunning displays of winter artistry.

However, keep in mind the seasonal nature of some highlights. The drift ice cruise, for example, runs primarily from January to March, which could be a bit hit-or-miss depending on weather conditions. This tour suits travelers who appreciate diverse, well-rounded winter experiences and don’t mind long days on the move.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Setting: With only 9 guests, the tour offers a personalized experience and more flexibility.
• Diverse Attractions: From animal encounters to scenic cruises and ice festivals, there’s a lot packed into two days.
• Seasonal Highlights: The drift ice cruise and Ice Waterfall Festival are weather-dependent but highly memorable when available.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off within designated areas simplify travel planning.
• Value for Money: Includes meals, entrance fees, and a variety of activities, making it a cost-effective way to see northern Hokkaido.
• Authentic Experiences: The stops provide genuine insights into local wildlife, history, and winter traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Sapporo to Abashiri via Biei and Asahiyama Zoo

The journey kicks off with a morning pickup in Sapporo, where a comfortable bus awaits. The first stop is the Chiyoda Interactive Farm in Biei, a delightful spot for animal lovers. Guests often mention how the farm allows for close-up animal feeding, which makes for a fun, hands-on experience—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just love getting to know animals.

We found that the farm’s setting offers a charming rural backdrop, with natural winter scenery adding to the rustic charm. The included lunch features local specialties, providing a taste of the region’s flavors. The emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients makes this meal a pleasant surprise for food-savvy travelers.

Next, the tour heads to Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s most famous zoological parks. Its naturalistic enclosures and the renowned penguin walk (seasonal) are major highlights. As one reviewer noted, “Watching the penguins waddle in the snow is just adorable,” and it’s a truly unique sight that shows how the zoo has prioritized animal comfort.

In the evening, the group moves on to Abashiri, where you’ll settle into your hotel. The journey itself provides ample time to appreciate the changing winter landscape, with striking snow-covered fields and icy lakes along the route.

Day 2: Abashiri to Sapporo, including Ice Cruises and Festival

The second day begins with the Aurora drift ice cruise, a major draw of the tour. Running approximately from January to March, this experience offers a chance to witness floating ice sheets and possibly the elusive aurora if the conditions align. Guests describe the cruise as “breathtaking,” with some noting the immense scale of the drifting ice as it contrasts sharply with the blue winter sky. It’s weather-dependent, but when it’s on, it’s unforgettable.

Following the cruise, you’ll visit the Abashiri Prison Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the area’s history. The tour includes a chance to sample a traditional prison meal, adding an authentic flavor to the experience. Reviewers mention that the museum is “more than just a prison,” providing a well-curated insight into local history and the region’s past hardships.

The highlight of the afternoon is the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival, where enormous ice sculptures and luminous displays turn the area into a winter fairy tale. The sculptures are illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photos. Guests describe the scene as “like stepping into a frozen wonderland,” and many appreciate that the festival offers a mix of art and nature.

Finally, the tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to Sapporo in the evening, giving travelers time to unwind and reflect on their winter adventures.

Details That Matter: Transportation, Group Size, and Value

The transportation on this tour is via a private coach, which ensures comfortable seating and reliable timing—an important factor when covering large distances and multiple attractions in just two days. The group size of nine enhances the experience, fostering a more personalized atmosphere and allowing the guide to tailor insights or spontaneous stops if desired.

The tour’s price point includes most expenses: meals at the farm and prison museum, entrance fees, and the cruise (seasonal). Many reviewers appreciate the value for money, noting that the all-inclusive nature simplifies budgeting and avoids surprise costs.

Timing is another plus: the tour kicks off early, with pickups arranged conveniently in Sapporo or Abashiri. The schedule is tight but well-paced, maximizing sightseeing without feeling rushed. The optional meeting point outside the designated pickup zone offers flexibility for travelers staying outside central areas, with a partial refund available.

Guides and Communication

Guests consistently mention the friendly and informative guides, who often speak multiple languages including English and Chinese. The guides are praised for providing genuine insights into local customs and nature, enhancing the overall experience. Communication prior to the tour is smooth, with details like pickup times and contact info shared via WhatsApp or LINE the night before.

Seasonal Considerations

The drift ice cruise and Ice Waterfall Festival are the main seasonal attractions, and their availability depends on weather conditions. Travelers should be prepared for possible variability. The tour provider clearly states these are seasonal activities, but when available, they deliver some of the most stunning winter sights in Japan.

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Authenticity and Practical Tips

We loved the chance to try a “prison meal,” which adds a playful, authentic element to the historical visit. Many reviews highlight the informative and friendly guides who make the stops engaging and insightful, especially when explaining the region’s history and natural landscape.

For those worried about language barriers, the multilingual guide team and communication apps help ensure everyone stays well-informed. The tour is suited for travelers who enjoy diverse activities—from wildlife encounters and historical sites to scenic cruises and festivals—without the stress of managing logistics themselves.

While the long days might seem daunting, the varied experiences keep the energy high. Plus, the chance to see stunning ice formations and snow-covered scenery cannot be overstated. Travelers suggest bringing warm clothing, especially for the outdoor cruise and festival viewing.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 2-day journey through Hokkaido’s winter landscape offers a rich blend of nature, wildlife, and culture wrapped in a small-group setting. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see iconic sights without the hassle of navigating transport or language barriers.

The tour’s value lies in its inclusions—meals, entrance fees, and a variety of scenic and cultural moments—ideal for those seeking a comprehensive winter escape. It’s especially perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers craving authentic experiences and stunning views that showcase Hokkaido’s icy charm.

However, if your travel dates don’t align with the season for drift ice or the Ice Waterfall Festival, some highlights might not be possible. Still, the overall itinerary promises a well-rounded snapshot of Hokkaido’s winter allure, making it a rewarding choice for those looking for a memorable, activity-rich trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes family-friendly activities like animal feeding at the farm and watching penguins at the zoo, making it suitable for children.

What should I wear for the trip?
Dress warmly with layered winter clothing, including waterproof outerwear, gloves, hats, and sturdy shoes, especially for outdoor activities and the cruise.

Will I see the drift ice during the cruise?
The drift ice cruise is seasonal and weather-dependent. When conditions are right, you’ll witness floating ice sheets and possibly the aurora, creating an unforgettable icy spectacle.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch at the farm and prison museum meals are included. The farm lunch features local specialties, giving you a taste of regional cuisine.

How large is the group?
The tour is limited to 9 guests, offering a more intimate experience and ample opportunity for personalized interactions with the guide.

What if I don’t want to join the cruise?
The cruise is a seasonal highlight, but if weather or other conditions prevent it, the tour still covers many other engaging sights, like the zoo and Ice Waterfall Festival, ensuring a fulfilling experience.

This small-group tour combines the best winter sights of Hokkaido while maintaining a flexible, enjoyable pace. Perfect for those ready to explore Japan’s icy frontier with comfort and authenticity in mind.

You can check availability for your dates here: