Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei

Sapporo , Japan

Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei

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About this experience

The Ainu Cultural Center is a real hidden gem. Tucked away in lush natural surroundings an hour or so outside of Sapporo, this center/museum is sure to please. It is very informative with tons of artifacts of The Ainu. The center is well curated and visitors are encouraged to hold and touch the many authentic Ainu handcrafts. The outdoor village with traditional handcrafted Ainu houses and canoes are very cool to experience as well. This is a “must go” sight for those interested in indigenous groups.

Your tour will continue on to nearby Jozankei Hot spring(Onsen) Village. There are 56 hot spring sources in Jozankei, concentrated around both the Tsukimibashi and Takayamabashi bridges along with The Toyohira River which flows throughout the village. The waters of most of these hot spring baths average temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Celsius. As a member of this tour, you will experience a two hour hot spring bath at one of Jozankei’s most reputable hot spring hotels.

Available options

Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei

What's included

All entry/admission tickets to each attraction/sightseeing spot

Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities

English speaking tour guide

Detailed itinerary

This tour will start at Sapporo Station in front of “Myomu”(The Circular Stone Structure) in front of the South Exit doors of Sapporo Station. Kindly meet here at exactly 9a.m. Your guide will be there to greet you. After brief introductions and smiles, we will start to embark on our wonderful tour starting at The Ainu Cultural Center.

The tour will begin here at The Ainu Cultural Center. Your guide will take you through the 1 hour tour of the Ainu Center Museum(exhibition room). Here, you will learn of the lifestyle, history, and art of the Ainu people, the indigenous people who first settled Hokkaido and developed a unique culture. This facility is the first of its kind in Japan to focus on original inhabitants and allows visitors to actually feel, touch and experience first-hand traditional Ainu craftworks(over 300 items) made by Ainu artisans.

Stop 2

After leaving The Ainu Cultural Center, you will be heading (by bus) to the very nearby quaint little hot spring village known as Jozankei. Jozankei is located within the lush green Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This area is characterized by topography and phenomena created by hundreds of years of volcanic activity.Thus, this volcanic activity has created numerous natural hot springs that dot the entire area of Jozankei Village.

Upon arrival, your guide will show you around the area and make sure you see all the popular sights that Jozankei offers. These will include both the Jozankei Shrine and Temple, Gesen Park and footbath, Futami Park and Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge. This guided walking tour of Jozankei is breathtaking any season of the year.

Stop 3

Your tour will conclude on a physically soothing “high note”. Your guide will escort you to the Hotel Shika no Yu hot spring. Here, you will enjoy the very popular 2 hour day-bath experience.

Of course, hot springs(“onsen” in Japanese) are an integral part of Japanese culture and have been enjoyed for centuries for their therapeutic and relaxing properties. Visitors to Japan, would be amiss not to experience an onsen bath. You will have the chance on this tour!

After soaking in one of the many hot springs, we will slowly make our way back to Sapporo Station

What's not included

Lunch

Transportation prior and after the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

21 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the
South Exits of Sapporo Station. After a short walk you will surely notice “MYOMU”(The Circular White Stone Structure). Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.

About Sapporo

Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.

Top Attractions

Sapporo Beer Museum

Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.

Historical 1-2 hours Free entry, beer tasting costs vary

Odori Park

A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on the season Free

Sapporo TV Tower

A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.

Architecture 1 hour ¥790 for adults

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sapporo Ramen

A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.

Soup Curry

A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Genghis Khan

Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.

Dinner Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Popular Activities

Skiing in Niseko Snowboarding in Rusutsu Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park Onsen (hot spring) bathing Strolling through Odori Park Shopping in Tanukikoji Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum Exploring Otaru's historic district