Apro Travel Japan

20/08/2024

Biei Shirogane Onsen
美瑛白金温泉

Located on the southern side of the Tokachidake Mountain Range, which is part of the Daisetsuzan Mountains in almost central Hokkaido, is the hot spring area known as "Biei Shirogane Onsen." This hot spring resort is situated at the foot of the mountains, offering a panoramic view of the Tokachidake Mountain Range and the surrounding rich natural landscape.

In 1950, after overcoming numerous hardships, the then-mayor of Biei Town, Mr. Kogami Kakuichi 鴻上覚一, successfully drilled and tapped into a hot spring, bringing forth 48°C clear water from a depth of 399 meters underground. He remarked, "This water is as precious as platinum (shirogane) that has sprung from the earth's depths," leading to the naming of the hot spring as Shirogane Onsen. The road from Biei Town to Biei Shirogane Onsen (Route 966) is lined with a 4-kilometer stretch of birch trees that naturally grew after the mudflow caused by the 1926 eruption of Tokachidake, and it has been selected as one of Hokkaido’s top 100 natural sites.

Shirogane no Yu (Shirogane Hot Spring) is also known as the "Hot Spring that makes you forget your cane," and is said to be effective for conditions such as neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, joint stiffness, bruises, sprains, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, cold sensitivity, recovery from illness, fatigue recovery, health promotion, cuts, burns, chronic skin diseases, frailty, chronic gynecological conditions, and arteriosclerosis.

Access to Shirogane Onsen: About 80 min. by local bus from JR Asahikawa station, About 3 hours by car from New Chitose Airport

These photos were taken at Shirogane Onsen Hotel Parkhills.

Apro Travel Japan
A registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido
We will suggest a plan that’s perfect for you.
B2B only
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

19/08/2024

Lake Shikaribetsu, Hokkaido
然別湖

Lake Shikaribetsu is the only natural lake within the Daisetsuzan National Park and is situated at an altitude of 810 meters, making it the highest lake in Hokkaido. With a maximum depth of approximately 100 meters and a circumference of 13.8 kilometers, the lake completely freezes over during winter, forming a one-meter-thick layer of ice.

As autumn arrives, the densely grown birch and rowan trees around Lake Shikaribetsu begin to change their colors. The autumn foliage spreading along the lake's shore, reflected on its surface, is truly a sight to behold. Various hues, including golden yellow, red, and orange, paint the lakeside scenery with a vibrant palette. In autumn, Lake Shikaribetsu allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the primeval forest and the ever-changing expressions of the seasons.

To quickly enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Shikaribetsu, the best way is to take a sightseeing boat. Departing from the boat dock behind Hotel Fusui, this 40-minute cruise traces the complex shoreline of the lake. You can enjoy the pristine nature of Lake Shikaribetsu from the comfort of the boat. The sightseeing boat operates from the end of May to the end of October.

For those with more time, how about experiencing a Canadian canoe tour offered by the Shikaribetsu Nature Center? This 90-minute adventure comes with a guide, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Apro Travel Japan
A registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido
We will suggest a plan that’s perfect for you.
B2B only
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

19/08/2024

Otaru and Wagashi (Japanese sweets)
小樽と和菓子

Otaru is famous for sushi, ankake yakisoba, and Western-style sweets, but it was originally known for mochi (rice cake) and traditional Japanese sweets. After the railway opened in the early Meiji era, Otaru became a hub for shipping coal and various goods throughout Hokkaido. As a center of logistics and economy, many port workers gathered in Otaru, and they favored mochi because it was easy to carry, quick to eat, and filling.

Otaru, being a key logistics hub, received ingredients like azuki beans from within Hokkaido and rice and sugar from outside. To meet the needs of the port workers, many shops producing mochi and daifuku were established. This mochi culture is deeply rooted in Otaru’s history and continues to be a part of its cultural identity, even as the city has become known for other gourmet offerings.

The photo shows wagashi from Tsukushi Makita (つくし牧田 https://tsukushi-makita.com/index.html), a shop that primarily produces and sells traditional Japanese tea ceremony sweets, including dry sweets (higashi) and fresh sweets (jo-namagashi). Among their offerings, the most distinctive are their charming and colorful nerikiri. These sweets are shaped to reflect the seasons, with designs like flowers, and also feature local elements such as Otaru's mascot "Otaru Ungappa" and the "Shimaenaga," a bird native to Hokkaido, often referred to as a snow fairy. These sweets are so cute that many people exclaim, "They're too cute to eat!" Inside, they're filled with smooth and moist koshi-an (sweet black bean paste), offering a refined and delicious taste. The main store is located away from the city center, but they also offer online sales through their official website, making it easy for those who can't visit the store in person to check out their offerings.

Apro Travel Japan
A registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido
We will suggest a plan that's perfect for you.
B2B only
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

19/08/2024

Rokkatei Mochi Confectionery “Hangan-sama 判官さま” @ Hokkaido Shrine Rokkatei Shrine Teahouse

The name "Hangan-sama" is said to be derived from Hangan Shima Yosh*take 島 義勇, who established the foundation of the current city of Sapporo in what was then a wilderness in 1869 (born in Saga Prefecture, 1822–1874).

"Hangan-sama" is a soft mochi made with buckwheat flour. When freshly baked, the outside is crispy, while the inside is filled with mochi and sweet bean paste (anko). It is characterized by the fragrant aroma and flavor of buckwheat flour. However, those with buckwheat allergies should be cautious.

Hokkaido Shrine 北海道神宮, known as a power spot in Hokkaido, is where the Rokkatei Shrine Teahouse is located, near the west parking lot entrance of the shrine. Each one is 130 yen (as of August 19, 2024).

Apro Travel Japan
A registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido
We will suggest a plan that's perfect for you.
B2B only
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

16/08/2024

Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, Sapporo

The Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium, especially during the autumn season, is a captivating destination in Sapporo, Japan. As the surrounding trees transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, the view from the top of the jump offers a stunning panoramic sight of the city and the colorful landscape. This combination of thrilling sports history and natural beauty makes it a unique spot for visitors, blending the excitement of ski jumping with the serene beauty of autumn foliage.

Apro Travel Japan
We’re a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
We will suggest a plan that’s perfect for you.
B2B only
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

28/06/2024

Hokkaido-jingu Shrine　
北海道神宮

Hokkaido-jingu Shrine began in 1869 when Emperor Meiji issued a decree to enshrine the "Three Deities of Development (開拓三神)" in Hokkaido as a spiritual support for the pioneers. The Three Deities of Development, who are the guardian deities of Hokkaido's development and prosperity, are Ōkunitama-no-Kami (大国魂神), Ōnamuchi-no-Kami (大那牟遅神), and Sukunahikona-no-Kami (少彦名神).

At that time, Yosh*take Shima (島義勇), a commissioner responsible for Hokkaido’s development who had started planning Sapporo City, decided to build the shrine on the land of Maruyama, which is surrounded by mountains on three sides and opens to a plain on one side. The presence of this Shinto shrine served as a spiritual support for the pioneers who faced the hardships of clearing the virgin forest, and it became a place where people gathered and conversed.

In 1964, with the approval of Emperor Shōwa, Emperor Meiji was additionally enshrined, and the shrine’s name was changed from "Sapporo-jinja Shrine" to "Hokkaido-jingu Shrine." The guardian deities who watch over the development of Hokkaido and the happiness of its people are still deeply involved in the lives of the residents, from New Year visits and exorcisms to Setsubun and weddings. The shrine grounds, rich in nature and home to wild Ezo squirrels, see cherry and plum blossoms bloom simultaneously in the spring, attracting many visitors for flower viewing each year.

Hokkaido-jingu Shrine is one of the places you should definitely visit when sightseeing in Sapporo.

Apro Travel Japan
Jun. 28, 2024

18/06/2024

Karuizawa Lake Garden (Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture)

Spanning 33,000 square meters, Karuizawa Lake Garden is a vast natural garden consisting of eight garden areas. Featuring primarily English roses, you can enjoy 3,500 roses of 400 varieties, 20,000 perennials of 300 varieties, and various trees. Especially from early June to mid-July, the roses and perennials are beautifully in bloom. Spend a relaxing time in the garden, where the plants show different expressions throughout the four seasons.

1. Entrance
A fountain decorated with seasonal flowers greets you at the entrance to the garden, with a heavy stone gate.

2. English Rose Garden
This area, centered around English roses, boasts 160 varieties of roses blooming in full glory, with a pool located in the center.

3. Woodland
In this area of perennials and trees, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Mount Asama when climbing the hill on a clear day. This is the central area of Karuizawa Lake Garden.

4. Labyrinth Rose Garden
Located within the Woodland, this hidden garden on the island of Karuizawa Lake Garden allows you to enjoy the interplay of perennials and roses. Surrounded by stones, it is a beautifully symmetrical garden.

5. Fragrance Rose Path
Japan’s largest rose path, where you can fully enjoy the fragrant roses. As the name suggests, the path continues with about 1,200 roses selected for their "fragrant roses," and the time spent enveloped in the rose scent is exceptional.

6. Lakeside Path
A path showcasing waterside plants and clusters of Asama geraniums. It is one of Karuizawa Lake Garden’s best viewpoints, offering a panoramic view of Mt. Asama and Mt. Oshidate.

7. Water Lily Pond
An area where colorful water lilies bloom.

8. French Rose Garden
This area, centered around French roses, features beautiful arbors of clematis and roses. You can enjoy 200 roses of 70 varieties.

Additionally, after strolling through the garden, visitors can enjoy stopping by European-style restaurants and cafes, shops selling miscellaneous goods and garden supplies, souvenir shops, and garden stores offering potted roses and perennial plants.

Apro Travel Japan

22/05/2024

Att. Travel Planners for Japan Tours
at Overseas Travel Agencies

Re: A Proposal for a New Hokkaido Tour Route

Hokkaido is vast, about 500 km east to west and about 400 km north to south, making it possible to create various travel plans. Since Hokkaido is approximately 3,000 km in circumference, the order of the itinerary must be considered. Hokkaido is vast enough to cover almost the entire area between Tokyo and Kobe, so you need to calculate the travel distance and time for each day to ensure comfort.

Read more https://www.aprotraveljapan.com/post/a-proposal-for-a-new-hokkaido-tour-route-plan-a-b

Apro Travel Japan

Photo: Matsumi Ohashi Bridge, Mikuni-toge Pass, Hokkaido
Courtesy of the Hokkaido Tourism Organization
Reproduction and redistribution prohibited.

B2B only. We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.

17/05/2024

View from Asahiyama Memorial Park, Sapporo
Situated on an elevated area adjacent to Mt. Moiwa, this park offers a spectacular view overlooking the Ishikari Plain, the Sea of Japan, and the city. It was established in 1970 as part of the project commemorating the 100th anniversary of the founding of Sapporo.
Photos taken on May 10, 2024

16/05/2024

On 16May24, I went to Sapporo Teine Golf Club, which is located about 30 minutes by car from downtown Sapporo. Situated on the mountainside, it offers an open and magnificent view, but the course is hilly and looks challenging. H. Koshika, Apro Travel Japan

16/05/2024

On May 15, 2024, Sapporo is enjoying clear skies and a pleasant temperature of 21°C, making for an invigorating day. I took a stroll from Sapporo Station through Tanukikoji and ended up at Nijo Market. The banners for the Miyoshi Shrine Grand Festival caught my eye. Somewhere in the distance, I heard the festive sounds of ’ohayashi’ music, and a golden ’mikoshi’ shrine was approaching from ahead. Today marks the first day of the Sapporo Lilac Festival, but since it's a weekday, there aren't many people around. H. Koshika, Apro Travel Japan

16/04/2024

It suddenly feels like spring has arrived.
This is a Magnolia kobus flower.
Photos taken on 16Apr24.

12/04/2024

Soba Road ★★★

Savor the enchanting beauty of white buckwheat flowers adorning the landscape along Hokkaido's National Route 38, blooming from mid-July to mid-August.

The area around Shintoku Town in Hokkaido, where the Tokachi Sahoro Resort is located, is known as one of the leading buckwheat-producing regions in Japan.　The cool night temperatures of the mountainous terrain lend a distinctive quality to the soba grown here.

The mainstream variety of soba in Hokkaido is Kitawase Soba, a summer type. Seeds are sown around June, flowering starts in mid-July, and harvesting takes place around September, when it becomes available as "new soba." From mid-July to mid-August, the white flowers of soba bloom along both sides of National Route 38, creating what is locally known as "Soba Road."

On the last Sunday of September each year, the Shintoku Shn-Soba Festival 新得新そば祭り is held, attracting soba enthusiasts from both within and outside the region. The festival features "4-tate soba," referring to soba that is harvested, ground, kneaded, and boiled （とれたて、挽きたて、打ちたて、ゆでたて）on the spot.

Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We will suggest a plan that’s perfect for you.
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
B2B only.

写真提供　©十勝観光連盟

10/04/2024

Perfect tour destinations for the upcoming seasons in Hokkaido

Hokkaido Garden Path 北海道ガーデン街道 ★★★
The approximately 250-km road, known as the "Hokkaido Garden Path," connects Asahikawa to Furano to Tokachi (Obihiro) via National Route 237 and 38. Along this route, eight representative gardens of Hokkaido are concentrated. Each garden boasts its own unique characteristics, offering beautiful landscapes harmonizing with nature and various activities for visitors to enjoy. Particularly in the vicinity of Obihiro, five popular gardens are clustered, making it a recommended itinerary to incorporate attractions such as the famous Tokachigawa Onsen, renowned for being a Hokkaido Heritage site, as well as confectioneries like Rokkatei, Ryugetsu, and Cranberry products representative of Tokachi sweets.

Tokachi Millennium Forest 十勝千年の森 ★★★
The Tokachi Millennium Forest boasts four meticulously crafted gardens designed to endure for a millennium. These gardens, conceived with the collaboration of the British Society of Garden Designers, harmonize seamlessly with the surrounding verdant landscape. Among them are the Meadow Garden, evoking a pastoral utopia, and the Earth Garden, adorned with soft, undulating grasses.
Located about 45 min. by car from Obihiro.

Manabe Garden 真鍋庭園 ★★★
The Manabe Garden, hailed as Japan’s inaugural conifer garden, serves as a botanical sanctuary where every aspect of design, landscaping, and maintenance is meticulously overseen on-site. Its sprawling circuit-style layout stands as the largest of its kind in Japan. Stepping into this garden feels like entering a fairy tale, with an array of distinctive trees imported from Northern Europe and Canada.
Located about 15 min. by car from Obihiro.

Tokachi Hills 十勝ヒルズ ★★★
Tokachi Hills offers a captivating rural panorama with its seven distinct gardens and a diverse array of approximately 1,500 plant species. Each season unveils a unique spectacle against this breathtaking backdrop. The farm-to-table restaurant, "Viz," tantalizes visitors with a bounty of dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced Tokachi ingredients. A culinary journey through Tokachi's bounty, complemented by pastoral vistas, awaits diners at Tokachi Hills.
Located about 20 min. by car from Obihiro.

Shichiku Garden 紫竹ガーデン ★★★
The Shichiku Garden stands as the heartfelt endeavor of Shichiku Akiha, an ardent flower enthusiast and the garden's namesake. Ms. Shichiku envisioned and designed this picturesque rural retreat to recapture the essence of her youth spent amidst blooming beauty. Encompassing over 60,000 square meters, the garden boasts more than 2,500 floral varieties. Visitors immersing themselves in Ms. Shichiku’s passion will witness firsthand the dedication she has poured into her life’s work.
Located about 35 min. by car from Obihiro.

Rokka no Mori Garden 六花の森 ★★★
The Rokka no Mori Garden epitomizes the serene splendor of Hokkaido’s lush and diverse landscape. Adorned with charming flowers and quaint art installations, this sanctuary offers a tranquil respite for contemplative visitors. Amidst the garden's verdant expanse, one can discover treasures such as dogtooth violets, Japanese wood poppies, and Ezo marsh marigolds—the latter serving as the emblem of the souvenir brand, Rokkatei.
Located about 40 min. by car from Obihiro.

Apro Travel Japan
We will suggest a plan that's perfect for you.
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
B2B only.
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com

29/03/2024

Did you know？
All the guest rooms in this hotel are 36 sqm. or larger.
Premier Hotel TSUBAKI Sapporo ★★★★

Located by the Toyohira River that runs through Sapporo City, Premier Hotel TSUBAKI Sapporo is approximately a 10-minute taxi ride from JR Sapporo Station and a 12-minute walk from Kikusui Station on the Tozai Subway Line. Additionally, a free shuttle bus exclusively for guests operates 10 round trips daily from the north exit of Sapporo Station (approximately 25 minutes one way).

Premier Hotel TSUBAKI Sapporo is a hotel known for its spacious rooms, with all rooms being over 36 square meters, which is a rare feature in Sapporo City. It offers various types of rooms, from Superior Twin, Deluxe Twin, Connecting Rooms, Japanese or Western Family Rooms, to a 160 square meter Presidential Suite (total of 322 rooms).

Guests staying in rooms above Deluxe level can access the exclusive lounge on the 10th floor of the hotel. Feel free to use it for telecommuting, meetings, relaxation during your stay, or enjoy drinks and coffee made from the dedicated machine before meals.

High-speed internet (LAN and WiFi) is available in the rooms. Flat-screen satellite TVs, safety deposit boxes, and minibars are provided, and the bathrooms are convenient with separate bathtubs and showers.

Premier Hotel TSUBAKI Sapporo offers dining options such as Japanese cuisine "HANAGI," Chinese cuisine "BIREIKA," main dining & wine bar "IL SALICE," and the lobby lounge. Drinks are also served in addition to meals at the lobby lounge and bar "THE GALLERY." Enjoy a buffet breakfast with 70 items at the main dining or "THE CALIFORNIAN RESTAURANT."

During your hotel stay, you can use facilities and services such as a fitness center, sauna, and spa therapy. The front desk is available 24 hours a day and provides free luggage storage.

The area around the hotel is scattered with shopping, sightseeing spots, and attractions in Sapporo. Within a 5-minute drive from the hotel, you can access Marui Imai, Mitsukoshi, PARCO, Sapporo Factory, Nijo Market, Sapporo TV Tower, and Tanukikoji Shopping Street. On sunny days, explore the city on foot.

Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido.
We will suggest a plan that's perfect for you.
B2B only.

14/03/2024

Att. Japan Travel Planners at Overseas Travel Agencies

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Re: Proposal for 'Crafted Wonders and Yahiko Onsen Serenity, Tokyo to Tsubame Sanjo 6 days 2024 by JAL'

Introduction ★★★
Niigata Prefecture's Tsubame-Sanjo City has long been renowned as a town of artisans. Gyokusendo, famous for its hammered copperware, performs a miraculous feat by shaping curves from a single hammer and a sheet of copper, resulting in exquisite utensils and teapots. Yamazaki Metal's tableware, blending design and practicality, gained recognition for being used at the Nobel Prize banquet. Other notable craftsmanship includes Suwada Seisakusho's nail clippers and Marunao, known for its hexadecagonal chopsticks.

While Tsubame-Sanjo stands out as the highlight of this tour, relaxation awaits at Yahiko Onsen, nestled next to the beloved Yahiko Shrine, known affectionately as "Oyahiko-sama." Though a bit distant from Tokyo, the journey is well worth it, promising not to disappoint. The outbound route departs from Tokyo, passing through Karuizawa, Nagano, Tsubame-Sanjo, Yahiko Onsen, and the return journey includes stops at Takasaki, Tomioka Silk Mill, Koedo Kawagoe, before concluding back in Tokyo. This tour encompasses history, culture, artisanal skills, National Treasure, UNESCO World Heritage site, and the joy of hot springs.

Rough Itinerary ★★★
1. Arrival at Haneda Airport, ETA 04:25 by JL078, HND-Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza-Zenkoji Temple-Nakamise Shopping Street-Nagano
2. Nagano-Tsubame Sanjo Open Factory (Gyokusendo-Suawda-Marunao-Tsubame Sanjo Local Products Promotion Center)-Yahiko Onsen
3. Yahiko Onsen-Yahiko Shrine-Saifukuji Temple-Tomioka Silk Mill-Takasaki
4. Takasaki-Byakue Daikan’non-Darumaji Temple-Koedo Kawagoe-Tokyo
5. Tokyo (Tokyo Skytree-Ueno Ameyoko-Asakusa-Shibuya Crossing)-Haneda Airport
6. Departure for Manila, ETD 01:50 by JL077

Note:
The provided itinerary is tailored for departures from MNL, Philippines. However, it is adaptable and can be customized to accommodate departures from other countries as well. Please let me know the specific departure point you have in mind, and I'll be happy to modify the itinerary accordingly.

H. Koshika
Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. B2B only.

01/03/2024

Ashikaga Flower Park, Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture
足利フラワーパーク（栃木県足利市）

Ashikaga Flower Park, known as the "Garden of Flowers and Light," is a picturesque destination featuring a 160-year-old large wisteria and a variety of seasonal blooms year-round.　The park is located in Ashikaga city, Tochigi Prefecture.

The Hayakawa Farm, which opened in 1968, was relocated to its current location in 1997 and reopened as the "Ashikaga Flower Park." Originally situated in a wetland area, the relocation involved covering the park with over 250 tons of charcoal to enhance soil purification, vitality, and activate all living organisms. The park underwent expansion and is currently occupying an area of 100,000 square meters.

The park's symbol, the large wisteria, was transplanted by Japan's first female arborist, Konami Tsukamoto, marking the country's first successful transplantation of its kind. The transplantation of the large wisteria, which was 130 years old at the time, garnered nationwide attention as an unprecedented and groundbreaking project.

The park features four large wisteria trees and an 80-meter-long tunnel of white wisteria designated as a natural monument in Tochigi Prefecture. During the peak bloom period from mid-April to mid-May, the park hosts the "Fuji no Hana Monogatari – Wisteria Festival."

The illumination event, "Hikari no Hana no Niwa," held from late October, earned recognition as one of Japan's three major illuminations by the Night View Convention Bureau, alongside the illuminations in Ashikaga Flower Park, Sapporo White Illumination, and Nagasaki Huis Ten Bosch.

Ashikaga Flower Park is adorned with numerous flowers throughout the seasons, and with over 1.5 million annual visitors, it has become the largest botanical theme park in Japan.

For your information, the overall flower language of wisteria includes "gentleness," "welcome," "never apart," "intoxicated with love," and "loyal."

H. Koshika
Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
B2B only.

21/02/2024

To: Overseas Travel Agencies
Att: Japan Travel Planners

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION ★★★

Re: Proposal for ‘Hokkaido’s Green Season Extravaganza 2024’

Unwind in Hokkaido’s lap of luxury, where the soothing onsens, cultural treasures, and natural wonders invite you to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Introduction ★★★
Hokkaido's green season, especially in spring and summer, weaves a magical spell on the hearts of international tourists, beckoning them towards an enchanting destination. During this period, the landscape undergoes a mesmerizing transformation into a verdant wonderland. Trees adorned with fresh greenery create a captivating spectacle of nature, painting a lush and picturesque backdrop against the landscapes of Daisetsuzan National Park and central Hokkaido, eliciting admiration from passionate nature enthusiasts.

Adding to the allure, the green season in Hokkaido marks a time of abundant growth and harvest, inviting visitors to indulge in a diverse array of fresh and delectable culinary delights. The region's celebrated seafood offerings take center stage, presenting a tempting array from succulent sushi to flavorful seafood bowls. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Hokkaido by savoring its exceptional dairy products and vegetables, renowned for their outstanding quality and taste. Treat your taste buds to creamy soft-serve ice cream and relish in corn-based dishes that authentically capture the essence of Hokkaido's vibrant green season.

Furthermore, envision a journey of ultimate relaxation amidst Hokkaido's green season by immersing yourself in the renowned hot springs of Biei Shirogane Onsen. Stepping into the soothing waters, a profound sense of tranquility washes over you, creating a haven of peace. The onsen experience becomes a harmonious complement to the natural beauty, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the enchanting scenery.

Rough Itinerary ★★★
Day 1: HND/CTS by JL-Tokachi Millennnium Forest-Obihiro Sweets Shop-Tokachi Sahoro Resort (or similar)
Day 2: Hotel-Lake Shiakribetsu (Experience Canadian Canouing)-Naitai Terrace-Tokachi Bokujo White Birch Avenue-Tokachi Sahoro Resort (or similar)
Day 3: Hotel-Mikuni Toge Pass-Sounkyo Gorge-Furano & Biei-Blue Pond-Shirahige Falls-Shirogane Onsen Hotel Parkhills (or similar)
Day 4: Hotel-Asahiyama Zoo-Kan Yasuda Sculpture Museum Arte Piazza Bibai-Sapporo Grand Hotel (or similar)
Day 5: Hotel-Sapporo (Hokkaido Jingu Shrine-Mt. Moiwa Ropeway & Observatory-Shiroi Koibito Park-Tanuki Koji Shopping Arcade)-Sapporo Grand Hotel (or similar)
Day 6: Hotel-Otaru (Otaru Canal-Otaru Music Box Museum-Kitaichi Glass Warehouse-Glass blowing experience)-Mitsui Outlet Park-CTS/HND by JL

Please be informed that the tour itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted according to your preferences. If you are interested in obtaining detailed information about the tour and the land quotation, we encourage you to get in touch with us.

H. Koshika
Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
B2B only.

16/02/2024

Temiya Park at cherry blossom season (Otaru, Hokkaido)
手宮公園 (北海道小樽市)

"Temiya Park," renowned for its enchanting cherry blossoms, was established as a city park over the course of approximately 10 years, beginning in 1900 (Meiji 33), when it acquired government-owned uncultivated land. Situated atop a hill in the city center, it boasts the fourth oldest history among parks in Hokkaido.

Perched on a hill with a panoramic view of the Otaru port, Temiya Park is adorned with around 700 cherry trees, including Ezo-yamazakura and Somei Yoshino varieties. The peak time for cherry blossom viewing occurs from late April to early May. Additionally, the park features a chestnut forest, recognized as the northernmost natural forest, housing approximately 250 trees over 100 years old.

For convenient access, it is recommended to take a taxi from JR Otaru Station, which takes approximately 7 minutes and costs around 1,110 yen one way. To enhance the experience, consider walking down the slope from Temiya Park during the return trip, following the scenic promenade along the Otaru Canal back to JR Otaru Station.

H. Koshika
Apro Travel Japan
Email [email protected]
HP www.aprotraveljapan.com
We are a registered land operator based in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
B2B only.

15/02/2024

Ueno Park 上野公園 at the cherry blossom season

Ueno Park is currently home to approximately 1,200 cherry blossom trees, drawing crowds of cherry blossom viewers during the blooming season. About 400 years ago, the monk Tenkai, who founded Kaneiji Temple, transplanted cherry blossoms from Yoshino Mountain, establishing Ueno Park as the foremost cherry blossom destination in Edo (old Tokyo), a reputation that continues to this day.

The central area of the park, known as "Sakura-dori" (Cherry Blossom Avenue), represents a prominent cherry blossom spot in Ueno Park. Approximately 800 cherry trees of around 50 varieties, including Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, Kanzan, and Kanhizakura, bloom vibrantly along this avenue. The Somei Yoshino tree, which serves as the benchmark for cherry blossom blooming, is also located on Sakura-dori, attracting many people who eagerly await the blossoming each year. In the evening, the park is illuminated by "bonbori" lanterns, creating a beautiful night-time scenery.

The cherry blossoms typically reach their peak bloom from late March to early April each year.

H. Koshika
Apro Travel Japan
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