From Tokyo to Hokkaido
This journey through Northern Japan takes you from the vibrant sprawl of Tokyo all the way up to the crisp, open skies of Sapporo. Along the way, you’ll explore temple towns, coastal cities, mountain landscapes, and quiet places full of history — each with its own pace and personality.
What ties it all together is the food. From steaming bowls of ramen in Sapporo to tender gyutan in Sendai, delicate soba in Morioka, and the freshest seafood in Hakodate and Aomori — every stop adds a new flavor. Northern Japan is proud of its local dishes, and you’ll notice how often a meal reflects the land, the season, and the people who prepare it.
This trip isn’t just about what you see, but what you taste, feel, and take in slowly. It’s a side of Japan that’s often overlooked — quieter, more grounded, but full of depth and warmth and great food
Note: All travels to Japan will be custom made based on your preferences, budget and time frame. This is just an example to show you what you could possibly do when going to Japan
From 3,300 EUR per person (excl. flight)
20 Days (19 nights)
Day 1 - 4 | Tokyo
While the city is known for its fast pace and bright lights, there's just as much to discover in its quieter corners. Tokyo is made up of 23 wards, each with its own distinct atmosphere — from Shinjuku, the buzzing business and entertainment district, to historic Asakusa with the famous Sensoji Temple. In Ginza, you'll find elegant shopping and refined dining, while Shibuya draws you in with its iconic scramble crossing, lively streets, and a mix of trendy culture and hidden backstreets. These are just a few highlights — Tokyo is layered, surprising, and endlessly explorable. If time allows, consider staying a little longer to take it all in at your own pace.
Day 4 - 6 | Nikko
Just a couple of hours from Tokyo, Nikko feels like a different world. Nestled in the mountains, its moss-covered shrines and forest trails bring a sense of calm.
You will find Toshogu shrine, the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the three great unifiers of Japan (which until unification was marked by constant warfare). The architecture of Toshogu Shrine is ornate and colorful, but it's the setting — surrounded by cedar trees and the sound of water — that leaves a lasting impression. While in Nikko, try the local specialty Yuba Musubi, a rice ball with the skin of tofu unlike traditional rice balls wrapped in seaweed.
Day 6 - 8 | Sendai
Sendai is a green, livable city with a relaxed pace — not overly touristic, but full of good food and local charm. It's a great base for exploring both urban culture and nearby natural sights.
We especially like nearby Matsushima Bay, with its pine-covered islands and boats that drift quietly between them. Another great stop is Yamadera, a temple nestled in the mountains. Back in the city, don’t miss gyutan (grilled beef tongue), a local specialty with a surprisingly tender bite.
Day 8 - 10 | Morioka
Morioka is understated but full of pleasant surprises. The town has become known for its nostalgic atmosphere, beautiful stone bridges, and mountain views — and recently, for being featured in global travel magazines as one of Japan’s next hidden gems. Try a few of the “three noodle” dishes the city is famous for (cold reimen, spicy jajamen, and wanko soba), or simply enjoy a stroll through town with views of Mount Iwate. With that said, we also recommend using at as a gateway to visit some great natural sights not too far away such as Genbikei Gorge and Jodogahama Coastline.
Day 10 - 12 | Aomori
Aomori is deeply connected to tradition, nature, and the rhythm of the seasons. In the winter, prepare for snow; in the summer, enjoy the colorful Nebuta Festival, one of Japan’s most energetic and visually striking celebrations. The city is also a great place to dive into northern culture, from its regional cuisine (don’t miss the fresh seafood or apple-based specialties) to its architecture like the Aomori Museum of Art and the Wa Rasse Nebuta Museum. Aomori makes a great base for scenic day trips too — such as to the serene Oirase Gorge, Lake Towada, Tsuru no Maihashi bridge or the UNESCO-listed Sannai-Maruyama archaeological site.
Day 12 - 14 | Hakodate
Crossing into Hokkaido, the most northern prefecture of Japan, Hakodate greets you with a blend of history and sea air. It was among the first Japanese port cities that opened to international trade after the country's era of isolation. The city’s old Western-style buildings, and early-morning seafood markets give it a character that’s hard to define but easy to enjoy. Don’t miss the night view from Mount Hakodate. Evenings here are especially atmospheric, with old gas lamps lighting up the bay.
Day 14 - 17 | Sapporo
Hokkaido’s lively capital is known for its beer (Sapporo beer, Tom's favorite), food (Miso Ramen and Soup Curry), where things feel both modern and grounded. In the summer enjoy the famous lavender fields and local lavender specialties. In the winter during the snow festival you'll to see impressively built snow statues. Take a day trip to Mt. Yotei, seen as the Mt. Fuji of Hokkaido due to its similar shape, or Noboribetsu, a volcanic area with great hot springs and Hell valley.
Day 17 - 19 | Asahikawa
Asahikawa, Hokkaido’s second-largest city, known for its nature, hot springs, and rich food culture. Head into the nearby Daisetsuzan Mountains, where Mount Asahidake—Hokkaido’s tallest peak—offers breathtaking alpine scenery and easy access via ropeway for short hikes or panoramic views.
Continue your journey to the enchanting Blue Pond (Aoiike) in Biei, famous for its milky-blue water and peaceful setting, especially photogenic in all seasons. Back in the city, try Asahikawa ramen, a local favorite featuring a soy sauce-based broth, rich pork flavor, and a layer of oil to keep it piping hot—perfect after a day outdoors.
Day 19 - 20 | Tokyo
Wrap up your journey with one final day in Tokyo, Use this time to revisit a favorite neighborhood, pick up thoughtful souvenirs, or enjoy one more incredible meal—whether it’s sushi, street snacks, or that perfect cup of coffee. Tomorrow it’s time to head to the airport, carrying home unforgettable memories of Japan.