5 days Eastern Hokkaido Self-Drive Tour (summer and fall)

Itinerary

Day 1  Arrive Abashiri > Shiretoko

After arriving at Memanbetsu Airport, pick up your rental car and begin your journey through the scenic beauty of Hokkaido. Your first stop is Marchen Hill, where a row of seven trees creates a picture-perfect scene against the backdrop of expansive fields. Continue to the Abashiri Prison Museum, Japan's only prison museum, offering a fascinating insight into the history of Hokkaido's development. Next, travel along the iconic Road to Heaven, a mesmerizing stretch of road that appears to extend endlessly into the horizon. Visit the powerful Oshinkoshin Waterfall where nature's beauty is on full display. Unwind for the evening at the Shiretoko Utoro Onsen area.

Day 2  Shiretoko

This morning, you will join a guided tour of the Shiretoko Five Lakes, immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of this natural wonder. Then have lunch at Roadside rest area Utoro-Shirietoku. Afterward, take a scenic walk from the Shiretoko Nature Center to Furepe Falls, where you will be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Return to your hotel in Shiretoko Utoro for another night’s stay. From your hotel, you can easily explore nearby sites like Oronko Rock, or opt for a memorable sightseeing cruise from Shiretoko Utoro, with various course options available.

Day 3  Shiretoko > Lake Akan

Begin your day with a visit to Shiretoko Cape, where you will enjoy stunning views of the Shiretoko Peninsula and Kunashiri Island. Continue to Roadside Station Rausu for some shopping and a short break before heading to the Notsuke Peninsula Nature Center where a guided tour will lead you through the unique 'Todowara' landscape. Next, take in the sweeping views of the Konsen Plateau from Kaiyodai, and then head to the Mashu Lake First Observatory to marvel at the mystical beauty of one of Eastern Hokkaido's most renowned lakes. Tonight you will stay at Akanko Onsen. After dinner, you can join the Akan Night Walk 'KAMUY LUMINA,' a magical experience in the tranquil night.

Day 4  Lake Akan > Obihiro

Start your morning with a peaceful stroll around the Bokke area on the shores of Lake Akan, where you can also explore the culturally rich 'Akan Ainu Kotan,' a site that preserves Ainu heritage. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Akan before heading to Onneto, a mystical lake that changes color with the seasons and time of day. Next, visit Naitai Terrace, offering breathtaking views of Naitai Kogen Farm, Japan's largest public ranch.

Day 5  Depart Obihiro

Explore Shichiku Garden, where a dazzling array of 2,500 flower species awaits. Then, make your way to Rokka no Mori, a charming garden and café by the renowned Hokkaido confectionery, Rokkatei, perfect for a leisurely lunch and a bit of shopping. Return your rental car at Obihiro Airport and board your flight to Haneda Airport.