The Ainu Culture Upopoy, Jigokudani, and Lake Toya Observation Tour offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the rich heritage of the Ainu people while exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Hokkaido. From the National Ainu Museum and Park to the volcanic wonders of Noboribetsu and the breathtaking views from Lake Toya, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re intrigued by the Ainu’s unique culture or captivated by the region’s natural beauty, this tour has something to pique your curiosity.
Key Points
- This comprehensive 9-hour tour explores Ainu cultural heritage, including visits to Upopoy, Jigokudani, and the Lake Toya Silo Observation Deck.
- The tour is priced from $78.69 per person and includes roundtrip transportation and an English-speaking guide.
- At Upopoy, visitors can enjoy Ainu traditions, enjoy Ainu cuisine, and browse the museum shop for cultural souvenirs.
- Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley," offers a striking volcanic landscape with steaming vents and hot springs, providing a contrast to the cultural experience.
- The tour concludes with panoramic views of Lake Toya, including Nakajima Island, Mount Usu, and Showa Shinzan, from the Silo Observation Deck.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Ainu culture, taking them to the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, the volcanic landscape of Jigokudani, and the stunning vistas of Lake Toya.
Priced from $78.69 per person, the tour lasts 9 hours and includes roundtrip transportation and an English-speaking guide.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary highlights cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and local delicacies, making it an accessible and engaging way to discover the unique heritage of the Ainu people.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Toyako.
Upopoy (National Ainu Museum and Park)
Upopoy, the National Ainu Museum and Park, serves as a central hub for visitors to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people.
Guests spend around 2.5 hours exploring the museum’s exhibitions and witnessing traditional Ainu performances.
Located by the scenic Lake Poroto, Upopoy offers four restaurants featuring Ainu cuisine for lunch.
Visitors can also browse the museum shop for Ainu cultural souvenirs.
Upopoy provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of the Ainu’s unique way of life and traditions.
Noboribetsu Jigokudani
After exploring the cultural richness of Upopoy, the tour moves on to the geological wonders of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, or "Hell Valley."
Nestled within a volcanic landscape, this 450-meter diameter crater features 15 hot springs that continuously bubble up 3,000 liters of water per minute.
Visitors can walk the trails and observe the steaming vents and pools, marveling at the area’s geothermal activity.
The unique landscape and volcanic features offer a captivating contrast to the Ainu cultural experience at Upopoy, providing a well-rounded understanding of Hokkaido’s natural and cultural heritage.
Lake Toya Silo Observation Deck
The final stop on the tour is the Lake Toya Silo Observation Deck, which offers stunning panoramic views of the serene Lake Toya and its surrounding natural wonders.
Visitors can snap photos of the picturesque Nakajima Island, the imposing Mount Usu, and the Showa Shinzan volcanic formation.
The observation deck is a popular photography spot, and a shop on-site sells local specialties and sweets.
However, the views may be obstructed in bad weather conditions.
The observation deck provides a fitting end to the tour, allowing participants to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyNakayama Pass
On the tour, the group makes a stop at the renowned Nakayama Pass, a scenic rest area known for its array of local delicacies and stunning vistas. Visitors can indulge in regional specialties like Ageimo, crispy potato snacks, and the creamy Hokkaido milk soft-serve ice cream. The breathtaking landscape, which includes panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break. Whether capturing photos or simply taking in the natural beauty, the Nakayama Pass offers a delightful respite during the comprehensive Ainu culture tour.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Ageimo | Crispy potato snacks | $2.50 |
| Hokkaido Milk Soft-Serve | Creamy, rich ice cream | $3.00 |
| Nakayama Pass Viewpoint | Panoramic mountain vistas | Free |
| Souvenir Shop | Local specialty products | Varies |
| Rest Area | Scenic outdoor seating | Free |
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Transportation and Accessibility
The Ainu culture tour includes roundtrip transportation, ensuring participants’ convenience and accessibility throughout the day’s activities.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, providing helpful information and assistance as needed.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to diverse mobility requirements.
Travelers can relax and enjoy the Ainu cultural experience without worrying about logistics.
Whether it’s exploring the Upopoy museum, hiking the trails of Jigokudani, or taking in the panoramic views at Lake Toya, the transportation and accessibility features of this tour enhance the overall experience.
Important Information and Reminders
Travelers should expect potential traffic congestion on weekends and holidays, as this may impact the duration of stops throughout the tour.
Children aged 0-2 can join the tour for free if they don’t occupy a separate seat.
Unfortunately, no refunds will be provided for late arrivals or cancellations due to extreme weather. However, the tour operator offers rescheduling or full refunds in case of tour cancellations.
To avoid complications, it’s best to avoid scheduling this tour on the last day of your Sapporo trip, as bus delays could disrupt your travel plans.
Practical Considerations
To make the most of this Ainu culture tour, it’s important to arrive at the designated meeting point, the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, 1st Floor Lobby, by 8:20 AM as the tour departs promptly at 8:30 AM.
Expect traffic congestion on weekends and holidays, which may affect stop durations.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, children aged 0-2 can join for free if not occupying separate seats.
Avoid scheduling this tour on the last day of your Sapporo trip to account for potential bus delays.
There are no refunds for late arrivals or cancellations due to extreme weather, but rescheduling or full refunds are available if the tour is canceled.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols Implemented During the Tour?
The tour operator follows all applicable COVID-19 safety protocols, including mask-wearing, social distancing, and sanitization measures. Specific details may vary based on local guidelines and are subject to change. Guests are encouraged to check for updates prior to the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are several restaurants and a shop available at the various stops, providing opportunities to purchase local and Ainu cuisine throughout the day.
Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The tour has no age limit or minimum age requirement. Children aged 0-2 can join the tour for free if they don’t occupy a separate seat. Participants of all ages are welcome on this tour.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration at Each Site?
The tour allows 2.5 hours for exploring Upopoy, 20 minutes for Jigokokudani, and an unspecified time for the Lake Toya Observation Deck. Travelers have opportunities for free exploration at each site within the scheduled durations.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?
The tour offers four restaurants featuring Ainu cuisine at the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, providing meal options for various dietary needs. Specific dietary restrictions or special meal requests can likely be accommodated with advance notice.
The Sum Up
The Ainu Culture Upopoy, Jigokudani, and Lake Toya Observation Tour offers a unique chance to take in the rich heritage of the Ainu people while exploring stunning natural landscapes. This comprehensive tour combines cultural experiences with scenic beauty, providing an unforgettable adventure for visitors. With visits to the National Ainu Museum and Park, the volcanic wonders of Noboribetsu Jigokudani, and the breathtaking views from the Lake Toya Silo Observation Deck, this tour is a must-do for those seeking a deep dive into Japan’s indigenous culture and natural wonders.
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