Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei

Delving into the captivating world of Ainu culture and the enchanting Jozankei region in Hokkaido, this full-day tour promises a transformative experience. Participants will enjoy the rich heritage of Japan’s indigenous people, exploring interactive exhibits and witnessing traditional performances at the Ainu Cultural Center. The journey then leads to the picturesque Jozankei Onsen Town, where a tantalizing traditional lunch and a rejuvenating footbath await. With an expert guide by their side, travelers can expect a seamless and enlightening exploration of this fascinating cultural mosaic.

Key Points

• Discover the indigenous Ainu culture through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and souvenirs at the Ainu Cultural Center.
• Immerse in the natural beauty and traditional atmosphere of the Jozankei onsen town, including a Japanese-style lunch and outdoor footbath experience.
• Enjoy a seamless full-day tour with transportation, admission fees, and an English-speaking guide included.
• Explore the Ainu’s deep connection to nature and their traditional lifestyle during the cultural experience.
• The tour is suitable for a maximum of 15 travelers and departs from Sapporo Station at 9:00 am.

Tour Overview

The full-day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei tour provides visitors with an immersive exploration of the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people and the serene natural beauty of the Jozankei region.

Priced at $171.54 per person, this small-group tour caters to a maximum of 15 travelers. Highlights include visits to the Ainu Cultural Center, where guests can discover indigenous art and traditions, and the picturesque Jozankei onsen town, where they can enjoy a traditional lunch and an outdoor footbath.

With an English-speaking guide and all transportation and admission fees included, this tour offers a well-rounded and authentic experience.

Inclusions

As the tour package includes, an English-speaking guide will accompany participants throughout the day. The guide will provide transportation from Sapporo Station to all destinations, ensuring a seamless experience. Plus, entry and admission tickets to the attractions are covered, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the cultural exploration.

Inclusions	Details
Tour Guide	English-speaking
Transportation	From Sapporo Station
Admission Tickets	To all attractions

Lastly, a delicious lunch is included, providing an opportunity to savor traditional cuisine and enhance the culture.

Meeting and Pickup

Participants meet at the "MYOMU" structure, located at the South Exits of Sapporo Station.

After exiting the main JR gates, they’ll turn left and walk towards the South Exits to find the designated meeting point.

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, so participants should plan to arrive on time.

At the end of the day, the tour returns back to the same meeting point.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but is located near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

Ainu Cultural Center

One of the key highlights of the tour is a visit to the Ainu Cultural Center. This museum offers a unique insight into the indigenous Ainu people and their centuries-old traditions.

Visitors can expect to:

1. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing Ainu art, crafts, and cultural artifacts.
2. Learn about the Ainu language, music, and dance through demonstrations and performances.
3. Gain an understanding of the Ainu’s deep connection to nature and their traditional way of life.
4. Browse the gift shop for authentic Ainu-made souvenirs and handicrafts.

The Ainu Cultural Center provides an immersive and educational experience, allowing guests to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of this indigenous community.

Jozankei Onsen Town

After exploring the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people at the Cultural Center, the tour heads to the picturesque Jozankei Onsen town.

Set amidst a serene mountain landscape, Jozankei is known for its natural hot spring baths, or "onsens".

The group will enjoy a traditional Japanese-style lunch at one of the local onsen ryokans, followed by a visit to a Shinto shrine and some free time to relax in the outdoor footbath.

The tour offers a chance to immerse in the natural beauty and the soothing, rejuvenating atmosphere of this charming onsen destination.

Outdoor Footbath

After exploring the Ainu Cultural Center, the group makes their way to the outdoor footbath located within the serene grounds of Jozankei Onsen.

This natural hot spring experience allows visitors to soak their feet and relax while taking in the surrounding mountain views.

The footbath offers:

1. Soothing, mineral-rich waters from the local hot springs
2. A peaceful, open-air setting with traditional Japanese architecture
3. An opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of culture
4. A chance to connect with the natural environment of Jozankei.

Shrine Visit

The tour then moves on to a visit to a local Shinto shrine, where participants can learn about the significance of these sacred sites in Japanese culture.

The guide explains the history and traditions associated with the shrine, including the offering of prayers and the symbolism of the torii gate.

Visitors have the opportunity to witness a purification ritual and learn about the various Shinto deities revered at the shrine.

Through this experience, they gain deeper insights into the spiritual beliefs and practices that have shaped Japanese society for centuries.

Additional Information

Travelers receive booking confirmation upon reservation.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the activity.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts in the local time zone.

The tour offers a reserve now, pay later option, providing flexibility for customers.

The experience highlights:

1. Confirmation received at booking
2. Not wheelchair accessible
3. Near public transportation
4. Infants must sit on laps
5. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience starts
6. Reserve now, pay later option available

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Customers can reserve now and pay later for this full-day tour in Sapporo, Japan.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal option for this tour. The tour operator provides a lunch inclusive of the experience, and they are able to accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Onsen?

You don’t need any special equipment for the onsen. Just bring a towel, swimsuit, and toiletries. The tour includes a traditional onsen lunch and outdoor footbath, so you’ll have everything you need for the onsen experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions, but infants must sit on laps. The tour is suitable for people of all ages, though parents should consider their child’s ability to participate in the activities comfortably.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

The tour offers a full-day experience, but you can’t extend it to include additional activities. However, the tour company may be able to customize the itinerary or offer separate add-on options if you need more flexibility.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Ainu people and the scenic Jozankei region. Participants will explore interactive exhibits, witness traditional performances, and indulge in a delectable local lunch, all while enjoying the tranquility of an outdoor footbath. With an English-speaking guide and all arrangements covered, this comprehensive experience offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s indigenous traditions.