Shakotan, Yoichi Nikka Whisky, Otaru With Fruits Picking Day Trip

Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, this captivating day trip offers a tantalizing blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and culture. From the stunning coastline of Shakotan to the world-renowned Yoichi Nikka Whisky distillery, the journey promises to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned traveler. But the real surprise lies in the charming Otaru Fruit Orchard, where visitors can indulge in a delightful fruit-picking adventure that will ignite the senses and create memories to cherish forever.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion from Sapporo includes a seafood lunch, optional sea urchin rice bowl, and a visit to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard for fresh fruit picking.
• The tour also features a round-trip cable car ride to Mount Tengu, offering panoramic views of the Shakotan Peninsula.
• Transportation and gratuities are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience for the maximum of 20 travelers.
• The tour is not wheelchair-accessible and is not recommended for pregnant women or children under 2 due to mobility requirements.
• Early booking is advised as confirmation is provided within 48 hours if booked within 7 days of travel.

Tour Overview

The "Shakotan, Yoichi Nikka Whisky, Otaru with Fruits Picking Day Trip" is a full-day excursion that departs from Sapporo, Japan.

The tour starts at 8:30 AM, with guests meeting at 8:15 AM. This day trip can accommodate up to 20 travelers and is priced at $99.95 per person, with no refunds.

The itinerary includes a seafood lunch with sashimi, an optional sea urchin rice bowl upgrade, a visit to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard, and a round-trip cable car ticket for Mount Tengu.

Transportation and gratuities are included in the tour price.

Itinerary and Activities

This day trip offers a seafood lunch with sashimi as the main meal.

A non-sashimi children’s meal is available for those who prefer something different. Guests also have the option to upgrade their lunch to a sea urchin rice bowl.

After the meal, the tour proceeds to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard, where visitors can pick fresh fruits.

The highlight of the day is the round-trip cable car ride to the top of Mount Tengu, providing panoramic views of the stunning Shakotan Peninsula.

Throughout the journey, the driver is the sole service provider, ensuring a smooth and efficient transportation experience.

Inclusions

Included in the tour price are the fuel surcharge and parking fees, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.

Visitors will also receive an admission ticket to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard, allowing them to explore the orchard and its offerings.

The tour also includes a round-trip cable car ticket, providing an opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Tengu.

Gratuities are also covered, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.

With these inclusions, the day trip promises a well-rounded and hassle-free experience for visitors to fully enjoy the Shakotan and Otaru region.

Meeting and Transportation

Travelers gather at the red statue located at the east exit of JR Sapporo Station, the meeting point for this day trip.

The group size will determine the vehicle type used, with a driver as the sole service provider. Participants should arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a punctual departure at 8:30 AM.

• The meeting point is easily accessible, situated within Sapporo Station.

• Transportation is provided for the duration of the tour.

• Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the meeting point.

• The driver is the only service provider, responsible for driving the group throughout the day.

Seafood Lunch and Sashimi

After visiting the meeting point, the day trip continues with a delightful seafood lunch featuring sashimi.

Travelers will savor a variety of fresh, locally sourced seafood, including sushi-grade sashimi. For children, a non-sashimi meal is available.

Those seeking a premium culinary experience can opt for the sea urchin rice bowl upgrade. The meal is served in a scenic restaurant, providing a chance to refuel and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

With a focus on quality and local flavors, the seafood lunch is a highlight of the day’s activities.

Visit to Yoichi Fruit Orchard

After exploring the scenic Shakotan peninsula, the day trip heads to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard, where travelers can enjoy the bounty of locally grown produce.

Guests are free to wander the orchard and pick their own fresh fruits, including:

• Apples
• Pears
• Plums
• Grapes

The orchard offers a picturesque setting, with rows of fruit trees set against the backdrop of the Yoichi mountains.

Visitors can savor the sweet juices and aromas of the ripe, seasonal fruits, creating a truly memorable experience.

This hands-on activity allows travelers to connect with the local agricultural heritage of the region.

Mount Tengu Cable Car Experience

Departing the serene Yoichi Fruit Orchard, the day trip now heads to the iconic Mount Tengu. The round-trip cable car ticket is included, allowing travelers to ascend the mountain for stunning panoramic views. As they rise above the landscape, they’ll behold the captivating natural beauty of Otaru and the Shakotan Peninsula.

Feature	Details
Height	446 meters
Elevation Gain	300 meters
Ride Duration	8 minutes each way
Schedule	Runs from 9 AM to 5 PM

The cable car journey offers a delightful respite, complementing the day’s earlier activities at the fruit orchard. Visitors can relax and savor the scenic vistas before continuing their exploration of this picturesque region.

Important Considerations

Travelers should consider several important aspects before embarking on this day trip.

First, the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, so guests with mobility issues may have difficulty. Plus, it isn’t recommended for pregnant women due to the moderate physical fitness required.

Children under the age of 2 must sit on their parents’ laps during transportation.

Finally, travelers should be aware that confirmation is received within 48 hours if booked within 7 days of travel, so early booking is advised.

• Not wheelchair-accessible
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Infants must sit on laps
• Moderate physical fitness required

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Restroom Break During the Tour?

The tour includes a stop where participants can use restroom facilities. The itinerary allows for breaks throughout the day, ensuring travelers have opportunities to use the restroom as needed during the various activities.

Can We Request Dietary Restrictions for the Seafood Lunch?

Yes, visitors can request dietary restrictions for the seafood lunch. The tour provider offers a non-sashimi children’s meal option, and they’ll accommodate other dietary needs if notified in advance.

How Long Do We Have at the Yoichi Fruit Orchard?

Visitors have approximately 45 minutes to explore the Yoichi Fruit Orchard. This provides ample time to wander the orchards, pick fresh seasonal fruits, and enjoy the scenic countryside setting before continuing on with the day’s activities.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs or Gifts at Any Stops?

Yes, there are opportunities to purchase souvenirs or gifts during the tour. The visit to the Yoichi Fruit Orchard allows travelers to pick and purchase local fruits and products. Plus, the stop at the Nikka Whisky Distillery may offer whisky-related souvenirs.

What Should We Bring for the Fruit Picking Activity?

For the fruit picking activity, travelers should bring a small bag or container to hold the fresh fruit they pick. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can be variable. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Sapporo offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, culture, and culinary delights. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking coastal scenery of Shakotan, indulge in the rich flavors of Yoichi Nikka Whisky, and enjoy a fruit-picking adventure in Otaru. The seafood lunch, cable car ride, and stunning views from Mount Tengu make this tour a must-experience for nature and foodies alike.