[Travel conditions]
Departure point/Destination: Tokyo/Aomori
Trip duration: 2 nights, 3 days
Transportation used: Shinkansen (bullet train) and chartered bus.
Bus company: Towada Kanko Dentetsu or equivalent class
Meal plan: Breakfast twice, lunch once, dinner twice
Accommodation:
First night: Makado Onsen, Kame-no-i Hotel, Aomori Makado
Room types: Japanese-style room, Japanese-style twin room (beds on tatami flooring), Western-style room (semi-double or twin) / with private bathroom and toilet.
Second night: Hotel Appleland, Minamida Onsen, Aomori
Room type: Japanese-style room / Japanese-style twin room (beds on tatami flooring) / No bath / Toilet included
*Please note that some rooms may only have a shower booth.
Some rooms may have a bathtub, but we cannot guarantee a specific room type, so please be aware of this in advance.
Minimum number of participants: 20
Tour guide: 1
Guide: 0 (Guidance will be in Japanese) *A licensed tour guide will not accompany the tour.
[Travel planning/execution]
Company Name: Club Tourism International Inc
Address: 1-9-6 Edagawa, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 1693
Affiliated travel industry association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Regular Member
[Consignment Sales]
KKDAY JAPAN Co., Ltd.
2nd Floor, WESTALL Yotsuya Building, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004, Japan
Registered Travel Agency No. 2045, Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency
Member organization: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
A minimum of 20 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 21 day(s) before the departure date
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
There will be no tour of the Towada Art Center on December 31st and January 1st. We will instead take you to Kaorujima Shrine.
Depending on weather conditions and growing conditions, you may not be able to see frost-covered trees or snowscapes. In such cases, we will not refund your tour price.
The Hakkoda Ropeway may be suspended due to weather conditions. In such cases, alternative sightseeing destinations or a refund of the fare will be offered. Please be aware of this in advance.
The order of the itinerary may be changed.
A fee of 1,500 yen per meal will be charged for any changes to the meal plan due to food allergies, religious reasons, etc., plus any difference in price. Please notify us at least 14 days before your departure date.
Even when booking for two or more people, train seats may not be adjacent or may be separated. Please be aware of this in advance.
All seats on the Tsugaru Railway are non-reserved seating. Depending on the crowding situation, you may have to stand. Also, the route you travel may be changed or rearranged. *Snow scenery may not be visible depending on weather conditions.
The Hakkoda Snow Monsters, also known as "rime ice," are a spectacular natural phenomenon best viewed during the peak winter season. While specific dates vary annually depending on weather conditions, they are generally at their most impressive from late January to late February or early March, when the snow and ice formations are fully developed and can be admired via the ropeway.
The tour includes a visit to the Hakkoda Snow Monsters, offering an opportunity to view these magnificent formations from the ropeway. The specific duration allocated for exploring the viewing area and enjoying the scenery is part of the tour's detailed itinerary, designed to provide a comprehensive experience of this unique winter wonderland.
At the Hakkoda Snow Monsters viewing area, visitors primarily experience the breathtaking white silver world by taking a round trip on the Hakkoda Ropeway. From the comfort of the gondola, you can marvel at the "snow monsters" (樹氷, Juhyo) and the expansive, mystical snowy landscape. The experience focuses on observing these unique natural formations from an elevated perspective.
The Tsugaru Railway Stove Train is a cherished winter tradition in the Tsugaru region. It typically operates during the colder months, making it a quintessential part of the winter tour experience. While exact operating dates are seasonal, it runs throughout the winter, allowing passengers to enjoy its nostalgic charm during the snowy season.
The Tsugaru Railway Stove Train offers a scenic and nostalgic journey through the snowy landscapes. The specific duration of the train ride is integrated into the overall tour itinerary, providing ample time to savor this unique winter experience. You'll have the chance to enjoy the warmth of the stove and the passing winter scenery.
The Tsugaru Railway Stove Train is renowned for its unique retro charm and traditional onboard experience. Passengers can sit around a functioning coal-burning stove, which provides warmth and a cozy atmosphere while enjoying local snacks like dried squid, often grilled directly on the stove. It offers a nostalgic glimpse into Japan's past and a truly memorable winter journey.
The Hirosaki Winter Sakura Illumination transforms Hirosaki Park into a fantastical snowy landscape adorned with illuminations that evoke the image of blooming cherry blossoms in winter. Visitors can expect to witness a magical scene where snow-covered trees are lit up, creating an ethereal and unforgettable experience of "winter-blooming sakura" against the historic backdrop of Hirosaki Castle.
For winter travel in Hakkoda, Tsugaru, and Hirosaki, it's crucial to prepare for cold temperatures and snowy conditions. We recommend wearing multiple layers of warm clothing, including thermal underwear, waterproof and windproof outer layers, a warm hat, gloves, and waterproof, insulated boots with good traction. Bringing heat packs can also enhance comfort during outdoor activities.