Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 42 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei worth booking?
Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei is a 8-hour experience in Sapporo, Japan, from $172 per person. It scores 82 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 42 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 82 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (42)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $172 per person
The Ainu Cultural Center is a real hidden gem. Tucked away in lush natural surroundings an hour or so outside of Sapporo, this center/museum is sure to please. It is very informative with tons of artifacts of The Ainu. The center is well curated and visitors are encouraged to hold and touch the many authentic Ainu handcrafts. The outdoor village with traditional handcrafted Ainu houses and canoes are very cool to experience as well. This is a “must go” sight for those interested in indigenous groups. Your tour will continue on to nearby Jozankei Hot spring(Onsen) Village. There are 56 hot spring sources in Jozankei, concentrated around both the Tsukimibashi and Takayamabashi bridges along with The Toyohira River which flows throughout the village. The waters of most of these hot spring baths average temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Celsius. As a member of this tour, you will experience a two hour hot spring bath at one of Jozankei’s most reputable hot spring hotels.
What you get
About this experience
The Ainu Cultural Center is a real hidden gem. Tucked away in lush natural surroundings an hour or so outside of Sapporo, this center/museum is sure to please. It is very informative with tons of artifacts of The Ainu. The center is well curated and visitors are encouraged to hold and touch the many authentic Ainu handcrafts. The outdoor village with traditional handcrafted Ainu houses and canoes are very cool to experience as well. This is a “must go” sight for those interested in indigenous groups. Your tour will continue on to nearby Jozankei Hot spring(Onsen) Village. There are 56 hot spring sources in Jozankei, concentrated around both the Tsukimibashi and Takayamabashi bridges along with The Toyohira River which flows throughout the village. The waters of most of these hot spring baths average temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Celsius. As a member of this tour, you will experience a two hour hot spring bath at one of Jozankei’s most reputable hot spring hotels.
What's included
Included
- All entry/admission tickets to each attraction/sightseeing spot
- English speaking tour guide
- Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities
Not included
- Lunch
- Transportation prior and after the tour
What you'll see and do
AINU Cultural Center (Sapporo Pirka Kotan)
This tour will start at Sapporo Station in front of “Myomu”(The Circular Stone Structure) in front of the South Exit doors of Sapporo Station. Kindly meet here at exactly 9a.m. Your guide will be there to greet you. After brief introductions and smiles, we will start to embark on our wonderful tour starting at The Ainu Cultural Center. The tour will begin here at The Ainu Cultural Center. Your guide will take you through the 1 hour tour of the Ainu Center Museum(exhibition room). Here, you will learn of the lifestyle, history, and art of the Ainu people, the indigenous people who first settled Hokkaido and developed a unique culture. This facility is the first of its kind in Japan to focus on original inhabitants and allows visitors to actually feel, touch and experience first-hand traditional Ainu craftworks(over 300 items) made by Ainu artisans.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Jozankei Onsen
After leaving The Ainu Cultural Center, you will be heading (by bus) to the very nearby quaint little hot spring village known as Jozankei. Jozankei is located within the lush green Shikotsu-Toya National Park. This area is characterized by topography and phenomena created by hundreds of years of volcanic activity.Thus, this volcanic activity has created numerous natural hot springs that dot the entire area of Jozankei Village. Upon arrival, your guide will show you around the area and make sure you see all the popular sights that Jozankei offers. These will include both the Jozankei Shrine and Temple, Gesen Park and footbath, Futami Park and Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge. This guided walking tour of Jozankei is breathtaking any season of the year.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Jozankei Onsen
Your tour will conclude on a physically soothing “high note”. Your guide will escort you to the Hotel Shika no Yu hot spring. Here, you will enjoy the very popular 2 hour day-bath experience. Of course, hot springs(“onsen” in Japanese) are an integral part of Japanese culture and have been enjoyed for centuries for their therapeutic and relaxing properties. Visitors to Japan, would be amiss not to experience an onsen bath. You will have the chance on this tour! After soaking in one of the many hot springs, we will slowly make our way back to Sapporo Station
180 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Sapporo
After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exits of Sapporo Station. After a short walk you will surely notice “MYOMU”(The Circular White Stone Structure). Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exits of Sapporo Station. After a short walk you will surely notice “MYOMU”(The Circular White Stone Structure). Your guide will be standing in front of this stone structure wearing a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour tag.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.)
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 42 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
42 verified traveler reviews for Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good
The link to meeting point in details on Trip Advisor app is incorrect & needs to clearly state meeting place with accurate address link The tour otherwise was very good, our guide Scott is knowledgeable & was very accommodating. The fall foliage & Onsen was soothing at end of tour was very soothing
via Tripadvisor
A great day out!
Fantastic day, friendly guide, good information . Thank you
via Tripadvisor
A Wonderful Day
This tour met all my expectations. It was the only experience I signed up for during my 5 days in Sapporo. The tour began at an easy-to-find location at Sapporo Station. Scott met us at the designated time. There were only two of us. Using a train and a bus we went south to the Ainu Cultural Center. Scott explained a lot of the artifacts on display, which I found interesting. Next came lunch in Jozankei and then a short, but enjoyable hike by the river. The last stop was at an onsen. Since it was my first time, he explained everything I needed to know to follow traditions. On the ride back, he shared a lot of his understanding about Japanese culture, education, and economics. Scott was an excellent guide and this was a wonderful tour. I am glad it is the one I selected.
via Viator
Great
Wonderful. Scott was very informative and a great guide.
via Tripadvisor
Great experience
My guide Scott had extensive knowledge of the Ainu culture and the museum. This trip is a quick and economical way to get exposed to the culture and experience an onsen. This tour uses public transportation and involves quite a bit of walking, so I don't recommend it for anyone who's walking ability is limited. Scott went beyond the call of duty and helped me do some shopping after the tour. Many thanks, Scott.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Price range
- $172 to $26,400
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 15
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.), who run 124 experiences we rank across 9 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 66.8 and 2 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Snow Monkey Resorts Tours (Machinovate Japan Ltd.) runsWhy this scores 82
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Sapporo.
How much does Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei cost?
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Prices start at $172 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Sapporo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Sapporo is not rushed.
Is Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 82 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 42 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Sapporo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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Around 15 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Sapporo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Sapporo and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Sapporo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Sapporo?
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On Outty we rank every Sapporo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour, Wagashi traditional japanese sweets class, Mondo's most popular No.1!Private experienceThe king of buckwheat noodles making and Japanese food in Sapporo!A plan to enjoy tempura!. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Sapporo?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Sapporo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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Included: All entry/admission tickets to each attraction/sightseeing spot; English speaking tour guide; and Transportation fee from Sapporo Station to all listed destinations and activities. Not included: Lunch; and Transportation prior and after the tour. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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After exiting the main JR gates of Sapporo Station TURN LEFT. Walk towards the South Exits of Sapporo Station. After a short walk you will surely notice “MYOMU”(The Circular White Stone Structure). Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Sapporo. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Full Day Indigenous Ainu of Hokkaido and Jozankei?
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Across 42 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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