Author Archives: jjadmin

Service Suspension Notice: Autumn Shinsen-numa and Niseko Nature Experience Course (October 23–25)

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Thank you for choosing Hokkaido Chuo Bus.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience, but the Panorama Line (Hokkaido Route 66, Iwanai-Toya Line), which is part of the route for this course, will be closed to traffic for the winter season starting October 23. As a result, it will be difficult to operate the course, and all departures from October 23 to October 25 will be suspended.
Therefore, the final departure date for this course will be Thursday, October 22.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to customers planning to take this tour and appreciate your kind understanding.

Sapporo in Winter: A One-Day Tour

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Sprawling Sapporo is home to a wealth of popular attractions! Getting from one to another can be a challenge, especially in winter. This tour takes you to sights across the city, including Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill, Ganso Sapporo Ramen Yokocho, Shiroi Koibito Park, Hokkaido Shrine, Sapporo Mt. Moiwa Ropeway, and Sapporo Beer Garden if any guests wish to get off there.
　
Feel the winter chill, warm up with piping-hot ramen, and take in the views on a tour that lets you enjoy Sapporo to the fullest in just one day. Enjoy a smooth day of sightseeing aboard a bus with a tour guide, with no driving or transfers to worry about.

Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Hot Springs & Lake Toya Winter Tour (Lunch Included)

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In winter, Hokkaido becomes a world of glistening snow. This tour reveals more than just snowy scenery, from the rising steam of Noboribetsu Hell Valley to sweeping panoramas of Lake Toya from Silo Observatory!
　
Enjoy a Japanese set lunch featuring plenty of locally sourced ingredients at Toya Kohantei. You can also opt for a soak overlooking Hell Valley at Dai-ichi Takimotokan, a historic hot spring inn with over 160 years of history (additional charge). Make the most of winter in Hokkaido on a sightseeing bus tour.

Takino Snow World & Moai Statues in the Snow Tour

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Surrounded by mountains at the southern edge of Sapporo, the Takino area can be difficult to reach once the snow falls. Our Regular Sightseeing Bus makes it easy to visit two of its most popular attractions!
　
● Takino Snow World
On the outskirts of Sapporo, Takino Snow World is the perfect place to enjoy Hokkaido’s winter to the fullest. Its expansive, snow-covered grounds offer activities for everyone from beginners to experienced winter sports enthusiasts, including snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The long tubing run is a particular favorite, drawing delighted cheers from children and adults as they glide down the slope. Beyond playing in the snow, winter nature walks offer a chance to breathe the crisp air and take in Hokkaido’s magnificent scenery.
　
● Moai Statues in the Snow and the Hill of the Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery
Makomanai Takino Cemetery takes on an especially enchanting atmosphere in winter. Draped in snow, its rows of towering Moai statues seem even more mysterious, creating the sensation of stepping into another world. The Hill of the Buddha, designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, is another must-see (a separate admission fee applies)! Its striking concrete architecture blends beautifully with the snowy landscape, while the great Buddha sitting in silence leaves a lasting impression. Here, culture and art come together in a setting of solemn beauty found only in Hokkaido in winter.

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival Illumination Tour

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This limited-season tour runs during the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival.
Each winter, ice sculptures of all shapes and sizes appear along the shores of Lake Shikotsu. Made from the lake’s exceptionally clear water, they are works of art shaped by nature. Arrive in the early evening to experience the magic of Hokkaido in winter with all your senses, from the fantastical sculptures illuminated in vibrant colors to the crystal-clear air in the subzero cold.
　
*Admission to the Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival is not included in the tour price and must be paid separately (adults: ¥1,000 on weekdays and ¥3,000 on weekends and public holidays; elementary school students and younger: free).

Asahiyama Zoo Winter Day Tour

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Located in Asahikawa, near the center of Hokkaido, Asahikawa’s Asahiyama Zoo draws visitors from far and wide as Japan’s northernmost zoo. Our Regular Sightseeing Bus takes you directly to this popular destination, around 150 km from Sapporo!
The journey takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, but your guide’s commentary makes the time fly! Engaging insights into Hokkaido’s history, the scenery outside your window, and local trivia add to the enjoyment of the journey.
　
On the way, we stop for a break at Sunagawa Highway Oasis, which brings together local specialties from across Hokkaido. Browse Oasis Plaza for famous sweets, local sake, and regional foods, or Soraichi Market for vegetables and other food products from the Sorachi region. It is an ideal stop for souvenir shopping.
　
Asahiyama Zoo’s creatively designed exhibits let you see animals behaving naturally. Watch seals swim up and down a cylindrical tank at the Seal House, marvel at spectacular dives at the Polar Bear House, and look up from an underwater tunnel at the Penguin House as penguins seem to fly overhead. There are 30 other animal enclosures, along with plenty of activities, including Mogumogu Time feeding sessions and talks by zoo staff. These close encounters with the animals make this popular zoo a favorite with returning visitors.
Come and meet the zoo’s lively residents on a comfortable, convenient Regular Sightseeing Bus tour!

Lake Shikotsu & Lake Toya Winter Tour (Multilingual Audio Guide Available)

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An audio guide in English, Chinese, and Korean is available on your smartphone! Set off through the crisp winter air to discover two lakes of mysterious beauty!
　
Our first stop, Lake Shikotsu, has some of the clearest water in Japan. Gaze across its pristine surface and watch the reflected light shimmer. At the nearby Lake Shikotsu Visitor Center, you can learn about the volcanic forces that shaped the lake, the plants and animals that live around it, and much more.
　
After taking in Lake Shikotsu, we continue toward Lake Toya, stopping along the way at Kinoko Okoku’s Otaki Main Store for a break and some shopping. Choose from more than 2,000 souvenirs, including the mushroom specialties that give this shop its name, which means “Mushroom Kingdom”!
　
Lake Toya is a caldera lake formed by a volcanic eruption around 100,000 years ago. Lunch is served at Toya Kohantei on the lakeshore.* Enjoy Hokkaido’s rich culinary bounty in a set meal featuring plenty of locally sourced seafood, vegetables, pork, and more.
*On certain dates, lunch is at your own expense, with approximately 60 minutes at Kinoko Okoku for dining and a break.
　
After lunch, we head to Mt. Usu, part of one of Japan’s first Global Geoparks, areas recognized for their geological heritage. Ride the Usuzan Ropeway through the air, then admire the spectacular scenery from the terrace at the top. You can also choose to visit Showa Shinzan Bear Ranch at an additional charge. Watch the brown bears playing and relaxing, or try feeding them!
　
This tour offers a chance to experience the rugged, magnificent beauty of Hokkaido’s winter landscape. Set out across this vast island in a comfortable bus, with the driving in expert hands!

Sapporo Winter Afternoon Tour: Hokkaido Shrine & Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill (Multilingual Audio Guide Available)

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Hop aboard our red bus for a half-day tour of some of Sapporo’s most distinctive sights! An audio guide in English, Chinese, and Korean is available on your smartphone! See Sapporo’s popular sights in just a few hours, with views from the bus and stops to explore Hokkaido Shrine and Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.
　
Founded during Hokkaido’s pioneering era, Hokkaido Shrine is revered as the guardian shrine of the entire island. Although it stands in the Maruyama area of central Sapporo, its wooded grounds have a serene, almost mystical atmosphere.
　
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is home to the famous statue of Dr. Clark, his right arm outstretched toward the horizon. Strike the same pose for a photo with Sapporo’s cityscape in the distance, and let his spirit of ambition inspire you! Join our Regular Sightseeing Bus tour to discover these iconic stops on any visit to Sapporo!

Sapporo Winter Morning Tour: Shiroi Koibito Park, Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium & Sapporo Curb Market (Multilingual Audio Guide Available)

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Hop aboard our red bus for a half-day tour of some of Sapporo’s most distinctive sights! An audio guide in English, Chinese, and Korean is available on your smartphone!
　
Our first stop is Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium. At the ski jump’s starting point, 307 meters above sea level, the observation deck offers sweeping views down the steep approach ramp and across Sapporo and the Ishikari Plain. The stadium hosted events at the 11th Winter Olympic Games in Sapporo in 1972 and is also home to the Sapporo Olympic Museum.
　
Next, we head to Shiroi Koibito Park, a theme park devoted to sweets. Explore a world of confectionery at attractions including Shiroi Koibito Factory, where you can watch Hokkaido’s famous Shiroi Koibito cookies being made, and Chocotopia House, where projection mapping brings the history of chocolate to life.
　
Our final stop is Sapporo Curb Market, next to the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market. Its stalls are filled with seafood, vegetables, fruit, and other produce from across Hokkaido. With plenty of restaurants serving fresh seafood rice bowls and set meals, this is the place to enjoy lunch at your own expense.
　
After enjoying the food and picking up souvenirs, you can also leave the tour at Sapporo Clock Tower, a popular landmark close to Odori Park. Make the most of your time in Sapporo with this affordable Regular Sightseeing Bus tour, packed with sights in just half a day!

A journey through the lakes and mountains of the Toya and Noboribetsu area in autumn
Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley, Lake Toya & Usuzan Ropeway Autumn Tour (Lunch Included)(Excluding Multilingual Audio System)

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When Hokkaido’s long winter arrives, the landscape turns into a world of silver-white snow. Just before that season begins, set out on a late-autumn journey to some of the best sights in the Toya and Noboribetsu area. Feel the end of the green season and the coming of winter in the crisp air.
　
After departing Sapporo Station, the first stop is the roadside station Boyo Nakayama, located at the top of Nakayama Pass. It is also a scenic viewpoint with views of Mt. Yotei. Its local specialty is ageimo, deep-fried potato balls that sell around 300,000 servings a year and have remained a bestseller for more than 50 years.
　
Next, visit Silo Observatory at Lake Toya. Here, enjoy lunch and a sweeping panoramic view of Lake Toya from above. Lunch features Kitano Kaisen Nabe, a hearty hot pot filled with seafood. The special miso soup is rich with the flavor of the seafood, and can be enjoyed to the very last drop with udon noodles added at the end.
　
After lunch, take an aerial ride on the Usuzan Ropeway and enjoy the magnificent scenery shaped by nature from the mountaintop terrace and walking trails. You may also visit Showa-Shinzan Bear Ranch as an optional activity. Watch the bears playing and relaxing, or try feeding them yourself.
　
The final highlight of this course is Noboribetsu Jigokudani Valley. This massive explosion crater was formed by volcanic activity, and the sight of volcanic gas and steam rising from the rugged rock surface truly lives up to its name, “Hell Valley.” A wide variety of hot spring waters that make up the Noboribetsu Onsen area gush from this site, totaling 10,000 tons per day. Walk through the sulfur-scented valley and experience the power of the earth with all five senses.
　
Hokkaido’s autumn, tucked between its long summer and winter, passes in the blink of an eye. Yet this season offers many sights found only at this time of year, from autumn foliage and clear skies to trees shedding more leaves with each passing day. Set out on a bus journey and enjoy the atmosphere of late autumn.

ROYCE’ Cacao & Chocolate Town, Mt. Moiwa Observation Deck, and Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Tour (Excluding Multilingual Audio System)

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● Royce’ Cacao & Chocolate Town (Paid areas are optional and individually paid.)
・This facility adjoins the factory of Royce’, Hokkaido’s representative chocolate brand. Exhibits and hands-on experiences let visitors learn about cacao cultivation, cacao history, and production processes.
・Factory observation: Take a look at the chocolate production line through glass (1st-floor free area).
・Chocolate bar-making workshop: Create your own original chocolate (additional fee required).
・Factory shop: A spacious shop offering exclusive products and sweets available only here (1st-floor free area).

● Free-Time Lunch at the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market Outer Market
・Fresh seafood bowls: The Outer Market has many eateries serving seafood bowls and sushi made with seasonal fish.
・A treasure trove of Hokkaido cuisine: Enjoy ikura, uni, crab, and other local specialties on the spot.
・Free-choice style: Participants can choose any restaurant they like, allowing for a personalized lunch experience.
・Market exploration: You can also shop for souvenirs such as dried goods and local delicacies.

● Mt. Moiwa Observatory
・Panoramic views of Sapporo: From Mt. Moiwa at 531 m elevation, look out to see the cityscape and the Ishikari Plains. Both daytime and night views are spectacular.
・Ropeway + mini cable car: Ride the ropeway to the mid-station, then take the “Morris Car” cable car to the summit.

Scenic View of Biei’s Rolling Hills and the Iconic Seven Stars Tree from the Window
Best-of Asahikawa and Biei Tour (Excluding Multilingual Audio System)

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This premium sightseeing course brings together two of Hokkaido’s signature attractions, Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa and the Shirogane Blue Pond, in a single day.
　
The journey begins in Sapporo, traveling to Asahiyama Zoo for approximately two hours of exploration, followed by a visit to the Shirogane Blue Pond. While the route covers a considerable distance, the experience remains engaging aboard a guided sightseeing bus. A stop is also included at Sunagawa Highway Oasis, offering time to rest and shop. This hub for Sorachi specialties is an excellent place to pick up local souvenirs and sweets.
　
Asahiyama Zoo is designed to showcase the animals’ natural abilities and behaviors to their fullest. Known as “behavioral exhibits,” these features allow close observation of dynamic scenes, from orangutans crossing overhead ropes to polar bears diving and swimming in pools, all in environments that closely resemble their natural habitats.
　
After the zoo visit, the tour continues to the Shirogane Blue Pond in Shirogane, a scene of striking, almost painterly beauty. Depending on the weather and angle of light, the water shifts between cobalt and emerald blue, with standing larch trees rising from its surface, creating a truly mesmerizing natural landscape.
The return journey features sweeping views of Biei’s hills, the Patchwork Road, and the iconic Seven Stars Tree, offering classic Hokkaido scenery from the window.
　
Covering nearly 390 km, this route would be demanding to drive independently. A scheduled sightseeing bus allows the journey to unfold comfortably under the care of professional drivers. Discover Hokkaido’s green season with ease and comfort.

【Sapporo Afternoon Tour】The Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)

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Travel in comfort aboard a bus equipped with a multilingual guidance system in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. We will introduce you to some of Sapporo’s most distinctive highlights in a short amount of time.
　
Discover Sapporo’s top attractions with this well-rounded itinerary, which features scenic city views from the bus and guided stops at two major highlights: Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.
　
From the elevated vantage point of the bus, take in sweeping views of Odori Park—the green corridor running east to west through the heart of the city—the stately Hokkaido Governor’s Official Residence nestled among trees, the Toyohira River beloved by locals and host to summer fireworks displays, and the striking Sapporo Dome with its graceful, silver, curved silhouette.
　
Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium, an active venue on the eastern slope of Mt. Okura at an elevation of 307 meters. From the summit observation deck, take in a sweeping panorama of central Sapporo and the vast Ishikari Plains beyond, framed dramatically by the steep approach slope below. Gazing down from the ski jump start point, the 145.0-meter hill record distance is truly breathtaking. See the scale for yourself and experience the thrill from above.
　
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is home to the famous statue of Dr. William S. Clark, depicted with his right arm outstretched toward the horizon. In summer, sheep graze across the lush green lawn, with the cityscape of Sapporo stretching out in the distance, a scene that captures the very spirit of Hokkaido. Strike the same post beside Dr. Clark and snap a memorable photo as you embrace his inspiring message, “Boys, be ambitious.”
　
Let our scheduled sightseeing bus take you to the iconic landmarks that every visitor to Sapporo wants to see.

【Sapporo Morning Tour】Shiroi Koibito Park, the Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and Central Wholesale Market Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)

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Travel in comfort aboard a bus equipped with a multilingual guidance system in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. We will introduce you to some of Sapporo’s most distinctive highlights in a short amount of time.
　
Our first stop is the Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium. Often associated with Prince Chichibu Yasuhito, affectionately known as the “Prince of Sports,” the facility traces its origins to 1932, when Baron Kishichiro Okura commissioned its design from Lieutenant Helsel of Norway at the Prince’s suggestion. In 1970, it was renovated in preparation for the Sapporo Olympic Games and later served as the venue for the 90-meter ski jumping competition at the 11th Winter Olympic Games in Sapporo 1972.
　
From the observation deck at the 307-meter starting point of the jump hill, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view stretching beyond the approach slope to the cityscape of Sapporo and across the vast Ishikari Plain.
　
Once we depart Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium, our journey continues to Shiroi Koibito Park. This popular attraction features the Chocotopia Factory, where visitors can observe the production process of Hokkaido’s iconic confection, Shiroi Koibito, as well as the Tudor House, a charming recreation of medieval English architecture.
　
In summer, the park’s Rose Garden comes alive with vibrant English roses and old garden varieties in full bloom. Adjacent to the park is the Miyanosawa Shiroi Koibito Soccer Stadium, where onlookers may even catch a glimpse of FC Consadole Sapporo’s training sessions.
　
Following our visit to Shiroi Koibito Park, we continue to our final stop, the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, Outer Market. Here, seafood, vegetables, and fruits from across Hokkaido are gathered in one lively marketplace. Numerous local eateries serve fresh seafood bowls and set meals made with the day’s best catch, and lunch is at your leisure.
　
After enjoying delicious cuisine and picking up plenty of souvenirs, guests may choose to disembark at one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks, the Sapporo Clock Tower, conveniently located near Odori Park.
　
Though compact in duration, this course is rich in experiences and reasonably priced, a satisfying and efficient way to explore Sapporo aboard a scheduled sightseeing bus.

Recent Changes Regarding the Regular Sightseeing Bus COVID-19 Countermeasures [May 8, 2023]

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Thank you for choosing the Regular Sightseeing Bus for your travels.
　
In accordance with recent changes to the status concerning COVID-19 – now considered a category five of the Infectious Disease Act – the Regular Sightseeing Bus will also change its COVID-19 countermeasures.
　
For details please see below. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
　
〇Effective May 8 (Mon), 2023
　
〇Changes:
Temperatures will no longer be taken before boarding the bus.
We will no longer carry sanitizer onto the bus or sanitize passengers before boarding.

About the Niseko Ski Bus Time Schedule

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We apologize for the delay in posting the 2021 Niseko Ski Bus Schedule:
https://teikan.chuo-bus.co.jp/en/course/7768
New Chitose Airport Niseko / Rusutsu
Sapporo Niseko
　
*If passengers board a bus from Niseko/ Rusutsu to New Chitose Airport, the bus may be subject to delay due to traffic or inclement weather. Please be sure to allow for ample time to board your plane. (If there is only one hour between time of departure and arrival of the ski bus at the airport, we cannot guarantee your connection.)
　
*In the event of inclement weather and the roads are closed in some areas with no detours provided, operation of the bus may be determined difficult and the tour may be canceled.