Hokkaido: Kochia & Bassia Scoparia at Hakkenzan BBQ & Jozankei/Hoheikyo Autumn Leaves Day Tour

Overview

Immerse yourself in Hokkaido’s vibrant autumn palette on this enchanting one-day tour from Sapporo, blending colorful flower fields, architectural wonders, savory local cuisine, and breathtaking foliage vistas. Start with a leisurely guided stroll through Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park’s cosmos meadows and turning Kochia bushes—fluffy green spheres morphing into fiery red pom-poms by mid-October. Delve into the serene mystery of the Hill of the Buddha, a Tadao Ando masterpiece where only the statue’s head emerges from a lavender hill. Savor a hearty Genghis Khan BBQ lunch amid Hakkenzan’s golden valley, then chase crimson leaves at Hoheikyo Dam’s arched grandeur and the serene reflections of Lake Sapporo. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and foodies seeking a seamless half-day escape into Hokkaido’s fall symphony—complete with multilingual guidance and hassle-free transport for an effortless seasonal adventure.

Why Choose This Experience?

• Seasonal Spectacle: Timed for peak autumn colors (late September–mid-October 2025), featuring early-blooming Kochia at Takino and vivid Jozankei foliage for Instagram-worthy moments.
• Culinary Highlight: Indulge in Hokkaido’s iconic Genghis Khan lamb BBQ (or mixed grill alternative) at a farm-fresh venue, blending thrill and taste.
• Balanced Itinerary: Ample time at each stop with enthusiastic guides providing insights and photo assists—no rushing, just pure appreciation.
• Eco-Conscious Access: Hybrid electric bus to Hoheikyo preserves Shikotsu-Toya National Park’s pristine environment.
• Multilingual Comfort: English, Chinese, Japanese, and Cantonese-speaking guides ensure inclusive, worry-free exploration for international travelers.
• Value-Packed: All admissions, lunch, and transport included for a full immersion without hidden fees.

Highlights

• Takino Suzuran Hillside Park: Wander 1.5 hours through cosmos in pink, purple, and white; purple salvia; sunflowers; and adorable Kochia (bassia scoparia) bushes turning vivid red—Hokkaido’s wildflower haven.
• Hill of the Buddha (Atama Daibutsu): Explore Tadao Ando’s iconic 13.5m statue, where only the head peeks from a hill; traverse the Water Garden, a 40m tunnel, and Moai-inspired guardians for a mystical, meditative vibe.
• Hakkenzan Genghis Khan BBQ: 1 hour 20 minutes of farm-fresh lamb grilling with veggies, followed by pondside strolls and animal interactions in autumn-hued valleys—rainy days shift indoors seamlessly.
• Hoheikyo Dam: 1 hour 15 minutes atop Hokkaido’s finest arch dam, gazing at Senjo-iwa rocks, Lake Jozan, and potential water releases amid a golden gorge.
• Lake Sapporo: 30 minutes of self-guided tranquility at this hidden gem, where red, yellow, and green leaves mirror in deep blue waters for understated seasonal magic.
• Expert Guidance: Tour leaders share Hokkaido lore, snap group photos, and adapt for weather—ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers.

Package Options

1. One-Day Tour (Lunch Option: Genghis Khan BBQ)

Guided full-day autumn adventure with specialty lamb BBQ at Hakkenzan. Price: ¥15,000 per person (fixed; select date for availability).

2. One-Day Tour (Lunch Option: Mixed Grill)

Same itinerary with beef, pork, chicken, or seafood BBQ alternative for non-lamb preferences. Price: ¥15,000 per person (fixed; select date for availability).

Note: Prices include all fees; book for October 2025 dates when Kochia peaks mid-month. Group discounts may apply—contact operator.

Itinerary

Standard One-Day Tour (e.g., Genghis Khan BBQ Option)

09:00 – Departure from Sapporo meeting point (e.g., Sapporo Station or designated hotel).

10:00 – Takino Suzuran Hillside Park (1 hour 30 minutes, guided): Gear up for a flower-filled ramble—cosmos waves, salvia spikes, sunflowers nodding, and Kochia fluff transitioning to red. Capture the wilderness-forest backdrop with guide’s photo tips.

11:10 – Hill of the Buddha Water Garden (50 minutes, guided): Approach the enigmatic head-only Buddha via serene paths; snap Water Garden shots, tunnel echoes, and Moai lineup before the full statue reveal—peaceful respite from urban life.

12:00 – Lunch at Hakkenzan Valley Farm (1 hour 20 minutes): Fire up the Genghis Khan grill with premium lamb and farm veggies amid fall colors (or mixed grill indoors if rainy). Post-meal, wander orchards, ponds, and greet friendly animals.

13:30 – Hoheikyo Dam (1 hour 15 minutes, guided): Ride the hybrid electric bus to the dam crest; marvel at 100m-high arches, Senjo-iwa formations, Lake Jozan, and potential water releases in a riot of autumn hues.

15:00 – Lake Sapporo (30 minutes, self-guided): Unwind by the lesser-known reservoir’s edge, where foliage dances on sapphire waters—Hokkaido’s subtle, soul-stirring finale.

17:30 – Return to Sapporo meeting point.

Note: Times flexible for traffic/weather; total ~8–9 hours. October 2025 aligns with peak colors, but confirm foliage updates via operator.

What to Expect

Board your air-conditioned coach in central Sapporo for a scenic southward drive into Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where crisp autumn air sets the tone. At Takino, lose yourself in a fairy-tale bloomscape—cosmos carpets and Kochia orbs stealing the show as they blush red by mid-October, evoking Hokkaido’s untamed charm. Transition to the Hill of the Buddha’s architectural poetry: Tadao Ando’s design builds anticipation through gardens and tunnels, culminating in the serene 13.5m figure that quiets the mind. Refuel at Hakkenzan’s BBQ haven with sizzling Genghis Khan—tender lamb infused with farm-fresh flavors—or opt for mixed grill amid valley vistas (indoor pivot for rain). Ascend Hoheikyo Dam for jaw-dropping panoramas: arched engineering framing Senjo-iwa rocks and Lake Jozan’s fiery reflections, with water drama if gates open. Cap it at Lake Sapporo, a tranquil mirror of reds and golds, less crowded but equally hypnotic. Multilingual guides enrich every stop with stories, photos, and adaptations—ideal for a restorative day in nature’s autumn embrace, suiting all paces from avid hikers to relaxed sightseers.

What’s Included

• Admission to Takino Suzuran Hillside National Park
• Admission to Giant Buddha Hall (Hill of the Buddha)
• Hoppei Gorge Dam Electric Bus Round-Trip Ticket (Hoheikyo access)
• English/Chinese/Japanese/Cantonese-speaking guide
• Genghis Khan BBQ or mixed grill lunch with farm vegetables
• Round-trip transport from Sapporo (air-conditioned coach)
• Toll fees, parking fees, and fuel fees
• Operator-provided insurance

Note: Beverages extra; transport to initial meeting point not included—taxis or subway recommended.

Pre-Departure Notice

• Meeting Point: Sapporo Station Bus Terminal or specified hotel (e.g., 08:45 arrival for 09:00 departure); lateness incurs full fee.
• Confirmation: Instant booking with email voucher; notify dietary restrictions/allergies (e.g., lamb aversion) at reservation.
• Weather: Autumn tours proceed rain or shine (umbrellas/ponchos provided; indoor lunch backup); heavy rain/typhoon cancels with full refund.
• Health: Moderate walking (1–2km total, uneven paths); no pregnancy/extreme conditions; follow guide instructions.
• Children: Ages 4+ welcome (reduced rates? inquire); under 4 lap-held (no seat).

Good to Know

• Age Rules: All ages; children under 12 must hold hands near water/edges.
• Group Size: Up to 40 per coach; private charters available for 10+.
• Attire: Comfortable walking shoes, layers for cool October temps (10–15°C), hat/sunscreen; camera essential for foliage.
• Duration: ~8–9 hours total; ample breaks for restrooms/photos.
• Accessibility: Mostly flat paths but stairs at Buddha/Dam; wheelchair-limited (notify for assistance).
• Photos: Guides capture/share group shots (consent required); drone use prohibited at parks.
• Sustainability: Follow Leave No Trace—pack out waste to protect Jozankei’s ecosystems.

Reviews

“Highly recommended. The tour left at the meeting place on time. Habi, our tour guide, was very attentive to his guests and gave good preview of the tour destinations. The itinerary was packed but enjoyed them all. My sister and I ordered the lamb meat for lunch and it was so good.”

“The itinerary was very smooth. The tour guide Ding Ding was also very attentive and explained clearly the itinerary of each stop. The itinerary was well arranged and gave enough time to appreciate the praise. I will definitely join the one-day tour next time.”

“The tour guide is friendly and provide a lot of information about Hokkaido. The schedule of visit managed well by the guide as well.”

FAQs

Q: When is the best time for Kochia and autumn leaves?

A: Mid-October 2025 for peak red Kochia at Takino and vibrant Jozankei foliage; book early as colors shift with weather.

Q: Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or lamb-avoiders?

A: Yes—select mixed grill (beef/pork/chicken/seafood); veggie sides abundant, but confirm custom needs.

Q: How much walking is involved?

A: Light to moderate (1–2km total across sites); benches available, with guides pacing for groups.

Q: What if it rains?

A: Fully operational—ponchos provided, lunch indoors, and foliage often glows brighter in mist.

Q: How to get to the meeting point?

A: Subway to Sapporo Station (easy from airport/hotels); operator shuttles from major spots.

Q: Can I extend or customize?

A: Add Jozankei onsen soak post-tour (extra fee); contact for private/group tweaks.

Location