Southern Hokkaido 4-Day Private Taxi Tour with Multiple Vehicles

Overview

Indulge in a luxurious 3-night, 4-day private taxi tour across Southern Hokkaido, seamlessly linking the region’s historic port city, spectacular caldera lakes, and powerful volcanic hot springs. This tour is expertly designed for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and efficient exploration of the key landmarks: the historical port of Hakodate, the geothermal wonder of Noboribetsu, and the UNESCO Geopark centered on Lake Toya.

By utilizing a dedicated sightseeing taxi, you eliminate the complexities of regional public transport, allowing you to maximize sightseeing time at remote locations like Mount Usu and Cape Chikiu. Your professional driver navigates the scenic routes, ensuring you arrive rested and ready to explore, transforming the substantial travel distances into relaxing, private journeys.

Experience the full spectrum of Hokkaido’s allure, from savoring fresh seafood at the Hakodate Morning Market to soaking in the multi-mineral waters of Noboribetsu’s onsen resorts, all while enjoying the superior comfort of a Toyota Alphard or Toyota Hiace.

Highlights

• Hakodate’s Million-Dollar Night View: Ascend Mount Hakodate in the evening for one of the world’s most spectacular night views, perfectly framed by the unique, constriction-shaped coastline.
• Geothermal Wonders of Noboribetsu: Explore Jigokudani (Hell Valley) and Oyunuma, witnessing the raw volcanic power of the island through steaming vents and boiling sulfurous rivers.
• Lake Toya UNESCO Geopark: Tour the caldera lake and its surrounding volcanoes, including the actively growing Showa-Shinzan and the panoramic views from the Mount Usu area.
• Historical Western Charm: Stroll through Hakodate’s Motomachi district and Kanamori Red Brick Warehouses, remnants of the city’s history as an early international port.
• Premium Comfort and Efficiency: Enjoy door-to-door service and ample space for luggage in a luxury chartered vehicle, guaranteeing a stress-free experience throughout the four-day journey.

Complete Details

This 4-day private tour connects Hokkaido’s historic gateway (Hakodate) with its best hot springs (Noboribetsu) and caldera lakes (Toya and Shikotsu), offering a deep dive into the region’s nature and history.

Day 1: Volcanic Activity and Lakeside Strolls (Lake Toya)

The tour begins with a focus on the Lake Toya area. You will visit key volcanic sites of the Toya-Usu UNESCO Global Geopark, including the lava dome of Showa-Shinzan and views from the base of Mount Usu. Stops include Konpira Crater and the scenic overlook at Nakayama Pass. For a relaxing afternoon, enjoy a Lake Toya Sightseeing Boat cruise around the islands in the lake, followed by a visit to Lake Hill Farm for local dairy treats like gelato and cheese. Accommodation will typically be at a lakeside onsen hotel in the Toya area.

Day 2: Historical Port and Night View (Hakodate)

After breakfast, your private taxi transfers you to Hakodate (approximately 2 hours 15 minutes drive). The day is dedicated to the port city’s highlights. Start with a savory breakfast of fresh seafood at the Hakodate Morning Market. Next, explore the charming, slopeside Motomachi district, lined with historic foreign-style architecture, and the beautiful Kanamori Red Brick Warehouses along the bay. Visit Goryokaku Tower for a panoramic view of the star-shaped fortress. The evening culminates with the famous “Million-Dollar” night view from Mount Hakodate, easily accessed by taxi or ropeway from the city. Accommodation is at Hakodate Yunokawa Onsen or a downtown hotel.

Day 3: Sulfur, Steam, and Samurai (Noboribetsu)

The taxi drives north to the Noboribetsu area. The day is a showcase of geothermal activity and local history. Key stops include the dramatic Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley), an explosion crater constantly venting volcanic steam and sulfur. You will also see Oyunuma, a large, sulfuric, milky-blue crater lake. History buffs can enjoy a step back in time at Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura, a theme park recreating the streets of the Edo Period with ninja and samurai shows. Other scenic spots in the wider area, such as the tranquil Onuma Park (quasi-national park) or the dramatic cliffs of Cape Chikiu, can be included as per your preference.

Day 4: Clear Waters and Departure (Lake Shikotsu & Chitose)

On the final day, the tour heads toward the New Chitose Airport (CTS) area. The first major stop is Lake Shikotsu, one of Japan’s clearest lakes, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Following a final lakeside view, the tour continues toward the airport region, stopping at Chitose Aquarium to observe Hokkaido’s native marine life, particularly salmon. Finally, a visit to Ecorin Village offers a chance to interact with Hokkaido animals before the private taxi ensures a smooth and comfortable drop-off at New Chitose Airport (CTS) for your flight departure.

Vehicle Options: Choose the Toyota Alphard (6-7 passengers) for a relaxing and executive-class ride, or the Toyota Hiace/Wagon (10 passengers) for maximum space for a larger group and souvenirs. Both vehicles offer superior amenities including bottled water and in-car charging.

Booking with Jasumo

For booking this private 4-day Southern Hokkaido tour, or to arrange any custom tour that focuses on specific historical sites, hot spring visits, or unique natural parks in the region, please contact us using the Contact Us Form. We are available to create a perfect, bespoke travel itinerary to meet your exact requirements.

FAQs

Is the Mount Hakodate night view guaranteed to be visible during the tour?

The night view from Mount Hakodate is considered one of the best in the world, but visibility depends on weather conditions. The clearest viewing seasons are generally Autumn and Winter when the air is crisp, but the stunning lights make it a must-see in any season.

What famous food specialty should I try during the visit to Hakodate?

Hakodate is a renowned port city famous for its extremely fresh seafood. You absolutely must try the fresh seafood bowls (kaisen don) at the Hakodate Morning Market, and the local specialty, squid (ika), which is often prepared and served in various local delicacies.

How does the private taxi handle the long distances between cities like Hakodate and Noboribetsu?

The private taxi makes the long-distance travel, such as the approximately 2.5-hour drive between Hakodate and Lake Toya/Noboribetsu, efficient and comfortable. Your vehicle is an executive-class car like the Toyota Alphard, designed with features like quiet engines and cushioned seating to turn the journey into a relaxing experience.

What makes the hot springs in Noboribetsu so special?

Noboribetsu Onsen is famous for having nine different types of mineral-rich thermal waters, which is highly unusual for a single resort town. These waters, including sulfur and alum springs, are piped directly from the volcanic Hell Valley and are reputed to offer a wide range of therapeutic health and skin benefits.

What is the significance of the historical buildings in Hakodate’s Motomachi district?

Hakodate was one of Japan’s first ports to open to foreign trade in the mid-19th century. The Motomachi district preserves the legacy of this era, featuring a beautiful mix of Western-style architecture, churches, consulates, and temples, reflecting the international influence that shaped the city’s early development.

Location