Learn basic snowshoeing, winter navigation, and enjoy an outdoor lunch on a five-hour guided circuit near Sapporo, then soothe muscles in a traditional onsen. Ideal for first-time winter trekkers looking for safe, scenic snow travel.
Learn basic snowshoeing, winter navigation, and enjoy an outdoor lunch on a five-hour guided circuit near Sapporo, then soothe muscles in a traditional onsen. Ideal for first-time winter trekkers looking for safe, scenic snow travel.
A hush falls over the forest as the group steps off the trailhead near Sapporo, each footfall muffled by a fresh layer of snow. Frost-laced pines lean into the wind, and the city’s skyline glints faintly beyond the ridgeline—an immediate contrast between urban life and white silence. Participants kit up with snowshoes and poles, run through a safety brief, and begin a five-hour circuit that moves through rolling foothills, compacted powder tracks, and open lunch clearings.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Trekmate Hokkaido · Sapporo, Hokkaido
A hush falls over the forest as the group steps off the trailhead near Sapporo, each footfall muffled by a fresh layer of snow. Frost-laced pines lean into the wind, and the city’s skyline glints faintly beyond the ridgeline—an immediate contrast between urban life and white silence. Participants kit up with snowshoes and poles, run through a safety brief, and begin a five-hour circuit that moves through rolling foothills, compacted powder tracks, and open lunch clearings.
This route runs through terrain shaped by volcanic activity and river terraces common to southern Hokkaido; the ground underfoot alternates between packed snow over volcanic ash and fir-rooted slopes. The trail passes near Bankei-area lodges that trace their history to Sapporo’s development in the early 20th century, while the wider landscape sits on land historically used by the Ainu people. Cultural touches arrive later: an onsen soak that follows the trek, a traditional practice for warming weary muscles and observing bathing etiquette.
Practically, expect five hours total including transport from Makomanai Station, a moderate 4/10 effort, and an outdoor hot lunch. Guides teach pacing, route reading, and winter navigation—skills that make this accessible for first-timers. Wear waterproof boots, layered clothing, sun protection, and bring a small daypack with water and snacks. After the hike, wash the cold from your hair in a communal onsen and return to Sapporo by private transfer, warmed and steadier-footed on winter travel.
easy.
5 hours.
Light to moderate fitness—able to walk on snowy, uneven terrain for several hours with short breaks.
Snowshoes, trekking poles, gaiters and onsen admission are included; guides provide a safety briefing, lunch, and private transfers to/from the trailhead.
No—this trip is suitable for beginners; guides teach basic technique and winter route assessment before setting off.
Meet at Makomanai subway station; private transport to the trailhead is about 30 minutes each way.
Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; the operator may cancel for bad weather.
The area around Sapporo developed rapidly during the Meiji era; trails here run through forests historically used for seasonal hunting and foraging by Ainu communities.
Stay on packed tracks to avoid crushing winter vegetation, pack out all waste, and follow leave-no-trace and onsen etiquette to minimize local impact.
Trekmate Hokkaido operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A hush falls over the forest as the group steps off the trailhead near Sapporo, each footfall muffled by a fresh layer of snow. Frost-laced pines lean into the wind, and the city’s skyline glints faintly beyond the ridgeline—an immediate contrast between urban life and white silence. Participants kit up with snowshoes and poles, run through a safety brief, and begin a five-hour circuit that moves through rolling foothills, compacted powder tracks, and open lunch clearings.
A hush falls over the forest as the group steps off the trailhead near Sapporo, each footfall muffled by a fresh layer of snow. Frost-laced pines lean into the wind, and the city’s skyline glints faintly beyond the ridgeline—an immediate contrast between urban life and white silence. Participants kit up with snowshoes and poles, run through a safety brief, and begin a five-hour circuit that moves through rolling foothills, compacted powder tracks, and open lunch clearings.
This route runs through terrain shaped by volcanic activity and river terraces common to southern Hokkaido; the ground underfoot alternates between packed snow over volcanic ash and fir-rooted slopes. The trail passes near Bankei-area lodges that trace their history to Sapporo’s development in the early 20th century, while the wider landscape sits on land historically used by the Ainu people. Cultural touches arrive later: an onsen soak that follows the trek, a traditional practice for warming weary muscles and observing bathing etiquette.
Practically, expect five hours total including transport from Makomanai Station, a moderate 4/10 effort, and an outdoor hot lunch. Guides teach pacing, route reading, and winter navigation—skills that make this accessible for first-timers. Wear waterproof boots, layered clothing, sun protection, and bring a small daypack with water and snacks. After the hike, wash the cold from your hair in a communal onsen and return to Sapporo by private transfer, warmed and steadier-footed on winter travel.