1-day tour in Sapporo, Japan|Jozankei Onsen + Hokkaido Jingu + Mount Moiwa + Hill of the Buddha (including worship fee) Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Soak in the therapeutic, mineral-rich hot springs of Jozankei Onsen surrounded by stunning valley scenery.

• Walk through the striking lavender fields and tunnel to reveal the awe-inspiring 13.5-meter Head of Buddha at Makomanai Takino Cemetery.

• Stroll the serene, forested paths of Maruyama Park leading to the historic Hokkaido Jingu shrine.

• Feast on incredibly fresh seafood and local Hokkaido delicacies at the bustling Sapporo Central Wholesale Market outside market.

Hidden Gems

• Look for the hidden stone statues of Jizo scattered along the forest trails near Hokkaido Jingu, often dressed in tiny red bibs by locals.

• Visit the Hill of the Buddha during the lavender bloom in late July when the purple fields contrast beautifully with the concrete architecture.

• Try the local specialty kaisen-don at the off-site market early in the morning before the best cuts of salmon roe and sea urchin sell out.

What Makes it Special

• Seamlessly combines Hokkaido's top spiritual, natural, and culinary highlights into one convenient, fully-transported day trip.

• Includes the worship fee and main attraction ticket for the architectural masterpiece of the Hill of the Buddha, designed by Tadao Ando.

• Offers a rare mix of relaxing onsen culture, Shinto shrine traditions, and vibrant local food markets in a single itinerary.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Late July to August is spectacular for seeing the lavender fields in full bloom around the Hill of the Buddha, while autumn offers breathtaking fall foliage at Jozankei Onsen and Maruyama Park. Early mornings are best for the seafood market to get the freshest catches, and visiting the shrines on weekday mornings will help you avoid the weekend crowds.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic view of the Buddha's head peeking over the lavender fields from the designated observation deck at Makomanai Takino Cemetery.

• Use the natural framing of the towering cedar trees along the approach to Hokkaido Jingu for dramatic, moody shrine portraits.

• Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas of the shrines and onsen towns, but strictly avoid taking pictures inside the main worship halls or of other bathers at the onsen.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting Hokkaido Jingu, remember to bow slightly before passing through the torii gate, walk along the sides of the path rather than the center, and cleanse your hands and mouth at the temizuya water pavilion. At the onsen, it is customary to wash your body thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the shared hot spring baths, and tattoos may need to be covered with waterproof patches depending on the bathhouse rules.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Jozankei Onsen Autumn Leaf Festival in October features stunning illuminated foliage, traditional music, and special local food stalls.

• Hokkaido Jingu hosts a grand spring festival in June with lively parades, portable shrine processions, and traditional food stalls in Maruyama Park.

• The Sapporo Snow Festival in February transforms the city and nearby parks into a winter wonderland, though onsen visits become especially popular to warm up afterward.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay hydrated and limit your onsen soaking sessions to 10-15 minutes at a time to prevent dizziness or overheating in the hot mineral waters.

• Watch your step on the stone pathways and wooden boardwalks at the shrine and onsen town, as they can become quite slippery during rain or snow.

• Be mindful of local wildlife, such as brown bears, if you wander off the main paved trails in the forested areas around Maruyama Park or Jozankei.