Snow. Stillness. Sake.
Winter in Hokkaido
Snow. Stillness. Sake.
February 8-15, 2026 | Hokkaido, Japan
A journey through:
- Sapporo’s glowing ice sculptures under winter stars
- Centuries-old sake rituals at Tanaka Brewery
- Drift ice cruises where the sea freezes white
- Snowshoe hikes to hidden waterfalls
- Otaru’s canal-lit evenings by lantern light
GROUP: An intimate group of 12
INVESTMENT: AED 27,000 per person
DEADLINE: November 8, 2025
A NOTE FROM HARSHA
“Winter in Japan taught me that stillness isn’t empty—it’s where everything begins.”
This February, I will be returning to Hokkaido with a small group of seekers. Not for sightseeing, but for soul-seeing.
We shall experience winter, sip sake in 200 year old breweries.
Watch ice sculptures glow under winter stars. And most importantly—we shall pause. Together.
If you are craving a journey that slows you down to speed you up, this is your invitation.
TRIP PHILOSOPHY
Stillness Over Speed
We do not pack itineraries. We allow breath, space, pause.
Presence as Luxury
No WiFi dependency. Guided moments for reconnection.
Authentic Reverence
Real village meals, real rituals and real people.
THE JOURNEY
F E B 8 | D A Y 0 1 | SAPPORO ARRIVAL & SNOW FESTIVAL
Welcome to Hokkaido. Arrive at New Chitose Airport and meet your guide. Settle into your hotel and head out to experience the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival—a magical welcome of ice sculptures
and glowing streets. This festival is one of Japan’s most iconic winter events, where snow becomes art and the city comes alive with light and celebration.
Return to the hotel for a quiet night.
F E B 9 | D A Y 0 2 | OTARU’S CHARM & SAKE TASTING
Wander through the quaint city of Otaru, known for its romantic canal, delicate glassworks, centuries-old shrines, and charming streets dusted with snow. It’s a town made for slow wandering and quiet awe.
Post-lunch, we visit the historic Tanaka Sake Brewery for a distillery tour and guided tasting—an invitation into Hokkaido’s brewing traditions.
Dinner back in Sapporo.
F E B 1 0 | D A Y 0 3 | MARKET FLAVORS & ICE VILLAGE DREAMS
Start the day with a walk through Sapporo’s central wholesale market, where stalls brim with fresh seafood, winter produce, and local delicacies.
Then we journey to Tomamu, a serene snow-draped resort tucked into the mountains. By nightfall, enter the surreal Ice Village: an ephemeral world of glowing ice chapels, frosted bars, and winter wonder. It’s a dreamlike setting that stays with you long after.
F E B 1 1 | D A Y 0 4 | TERRACE OF FROST TREE & SNOWSHOE HIKE
Ride a gondola high above Tomamu to the Terrace of Frost Tree, where snow-covered trees shimmer in the morning light—nature’s own sculpture garden.
After a cozy lunch on Hotalu Street, we step into the forest for a peaceful snowshoe hike, surrounded by silence and soft snow.
End the day with a warm and well-earned dinner, surrounded by comfort and good company.
F E B 1 2 | D A Y 0 5 | JOURNEY TO SHIRETOKO VIA KITAMI
Embark on a scenic road trip across Hokkaido, stopping for lunch in Kitami, before heading to the wild, remote beauty of Shiretoko, a UNESCO World Heritage site where nature reigns.
Evening free to unwind, explore, or warm up with something local.
F E B 1 3 | D A Y 0 6 | ICE FISHING & DRIFT ICE CRUISE
Start the day ice fishing on the frozen waters of Lake Abashiri, a peaceful, mindful experience in nature’s stillness.
Post-lunch, we board the Aurora Icebreaker Ship to sail through the Okhotsk Sea’s drift ice, a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime sight as sheets of ice crack and shift around you.
We end the day at the Okhotsk Drift Ice Museum, where we dive deeper into the science and wonder of the region’s icy phenomena.
F E B 1 4 | D A Y 0 7 | SNOWSHOEING & DRIFT ICE WALK
We begin with a snowshoe trail to the breathtaking Furepe Waterfall, a hidden gem surrounded by coastal cliffs and wild serenity.
In the afternoon, brace for the Shiretoko Drift Ice Walk—a rare and exhilarating walk across the frozen sea, suited up and supported by expert guides. There’s nothing quite like it: surreal, invigorating, and unforgettable.
A perfect close to our adventure.
F E B 1 5 | D A Y 0 8 DEPARTURE FROM MEMANBETSU
Transfer to Memanbetsu Airport for your onward flight.
Depart with snow in your shoes and Hokkaido in your heart.
Voices from Past Journeys
FAQ's - Japan Specific
Can I come solo?
What's the fitness level required?
Moderate. We walk at a gentle pace, snowshoe mindfully, and honor what each body needs.
Is this only for solo travelers?
No. Solo seekers, couples, and friends are all welcome. The journey is for anyone craving presence and depth.
What is included?
Boutique accommodations, all breakfasts, ground transport, guided experiences, entry fees, and surprise rituals.
What's NOT included?
International flights, visa fees, lunches, dinners (we’ll dine together, but you pay your own meals), and personal expenses.
How do I secure my spot?
Message Harsha on WhatsApp. We’ll add you to our traveler circle and guide you through the AED 3,000 deposit.
What if I have more questions?
Join our WhatsApp group or message Harsha directly. She personally responds to every inquiry.