JTB Australia organized a familiarization (Famil) tour to Hokkaido from July 5–12, 2025, inviting Australian travel wholesalers and media to experience the region’s Green Season—a vibrant summer alternative to its famous winter offerings. The tour highlighted nature-based activities, Indigenous Ainu culture, local cuisine, and sustainable tourism across Tokachi, Biratori, and Sapporo.

✨ Tour Highlights

Eco-tourism: Rafting, cycling, and farm experiences in Tokachi
Cultural exchange: Deep engagement with the Ainu community in Biratori
Local gastronomy: Farm-to-table meals, wine tasting, and regional specialties
Urban charm: Sapporo’s blend of nature, food, and city life
Business networking: Meetings with local suppliers to foster future collaboration

Tour Schedule Summary

Day 1–2: Travel & Arrival (Jul 5–6)

Depart from Sydney to Haneda Airport
Overnight stay in Tokyo (own arrangements)
Free time before the tour begins

Day 3: Tokachi Region (Jul 7–8)

Flight to Tokachi Obihiro
Farm picnic tour at Bando Farm with local guide
Wine tasting at Ikeda Wine Castle
Dinner at Izakaya Nouka Bar FOODBABY
Horse-drawn carriage bar experience (Basha Bar)
Accommodation: Dormy Inn Obihiro

Day 4: Adventure & Transfer to Biratori (Jul 9)

Rafting on Tokachi River
MTB cycling tour to Tokachigawa Onsen
Sushi & soba lunch at Edo-kin
Transfer to Biratori Town
Visit to Nibutani Ainu Culture Museum
BBQ dinner at Yukara glamping site
Accommodation: Biratori Onsen Yukara

Day 5: Ainu Cultural Immersion & Sapporo (Jul 10)

Ainu forest experience and lunch in a traditional Ainu house
Visit to Nibutani craft workshops
Transfer to Sapporo
Walking tour and dinner at Tenohira Izakaya
Optional bar hopping
Accommodation: Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo

Day 6: Business Seminar & Departure Prep (Jul 11)

Seminar with up to 8 local Hokkaido suppliers
Transfer to New Chitose Airport
Flight to Haneda Airport
Flight from Haneda Airport to Sydney
End of tour

Day 7: Return to Sydney (Jul 12)

Arrive in Sydney

JTB Australia’s Hokkaido Famil Tour 2025 – Green Season Showcase

Tour Schedule Summary

Further Reading & Resources