Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Experience local knowledge of the trails around Sapporo. Learn how to travel in snow with snowshoes and enjoy the great outdoors.
Unlike skiing and snowboarding, it's an accessible activity for almost everyone and allows for exploration in areas that are inaccessible by other means.
Before the hike commences, you will be provided with some helpful information to assist you with moving in a cold environment such as pacing to conserve energy, observing the route ahead, and evaluating the best route to minimize hazards. Learn about nature and navigation skills in a winter environment, enjoy a hearty meal outside for lunch while experiencing the wilderness at a slower, more intimate pace amidst the quiet beauty of the snow-covered terrain.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Bankei Sanso This day trek starts at 7:30am with a meet up at Makomanai subway station to the trailhead. From there we will travel by private transport around 1/2 an hour to the trail head where we will prepare and check equipment and run through the safety brief before setting off on a 5-hour circuit that will include a lunch stop. After lunch we then return to our transport and off to an onsen. Then we return back to Sapporo. Difficulty level- 4/10.
snowshoes, snow trekking poles, and gaiters
Onsen admission fees
Cold weather clothing, hiking footwear for cold/snowy conditions.
Group booking of 3 or more
Pickup included
Pickup included
35 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Nasser A,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
I had an amazing snowshoeing experience with Chris. He is extremely knowledgeable and experienced, which made me feel completely safe throughout the trip. Everything was well organized, and the meeting instructions were very clear. Chris guided me through beautiful routes with truly magical and peaceful views. If you’re lucky, you might even see wildlife like deer, foxes, and birds, which made the experience even more special. Chris was also very respectful and thoughtful. Knowing that I’m Muslim, he made sure to provide snacks that didn’t contain pork or alcohol, which I really appreciated. When I wasn’t comfortable going to the onsen, he kindly offered an alternative plan and took me to a frozen lake near Sapporo instead. Walking on the frozen lake was something I had always wanted to experience, and seeing people camping there made it even more memorable. Overall, it was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend
Jason B,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was hands down the best experience I had in Sapporo. Chris was a great leader and his patience and his experience really made it extra special. Scenery was beyond beautiful and the onsen trip afterward was just the cherry on top. If you like to do something a little different and have some memories that will last a lifetime definitely don’t hesitate to book this. Doubleplusgood. Just make sure to bring good hiking clothing.
aprilpY7019MP,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Not only was it lovely hiking (snow shoeing) in the snow with deer beside us and spectacular views. It was a great workout. Chris had a plan to help keep us safe from any potential mountain unexpected interactions. He is knowledgeable about the culture, history, landmarks and simply a delight to spend the day with. The onsen was perfect after our trek. Thank you Chris! Memorable!

Jacob K,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
Book this if you want to enjoy a peaceful day in nature and with a soak in an onsen. My guide, Chris, was very knowledgeable of the local fauna and ensured we had a safe and fun day. He tailored the experience to our group’s physical activity and interests. Highly recommend and will absolutely book with this company again when I come back to Hokkaido!
Heidi W,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
Exactly what I was looking for! Chris provided the perfect Hokkaido backcountry snowshoeing experience. I met him at the Makomanai station, an easy 15 min train ride from Sapporo. After a short drive to our starting point, Chris did a thorough safety review and got me geared up. As we trekked through a gorgeous forest blanketed with snow, he pointed out the flora and fauna. We ate a steaming hot lunch outdoors before heading back. (I chose spicy chicken curry with rice but he had other nonstick options). He tailors the trail and plan to the traveler: I chose to skip the onsen for a longer hike which I thoroughly enjoyed, including chatting with Chris, a truly lovely, intelligent and globally aware guy!
Tatiana A,Jan 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
My snowshoeing trip will remain a highlight of my trip to Sapporo. The trek was so much fun and the views were absolutely breathtaking. We were in great hands with Chris who was communicative, informative, and a joy to spend the day with. The onsen after a few hours in the snow was the cherry on top. This was such an amazing way to spend time in Sapporo. Thanks for everything, Chris!!
proudnavymom777,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
The Absolute Best Day Snowshoeing in Hokkaido – Unforgettable with the Perfect Guide! If you’re looking for the highlight of your Hokkaido winter trip, this snowshoeing adventure was hands-down the best day of our entire vacation. Chris our tour guide made us feel so safe and cares for.
Gary L,Jan 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
We had a fantastic day, Chris was extremely friendly, knowledgeable and patient. The walk was amazing, through deep snow and up through the forest, we saw a couple of people at the start then not a soul after. Chris provided all the snow shoe equipment and advised in advance what to wear and bring etc. It was topped off by the visit to the onsen. Again, Chris was great, explaining how it all works, etiquette etc. The onsen itself was fantastic, with different areas, some outside so you're able to sit in the hot water watching the hills and snow. We we're the only westerners there.


Charlie S,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
An absolutely unforgettable experience from start to finish. I cant praise Chris highly enough. To begin with, communication prior to our excursion was fantastic, but the actual walk itself was mind blowing. The scenery was incredible, we felt like we were the only people around for miles, but felt totally comfortable with Chris' expert knowledge & facts about the area. Undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip to Japan. Highly recommended.




Cheryl A,Jan 13, 2026
- Review from Viator
Chris was an exceptional guide who truly tailored the hike to our experience level. He was incredibly patient and shared practical tips and tricks for navigating the terrain effectively, which made us feel confident throughout the trek. Beyond his technical skills, Chris was friendly, sincere, and a great conversationalist. He pointed out various tree species and animal tracks we would have otherwise missed and led us to some breathtaking viewpoints. To top it all off, the outdoor onsen he selected was the perfect way to relax after the hike. Highly recommended!



Operated by Trekmate Hokkaido