Kutchan Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip to the stunning town of Kutchan, Hokkaido, Japan.


Introduction to Kutchan

Located in Hokkaido, Japan, Kutchan is a picturesque town that has upped its game in the international ski circuit after being chosen as one of the venues for the 37th G8 summit. Kutchan is home to some of the best ski areas in Japan with luxurious resorts to match, but it’s not all snow and skiing in this enchanting town. From scenic views to exciting activities, Kutchan has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Kutchan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sitting on the crossroads of different cultures, Kutchan has a lot of history and cultural richness to offer. Some of the must-visit museums and historical sites in Kutchan include:

  • Kutchan Museum of History and Folklore
  • Oshoro Bay Lookout Site
  • Abuta Kamon Historical Museum
  • Showa-Shinzan mountain

Natural Attractions of Kutchan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kutchan is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and myriad outdoor activities. Here are some of the best natural attractions and activities that Kutchan has to offer:

  • Niseko Mountain Resort Grand Hirafu Ski Ground
  • Lake Toya Scenic Hiking Tour
  • Shakotan Peninsula Tour
  • Shiribeshi Kotan Ainu Culture Museum

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kutchan

Kutchan’s terrain and natural beauty make it an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Niseko Annupuri Route
  • Shiribeshi Kotan Ainu Culture Museum Route
  • Kutchan Nature Trail

Best Things to Do in Kutchan: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or looking for a more relaxed vacation, Kutchan has several activities and tours to offer that ensure a good time. Here are some of our favourites:

  • Snowboarding and Skiing
  • Horse Riding
  • Snowmobiling
  • Hot springs

Week-Long Itinerary for Kutchan

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kutchan, you can plan your itinerary around the activities and destinations mentioned above. Here is a suggested itinerary for your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1-2 Niseko Annupuri Ski Resort and Snowboarding
Day 3 Lake Toya Scenic Hiking Tour
Day 4 Shiribeshi Kotan Ainu Culture Museum
Day 5 Snowmobiling in Kutchan
Day 6 Horse Riding through Kutchan’s Scenic Trails
Day 7 Relax in One of Kutchan’s Hot Springs

Food and Drink Scene of Kutchan

No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in their diverse and delicious cuisine. Kutchan is no exception with its rich food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Genghis Khan: A Hokkaido-style BBQ lamb dish
  • Jingisukan: BBQ meat skewers
  • Butadon: Pork rice bowl

Local Beverages

  • Sake
  • Local Beers: Sapporo, Kirin and Asahi

Where to Stay in Kutchan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kutchan has a broad range of accommodation options; from luxurious resorts to cozy and affordable guesthouses. Some of the best accommodations in Kutchan include:

  • The Vale Niseko
  • Hilton Niseko Village
  • NE Hotel

What to Buy in Kutchan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kutchan offers a great selection of souvenirs that will make your trip a memorable one. Some of the best items to bring home include:

  • Omiyage: Local confectionaries
  • Hokkaido Sake: A must-try from Hokkaido
  • Potteries: Kutchan has several pottery workshops worth visiting

Local Culture and Customs of Kutchan

Kutchan prides itself on its local culture and customs, and as a visitor, it’s worth taking the time to learn and appreciate them. Some of the customs unique to Kutchan include:

  • Genghis Khan: Hokkaido-style BBQ lamb dish
  • Traditional Ainu crafts: Souvenirs you can bring home
  • Winter sports: Skiing and snowboarding

Best Time to Visit Kutchan

The best time to visit Kutchan is between December and March when the winter season is at its peak, and the town turns into a winter wonderland. However, if you’re looking to explore nature and scenic views, then the best time to visit Kutchan is during the Spring and Summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kutchan

It’s essential to understand and respect the cultural norms of any place you’re visiting. In Kutchan, some of the Do’s and Don’ts include:

Do:

  • Take off your shoes when entering a house or restaurant
  • Try the local cuisine and drink
  • Be respectful to local customs and culture

Don’t:

  • Be loud or disruptive
  • Wear shoes inside a hotel or restaurant
  • Ignore local customs and culture

Safety and Health

Kutchan is generally safe and has a good healthcare system. Here’s everything you need to know about safety and health in Kutchan:

Safety in Kutchan

  • It’s safe to walk around the town, but take precautions when hiking or skiing
  • The crime rate in Kutchan is relatively low

Health in Kutchan

  • There are hospitals and clinics in the town, and medical service is of high quality

Getting to Kutchan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kutchan is well-connected, and there are several options for transportation to the town. Here is an overview of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Kutchan

  • New Chitose Airport: The closest international airport to Kutchan

Bus Stations Near Kutchan

  • Kutchan Station: Buses from Sapporo and other destinations can be taken from here

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is a good option for tourists who want to explore the surrounding areas independently.

How to Get Around in Kutchan

Getting around Kutchan is relatively easy, with several transport options available, including:

  • Local buses
  • Taxis
  • Rental cars and bicycles

Where to Go Next from Kutchan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kutchan is surrounded by several tourist destinations that are worth exploring, including:

  • Sapporo, Hokkaido’s capital city
  • Lake Toya and its surrounding hot springs, about 50km from Kutchan
  • Hakodate, a seaside city in Hokkaido

Conclusion

Kutchan is a beautiful town with something for everyone; from nature lovers to skiers and culture aficionados. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan and enjoy a memorable trip to Kutchan, Japan.

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