Sapporo Winter Taxi Tour: Smelt Ice-Fishing, Strawberry Picking & ROYCE Chocolate Factory
Spend a winter day outside Sapporo on a private taxi loop: ice smelt fishing with lakeside tempura, 30 minutes of greenhouse strawberry picking, and a guided ROYCE’ chocolate factory visit. Practical, hands-on, and family-friendly, this tour showcases Hokkaido’s seasonal food culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layered waterproof clothing
Temperatures on the lake can drop quickly; insulated, waterproof outer layers and a windproof shell keep you comfortable during two hours on the ice.
Wear sturdy, insulated boots with grip
Ice fishing involves standing on compacted snow and ice—rubber or insulated boots with traction help prevent slips and keep feet warm.
Bring cash for lunch and souvenirs
Lunch is not included and the ROYCE’ shop has limited credit options; carry some yen for roadside meals and chocolates.
Reserve hotel pickup details in advance
Confirm your central Sapporo pickup point and any mobility needs when you book to ensure a smooth start at 08:30.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive viewpoints near Shinshinotsu offer quiet views of frozen wetlands frequented by winter waterfowl.
- •Small roadside stations en route sell Hokkaido dairy products that pair well with ROYCE’ chocolates.
Wildlife
- •Whooper swan
- •Red fox
Conservation Note
Stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing ice holes or wildlife; local operators follow safety checks to protect fragile winter wetlands.
Hokkaido’s lakes were shaped by glacial and volcanic activity; winter fishing on these shallow lakes is a long-standing local practice adapted into community events.
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and provides traction on icy surfaces.
Layered clothing and windproof shellEssential
Trap warmth and block wind chill during lakeside fishing.
Hand warmers and insulated glovesEssential
Protect fingers while handling fishing lines and eating outdoors.
Small daypack
Carry water, snacks, camera, and any extra layers between stops.
Common Questions
How long is the smelt fishing portion?
Smelt fishing takes approximately 120 minutes on the frozen lake, including setup and on-site frying of your catch.
Is lunch included on the tour?
No, lunch is not included; the itinerary includes a one-hour lunch break at a roadside station or local restaurant—bring cash or credit as needed.
Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
The fishing portion results in tempura prepared on-site; notify the operator in advance about major dietary restrictions when booking.
Is this suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, it’s family-friendly but not recommended for people with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions; mobility on ice requires basic steadiness.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Sapporo, Hokkaido
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to stand or move short distances on ice for up to two hours.
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