Hokkaido Dog Sledding & Snowmobiling | Best Areas
Racing across the snow behind a team of energetic sled dogs, or on a snowmobile of your own, is an activity that only a Hokkaido winter can offer. You'll find it near Asahikawa in the town of Takasu, and at resort areas like Niseko and Tomamu. This guide covers typical pricing, requirements for children, and how to get there.
Why Dog Sledding & Snowmobiling in Hokkaido
For dog sledding, experienced guides match each participant with dogs suited to them and build the team accordingly, so even first-timers can enjoy it with confidence. Watching the dogs pull together in perfect rhythm across the snowfield is a thrilling, unforgettable sight — and a special way to connect with animals. Snowmobiling offers its own thrill: racing across the snow and kicking up powder in your wake. No driver's license is required for either.
Recommended Areas for Dog Sledding & Snowmobiling
Asahikawa / Takasu
The town of Takasu, near Asahikawa, is a popular spot for dog sledding. Guests ride the roughly 7km course one at a time, taking turns while others watch from a viewing sled towed by a snowmobile. Children age 7 and up can try being the musher (driver), while younger children can ride tandem with a guide.
Tokachi / Shikaoi
This area has run dog sledding tours since 2012, letting you race across the sweeping snow landscapes eastern Hokkaido is known for.
Niseko / Tomamu (Snowmobiling)
Niseko HANAZONO Resort and Tomamu both offer snowmobiling. Children from around age 7 can join, and a guide always leads the way, so it's beginner-friendly. Tomamu also offers a winter, on-snow version of ATV riding.
Best Time for Dog Sledding & Snowmobiling
The season runs roughly from mid-December through mid-March, whenever there's enough snow on the ground. January and February, when snow cover is most stable, are considered the best months.
| Time of Year | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Mid–late December | Season begins. Snow cover may still be relatively light |
| January–February | Snow cover is stable — the best months for riding |
| Through mid-March | Late season. The season winds down as temperatures rise |
Typical Pricing
A dog-sledding musher experience in Takasu (about 2 hours) runs roughly ¥25,000 per person for a group of 2, ¥20,000 for a group of 3, ¥15,000 for a group of 4, and ¥13,000 for a group of 5 — the per-person cost drops as the group gets larger. Snowmobiling (about 45 minutes) is priced differently by each operator.
* Prices change, so please check each operator's official website for the latest information.
Is It Suitable for Beginners?
The sleds used are designed to be stable, so even first-time mushers find them easy to control. For snowmobiling, a guide leads the way at all times, so no prior riding experience is needed.
Family-Friendly for Kids?
Children age 7 and up can try mushing themselves, and younger children can ride tandem with a guide. Tours are often run as private groups of 2–4, making this a great option for families or anyone wanting a more private experience.
What to Wear & Bring
- Warm, layered winter clothing and waterproof gloves
- A knit hat, neck warmer, and goggles (for snowmobiling)
- Non-slip winter boots
- Helmets and cold-weather suits (for snowmobiling) are generally included in the rental
Getting There
From Sapporo
By car: About 2 hours to Asahikawa/Takasu, 2 hours to Niseko, and 2 hours to Tomamu.
By public transport: Some operators offer pickup near the venue once you've taken a bus from Asahikawa Station.
By taxi: For winter travel, a private charter taxi (MUTO TAXI) with drivers experienced on snowy roads is a reassuring option.
From New Chitose Airport
By car: About 2.5 hours to Asahikawa/Takasu, 2 hours to Niseko, and 1.5 hours to Tomamu.
By public transport: Direct buses from the airport are limited, and transfers may be required.
By taxi: If you'd like to head straight to the meeting point after landing, or you're carrying a lot of luggage, a private charter taxi direct from the airport is convenient.
Taxi Fares by Area & Related Guides
- New Chitose Airport to Niseko (winter) — approx. ¥35,000–40,000
- New Chitose Airport to Tomamu — approx. ¥42,000–50,000
- Hokkaido Ski Resort Guide
- Hokkaido Snowshoeing Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. At what age can kids try mushing?
A. Most operators allow children age 7 and up to try mushing themselves. Younger children can ride tandem with a guide.
Q. Do I need a license to ride a snowmobile?
A. No license is needed for the guided tour courses. A guide leads the way, so it's fine for beginners.
Q. How late in the year can I do this?
A. The season typically runs from mid-December through mid-March, while there's enough snow on the ground.
Q. Can families join together?
A. Yes. Tours are often run as private groups of 2–4, making them a good fit for families.
Q. Do I need to book in advance?
A. Most operators require advance booking.
Q. I'm nervous about driving on winter roads — is that a problem?
A. MUTO TAXI's drivers are experienced on winter roads, so you can travel with peace of mind.