Hokkaido ATV Buggy Tours | No License Required
No driver's license or certification needed — Hokkaido's ATV buggy rides are open to everyone from children around age 6 to adults. From a facility just minutes from New Chitose Airport to courses across Furano's wide-open land, this is an easy activity to fit into a family or group trip.
Why Try ATV Buggy Riding in Hokkaido
ATV buggies power through rough terrain, gravel roads, and bumpy forest courses. Operating one is straightforward and doesn't require a license — after a quick briefing, you're ready to ride, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule.
Many facilities have great access from New Chitose Airport, so it's easy to stop by right after landing, or during a short window before your flight home.
Recommended Areas for ATV Buggy Riding
Near New Chitose Airport / Sapporo
This area is known for its convenience, with facilities just a few minutes from New Chitose Airport, and "Wonderland Sapporo" about 25 minutes from central Sapporo. Options like a package with BBQ make for a great addition to your trip.
Furano
Ride across Furano's wide-open land. Some facilities offer both beginner and intermediate courses, making it accessible for adults and children alike.
Best Time for ATV Buggy Riding
Most facilities run their season from around April through November — a relatively long window that stretches from the spring thaw through autumn foliage season.
| Time of Year | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| April–June | Fresh greenery. Some days are still a bit chilly |
| July–September | Stable weather — the best season for most visitors |
| October–November | Can be paired with autumn foliage. Mornings and evenings turn cold, so dress warmly |
Typical Pricing
A short ride typically runs ¥3,300–6,500 per adult, while a package including a meal like BBQ can run into the ¥9,000s. Some facilities also offer two-seater SSV-style buggies.
* Prices change, so please check each operator's official website for the latest information.
Is It Suitable for Beginners?
No license is required, and staff will explain how to operate the vehicle before you start. Even without prior driving experience, the typical flow is a short practice run before heading out on the course.
Family-Friendly for Kids?
Many tours accept children from around age 6, making this an easy stop to fit into a family trip. Most buggies are single-rider, so check age and height requirements in advance if a young child will be joining — some facilities offer a two-seater SSV type that lets a child ride along with a parent.
What to Wear & Bring
- Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting dirty (mud splatter is common)
- Sneakers or other shoes with a secured heel
- A change of clothes, if needed
- Helmets and goggles are generally available to rent on-site
Getting There
From Sapporo
By car: About 30 minutes to 1 hour to facilities near Sapporo, and 2.5 hours to Furano.
By public transport: Some facilities are a distance from the nearest station, so check whether shuttle service is available.
By taxi: If there's no shuttle to the facility, or you have a lot of luggage, a private charter taxi (MUTO TAXI) is convenient.
From New Chitose Airport
By car: About 6 minutes to facilities near the airport, and 2.5 hours to Furano.
By public transport: Some facilities near the airport offer shuttle service, but it's worth confirming in advance.
By taxi: If you'd like to stop by right after landing or in a short window before departure, a private charter taxi from New Chitose Airport is convenient.
Taxi Fares by Area & Related Guides
- New Chitose Airport to Sapporo — approx. ¥19,000–23,000
- New Chitose Airport to Furano — approx. ¥44,000–50,000
- Ziplining in Hokkaido
- Cycling in Hokkaido
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need a driver's license?
A. No — most facilities don't require a license. Staff will explain how to operate the vehicle beforehand.
Q. Can children join?
A. Many facilities accept children from around age 6. Age requirements vary by facility, so please check in advance.
Q. Is it suitable for beginners?
A. Yes — operation is simple, and you'll do a practice run before heading out on the course, so no experience is needed.
Q. When is the best time for ATV buggy riding in Hokkaido?
A. July through September, when the weather is most stable, is the easiest time to join.
Q. Can I go straight from New Chitose Airport?
A. Facilities near the airport are only about a 6-minute drive away, so you can stop by right after landing.
Q. Do I need to book in advance?
A. Most facilities require advance booking. Same-day slots may be available, but booking ahead is recommended.
Q. Can a taxi take me to the facility?
A. Yes. MUTO TAXI offers private charter transfers from New Chitose Airport or Sapporo to facilities across Hokkaido. Please contact us for details.