Taxi Tour (4+):Smelt Fishing, Strawberry Picking & ROYCE Factory

A Complete Guide to the Taxi Tour (4+) in Sapporo: Smelt Fishing, Strawberry Picking & ROYCE Factory

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the winter magic of Hokkaido, this private taxi tour offers a fantastic mix of local activities packed into a single day. While I haven’t done it myself, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-organized, authentic experience that balances fun, food, and cultural insights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the flexible private transport means you won’t be stuck in large groups or rushed through spots. Second, the activities—smelt fishing on a frozen lake, all-you-can-eat strawberries, and a chocolate factory—are genuinely immersive and quite different from typical sightseeing. Lastly, the price seems to offer good value for a full-day experience, especially considering the inclusions like transportation, insurance, and factory admission.

A potential consideration is the 8-hour duration, which may be long if you prefer more leisurely-paced trips or want to explore additional sites. But overall, this tour appears ideal for travelers eager to embrace Hokkaido’s winter traditions in an active and engaging way. It’s especially suited for food lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a private, convenient day out in Sapporo.

Good To Know

• Private and flexible: The tour is operated in a jumbo taxi for up to 8 people, providing a personalized experience.
• Authentic activities: Smelt fishing and strawberry picking are hands-on and seasonal, offering real local flavor.
• Culinary delights: The fresh catch cooked as tempura and all-you-can-eat strawberries highlight fresh, local ingredients.
• Cultural experience: Visiting the ROYCE Cacao & Chocolate Town factory adds a sweet touch to the day.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a stress-free outing in central Sapporo.
• Value: The tour includes transportation, insurance, and admission fees, making it easy to budget.

👉 See our pick of the 10 Best Guided Tours In Sapporo

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Sapporo at 8:30 am

Your day begins with the comfort of being picked up from your hotel in central Sapporo. This convenience means no stressful navigation—just sit back as the driver takes you to your first stop, setting the tone for a relaxed, yet activity-packed day.

Smelt Fishing in Shinshinotsu Village (9:30 am – 12:00 pm)

This is the highlight for many adventure lovers. You’ll head out to Shinshinotsu Village, where you’ll spend two hours on a frozen lake trying your hand at smelt fishing. The experience is as authentic as it gets—fishing in winter on a frozen lake, with the chance to catch your own fish.

According to reviews, the fishing is quite engaging, and you’ll appreciate the chance to enjoy nature’s quiet beauty while participating in a traditional winter activity. The catch is then cooked and eaten as tempura right there on the spot, which makes for a rare, delicious reward after some effort. One reviewer mentioned how impressive it was to see the freshly caught fish transformed into crispy tempura, adding a real sense of satisfaction.

Lunch Break (12:00 pm – 1:00 pm)

After fishing, you’ll have a break for lunch. The tour notes that meals are not included, so you might want to plan ahead or be prepared for roadside stations or nearby hotels offering local dishes. This is a good opportunity to relax, reflect on your fishing success, and maybe snap some photos of the winter scenery.

Strawberry Picking (1:30 pm – 2:10 pm)

Next, you’ll visit a strawberry farm for 30 minutes of all-you-can-eat strawberries. This activity is usually a hit, especially because it’s a rare winter farming experience in Japan. Travelers often rave about the freshness and sweetness of the strawberries—something you might not find outside of peak season. One reviewer described it as “delicious,” emphasizing the quality and abundance.

The short duration means you’ll get a taste of the activity without it feeling rushed, but keep in mind that it’s a quick burst of picking. Expect to see the farm’s winter setup, which might surprise some, as strawberry farming continues even in cold months thanks to heated greenhouses.

ROYCE Cacao & Chocolate Town Factory Tour (2:20 pm – 3:30 pm)

No trip to Hokkaido would be complete without indulging in some of Japan’s best chocolates. At ROYCE’s factory, you’ll tour the facilities, learn about their chocolate-making process, and stop at the shop for some retail therapy.

While the tour duration is about 70 minutes, you’ll have ample time to sample, purchase, and enjoy the sweet delights. Many reviews highlight the quality and flavor of the chocolates, with one mentioning that “the chocolates in the rose garden are delicious.” This is a great way to end your day on a high note, especially for sweet tooths.

Return to Sapporo (4:30 pm)

The day wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the variety of experiences. Given the full schedule, this is a busy but rewarding day.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Unlike large group tours, the private setup allows you to enjoy activities at your own pace, making it ideal for couples, families, or small groups. The combination of outdoor activities (fishing and strawberry picking) with a cultural visit (chocolate factory) provides a well-rounded taste of local winter life.

The fact that many activities are seasonal—like smelt fishing and strawberry picking—means you’ll get to experience authentic Hokkaido traditions that are not widely available elsewhere. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the overall value, saving you time and effort.

Insights from the Reviews

One reviewer noted the “beautifully arranged rose garden,” which, while not part of this tour, hints at the quality of the experience at ROYCE. Another mentioned that parking is straightforward and the greenhouses are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth visit. The fact that the tour operates with insurance and government fees included adds to peace of mind.

Cost and Value Analysis

At approximately $264 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day out with transport, entry fees, and insurance covered. When you consider the inclusion of personalized private transport, the opportunity to participate in authentic seasonal activities, and the chance to visit a renowned chocolate factory, it seems like good value for a full-day experience.

Compared to booking separate activities or self-organizing transportation, this package streamlines everything, freeing you to focus on having fun and making memories rather than logistics.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a hands-on, authentic taste of Hokkaido winter life. Ideal for those interested in local food traditions, outdoor activities, or sweet treats. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who prefer a private, curated day without the hassle of planning each stop.

If you’re after an activity-rich day that combines adventure, cuisine, and culture—all in one convenient package—this tour ticks many boxes.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This tour offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor fun, local food, and cultural insights, all wrapped in the comfort of private transportation. You get to try smelt fishing in a snowy landscape, enjoy fresh strawberries even in winter, and indulge in premium chocolates—something for all.

It’s a great choice if you value authenticity, convenience, and variety in your Hokkaido experience. The fact that it operates as a private tour means you can customize or enjoy the day at your own pace, making it a worthwhile addition to your Sapporo itinerary.

Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure lover, or simply looking for a hassle-free way to see the best of winter in Hokkaido, this tour is likely to leave you with memorable stories—and maybe a few chocolates to take home.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers private transportation, insurance, admission fees, and government fees. Food and meals are not included, so you’ll need to budget for lunch.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about eight hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning around 4:30 pm.

Is pickup available?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off in central Sapporo, making it very convenient.

Can I participate if I don’t like outdoor activities?
While the main activities are outdoor, the tour is flexible, and the factory visit can be enjoyed regardless of weather. However, outdoor fishing and strawberry picking are core parts.

Are children and families suitable for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, and it appears family-friendly, especially since many activities are interactive and engaging.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly for outdoor activities like fishing and strawberry picking. Comfortable shoes and possibly a hat or gloves for cold weather are recommended.

Is this tour available year-round?
The activities are designed around winter, especially smelt fishing on a frozen lake, making it ideal for winter months.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the listed price includes most fees; however, lunch and souvenirs at the factory are extra.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of multiple activities, private transportation, and all-inclusive fees for a full day offers a hassle-free, immersive experience that would be difficult to replicate independently.

This private taxi tour in Sapporo offers an engaging, authentic, and enjoyable way to experience Hokkaido’s winter charm—perfect for those seeking adventure, local flavor, and a little indulgence all in one day.