Winter is long in Hokkaido, lasting up to 5 months in some regions. So with all that cold, locals have taken on new activities such as dogsledding. 

For most visitors, a dogsledding experience is one of the highlights of their trip. The dogs are well-trained, spirited and lovable. Dogsledding operators provide short training sessions, maintain well-groomed courses and provide snowmobile lead-teams for the perfect photo-ops.

Most operators use single-person sleds pulled by teams of 6-8 dogs who gallop at full speed around set courses. This activity is considered safe for solo-riders over 13 years old, while younger riders ride tandem.

Dogsledding Operators

Takasu City near Asahikawa

  • Professional operator with English instruction available
  • Ride solo
  • Over 7 km of well-maintained track
  • Prices starting from 7,500 yen pp

NPO Donkoro in Tomamu

  • Professional operator 
  • Day tours ranging from 2.5-6.5 hours
  • Overnight tours with igloo-camping available!
  • Full instruction and guiding
  • Prices start from 9,000 yen pp

Shikaoi in Northeast Hokkaido

  • Drive the Alaskan Huskies yourself
  • Tours ranging from 2-6 hrs
  • Prices start at 16,000 yen pp
  • Free video and photography from a lead-driver included!
  • Learn about the history of dogsledding in Hokkaido

Rusutsu Resort

  • Especially suited for kids
  • English language instruction
  • Solo and tandem riding
  • Easily combined with snowboarding/skiing activities at the resort