Asahiyama Zoo, Biei & Furano | Sapporo Day Trip
- Full-day tour from Sapporo to Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, and Furano, with zoo admission included in every package.
- See penguins and polar bears up close at Asahiyama Zoo, with a chance to catch winter's penguin walk.
- Classic route: Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall near Shirogane Onsen, two signature Biei sights in any season.
- Winter route: play in the snow at Shikisai-no-Oka, with optional snowmobiling across open snowfields at extra cost.
- End the day at Ningle Terrace, a forest village of log-cabin craft shops at New Furano Prince Hotel.
- Easy coach round trip with no transfers, meeting at JR Sapporo Station North Exit or Odori Subway Station.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Seasonal | Winter Snow Exclusive |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
Step into Hokkaido's snow country on a day trip to the popular Asahiyama Zoo and the classic sights of Biei. See penguins, polar bears, and other favorite animals up close, and in winter you may even catch the hugely popular penguin walk, one of Hokkaido's cutest winter scenes. Along the way, head into the Biei area to take in snow-covered Hokkaido farmland and stunning views you can only see at this time of year.
Choose between the classic route and the winter route to see a different side of Hokkaido depending on your travel date. The winter route adds Shikisai-no-Oka, where you can try snowmobiling across the vast snowfields at your own expense for a fast, thrilling ride.
Recommended tour
Purchase Notice
Tour Conditions
- Departure / Destination: Hokkaido
- Duration: Same-day return
- Transportation: Chartered bus
- Bus Company: Chuhoku Shoji Co., Ltd.
- Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
- Accommodation: None
- Minimum Group Size: 1
- Tour Leader: 1
- Guide: 0
Tour Planning / Operation
- Operator: JRT Group Co., Ltd.
- Address: Room 510, 5F Ginza Ishii Building, 6-14-8 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- License No.: Tokyo Governor-Registered Travel Agency No. 2-8353
- Travel Association: Full Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 1 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Be at the designated meeting point at the specified time, and please do not be late. This tour cannot be switched to another departure or joined partway, so if you miss it for personal reasons, you will bear any resulting losses. Thank you for your understanding.
Please arrive at the meeting point on time. The tour cannot wait for latecomers, and you cannot join partway through. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring warm layers for winter or mountain trips.
This is a shared group tour, and seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Note any special requests when booking and we will do our best to accommodate them, but final arrangements depend on the situation on the day.
The vehicle is assigned based on group size and cannot be requested. When a smaller vehicle is used, the driver also serves as the tour leader, no commentary is provided at the stops, and explanations are kept brief. Please be aware.
If you need to bring luggage, let us know in advance. If you bring luggage without notice, the guide may refuse to let you board, and no refund will be given. Eating and drinking are not allowed on the bus, and any soiling or damage must be compensated according to local standards.
No refunds are given for late arrival, last-minute changes to your meeting point, or leaving the tour partway for personal reasons. You are responsible for any incidents and extra costs after leaving the tour.
If cable cars, boats, snowmobiles, or other facilities are suspended or closed for maintenance due to weather or force majeure, the tour will visit another attraction or adjust the time spent at the stop.
We are not responsible if you cannot join the tour, or if the scenery is poor for photos, because of traffic, weather, or other force majeure. No refunds or date changes are available in these cases. Thank you for your understanding.
Personal travel insurance and personal accident insurance are not included; please purchase your own if needed. Outdoor activities and high-risk sports carry inherent risks and dangers, so please assess your own health and ability. We accept no liability for any personal injury or harm caused by accidents or unforeseen factors. Thank you for your understanding.
The itinerary is for reference only. Actual travel, stop, and sightseeing times may change due to weather, traffic, facility maintenance, and other conditions. The guide may reasonably substitute or skip attractions depending on the situation.
On Japanese public holidays and weekends, heavy traffic and early closures at attractions are common during peak travel times. We recommend not booking a flight, Shinkansen, or dinner for the same evening, and bringing a light meal and a power bank.
Age restriction: This tour is not available for children under 3 years old. Seniors aged 71-80 must sign a liability waiver. Seniors aged 81 and above cannot be accommodated.
FAQ
1. What time is the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo?
During winter, the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo typically takes place twice daily, usually around 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM. However, exact times can vary based on weather conditions and the penguins' health. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for this popular event.
2. What unique features make Asahiyama Zoo a popular attraction?
Asahiyama Zoo is renowned for its 'behavioral exhibition' concept, allowing visitors to see animals in natural, dynamic ways. Highlights include the underwater tunnel for seals, the transparent dome in the polar bear enclosure, and the popular penguin walk where penguins roam freely. These innovative enclosures provide unique opportunities for close-up observation of animal behaviors.
3. What is the recommended duration to fully experience Asahiyama Zoo?
To thoroughly explore Asahiyama Zoo and enjoy its unique exhibits, including the highly anticipated penguin walk, a recommended visit duration is typically around 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to see the polar bears, seals, and other arctic animals, ensuring you can experience the zoo's innovative viewing areas without rush.
4. What activities can visitors enjoy at Four Seasons Color Hill, particularly in winter?
In winter, Four Seasons Color Hill (Shikisai no Oka) transforms into a vast snow park. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like snowmobiling and snow rafting, offering a unique way to experience the snowy landscapes. It’s also an excellent spot for taking beautiful winter photographs amidst the rolling white hills.
5. What kind of atmosphere and experience does the Forest Fairy Terrace offer?
The Forest Fairy Terrace (Ningle Terrace) in Furano offers a magical, enchanting atmosphere, especially after dusk when its log cabins and pathways are softly illuminated. Nestled within a forest, it features charming artisan workshops selling unique handmade crafts inspired by nature, providing a serene and picturesque shopping and strolling experience.
6. What is the highlight of visiting the Ken & Marry photo spot?
The Ken & Marry photo spot (referring to the Ken & Mary Tree) is famous for its iconic Poplar trees standing majestically in the vast, picturesque fields of Biei. It's a popular location for capturing stunning landscape photographs, offering a classic representation of Hokkaido's beautiful, rolling hills and agricultural scenery, especially when dusted with snow.
7. What are the travel arrangements from Sapporo to Asahiyama Zoo and other destinations included in this day trip?
This day trip provides convenient, comfortable round-trip bus transportation directly from Sapporo to Asahiyama Zoo and all other scheduled attractions like Four Seasons Color Hill and Forest Fairy Terrace. This arrangement ensures a hassle-free journey, allowing participants to relax and enjoy the scenic winter landscapes without worrying about driving or navigating public transport connections.
8. Beyond the penguin walk, what other animals can visitors see up close at Asahiyama Zoo?
Beyond the famed penguin walk, Asahiyama Zoo offers incredible close-up encounters with other arctic and northern animals. Visitors can observe polar bears swimming overhead from a transparent dome, watch seals glide through a vertical marine tube, and see Hokkaido wolves and red foxes in spacious, naturalistic enclosures, all designed for unique viewing perspectives.
