Must-Visit in Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Shikisai-no-oka, and the Forest Spirit Terrace - A Day Trip Departing from Sapporo
- The northernmost zoo in Japan allows visitors to see animals that are rarely seen, such as polar bears, penguins, and seals.
- The "Penguin Walk" takes place from mid-December to March each year, offering a close-up view of incredibly cute penguins.
- Biei's winter symbol: the must-see snow-covered Christmas tree.
- Shikisai-no-Oka: The snow park opens in mid-to-late December; all snow activities are at your own expense.
- The Fairy Terrace is beautiful all year round, where you can leisurely enjoy the forest scenery from the wooden cabin.
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-Attraction Introduction-
Asahiyama Zoo
Located in the northernmost part of Japan, Asahiyama Zoo offers the chance to see animals that are not easily seen, such as polar bears, penguins, and seals. In particular, the "Penguin Walk" held from mid-December to March each year allows visitors to see the adorable penguins up close, making it a major highlight of Asahiyama Zoo and one of the most popular zoos in Japan.
Biei Christmas Tree
The Biei Christmas tree is one of the most representative snow scenes in Hokkaido during winter.
An evergreen tree standing alone in the vast snowfield, covered in white snow, presents a postcard-perfect, pure scene, and is therefore called a "Christmas tree" by travelers.
Visiting in winter allows you to experience Biei's unique tranquil atmosphere, creating unforgettable snowy memories for both photography enthusiasts and first-time visitors to Hokkaido. On clear days, the striking contrast between the blue sky, white snow, and green trees makes it one of Hokkaido's must-see winter photo spots.
【Biei Green Pond+Shirasuda Falls】
In winter, the White Gold Blue Pond is surrounded by thick snow, its azure surface peeking through the pure white world, creating a dreamlike and tranquil scene. As temperatures drop, parts of the water freeze over, making the blue of the pond appear even deeper, like a jewel sealed away by winter, exuding a unique atmosphere of serenity.
The Platinum Blue Pond is renowned for its mysterious blue waters, the color of which changes with the sunlight, seasons, and weather, sometimes deep and sometimes bright, like a secret realm from a fairy tale. Straight, withered trees are reflected in the calm water, creating a surreal and unforgettable scene.
Summer Limited-Time Tour of Biei's Classic Two Spots: Step into Hokkaido's Freshest Blue Summer World.
Biei Blue Pond is famous for its dreamy azure waters, which display rich variations of blue under the sunlight, and the reflection of dead trees in the pond makes it look like a natural painting. Shirahige Falls, on the other hand, cascades down from the rock wall, with white water flowing into the blue river, creating a stunning blue and white landscape.
【Hill of Four Seasons】
Snowmobile experience (at your own expense)
From mid to late December, Shikisai-no-Oka will transform into a dreamlike snow kingdom! A variety of snow activities can be enjoyed on the vast white snowfields: sledding, snow biking, snowmobiling, and more – thrilling and fun! Even beginners can easily get started, especially with snowmobiling; with safety guidance, you can fully enjoy the exhilarating experience of speeding across the snow!
Forest Elf Terrace
Forest Elf Terrace is a fairytale-like cluster of wooden cabins nestled in the Furano forest. Strolling along the forest paths, you'll find numerous small wooden shops specializing in handicrafts and unique items, creating a warm and tranquil atmosphere reminiscent of a Nordic fairytale.
In winter, the cabins are covered in snow, creating a romantic and dreamy atmosphere when illuminated by soft lighting; in other seasons, visitors can enjoy the lush green forest scenery, showcasing different charms in each season. Whether visiting during the day or at dusk, visitors can experience a relaxed pace of life in harmony with nature.
The Forest Elf Terrace is not only a great spot for taking photos, but also a perfect place to slow down and savor the unique tranquility and warmth of Hokkaido's forests. It's one of the most therapeutic stops on your trip.
[Itinerary Timetable]
Snow Play Route (December 2025 – April 7, 2026)
Meet at Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station at 7:30 AM.
07:40 Depart from Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station
Asahiyama Zoo (approx. 90 minutes) ※ You can watch the adorable penguins walk (scheduled to take place at 11:00 AM from mid-December to mid-March)
Biei Christmas Tree (approx. 20 minutes)
Shikisai-no-Oka (approx. 60 minutes)
Fairy Terrace (approx. 40 minutes)
15:50 Return trip
Arrive at Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station at 18:00
* Actual arrival time may vary depending on weather and traffic conditions on the day.
_____________________________________________________
Popular Instagrammable Route (April 29, 2025 – June 30, 2026)
Meet at Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station at 7:30 AM.
07:40 Depart from Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station
Asahiyama Zoo (approx. 90 minutes)
Ken and Mary Tree (approx. 20 minutes)
Whitebeard Waterfall (approx. 20 minutes)
Biei Blue Pond (approx. 20 minutes)
Fairy Terrace (approx. 40 minutes)
15:55 Return trip
Arrive at Exit 31 of Sapporo Odori Subway Station at 18:00
* Actual arrival time may vary depending on weather and traffic conditions on the day.
Get up close and personal with penguins during their walk – a winter-only opportunity! Available annually from mid-December to mid-March.
The Fairy World in Winter
Prices for snow activities are as listed on the Shikisai-no-Oka website. "Winter Limited Time Only" is from mid-December to mid-March each year.
Purchase Notice
- Adults and children pay the same price. Infants under 2 years old can participate for free if they do not occupy a seat; if a seat is required, reservations must be made.
- Please adhere to the scheduled time. If you are late, it will be considered an automatic cancellation of the trip, and the fees paid will not be refunded.
- Please be aware that transportation is greatly affected by weather conditions, and our company will not be liable for any subsequent losses caused by delays due to force majeure events such as traffic jams.
- If you require luggage (including strollers and wheelchairs), please inform us in the remarks section. We will arrange the vehicle type based on the number of travelers. If we confirm the vehicle type is suitable for luggage 3-5 days before departure, a handling fee and space reservation fee will be charged separately for luggage space and loading/unloading arrangements. The fee is 1500 yen per piece (cash only), payable to the tour guide before boarding. Please inform us in advance so that we can make proper arrangements for vehicle space and ensure a smoother and more comfortable journey for you.
- In the event of force majeure such as weather, traffic control, or safety considerations, the tour guide may adjust the itinerary or duration of stay at each attraction.
- Due to factors such as winter weather and road conditions, it is not recommended to arrange other itineraries or make expensive dinner reservations after returning on the same day. We will not be liable for any losses incurred.
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Hokkaido
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company Name: Tongxin International Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 6
Team Leader: 1
Tour guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company Name: Tongxin International Co., Ltd.
Address: 3F, 422 Minami 8-jo Nishi 4-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
License Number: Hokkaido Governor's Registered Travel Business Registration No. 3-674
Travel Association Name: Japan Travel Industry Association (Assistant Member)
Reminders
A minimum of 6 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 17:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Heart disease, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women, High blood pressure, Acrophobia
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Lunch is not included in this itinerary; please arrange your own lunch at Asahiyama Zoo.
Please adhere to the scheduled time. If you are late, it will be considered an automatic cancellation of the trip, and the fees paid will not be refunded.
Please be aware that the order of the itinerary may be adjusted based on traffic and weather conditions on the day.
If you need to bring luggage (including strollers and wheelchairs), please indicate this in the remarks section. Vehicles will be assigned based on the number of travelers, and luggage availability will be confirmed 3-5 days prior to departure. If luggage is permitted, an additional cash fee of 1500 yen per piece will be charged to the tour guide before boarding.
When the car or minibus is in operation, the driver will provide you with a brief introduction but will not disembark to accompany you. Thank you for your understanding.
In winter, snow, road closures, and traffic jams can significantly extend travel time back home.
Because winter weather and road conditions are prone to change, it is not recommended to arrange other activities or make dinner reservations after returning home on the same day. The platform and service provider will not be liable for any losses incurred.
To ensure smooth communication, we recommend that you download WhatsApp in advance to ensure that information is delivered instantly.
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