Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Day Tour | Biei Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, Hokusei-no-oka, Ningle Terrace - Admission Included
- Asahiyama Zoo admission included | Approx. 2.5 hours of free time to explore
- Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park | Climb the observatory for views of Biei's hills and Hokkaido's countryside
- Shirahige Waterfall | Admire the natural landscape of white waterfalls and the blue-green Biei River
- Visit Furano's Ningle Terrace, a quiet, fairytale-like forest cottage trail
- Private charter car with a Chinese-speaking driver, small group in Alphard/Hiace, 4 to 9 people max
Package Options
Product Info
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Depart from Odori Subway Station Exit 31 (next to Sapporo TV Tower) for a day trip to Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano.
Visit the popular Asahiyama Zoo to see animals in their natural, lively states; climb Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park to overlook Biei's vast hills and countryside; visit the dreamlike Biei Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall; and finally, stroll through Furano's Ningle Terrace to feel the nature and romance of Hokkaido among the forest cottages. Includes Asahiyama Zoo admission, with about 2.5 hours reserved for free exploration and lunch.
Small group of up to 9 people, private charter car with a Chinese-speaking driver, round-trip from the same location in Sapporo. Connect the zoo, hills, blue pond, waterfall, and forest in one trip, and experience the classic scenery of Hokkaido with ease.
Hokkaido's most popular zoo, famous for its unique 'behavioral displays,' where you can observe polar bears, penguins, seals, and other animals in their natural activities from different angles. The itinerary reserves about 2.5 hours for free exploration and includes admission, making it easy to start your Hokkaido animal adventure.
The clear blue-green water, the standing dead trees, and the Hokkaido forest weave together to create the unique scenery of the Blue Pond. As the weather and light change, the pond displays different shades of blue, making it a classic sight in Biei that you cannot miss.
Groundwater gushes from the crevices of the rock face, forming waterfalls that look like white beards. Standing on the bridge, you can see the white water, lush green forest, and the blue-green Biei River all at once—a quiet yet quintessentially Hokkaido experience.
Walk into the forest along the wooden path, where warm, cozy cottages are scattered among the trees. Stroll, take photos, and browse unique shops in this space surrounded by trees, feeling the leisurely and healing forest atmosphere of Furano.
Depart from Sapporo TV Tower and return to Sapporo, connecting four popular attractions in one day. Small group of up to 9 people + Chinese-speaking driver + Asahiyama Zoo admission included. No need to study complex transportation—save your time for the scenery of Hokkaido.
Climb the iconic pyramid-shaped observatory to overlook the rolling Biei hills and pastoral scenery. On clear days, you can even see the Daisetsuzan and Tokachi mountain ranges in the distance, feeling the vast and tranquil nature of Hokkaido.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Hokkaido
Duration: Same-day return
Transportation: Alphard/Hiace
Bus Company: J-one Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Group Size: 4
Tour Guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: J-one Co., Ltd.
Address: 1F, 4-422 Minami 8-jo Nishi, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
License Number: Hokkaido Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-933
Travel Agency Association: Member of Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 4 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
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
No refunds will be provided if you withdraw from the tour midway or fail to participate due to personal reasons or late arrival on the day.
Please do not be late on the day of the tour. No refunds will be given for failure to participate due to personal reasons or late arrival.
Children aged 0–5 must use a child safety seat. Please note the age and number of children when booking so we can make arrangements in advance.
FAQ
1. When is the best time to see the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo?
The Asahiyama Zoo penguin walk typically occurs during the winter months, usually from mid-December to mid-March. There are generally two scheduled walks per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. It is advisable to check the official zoo schedule upon arrival or closer to your travel date for the most accurate and up-to-date timings.
2. What is the official English name for Asahiyama Zoo?
The official English name for the zoo is "Asahiyama Zoo." Located in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, it is widely recognized for its innovative and natural habitat enclosures, which offer visitors unique close-up views of various animals.
3. What are the must-see animal exhibits and activities at Asahiyama Zoo besides the penguin walk?
Beyond the famed penguin walk, visitors to Asahiyama Zoo should explore the unique polar bear exhibit, which features an underwater tunnel for viewing swimming bears. The seal exhibit allows seals to swim in a cylindrical tank around you, while the orangutan playground offers thrilling aerial views. Don't miss the red panda and wolf exhibits for distinct animal encounters.
4. What scenic views can be enjoyed from Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park?
From Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park, visitors can experience breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive Biei hills and the picturesque pastoral landscapes of Hokkaido. The elevated perspective provides excellent opportunities for photography, showcasing the region's vast farmlands and rolling terrain, especially vibrant during the green season.
5. What unique natural features can be observed at Shirasu Falls in Biei?
Shirasu Falls is distinctive for its unique formation where underground spring water cascades directly from cracks in the cliff face into the Biei River. The mineral-rich water lends the river a striking blue-green color, creating a beautiful contrast with the white, frothing waterfall. This natural phenomenon is particularly captivating in different seasons, such as against a snowy backdrop or vibrant autumn foliage.
6. What is the ideal time of year to visit Biei Blue Pond for its vibrant colors?
The Biei Blue Pond typically displays its most vibrant and characteristic blue hues from late spring through early autumn, specifically from May to October. During these months, the sunlight optimally interacts with the colloidal minerals in the water, producing the pond's signature ethereal blue appearance. While beautiful year-round, these months offer the most vivid experience.
7. What kind of experience awaits visitors at Furano Ningle Terrace?
Furano Ningle Terrace offers a charming and tranquil experience, reminiscent of a fairy tale village nestled within a quiet forest. Visitors can stroll along wooden boardwalks that connect quaint log cabins, each housing artisan shops selling unique handmade crafts and local souvenirs. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk and discovering distinctive items.
8. How much time is typically allowed for exploring key attractions like Asahiyama Zoo and Biei's scenic spots?
On this tour, approximately 2.5 hours are specifically allocated for free exploration within Asahiyama Zoo, providing ample time to visit various animal exhibits. For the scenic spots in Biei, including Hokusei-no-oka Observatory Park, Shirasu Falls, and the Blue Pond, sufficient time is provided at each location to allow for comfortable sightseeing, photography, and appreciating the natural beauty at a relaxed pace.
