| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Sightseeing type | Bus tour |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Please arrive at the designated location 20 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Please note that if affected by traffic congestion, facility maintenance, etc., the itinerary or stop time at attractions will be adjusted.
As the bus may be delayed due to traffic congestion and weather conditions, passengers who plan to transfer to other means of transportation after their journey are advised to allow sufficient time.
When stopping at each visiting location, please be sure to abide by the prescribed visiting times and departure times. If a passenger is late, the bus will still leave on time and will not wait for late passengers.
If you use a wheelchair to participate, you must be accompanied by a companion.
Child fares are applicable to tourists who are primary school students or above and under junior high school students. Children under preschool age who do not require a seat may attend for free, but if a seat is required, please purchase a child ticket.
Please arrive at the scheduled sightseeing bus window behind the Sapporo Station North Exit taxi stand (east of the Sapporo Station North Exit taxi stand) to redeem your ticket at least 20 minutes before departure.
Please take your rubbish away and do not leave it on the bus.
Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
The sightseeing guides who accompany the regular sightseeing buses provide services in Japanese only. While the bus is in motion, if passengers have any questions, they can communicate through the translator.
When leaving the bus at the destination you are visiting, be sure to take the bus ticket stub with you. The emergency contact number is written on the ticket stub.
After the order is confirmed, but the ticket has not yet been redeemed: If the order is canceled two days before the participation date, JPY 100 per person will be charged. If canceled beyond the above time, 100% of the total order amount will be charged as a cancellation fee.
Visiting time may increase or decrease depending on road conditions along the way.
The timing of winter penguin walks has yet to be determined. If the penguin walk time is outside the Asahiyama Zoo stay time, you will not be able to watch it. Penguin walks may be suspended or changed due to weather and snow conditions.
Asahiyama Zoo is renowned for its unique "behavioral exhibition" concept, allowing visitors to observe animals in their natural habitats up close. Popular animals like polar bears, penguins, and seals have specially designed exhibits. For instance, you can watch penguins swim from an underwater tunnel or observe seals gracefully gliding through cylindrical water tanks. This immersive experience deepens understanding of animal behavior, making it highly recommended, especially for those interested in wildlife and ecology.
It's generally recommended to allocate around 3 to 4 hours for a visit to Asahiyama Zoo to fully experience all the exhibits and behavioral displays. More time may be needed to witness popular activities like the penguin walk. It's advisable to check the day's event schedule in advance and plan your route based on your interests and the scheduled activities. You can pick up a park map at the entrance to ensure you don't miss any highlights and to make your visit smoother.
The most recommended way to travel to Asahiyama Zoo from Sapporo is by joining a regular one-day bus tour departing from Sapporo. Taking a dedicated bus eliminates the hassle of planning transportation and transfers, offering convenient direct access. You can also enjoy interesting commentary from a tour guide onboard, adding to the fun of your journey. Alternatively, you can take a JR train to Asahikawa Station and then transfer to a local bus to the zoo, or choose to rent a car and drive yourself.
Tickets for Asahiyama Zoo can be booked through online travel platforms, such as KKday. Booking here allows you to conveniently arrange both transportation and tickets, enjoying the ease of itinerary planning and comfortable transfers, while avoiding queues at the ticket counter. Some tour packages also include admission, so no separate purchase is needed. You can also opt to buy tickets at the zoo's on-site ticket booths. To ensure smooth entry and save time, especially during peak tourist seasons, advance booking is highly recommended.
The signature "penguin walk" event at Asahiyama Zoo usually takes place during the winter snow season (approximately mid-December to mid-March), with two sessions daily. The approximate times are around 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM, but the actual times are subject to flexible adjustments based on weather conditions and the penguins' well-being. This event does not occur outside of the winter season. It is highly recommended to check the official Asahiyama Zoo website or the announcements at the entrance for the most up-to-date event schedule on the day of your visit to avoid missing the captivating penguin parade.
Asahiyama Zoo features many unique "behavioral exhibition" areas that are highlights and allow visitors to observe animals in their natural habits. Must-see animals and their exhibits include the "Penguin House," where you can admire penguins swimming gracefully from an underwater tunnel; the "Seal House," where you can watch seals swim up and down through cylindrical glass tanks; and the "Polar Bear House," where you can get a close-up view of polar bears demonstrating their hunting prowess. Additionally, there are exhibits featuring Hokkaido's native animals and the "Wolf Forest," among others, offering deep insights into animal ecology.
Asahiyama Zoo is very suitable for families with children and visitors of all ages. The zoo features many low-angle viewing spots and interactive exhibits that make it easy for children to observe the animals. Its unique "behavioral exhibition" method is not only entertaining but also educational, allowing both adults and children to learn about animals together. The park's pathways are gently sloped, and the facilities are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a pleasant and accessible experience for families with strollers and elderly visitors alike.
Asahiyama Zoo offers unique charm in every season, making it suitable for visits year-round. Winter (approximately December to March) is the most popular season, where you can witness the famous penguin walk and see arctic animals like polar bears and snow owls active in the snow. During spring and summer (approximately April to October), animals are lively and the surroundings are lush and green; some animals may change to their summer coats. Autumn (approximately September to November) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for a leisurely visit.