Asahiyama Zoo, Fascinating Aoi-Ike Light Up in Winter!
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
・Explore Hokkaido’s signature spots in winter and spend a cheerful day with different activities. Considerately late departure and less morning rush to start a laid-back day trip.
・Go for Japan's one of most popular zoos Asahiyama Zoo, home to various animals! "Penguin's Parade" is the symbolic gesture in winter. It has drawn many visitors for the admirable scene of strolling penguins!
・The can't-miss alluring Blue Pond (Aoi Ike) in Biei of Hokkaido! The pond light up only in winter just creates a dreamlike mysterious wonderland!
・Pick-up and drop-off points are different. but drop-off points are JR Sapporo station.
Available options
ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo
What's included
Driver/guide
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
All activities
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Asahiyama Zoo, in the northernmost part of Japan, is the landmark sightseeing spot of Hokkaido, and visited by huge number of visitors. This zoon has been designed to see not only animals’ appearance, also their behaviors through daily life display. In “Hippopotamus Hall”, ostrich and warthog could be found here as that in a natural environment; in “Seal Hall”, the movement of seal swimming in a glass pipe called “Marine Way” can also be clearly watched.
※Please note that 2.5 hours will be allocated for this stop during March. "Penguin's Parade" will not be seen during March.
2
Biei is renowned for its gentle flower slopes, as well as its painting-like Blue Pond. The waterfall gushes with aluminum merges into Biei River, a colloid is produced and clashes with sunlight, therefore the lake presents the unique blue color. Moreover the withered Japanese birch and larch standing in the lake bring about a still yet gasping beauty.
What's not included
Please spend time in Asahiyama Zoo having your own lunch.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.9
9 reviews
5★
3
4★
2
3★
4
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.3
8 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pick-up and drop-off points are different.（Drop-off point is JR Sapporo station only)
English will be provided through an interpreter. There will be no sightseeing explanation.
Joining this tour on your last day in Hokkaido is not recommended. As there is a possibility of traffic congestion or other delay during the tour. In this case, no compensation will be made.
Staying time at each sightseeing spot is subject to change depending on realtime traffic condition.
There is a possibility that arrival is delayed due to traffic conditions. When meeting with stormy weather, the tour may be unavoidably canceled. Please kindly be noted.
Lunch is at your own expense in the zoo.
Admission fee for Asahiyama Zoo is included. Please kindly be noted that guide will not accompany to enter the zoo.
Please note that we do not accept bus seat requests.
Return time is about 20:30
Meeting point
10:50AM
Important notes
Our tour guide will meet guests at hotel lobby, and he or she will call name for gathering.
Emergency contact 090-9194-1151
Tours depart on time and we will not wait or refund late participants.
About Sapporo
Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, is known for its stunning winter landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood. The city hosts the famous Sapporo Snow Festival and offers a unique blend of modern urban life and traditional Japanese charm.
Top Attractions
Sapporo Beer Museum
Learn about the history of beer in Japan and the Sapporo Beer brand. The museum offers beer tasting and a chance to see the brewing process.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free entry, beer tasting costs vary
Odori Park
A large park in the heart of Sapporo, known for its beautiful gardens, fountains, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival held here in February.
Nature
1-3 hours depending on the season
Free
Sapporo TV Tower
A landmark of Sapporo, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. The tower is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.
Architecture
1 hour
¥790 for adults
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sapporo Ramen
A rich, miso-based ramen with corn, butter, and pork. A must-try local specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications.
Soup Curry
A spicy, flavorful curry soup with vegetables and meat, a Hokkaido specialty.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Genghis Khan
Grilled lamb or mutton, a popular dish in Hokkaido, often cooked on a dome-shaped grill.
Dinner
Contains lamb, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Skiing in Niseko
Snowboarding in Rusutsu
Hiking in Daisetsuzan National Park
Onsen (hot spring) bathing
Strolling through Odori Park
Shopping in Tanukikoji
Visiting the Sapporo Beer Museum
Exploring Otaru's historic district
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Winter) and July to August (Summer)
Winter is ideal for snow festivals and skiing, while summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and festivals.
Winter: -5°C to 0°C, Summer: 18°C to 25°C
Winter: 23°F to 32°F, Summer: 64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Sapporo is a very safe city with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis and agreed-upon fares.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, especially in tourist areas.
Getting there
By air
- New Chitose Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Sapporo Station
By bus
Sapporo Station Bus Terminal, Susukino Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The subway system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. It consists of three lines: Namboku, Tozai, and Tohoku-Johetsu.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Susukino
Odori
Tanukikoji
Day trips
Niseko
110 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
A popular ski resort known for its powder snow, Niseko offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter, and outdoor activities in summer.
Otaru
30 km from Sapporo • Half day or full day
A charming port city known for its historic buildings, canals, and fresh seafood. Otaru offers a mix of history, culture, and scenic views.
Furano
140 km from Sapporo • Full day or overnight
Known for its lavender fields in summer and skiing in winter, Furano offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Sapporo Snow Festival • Early February
Sapporo Beer Festival • Late July to early August
Yosakoi Soran Festival • Early June
Pro tips
- Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for a unique beer tasting experience.
- Try Sapporo's famous ramen at Ramen Republic or other local ramen shops.
- Explore the historic Tanukikoji Shopping Arcade for souvenirs and street food.
- Experience the Sapporo Snow Festival if visiting in February.
- Take a day trip to Otaru for its charming canals and fresh seafood.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
