Asahiyama Zoo & Bibai Snow Land Snow Play Experience

Exploring Hokkaido’s Winter Wonders: Asahiyama Zoo & Bibai Snow Land Snow Play Experience

If you’re dreaming of a winter escape in Hokkaido, this tour offers a fantastic mix of animal encounters and snowy fun. While it’s not a full-blown snow festival or a once-in-a-lifetime ski trip, it’s a well-balanced day for those who love animals, snowy landscapes, and light-hearted activities.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the exclusive winter-only attractions—especially the famous Penguin Walk, the close-up view of polar bears, and the chance to glide across snow with mini snowmobiles and four-wheel buggies. The guided commentary also adds a layer of insight, making the day both fun and educational.

That said, it’s worth noting that the duration of 9.5 hours means a fair amount of time on the bus. If you’re not a fan of long travel days, or if you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit packed. Plus, some snow activities at Bibai Snow Land, like snow rafting or snowmobiling, require extra fees, so budget accordingly.

This tour is perfect for families, wildlife lovers, and curious travelers eager to experience Hokkaido’s winter highlights with a structured, guided format.

Key Points

• Wildlife in Action: Get a rare opportunity to see animals like penguins and polar bears during their natural winter behaviors.
• Exclusive Winter Event: The Penguin Walk, only available when snow conditions permit, offers a close-up penguin sighting.
• Guided Insight: In-depth commentary from knowledgeable guides enhances understanding and appreciation.
• Snow Activities: Mini snowmobiles and four-wheel buggies at Bibai Snow Land bring fun and excitement, especially for kids.
• All-Inclusive Entry: The tour includes entry to Asahiyama Zoo and Bibai Snow Land, offering good value.
• Timing & Flexibility: The schedule is tight but well organized; note that snow activities at Bibai Snow Land carry additional costs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Diving Into the Experience

The Start and Transportation

The day begins early with meet-up at your hotel lobby, where a “Wonder Tour” flag makes it easy to spot your guide. The 1.5-hour bus ride to Bibai sets the tone for a comfortable trip, giving you a glimpse of Hokkaido’s winter scenery along the way. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest that guides keep things friendly and engaging, making the drive feel short.

Bibai Snow Land: A Winter Wonderland

First stop is Bibai Snow Land, a stunning, expansive snow park just outside Sapporo. The white landscape here is picture-perfect, especially under clear winter skies. The main draw is the freedom to play—racing across snow fields, sliding down powdery slopes, and trying out the various activities available.

While the tour entry is included, many snow activities—such as snow rafting, mini snowmobiles, and four-wheel buggies—cost extra. This means your total spent could increase slightly depending on what adventures you choose.

Guests have noted that driving a snowmobile across the vast snowfields offers an adrenaline rush, and kids love racing with family or friends. The snow is described as soft and powdery, perfect for sliding and sledding. The serene environment makes for fantastic photos and a true winter escape.

The Return to Asahiyama Zoo

After about 20 minutes at Bibai, you’ll head to the main event—the Asahiyama Zoo. Known for its innovative enclosures, the zoo’s winter-only Animal Action Exhibits bring animals’ behaviors into sharp focus. The polar bears and penguins are the stars here, with the special highlight being the Penguin Parade.

The Penguin Walk is a rare chance to see these tuxedoed birds waddling and swimming in conditions that mimic their natural habitat. However, it’s important to note that the penguins only walk when snow cover is sufficient and their physical condition allows. Past visitors have observed that the activity is subject to weather and animal health, so it’s not guaranteed every day.

Guides provide detailed commentary, explaining animal behaviors and conservation efforts, making the visit both entertaining and informative. Free time and shopping opportunities at the zoo’s gift shop allow you to pick up souvenirs or warm up with a hot drink.

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The Second Stop in Bibai

After two hours at the zoo, the tour returns briefly to Bibai for a photo stop and sightseeing around the snow-covered scenery. This part of the tour offers a chance to soak in the tranquil winter landscape and take some memorable photos.

The Long Ride Home

The return journey is 1.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights or chat with fellow travelers. The entire experience wraps up at the original meeting point, with some slight flexibility depending on traffic and weather conditions.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Animal Action Exhibits

What sets Asahiyama apart are the close-up, naturalistic enclosures that showcase animals behaving naturally—swimming, hunting, and leaping. This makes the zoo visit more authentic than typical cold-weather zoos. Visitors often mention the guides’ knowledge, which enriches the experience, explaining animal conservation and behavior.

The Penguin Walk and Winter Wildlife

The Penguin Walk is a rare sight, and being able to observe penguins in a setting that resembles their natural environment adds a special touch. However, it’s also a reminder that such events depend on weather and animal health, so some flexibility is good to keep in mind.

Bibai Snow Land’s Snow Play

The vast snow fields and variety of activities make Bibai Snow Land a playful paradise. This is where you can truly enjoy Hokkaido’s famous snow in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. The availability of mini snowmobiles and four-wheel buggies offers a unique chance to experience snow play hands-on, which many find exhilarating.

Guided Commentary & Local Insights

Throughout the day, guides provide insightful commentary, often in both English and Chinese. Many reviews highlight how guides make the day more engaging, sharing interesting facts and local knowledge that you wouldn’t get from a guidebook.

Practical Considerations & Tips

• Duration & Pace: The 9.5-hour schedule is full, so be prepared for a busy day. Wear comfortable shoes and layering clothing suitable for outdoor winter activities.
• Snow Activities Cost: Budget extra for snow activities like snowmobiling, as these are not included in the initial fee.
• Weather Dependency: The Penguin Walk and some outdoor activities depend on snow conditions and weather, so stay flexible.
• Lunch: No lunch is included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something at the zoo.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone interested in experiencing Hokkaido’s winter scenery without committing to a full-day outdoor adventure or ski trip. It balances animal encounters with snow play, making it perfect for those who want a taste of both worlds. If you love guided experiences with knowledgeable guides, this tour’s commentary will add significant value.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a quiet, leisurely day or those wanting more extensive snow activities at a separate cost. Still, for a comprehensive snapshot of Hokkaido’s winter charm in one day, it offers a fun, engaging, and photo-worthy outing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, and the snow activities, such as mini snowmobiles and sledding, are especially fun for kids. Child rates apply for ages 3-11, and infants under 2 are free but do not have seats.

Are the snow activities included in the price?
No, activities like snow rafting, mini snowmobiles, and four-wheel buggies require additional fees, so you may want to budget extra if interested.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear suitable for snow. It can get very cold, especially near animals and outside activities.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

Is the Penguin Walk guaranteed?
Not necessarily. It depends on snow cover and animal health, so it’s subject to weather and other conditions.

What’s the best time to go for the Penguin Walk?
Typically from late December to mid-March, but the exact timing varies each year based on snow conditions.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido’s winter allure, combining wildlife, snowy landscapes, and playful activities. It’s perfect for those looking for an active, educational, and scenic day with some of the region’s most beloved animals and snowy attractions. While it demands a full day’s commitment, the genuine insights from guides and the chance to interact with wildlife and snow make it a memorable way to experience Hokkaido’s winter magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: