Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo+Ningle Terrace+Biei Farm Snow Play

Traveling through Hokkaido in winter offers a captivating mix of snowy landscapes, adorable wildlife, and quaint villages. This tour promises a day packed with some of the region’s most iconic sights—think close encounters with penguins, leisurely strolls through fairy-tale villages, and breathtaking views of snow-covered fields. Based on feedback from travelers, this experience blends natural beauty and charming local culture, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic winter adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it combines wildlife encounters with scenic landscapes, offering both family-friendly fun and peaceful moments in nature. The visit to Asahiyama Zoo is particularly memorable, with the chance to see animals in action, especially the famous Penguin Walk. We also appreciate the opportunity to explore Ningle Terrace, a cozy village filled with handcrafted art, and the stunning Biei Farm snow play, which is both fun and scenic. Plus, the optional snowmobile rides at Chiyoda Farm add a dash of adventure.

However, a possible drawback is the tight schedule and weather-dependent activities, which can impact some plans, especially Ningle Terrace, which might be closed due to poor conditions. This means flexibility is key, particularly in winter months when weather can be unpredictable. That said, this tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, wildlife, and scenic photography—all wrapped into a single day.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day that covers a variety of Hokkaido’s winter highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience wildlife, picturesque villages, and snowy fields without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Now, let’s get into a detailed breakdown of what makes this experience worth considering.

Key Points

• Convenient, guided transportation makes exploring Hokkaido’s winter scenery effortless.
• Close animal encounters at Asahiyama Zoo, including the famed Penguin Walk, offer memorable wildlife experiences.
• The scenic Biei farm fields provide breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes and farm life in winter.
• Ningle Terrace offers a fairy-tale atmosphere with handcrafted crafts and cozy cabins—perfect for a scenic stroll.
• Optional snow activities like sledding, snow tubes, and snowmobiling add adventure and fun.
• Weather can influence plans—some activities like Ningle Terrace or snowmobile rides may be canceled if conditions worsen.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect from Each Stop

Start and Travel

The tour begins with two convenient meeting points, either near REI or at a location specified by your booking. From there, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus for around 2 hours and 17 minutes heading north into the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido. This long journey is a good chance to get a glimpse of the winter scenery rolling past your window—think white fields, snow-covered trees, and distant mountains.

Asahiyama Zoo: Animal Encounters in the Snow

The first major stop is Asahiyama Zoo, which is renowned across Japan for its innovative enclosures and animal viewing. What sets this zoo apart is how it allows visitors to observe animals in natural behaviors—no cages here, just thoughtfully designed habitats. During winter, the Penguin Walk is often the highlight, where colonies of adorable penguins waddle outside in the snow, a truly charming sight.

The review from a traveler in Singapore noted that the Penguin Walk is “the highlight of their trip,” and it’s easy to see why. The zoo’s layout ensures you can see polar bears, seals, and foxes, among others, in their winter surroundings. The 100-minute visit allows enough time to wander, but some reviews mention the experience can feel rushed, especially if you want to see all the animals.

Biei Farm Snow Play & Scenic Views

Next, you’ll visit Chiyoda Farm, where the focus shifts to outdoor fun and scenery. Here, you can play in the snow—sled, ride snow tubes, and perhaps even try a snowmobile (extra cost, paid on-site). The farm offers a relaxed environment to enjoy winter activities alongside friendly ponies and alpacas, which is particularly appealing for families or animal lovers.

A review from Norway described the farm as “fun and comfortable,” with a perfect mix of activity and scenic beauty. You’ll also get views of the Tokachi Mountains, which add a majestic backdrop to your snow-filled adventure. The farm’s Wagyu curry is a local specialty that can provide a warm, hearty meal, but note that the farm restaurant doesn’t accept on-site orders, so bringing snacks is recommended.

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Ningle Terrace: Fairy-tale Village or Alternative

Following the farm visit, the tour takes you to Ningle Terrace in Furano, a charming collection of small cabins showcasing local crafts like seed art and handmade jewelry. The atmosphere feels like stepping into a storybook, with snow gently falling on the rooftops and warmly lit windows. It’s the perfect place to browse artisan goods and enjoy a tranquil, scenic walk.

However, a recent review mentioned that Ningle Terrace might be closed due to weather or operational issues, in which case the itinerary will be replaced with a visit to Takushinkan, a photography gallery showcasing stunning images of Hokkaido’s seasons by master photographer Shinzo Maeda. Whether at Ningle Terrace or Takushinkan, expect a peaceful, artistic atmosphere.

Takushinkan: Art in Snowy Silence

If your schedule includes a visit here, you’ll walk through a birch corridor blanketed in snow—an experience described as “storybook-like” by visitors. The gallery itself displays visually striking images that capture Hokkaido’s natural beauty across the seasons. Reviewers who visited in cloudy weather appreciated the calming, contemplative environment.

Return Journey & Drop-offs

After the day’s sightseeing, the bus makes its way back to the starting points, with the trip lasting roughly 3 hours and 50 minutes. This allows travelers to reflect on the day’s sights, perhaps sharing photos and favorite moments.

What Travelers Say: Real-world Insights

One traveler from Singapore expressed disappointment that their trip to Ningle Terrace was canceled due to weather, highlighting how unpredictable winter conditions can impact plans. They also felt the timing at Asahiyama Zoo was rushed, with only about 1 hour and 20 minutes spent there—enough for a quick look but perhaps not for more in-depth wildlife viewing.

In contrast, other reviews praise the value for money, noting that the tour offers a good mix of wildlife, scenic views, and cultural experiences at a reasonable price point. “La cascata era molto bella, lo zoo molto carino,” reads an Italian review, reinforcing the appeal of the zoo’s charming animals and winter scenery.

A positive review from a U.S. traveler simply said, “Tomas is the best,” indicating the importance of knowledgeable guides in enriching the experience. Guides provide valuable context about Hokkaido’s nature and culture, which enhances the overall trip.

Transportation & Timing

The bus ride is a significant part of the experience, especially in winter when the scenery is stunning and the roads are clear yet sometimes affected by weather delays. The tour’s schedule is tight, but it’s designed to maximize the number of highlights you can see in a day. It’s worth noting that visiting Ningle Terrace or snowmobile rides are dependent on weather conditions, so flexibility is necessary.

Cost & Value

While the tour details don’t specify exact pricing, it’s important to consider what’s included. The guided transportation, entrance fees, and local insights typically offer good value, especially given the extensive itinerary. The optional snow activities at Chiyoda Farm are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly and in layers—winter in Hokkaido can be very cold, especially outdoors.
• Bring cash for extra activities like snowmobiling or purchasing crafts.
• Arrive 10 minutes early for check-in, as latecomers might not be accommodated.
• Pack snacks, as the farm restaurant doesn’t accept on-site orders and the day can be quite active.
• Be prepared for weather-related changes—activities or routes might be altered or canceled in severe conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience caters well to families, nature lovers, and culture seekers. If you’re excited about wildlife, especially penguins, or love scenic snow-covered landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate handcrafted local art and want to sample Hokkaido’s culinary specialties like Wagyu curry.

However, travelers expecting an extensive wildlife tour or a perfectly flexible schedule might find the tight timing a challenge. The weather can also influence what’s possible on the day, so a flexible, relaxed attitude will help you get the most out of this trip.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido’s winter magic—combining wildlife, scenic views, and cultural charm in a single day. Its value lies in the seamless organization and the variety of experiences packed into a manageable itinerary. For nature lovers and those eager to see Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes and adorable animals in one go, this tour provides a practical, enjoyable option.

While weather can affect some plans, the core highlights—penguins at Asahiyama Zoo, snow play at Chiyoda Farm, and the artistic serenity of Ningle Terrace or Takushinkan—are worth the effort. Its comfort and value make it a good choice for travelers who want a comprehensive winter experience without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

If you’re visiting Hokkaido in winter and want a balanced day of wildlife, scenery, and cultural moments, this tour ticks many boxes. Just come prepared for the cold, stay flexible, and enjoy the snowy splendors that make Hokkaido a true winter wonderland.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes guided bus or coach transportation from designated meeting points to each attraction.

How long is the entire tour?
The total duration is approximately one day, with travel time and stops factored in, ending with drop-offs at the starting locations.

Can I see animals in winter at Asahiyama Zoo?
Absolutely. The zoo is specifically designed for winter viewing, and the Penguin Walk is a highlight that many travelers enjoy.

Is Ningle Terrace always open in winter?
Not necessarily. If Ningle Terrace is unavailable due to weather or operational reasons, the itinerary is replaced with Takushinkan, a photography gallery.

Are snowmobile rides included?
No, snowmobile rides are optional and paid on-site with cash. They are available at Chiyoda Farm.

What should I bring for the day?
Warm clothing, waterproof and warm shoes, cash for extras, and snacks are recommended, especially since the farm restaurant doesn’t accept on-site orders.

Will the schedule be flexible?
The schedule is fairly tight, but weather-related changes may lead to adjustments in the itinerary or cancellations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy snow activities and wildlife will find this tour fun. Just ensure they are dressed warmly.

How is the guide’s language support?
Guides are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, enhancing the experience with local insights.

What is the value for the price paid?
Considering transportation, entrance fees, and a variety of activities, the tour provides good value, especially for those wanting a comprehensive day in Hokkaido winter.

This detailed exploration of the Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo+Ningle Terrace+Biei Farm Snow Play Tour aims to give you an honest, thorough look at what to expect—helping you decide if this winter adventure suits your travel style.

You can check availability for your dates here: