Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo and Shirahige Falls Trip /w Pickup

Planning a day trip from Sapporo that captures some of Hokkaido’s most iconic winter sights? This tour promises a blend of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and cozy moments, all with the convenience of hotel pickups and expert guidance. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and where it might fall short—to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Hokkaido adventure.

Three things we really like about this experience are the chance to see the famous Penguin Parade at Asahiyama Zoo, the scenic beauty of Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, and the relaxed, small-group atmosphere. The tour’s structure offers a well-balanced day of nature, wildlife, and cultural sights, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of northern Hokkaido.

One possible consideration? The itinerary can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping to linger longer at certain spots. Timing is tight, and in winter, weather conditions can sometimes alter plans unexpectedly. Still, for those who want a curated, hassle-free day exploring Hokkaido’s highlights, this tour provides terrific value.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate diverse scenery, enjoy wildlife, and prefer having logistics handled. It’s especially good for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see a variety of iconic locations.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Unique Encounters: Witness the adorable penguins in their winter parade at Asahiyama Zoo.
• Scenic Highlights: View the surreal blue glow of the Blue Pond and the tranquil Shirahige Falls.
• Convenient & Guided: Enjoy the comfort of hotel pickup within Sapporo and a knowledgeable guide.
• Flexibility & Value: The tour strikes a balance between structured sightseeing and free time, all at a reasonable price point.
• Seasonal Variations: The itinerary changes slightly depending on whether you visit from late November to early January or from January to March.
• Small Group Experience: The tour caters to limited groups, making it more personal and less rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary & Experiences

Starting from Sapporo – Comfort & Convenience

The day begins with a pickup from your hotel or Sapporo Station, ensuring stress-free start to your adventure. The ride north lasts around 70 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy snowy landscapes and maybe even spot some local winter wildlife along the way. The small group size (often 8-15 people) means more personalized attention from your driver-guide, who usually speaks multiple languages including English, Japanese, and Chinese.

Asahiyama Zoo – Wildlife Close-Up

The star of this tour is Asahiyama Zoo, renowned across Japan for its innovative design and close animal viewing. You get about 1.5 hours here, plenty of time to see the Penguin Parade, where playful penguins waddle and slide through their enclosure—an enchanting sight in winter. The zoo’s exhibits are crafted so visitors can get close to seals, penguins, and monkeys, with glass tunnels offering underwater views.

Reviewers frequently mention the “unique design” and how the animals appear lively despite the cold. One reviewer even called it “the highlight of the day,” praising the zoo’s ability to make wildlife viewing engaging and accessible. Keep in mind, the zoo is closed from Dec 30 to Jan 1, so the itinerary adjusts accordingly during the holiday season.

Scenic Stops – Seven Star Tree

Next, a quick photo stop at Seven Star Tree—a solitary oak that’s become an iconic image of Hokkaido’s rural landscape. It’s a quick 10-minute break, but a worthwhile one, especially if you love classic countryside scenery. Visitors say it’s a “symbol of Hokkaido’s rural beauty,” great for a quick snapshot, but don’t expect a lengthy stop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Winter Highlights: Shikisai-no-Oka and Fureai Farm

Depending on your travel date, the itinerary varies slightly:

• Before January 10: You’ll visit Shikisai-no-Oka, a flower hill transformed into a snowy wonderland. It’s a perfect spot for winter photos, plus optional activities like sledding or snowmobiling. One guest mentioned that despite the cold, the panoramic views make it worth a visit.

• From January 10 onward: The focus shifts to Fureai Farm in Biei, where you can feed and interact with alpacas, fluffy sheep, and goats—an experience highly praised for its warmth and authenticity. Reviewers love how friendly the animals are and appreciate the opportunity for holiday photos. Snowmobile rides are optional and at additional cost, but many find the animal interactions enough to satisfy their farmyard cravings.

Ningle Terrace – A Fairy-Tale Ending

The final stop is Ningle Terrace, a collection of log cabins glowing with fairy lights during the winter months. Located near Furano, this charming craft village offers handmade souvenirs—perfect for gift shopping or just soaking in the cozy, romantic atmosphere. Reviewers describe it as “magical” and “a highlight for couples,” emphasizing the artisan crafts and peaceful setting.

Return to Sapporo

The journey back takes around 2 hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights and maybe plan your next trip. The whole tour lasts around 10 hours, making it a full yet manageable day out.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s transportation is comfortable, usually in a small coach or van that’s climate-controlled—crucial for winter. Groups are kept small, enhancing the experience with a more relaxed, personal atmosphere. The driver-guide provides basic commentary, but the focus is on ensuring a smooth, hassle-free day rather than detailed narration, which many travelers appreciate for its efficiency.

Timing is tight but well-organized. The tour departs early from Sapporo, and punctuality is emphasized, so arriving late could mean missing out on certain stops. The limited luggage space means travelers should pack light—large bags might not fit comfortably.

Pricing & Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews often note that the tour delivers good value considering the inclusions—transportation, guide, and access to multiple key sights—especially given the convenience and small group setting.

Weather & Seasonal Notes

In winter, weather can influence certain activities or stops. For example, snowmobile rides or outdoor animal interactions are optional and may be canceled if conditions are severe. The route may also shift based on weather and road access, which is common for winter tours in Hokkaido.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the seamless logistics. One reviewer from Switzerland called the trip “great overall,” highlighting the “comfortable transportation and excellent organization.” Another noted that timing at each stop was just right, avoiding the rushed feeling common in some group tours.

A Japanese guest mentioned that the driver was super friendly and enthusiastic, making everyone feel at ease despite the cold. The animal interactions at Fureai Farm received special praise, with visitors describing it as a “heartwarming” experience, especially during the winter months when outdoor activities can be limited.

Practical Tips

• Dress warmly in layers—winter in Hokkaido is cold, and some stops involve outdoor walking.
• Bring cash, especially if you want to buy souvenirs or participate in optional activities.
• Arrive on time—timeliness is crucial, as the tour departs promptly.
• If traveling with children under 3, inform the provider for special arrangements.
• Download WhatsApp to stay in contact with your driver the night before.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who want a taste of Hokkaido’s winter magic without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors to the area, offering a balanced mix of animals, scenery, and cultural charm.

Travelers eager for beautiful photos will appreciate the stops at Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and Ningle Terrace. If you value comfortable transportation and guided logistics, this tour delivers solid value and peace of mind.

However, if you prefer more time at each location or are traveling with very young children, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. The tour is less suitable for senior travelers over 75, given the active outdoor elements and tight timing.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Sapporo combines wildlife, stunning scenery, and cultural charm into a single, well-organized package. The convenience of pickup and drop-off, combined with the small-group setting, makes it an attractive option for those visiting Hokkaido in winter. Expect to see adorable penguins, marvel at snow-covered landscapes, and leave with plenty of memorable photos.

While the itinerary can be busy, the value lies in the curated experience—covering multiple highlights without the stress of self-driving or booking each activity separately. For travelers who want a manageable, fun, and scenic introduction to Hokkaido’s winter, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, pickups are offered within Sapporo, primarily from Sapporo Station or nearby hotels in the area. If your hotel exceeds the pickup zone, you can meet the guide at Sapporo Station with a partial refund.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 10 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the evening.

What should I bring? Dress warmly—layers are best—as you’ll be outdoors in cold weather. Bringing cash for souvenirs or optional activities is also recommended.

Are there any activity restrictions? Snowmobile rides and animal feeding are optional and at additional cost. Some stops may be canceled due to severe weather, especially during heavy snow.

What if I have kids? Children under 2 join free without a seat, and kids under 3 do as well if you notify the provider in advance. Be aware that some walking and outdoor exposure is involved.

Is the guide bilingual? The driver-guide speaks multiple languages, including English, Japanese, Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, providing basic commentary and assistance.

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Hokkaido’s winter landscape and wildlife, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking comfort, variety, and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: