Hokkaido Tour, Asahiyama Zoo, Christmas Tree and Biei Green Pond

Exploring Hokkaido in a Day: A Balanced Look at the Tour of Wildlife & Scenic Beauty

If you’re planning a day trip through Japan’s northernmost island—Hokkaido—you might be considering a tour that combines wildlife, iconic landscapes, and memorable photo stops. The package by Trevopedia Wonders offers a well-rounded experience, hitting key highlights like Asahiyama Zoo, Biei’s Christmas Tree, and the surreal Blue Pond, all for around $95. It promises a full day of adventure, scenery, and learning, making it appealing for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of Hokkaido’s diverse appeal.

What we love about this tour: efficient scheduling, variety of experiences, and professional guiding. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and zoo entry for the price makes it a practical choice. However, a common consideration is the long travel time, which might be taxing for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day outings. This tour is best suited for travelers with a flexible schedule and an interest in both wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines wildlife, scenic views, and iconic sights in one itinerary.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, guide, and zoo admission, making it a practical, all-in-one package.
• Seasonal Flexibility: Attractions like Shirahige Waterfall and Blue Pond look stunning year-round.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local tips.
• Photo Opportunities Galore: Perfect for capturing memorable shots at Biei and the Blue Pond.
• Pace and Duration: The long day is packed but may be tiring; plan for rest if needed.

A Full Breakdown of the Hokkaido Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Departure

The tour kicks off bright and early at 8:00 AM from Sapporo Station’s North Exit, so arriving at least 10 minutes early is advised. The meeting point is well-organized, with staff from GOGODAY holding a flag, making it easy to find your group. The comfortable round-trip transportation included in the package ensures you can relax and focus on the sights, rather than navigating public transport.

The First Major Stop: Asahiyama Zoo

Three hours here give you ample time to explore one of Japan’s most innovative zoos. What sets this zoo apart is its design—famous for creating behavioral exhibits that make animals feel more natural. Expect to see penguins waddling, polar bears swimming, and Arctic foxes prowling in habitats that mimic their native environments, even in winter.

From reviews, it’s clear that visitors appreciate the expert guidance and educational displays. One traveler mentioned the zoo’s focus on animal behavior made the experience more engaging, while another highlighted how the interactive exhibits bring the animals’ natural behaviors to life.

Biei’s Iconic Christmas Tree

After the zoo, the group heads to Biei, where the Christmas Tree no Ki stands tall in an open landscape. This landmark is a favorite on social media for its striking simplicity—a lone, beautifully shaped tree set against sweeping open fields. It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially if you want to capture that classic Hokkaido rural scenery.

This stop lasts about an hour, giving you enough time for photos and a quick stroll. Best of all, it’s free, making it a great budget-friendly highlight. Visitors note how the tree’s solitary silhouette is striking against both snow-covered winter and lush green summer backgrounds, making it versatile for all seasons.

The Enchanting Shirogane Blue Pond

Next, the tour visits the famous Blue Pond, known for its surreal, turquoise waters caused by natural minerals. Surrounded by lush forests and framed by trees, the pond looks like something out of a dream. It’s a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The roughly one-hour stop allows for leisure photography and appreciation of the tranquil scenery. Visitors have remarked on how vivid the blue water appears, especially when the sunlight hits just right. The pond’s unique hue makes it a favorite for social media, and many travelers find the contrast with the surrounding nature particularly captivating.

The Serene Shirahige Waterfall

Just nearby, the Shirahige Falls—meaning “White Beard”—delivers a peaceful, picturesque scene, especially in winter when snow blankets the landscape. It’s a quiet spot where the thin streams of water resemble a flowing white beard, adding a touch of whimsy.

This stop provides about an hour for viewing and photography. Reviewers appreciate the serene environment and the beauty of the cascading water, which creates perfect photo opportunities. The waterfall’s accessible location and gentle ambiance make it a relaxing end to the sightseeing portion of the day.

End of the Day & Return

The tour concludes back at Sapporo Station, with the exact timing depending on weather and traffic. The entire experience lasts between 9 and 11 hours, meaning you should come prepared for a full day of travel and exploration. The tour’s group size, capped at 40 travelers, ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and guides are bilingual, providing helpful insights throughout.

Practical Details Worth Noting

Transportation: Included in the price, round-trip from Sapporo Station ensures hassle-free logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with local transit. The vehicle is comfortable enough for a long day, but be prepared for a fair amount of travel time, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Guides: The tours are led by Chinese/English-speaking guides, who are often praised for their knowledgeability and responsiveness. Their insights add depth to each stop, explaining the significance and making sure you don’t miss hidden gems or photo tips.

Pricing and Value: At $95.65, the package offers good value considering the zoo admission and transportation included. For travelers keen on seeing both wildlife and scenic landscapes without booking multiple tours or rentals, this is a practical choice.

Timing & Flexibility: The schedule is tight but well-thought-out. However, travelers should be aware that delays may occur due to weather or traffic—especially in winter. The tour recommends not scheduling other activities afterward to avoid missing out if delays happen.

What’s Not Included: Personal expenses, souvenirs, or additional meals are not covered, so budget accordingly if you plan to buy snacks or souvenirs at each stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a compact but rich experience of Hokkaido’s wildlife and landscapes in just one day. It’s perfect for those who:

• Have limited time but want to see some of the region’s best sights
• Enjoy nature, wildlife, and photography
• Appreciate guided insights paired with free time for exploration and pictures
• Don’t mind a full, sometimes tiring day with a lot of travel
• Are traveling solo, as a couple, or in groups up to 40 people

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore each site in depth, consider breaking the itinerary into separate days.

The Sum Up

This Hokkaido tour by Trevopedia Wonders balances wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and iconic sights in a well-organized day trip. For a reasonable price, you gain access to a carefully curated itinerary that maximizes your experience with minimal stress—especially valuable for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule.

You’ll love the expert guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the opportunities for memorable photos at places like Blue Pond and Biei’s Christmas Tree. The inclusion of transport and zoo admission adds convenience and makes it a practical choice.

The main consideration is the long hours, so be sure you’re prepared for a full day of sightseeing, especially in winter conditions. This trip suits travelers eager to get a taste of Hokkaido’s natural beauty and wildlife without committing to multiple days or complex arrangements.

In all, it’s a well-rounded experience that offers good value, authentic sights, and a chance to create lasting memories of Japan’s northern gem.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 AM at Sapporo Station’s North Exit, so arriving at least 10 minutes early is recommended.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from the meeting point to all attractions are included in the price.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions, making it a full-day commitment.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides speak Chinese and English, providing explanations and helpful tips throughout the trip.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, admission to Asahiyama Zoo is included. Other stops, like Biei’s Christmas Tree, Blue Pond, and Shirahige Falls, are free.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Most stops are accessible, but the tour involves some walking and bus transfers, so it’s best to consider your comfort level.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor sightseeing. Bring sun protection, water, and a camera for capturing photos.

Is lunch included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the stops.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed, practical overview aims to help you decide if this Hokkaido day trip suits your interests and travel style. With its mix of wildlife, stunning scenery, and professional guiding, it offers a balanced glimpse into one of Japan’s most beautiful regions.