Asahikawa’s best tours revolve around the excellent Asahiyama Zoo, one of Japan’s most innovative wildlife facilities. My favorite is the winter zoo experience ($75) where you’ll witness the charming penguin walk and active polar bears – it’s simply the best time to visit. For a memorable evening, the GARINKO GO icebreaker cruise ($165) offers spectacular sunset views. Budget travelers should consider the Sapporo day trip ($41), which includes a hearty buffet lunch and the scenic Shirahige Waterfall. Cultural workshops with local artisans ($85) provide authentic hands-on experiences in traditional crafts. Let’s explore these top-rated Asahikawa adventures.
Key Points
- Asahiyama Zoo tours offer unique winter experiences with penguin walks and polar bear viewing, available through multiple tour operators.
- The Asahikawa Culture and Culinary Tour provides an intimate, 10-person maximum experience with local artisans and authentic dining.
- Budget-conscious travelers can choose the Shikisai No Oka tour at $62.69, including zoo visit and Furano Ningle Terrace exploration.
- The GARINKO GO Sunset Tour combines zoo visits with an icebreaker cruise, offering exceptional winter views from January to March.
- Winter illuminations at Blue Pond and stops at Shirahige Waterfall complement zoo visits on several Asahikawa-based tours.
Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Icebreaker GARINKO GO Sunset Tour
For travelers seeking a comprehensive winter adventure in Hokkaido, the Asahiyama Zoo and GARINKO GO Sunset Tour offers excellent value at $133.08 per person.
This 13-hour excursion packs in key winter attractions, including close-up views of polar bears at Asahiyama Zoo and a sunset cruise through drift ice on the GARINKO GO III icebreaker.
The tour departs from ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, with convenient stops throughout the journey.
While Japanese-speaking staff lead the tour, translation services are available.
Travelers should note that passports are required for the icebreaker portion, and drift ice is typically visible from late January to early March.
Read our full review: Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Icebreaker GARINKO GO Sunset Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Asahikawa: Immersive 1-day Culture and Culinary Tour
While winter activities draw many visitors to Asahikawa, this immersive day tour showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and culinary prowess year-round.
Limited to 10 participants, the tour starts with a trek through Mt. Arashiyama, where wild deer and foxes roam freely. Visitors meet local artisans, including renowned potter Chihiro-san, and explore a traditional soy sauce brewery.
The afternoon offers flexible options like sake tasting or museum visits. At $165.86 per person, the tour includes authentic dining experiences, from famous Asahikawa ramen to evening izakaya options.
Public transportation costs and admission fees aren’t included.
Read our full review: Asahikawa: Immersive 1-day Culture and Culinary Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Shikisai No Oka, Ningle Terrace Tour
Perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking a diverse winter experience, this 10-hour guided tour combines wildlife encounters, seasonal landscapes, and local crafts for just $62.69 per person.
The tour departs from ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo at 7:50 AM, starting with a 2-hour visit to Asahiyama Zoo‘s famous penguin parades and polar bear exhibits.
At Shikisai No Oka, visitors get 30 minutes to enjoy winter views and optional snowmobile rides.
The final stop is Furano Ningle Terrace, where guests spend 45 minutes exploring snow-covered craft cottages.
The wheelchair-accessible tour includes English and Chinese guides, with free cancellation available 24 hours before departure.
Read our full review: Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Shikisai No Oka, Ningle Terrace Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Hokkaido Winter Asahiyama Zoo, Enchanting Blue Pond Day Tour
Combining winter wildlife encounters with ethereal landscapes, this 9.5-hour guided tour delivers exceptional value at $71.65 per person.
Travelers can watch the famous penguin walk and see polar bears up close at Asahiyama Zoo, including a female cub born in 2021.
The tour includes a stop at the mesmerizing Blue Pond, where winter illuminations transform the scenery from November to January.
Departing from ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, guests can choose between an 8:30 AM or 11:00 AM start time.
The flexible booking policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Hokkaido Winter Asahiyama Zoo, Enchanting Blue Pond Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour
This 10-hour winter excursion from Sapporo packs exceptional value at £41.64 per person, featuring guided visits to Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Waterfall, and the charming Ningle Terrace.
Travelers can reserve without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
The tour includes a buffet lunch showcasing local specialties, 1.5 hours at the zoo’s interactive exhibits, and photo stops at scenic locations like the Seven Stars Tree.
With multilingual guides available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, this wheelchair-accessible tour maintains a stellar 4.7/5 rating.
Departures are from Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel and Tourist Information Center.
Read our full review: Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Asahikawa’s top tours offer excellent value for travelers exploring Hokkaido. The Asahiyama Zoo features prominently in most itineraries, while cultural experiences and seasonal attractions round out the options. Whether it’s watching polar bears in winter, taking a sunset icebreaker cruise, or exploring local cuisine, visitors can find tours ranging from half-day excursions to full-day adventures that won’t break the bank.