Hokkaido’s winter wonderland comes alive with this captivating tour. It starts at the Asahiyama Zoo, where visitors can witness the mesmerizing penguin parades. Next, they’ll explore the stunning landscapes of Shikisai No Oka, with an optional snowmobile ride. The adventure culminates at the charming Furano Ningle Terrace, showcasing local crafts and cozy cafes. This immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone seeking to discover the enchanting wonders of Hokkaido.
This experience made our article of Visiting Asahikawa? We Rank Our Top 5 Tours.
Key Points
- This Hokkaido tour includes visits to Asahiyama Zoo, Shikisai No Oka, and Furano Ningle Terrace, priced at Kč 1,513 per person with a duration of 10 hours.
- The tour starts at ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, with transfers to the attractions and allocated time for exploration at each site.
- Highlights include winter penguin parades and encounters with polar bears and sea lions at Asahiyama Zoo, and stunning winter landscapes at Shikisai No Oka.
- Snowmobile rides at Shikisai No Oka are self-paid and subject to snow conditions, while the Furano Ningle Terrace offers local crafts and a charming café.
- Potential delays and cancellations due to traffic, weather, or last-day participation may impact the tour’s schedule, and cash is required for personal expenses and optional activities.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Hokkaido tour includes visits to Asahiyama Zoo, Shikisai No Oka, and Furano Ningle Terrace, and is priced at Kč 1,513 per person.
The tour lasts 10 hours with flexible booking options, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Travelers will start at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, with 2 hours each at Asahiyama Zoo and Furano Ningle Terrace, and 30 minutes at Shikisai No Oka.
The tour includes transfer time, but snowmobile rides at Shikisai No Oka are self-paid.
Delays due to traffic or weather may impact the itinerary.
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Itinerary Details
The tour begins at the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo, where participants gather at 7:50 and depart at 8:00.
The 2-hour transfer takes them to Asahiyama Zoo, where they’ll have 2 hours for photo stops and free time.
Next, they’ll visit Shikisai No Oka for 30 minutes to enjoy the stunning winter landscapes and optional snowmobile rides.
Afterwards, they’ll explore Furano Ningle Terrace for 45 minutes, browsing the snow-decorated cottages, local crafts, and café.
The final 2.33-hour transfer returns them to Sapporo Station.
Attraction Highlights
Asahiyama Zoo is known for its captivating winter penguin parades, where visitors can observe the graceful movements of these flightless birds.
Plus, the zoo offers the opportunity to see polar bears and sea lions up close. Visitors should note that the penguin parades only occur during the snowy season.
Shikisai No Oka boasts stunning winter landscapes, making it an ideal destination for photography and sightseeing.
Snowmobile rides are available, though advance reservations aren’t possible and depend on snow conditions.
Furano Ningle Terrace features cozy, snow-decorated cottages with warm lights, local crafts, and a café serving hot beverages, creating a charming and inviting atmosphere.
Important Considerations
Travelers should expect traffic congestion on weekends and holidays, which may result in stop durations varying from the itinerary.
Snow activities at Shikisai No Oka depend on weather conditions, and snowmobile rides aren’t available for advance reservations.
Delays due to traffic or weather may result in cancellations or reduced visiting time, with no refunds for same-day cancellations.
Key considerations include:
- Anticipate potential delays that could impact the tour’s schedule
- Verify snow conditions for available activities at Shikisai No Oka
- Note that participation isn’t recommended on the last day of the Sapporo trip due to potential delays
What to Bring and Restrictions
Bring cash for personal expenses and snow activities during the tour. This includes fees for any additional activities you wish to enjoy, such as snowmobile rides at Shikisai No Oka.
While the tour package covers the main attractions, you’ll need cash on hand for any optional add-ons.
Keep in mind that alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Participants should also note that if your tour is scheduled for the last day of your Sapporo trip, it’s best to avoid signing up due to potential delays that could impact your departure plans.
Plan accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Transfer to Asahiyama Zoo
The tour begins with a 2-hour transfer to Asahiyama Zoo.
Travelers will be picked up from the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Sapporo and depart at 8:00 AM.
The drive to the zoo takes approximately 2 hours, with potential stops along the way for:
- Scenic photo opportunities
- Traffic congestion on weekends and holidays
- Delays due to weather conditions
Guests can expect to arrive at Asahiyama Zoo around 10:00 AM, allowing ample time to explore the zoo’s popular attractions, such as the famous penguin parades and observing polar bears and sea lions.
Exploring Shikisai No Oka
After visiting Asahiyama Zoo, the tour proceeds to Shikisai No Oka, a scenic area renowned for its stunning winter landscapes.
Visitors have 30 minutes to explore and capture the snow-covered hills and fields. While snowmobile rides are available, they must be paid for separately and are subject to snow conditions.
Guests are encouraged to bring cash for these optional activities. The short stop at Shikisai No Oka offers a chance to stretch one’s legs and admire the breathtaking winter scenery before continuing on to the next destination, Furano Ningle Terrace.
Visiting Furano Ningle Terrace
Continuing the tour, guests will explore Furano Ningle Terrace, a charming winter destination known for its snow-decorated cottages, local crafts, and cozy café.
Visitors can peruse the quaint shops, sipping hot beverages as they admire the festive, snow-covered scenery. The 45-minute stop offers time to:
- Browse local artisanal crafts and souvenirs
- Savor warm drinks at the on-site café
- Soak in the cozy, winter ambiance of the festively-lit cottages
While time is limited, Furano Ningle Terrace provides a delightful taste of Hokkaido’s winter charms before the return journey to Sapporo.
Things To Know
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or children. The price of Kč 1,513 per person is the same regardless of age.
Do I Need a Special License to Ride the Snowmobiles?
No, you don’t need a special license to ride the snowmobiles at Shikisai No Oka. However, participants must be at least 16 years old and able to operate the snowmobiles safely under the guidance of the tour staff.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but alcoholic beverages are not allowed. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions regarding outside food and beverages.
Are There Any Restroom Stops During the Long Transfer?
Yes, there are scheduled restroom stops during the long transfers. The tour itinerary includes time for participants to use restroom facilities at designated locations along the route to and from the attractions.
Will There Be an English-Speaking Guide Throughout the Tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide will accompany the tour group throughout the day. They’ll provide commentary and assistance at each attraction to ensure visitors have a seamless and informative experience.
Sum Up
This Hokkaido winter tour offers a delightful day exploring the region’s top attractions. Visitors can witness the captivating penguin parades at Asahiyama Zoo, take in the stunning landscapes of Shikisai No Oka, and discover the local crafts and cozy cafes of Furano Ningle Terrace. With convenient transportation and well-planned itinerary, this tour provides a comprehensive and enjoyable winter experience in Hokkaido.
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