Hokkaido Day Tour From Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond Japan

Hokkaido’s natural wonders come alive in this day tour from Sapporo. Guests can explore the captivating Asahiyama Zoo, home to a renowned penguin parade, and marvel at the striking Blue Pond‘s vivid hues. With transportation, admission, and lunch included, the tour offers an immersive experience at a reasonable price. However, the true allure lies in the opportunity to witness Hokkaido’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes firsthand.

This experience made our article of Best Tours in Sapporo: Our Top 20 Picks.

Key Points

• A one-day tour from Sapporo exploring Hokkaido’s highlights: Asahiyama Zoo and the picturesque Blue Pond.
• Tour priced at $105.99 per person and accommodates up to 40 travelers.
• Includes transportation, driver, admission to Asahiyama Zoo, and lunch.
• Features opportunities to see various wildlife, such as penguins, deer, foxes, and more.
• Tour has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 6 reviews.

Tour Overview

The Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo offers travelers the opportunity to visit the renowned Asahiyama Zoo and the captivating Blue Pond, among other scenic attractions in the region.

Priced from $105.99 per person, this day tour accommodates up to 40 travelers and has received an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 6 reviews.

The tour includes transportation, a driver, admission to Asahiyama Zoo, and lunch, though personal expenses and other unmentioned costs aren’t included.

Participants will meet at a designated location and return to the same point after the day’s activities.

Inclusions and Costs

This Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo includes transportation, a driver, and admission to the renowned Asahiyama Zoo.

Lunch is also provided as part of the tour package. However, personal expenses and any other costs not explicitly mentioned aren’t included.

It’s important to note the tour’s cancellation policy – it’s non-refundable, so no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

With a maximum of 40 travelers, this tour offers a comfortable and efficient way to explore Sapporo’s top attractions, though guests should be aware that itinerary changes may occur due to factors like traffic or weather conditions.

Meeting and Logistics

Travelers will meet at a designated location and should arrive 10 minutes prior to the tour’s departure.

The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

The transportation provided is:

1. Wheelchair accessible
2. Stroller accessible
3. Near public transportation
4. If using a Hi-Ace or minibus, no guide will be provided.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to traffic, weather, or operational conditions.

Guests should be prepared for potential changes to the schedule.

Tour Experience

Guests can look forward to seeing a variety of wildlife and scenic attractions during the Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo.

The highlight is a visit to Asahiyama Zoo, where they’ll witness the famous penguin parade during winter. They’ll also explore the otherworldly Blue Pond, with its striking blue hue.

Along the way, they may spot deer, foxes, swans, hawks, and ducks in their natural habitats.

The tour may be subject to changes due to factors like traffic and weather, but it promises an immersive experience of Hokkaido’s natural wonders.

Guides provide information in English and Mandarin, though feedback on their performance varies.

Customer Feedback

Numerous guests have provided positive feedback on the Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo.

Highlights include:

• Informative and pleasant guides, such as Risa and Catherine, who offer information in English and Mandarin.
• Enjoyable experiences at the Asahiyama Zoo and scenic locations like the Blue Pond.
• Comfortable bus rides with multiple stops along the way.

However, some guests have noted issues with language preferences, reporting receiving Mandarin-speaking guides despite booking English tours.

Asahiyama Zoo Highlights

One of the highlights of the Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo is the visit to the Asahiyama Zoo.

This unique zoo is known for its innovative animal exhibits and displays. Visitors can witness the famous "penguin parade" during the winter months, where the penguins march through the zoo.

The zoo is also home to a variety of other animals, including deer, foxes, swans, hawks, and ducks. Guests can observe the animals in their natural habitats and learn about their behaviors from the informative guides.

The Asahiyama Zoo provides a memorable and educational experience as part of the Hokkaido Day Tour.

Exploring the Blue Pond

Another highlight of the Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo is the visit to the stunning Blue Pond. This natural wonder is renowned for its vibrant blue hue, a result of the high aluminum content in the water.

Visitors can admire the pond’s captivating reflections and the surrounding Shikotsu-Tōya National Park. The tour includes the following memorable experiences at the Blue Pond:

1. Enjoying the serene atmosphere and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
2. Exploring the boardwalk trails that wind around the pond’s edge.
3. Spotting the unique flora and fauna, including the occasional deer or waterfowl.
4. Capturing stunning photographs to commemorate the visit.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo provides convenient transportation to the various destinations on the itinerary. The tour uses wheelchair and stroller accessible vehicles, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. Plus, the tour’s proximity to public transportation options ensures easy access for all participants.

Transportation Details
Wheelchair Accessible	✓
Stroller Accessible	✓
Near Public Transport	✓
Guide Provided	✓ (if not Hi-Ace or minibus)

Itinerary changes may occur due to factors such as traffic, weather, or operational conditions, ensuring a flexible and responsive tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

The tour itinerary can be customized to visit additional sites, though this may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour operator to discuss any desired changes to the standard itinerary.

What Type of Cuisine Is Included for the Lunch?

The tour includes a lunch, but the specific cuisine is not specified. It is likely a local Japanese-style meal, but the menu may vary based on the tour operator and availability on the day of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Based on the information provided, there does not appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour details indicate a set itinerary and schedule without mentioning any options for extending the length of the experience.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a boxed lunch is provided as part of the tour package, so bringing additional items may not be necessary. The tour operator does not prohibit guests from bringing their own snacks or beverages.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Attractions?

The tour guides typically provide recommendations for local attractions, offering insights and suggestions to help travelers make the most of their experience. However, the extent of these recommendations may vary across different tours and guide experiences.

The Sum Up

The Hokkaido Day Tour from Sapporo offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Asahiyama Zoo and the captivating Blue Pond. With a range of inclusions and high customer satisfaction, this tour provides a comfortable and immersive experience showcasing Hokkaido’s natural wonders. Convenient transportation and accessibility make this day trip an attractive choice for those seeking to discover the region’s renowned attractions.