Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo and Ningle Terrace Trip /w Pickup

Travelers seeking a taste of Hokkaido’s winter wonderland will find this day tour offers a convenient way to explore some of the region’s most captivating sights. The experience promises a blend of wildlife encounters, artistic crafts, and scenic natural beauty — all with the comfort of hotel pickup and the promise of a small group setting.

Our look at this tour reveals three standout qualities: the chance to see the famous penguin parade at Asahiyama Zoo, the cozy ambiance of Ningle Terrace’s handmade crafts, and the breathtaking views of Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls. However, some travelers have noted that the overall experience can feel rushed or inconsistent, depending on the weather and route chosen.

This tour is best suited for those who want a manageable, guided day out with a mix of wildlife, scenery, and local crafts, especially if you’re short on time but eager to get a taste of Hokkaido’s winter scenery. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth adventure, it’s worth considering the detailed itinerary and reviews before booking.

Key Points

• Seasonal routes maximize the winter experience, with options for New Year or standard winter itineraries.
• Wildlife lovers will enjoy the penguin parade and interactive exhibits at Asahiyama Zoo.
• Scenic views of Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls are highlights, especially on the special New Year route.
• Cultural charm shines at Ningle Terrace, where handmade crafts and cozy atmospheres await.
• Transportation is comfortable, with a 90-minute drive from Sapporo and small group sizes for a more personalized feel.
• Weather-dependent stops mean some attractions might be canceled or altered in severe conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour Experience

Who is this tour for?

If you’re visiting Hokkaido during winter and want a structured, guided trip that covers key sights without the hassle, this is a solid choice. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer organized transportation, small groups, and a mix of wildlife, scenery, and shopping. However, those seeking a leisurely pace or in-depth exploration might find the itinerary a bit rushed, especially given the 10-hour duration.

Booking and Price Value

Pricing isn’t explicitly detailed here, but considering the inclusion of transport, guide, and several key attractions, it’s a good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip. The tour’s reviews suggest that many find the venues worth visiting, although some feel the time allocated at each site could be tighter.

Transportation & Timing

Starting from Sapporo Station or nearby hotels, the 1.5-hour transfer sets the tone for a relaxing journey through snowy landscapes. During this ride, you can sit back and prepare for the day ahead. The group size remains small, which often leads to more personalized attention, though guides may have limited English skills, and commentary during transit might be minimal.

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Itinerary Breakdown

Asahiyama Zoo (120 minutes):
This is the tour’s star attraction for many. Famous for its innovative enclosures where animals are viewed through glass tunnels or from above, the zoo’s penguin parade is a highlight — penguins walk freely among visitors in a charming winter scene. The zoo’s design promotes close animal interactions, giving a more authentic wildlife experience. One reviewer noted that the zoo is perfect for families and wildlife fans. However, keep in mind that this stop takes around two hours, and weather conditions can influence the visibility of certain animals.

Seven Star Tree (10-15 minutes):
A quick photo stop at Bieis Patchwork Road provides a picturesque view of the iconic oak tree, once featured on tobacco packaging. It’s a brief visit but offers a chance to snap a memorable shot of Hokkaido’s rural beauty. Travelers should respect private farmland, so this stop is more about quick photos than a detailed visit.

Shikisai-no-Oka (60-90 minutes):
This expansive hill offers sweeping snowy landscapes, perfect for strolling or trying snow activities like sledding and snowmobiling (additional fees apply). The on-site alpaca farm adds a cute touch, making it especially attractive for animal lovers. A reviewer appreciated the panoramic views and the snow-filled environment, perfect for winter photography.

Blue Pond & Shirahige Waterfall (50-55 minutes) — only on the New Year route:
These natural wonders are a highlight for many visitors. The Blue Pond’s icy blue hue, surrounded by frosted white trees, creates a surreal photo opportunity. Nearby Shirahige Waterfall offers non-freezing waters cascading into a wintery gorge. Some reviewers found these spots especially beautiful, although access may depend on weather conditions.

Ningle Terrace (30 minutes):
This arts and crafts village consists of charming log cabins tucked into the forest. It’s a cozy spot for shopping handmade souvenirs and enjoying the illuminated ambiance at night. The area’s fairy-tale setting makes it a favorite for romantic strolls, with some reviewers noting that it’s a relaxing way to wind down after a busy day.

Return Journey

After about two hours exploring Ningle Terrace, the tour concludes with a return transfer to Sapporo, typically around 2 hours. This period allows passengers to reflect on the day and enjoy scenic views along the way.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Despite the tour’s potential, feedback has been mixed. Some mention disappointments regarding communication, with guides speaking limited English and no commentary during the bus ride. Particularly, a reviewer from India expressed frustration about not being acknowledged properly, which affected their experience.

Others highlight the variable quality of the attractions, with one traveler noting that “too much time was spent on boring activities like the aquarium,” which wasn’t part of their plan. The suggested itinerary mainly revolves around the scenic and wildlife stops, but weather can influence what’s accessible.

A significant concern noted by some guests was last-minute cancellations, which can leave travelers feeling uncertain. Despite these issues, others appreciated the stunning views and potential for good value, especially if weather conditions cooperate.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

Convenient pickup from central Sapporo makes logistics simple, especially if you’re already based within the city.
Diverse attractions cover wildlife, natural scenery, and handcrafted crafts, offering a well-rounded glimpse of Hokkaido.
Small group size can lead to more personalized attention and better interaction with the guide, though English commentary may be limited.
Photo opportunities abound, from the penguin parade to the surreal Blue Pond, perfect for social media fans or memory keepers.
Seasonal routes mean you get a tour tailored to winter conditions, maximizing the chances of seeing snow-covered landscapes and unique natural phenomena.

Cons

Weather dependency can cause cancellations or route changes, potentially limiting what you experience.
Time constraints might make some stops feel rushed, especially if you want to explore more deeply.
Limited English-speaking guides could hinder understanding, particularly during transit or less tourist-oriented stops.
Mixed reviews about value reflect that some travelers felt they paid a premium for what was, at times, a rushed or inconsistent experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a solid option for those wanting a guided glimpse into Hokkaido’s winter highlights. It balances wildlife encounters at Asahiyama Zoo with scenic spots like Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, complemented by cultural shopping at Ningle Terrace. The small-group approach promises intimacy, but travelers should be prepared for the possibility of weather-related changes and limited commentary.

If you’re eager to see iconic winter landscapes, enjoy some wildlife, and appreciate handmade crafts, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your Hokkaido itinerary. Just keep your expectations aligned with the weather and the schedule, and remember that some attractions may be more photogenic than lengthy explorations.

For those looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration or personalized guide experience, it might be worth considering alternative options. But for a well-organized, efficient day out with a blend of scenery, wildlife, and local charm, this trip has plenty to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Sapporo Station or eligible hotels within the city center. If your hotel is outside the area, you can meet at Sapporo Station with a partial refund.

How long is the transfer from Sapporo?
The drive to the first attraction lasts about 1.5 hours, providing a comfortable start to your day and a chance to enjoy the snowy scenery.

What attractions are included in the standard route?
The standard route (Route A) features Asahiyama Zoo, Seven Star Tree, Shikisai-no-Oka, Herb Garden, and Ningle Terrace.

What’s special about the New Year route?
It adds visits to Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall, which are particularly stunning during winter, offering unique photo opportunities.

How much time do I spend at each stop?
Expect about 2 hours at Asahiyama Zoo, 10-15 minutes at the Seven Star Tree, up to 90 minutes at Shikisai-no-Oka, around 50 minutes at Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls (on route B), and 30 minutes at Ningle Terrace.

Are there any activities besides sightseeing?
Snow activities like sledding or snowmobiling are available at Shikisai-no-Oka for an extra fee, and shopping at Ningle Terrace.

Are children allowed?
Children under 2 can join for free without occupying a seat, making it family-friendly, but check that the schedule suits young kids’ stamina.

Wrapping It Up

This tour offers a practical way to experience some of Hokkaido’s winter magic without the stress of planning multiple stops. While it’s not without its flaws — delays, weather issues, and limited commentary — it does deliver on the promise of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and cultural treats like Ningle Terrace.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a taste of Hokkaido’s seasonal charm, especially those who appreciate a group setting and reliable transportation. If you’re after a flexible, leisurely exploration, consider whether the tight schedule and variable weather fit your travel style. But for a structured, sightseeing-packed day in snowy Hokkaido, this trip can add meaningful memories to your winter adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: