Sapporo Asahiyama Zoo, Tree Spot & Waterfalls Day Tour

Planning a trip to Hokkaido and looking for a way to see some of its most iconic winter landscapes without the hassle of self-driving? This 10-hour guided tour from Sapporo offers just that—an organized, comfortable way to tick off three of Hokkaido’s most photogenic and beloved spots. From the famous Asahiyama Zoo to the mesmerizing Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, it’s a full day designed to give you a taste of winter’s magic with minimal stress.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to visit top landmarks in a single day without worrying about navigation or language barriers. Second, the professional multilingual driver-guide makes traveling smooth and informative. Third, the flexibility in meeting points or hotel pickup offers great convenience.

A potential consideration is the fixed schedule, which doesn’t leave much room for extra time at each stop. If you’re a slow mover or want to linger longer at each location, this might feel a bit rushed. But overall, this tour caters well to those eager to maximize sightseeing efficiently, especially if you’re short on time or prefer guided ease.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, scenic winter day trip that covers multiple highlights comfortably. Those seeking adventure with local insights or families wanting a straightforward experience will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines visiting the zoo, scenic waterfalls, and idyllic ponds in one day.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip bus from central Sapporo ensures ease and efficiency.
• Multilingual guide: A professional, Chinese-speaking driver-guide enhances the experience.
• Flexible options: Includes hotel pickup or meeting points to suit your schedule.
• Photogenic locations: Perfect for capturing iconic winter landscapes and making memorable photos.
• Efficient timing: Carefully timed stops maximize sightseeing without rushing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

The journey begins early, with pick-up options that suit different travelers. If you select hotel pickup, you’ll be collected from accommodations within 3 km of JR Sapporo Station, making it a seamless start. Alternatively, you can meet at key transit points like Odori Subway Station or JR Sapporo Station North Exit—both convenient for those already in the city. The tour departs promptly at 07:50 (or 08:05 depending on your meeting point), so arriving a little early guarantees a smooth start.

Asahiyama Zoo — 120 Minutes

This legendary zoo is the star of many Hokkaido travel itineraries, especially in winter. Known for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals up close, it’s a highlight for animal lovers and families alike. We loved the close-up views of penguins marching through the snow, an image that captures winter’s charm perfectly. Seeing polar bears swim underwater makes for an unforgettable sight, especially with the crisp winter air.

Reviews mention the zoo’s seasonal highlights and creative exhibits, which are designed for optimal animal viewing in cold weather. One reviewer notes, “It’s fun watching penguins waddle through snow, and the polar bears swimming is mesmerizing.” The zoo’s natural-style habitats help showcase native wildlife beautifully, and with tickets included, there’s no hassle to buy ahead.

Pro tip: Wear warm clothes and comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking outdoors in winter. The zoo’s 2-hour window is enough to enjoy the main attractions without feeling rushed.

Christmas Tree or Ken & Mary Tree — 20 Minutes

Next, the tour swings by to see one of Hokkaido’s most beloved winter landmarks: the Christmas Tree or Ken & Mary Tree. Depending on conditions like traffic or road closures, the guide may adjust the stop to ensure you get the best scenery of the day.

This spot is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s a local tradition to admire these beautifully decorated trees with their glowing lights and often snow-covered surroundings. Travelers often comment on how stunning the views are, especially with the snow adding a magical touch.

Shirahige Falls — 30 Minutes

From there, you’ll head to the White Beard Falls, where the deep-blue water contrasts stunningly with snow-covered cliffs and frosty surroundings. The name “Shirahige” (White Beard) hints at the waterfall’s appearance, especially in winter when steam and frost create a dreamlike landscape.

Expect a quiet, almost mystical atmosphere, perfect for photography or simply soaking in nature’s winter artistry. Some reviews mention the steam rising from the falls, adding to the scene’s surreal feel. It’s a short but sweet stop that highlights the power and serenity of Hokkaido’s waterfalls in winter.

More Great Tours Nearby

Blue Pond — 20 Minutes

Arguably Hokkaido’s most photographed natural wonder, the Blue Pond offers a postcard-perfect setting. The stunning turquoise waters reflect the surrounding frozen trees and sky, creating a scene that feels more like a painting than reality.

We found the reflections of frozen birch trees especially captivating, and many visitors agree that it’s a must-see. The limited time here (20 minutes) makes it a quick photo stop, but it’s enough to capture some outstanding images. Remember to bundle up—this spot is outdoors and exposed to the elements.

Rest Stop — 10 Minutes

A short break allows everyone to stretch, use the restroom, and purchase snacks or drinks. It’s a good moment to regroup before heading back to Sapporo. The bus’s comfortable seats and warm environment make this a relaxing pause.

Return Journey — 1 Hour 40 Minutes

Relax on the bus as you head back to central Sapporo. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day or chat with fellow travelers. The tour ends around 5:40 pm, with drop-off at the city’s core or your hotel if that option was chosen.

Transport and Logistics

The round-trip bus is a significant value, providing a comfortable, hassle-free way to move between locations. The timed schedule maximizes sightseeing but might leave some wishing for a little more time at each stop. With a small group size (max 9 people), the experience feels intimate and flexible for questions or quick photo stops.

The driver-guide not only navigates safely but also provides insights in Chinese, English, or Japanese, depending on your preference. This multilingual aspect enhances understanding and makes the trip more engaging, especially for non-Japanese speakers.

Pricing and Value

While the tour isn’t the cheapest option, the cost includes transportation, a multilingual guide, and entrance tickets to Asahiyama Zoo. This bundled price offers good value, especially considering the convenience of avoiding ticket queues and the effort of planning each stop independently.

It’s a well-balanced experience for those who want a full day of scenic highlights without the stress of driving or navigating public transport. If you’re after timed, curated sightseeing in winter, this tour earns positive marks for efficiency and effort to showcase the best.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers with limited time who want to see multiple highlights in one go. It’s particularly great for families, first-timers, or those who prefer guided tours to maximize their day. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will also appreciate the opportunity to capture iconic winter landscapes with minimal hassle.

However, if you like to linger longer at each location or explore off the beaten path, you might find the tight schedule a bit restrictive. But overall, it’s a practical, scenic, and enjoyable way to experience some of Hokkaido’s winter treasures.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a fantastic snapshot of Hokkaido’s winter beauty in one well-organized day. From the fascinating Asahiyama Zoo to the awe-inspiring Blue Pond and tranquil waterfalls, the stops are thoughtfully chosen for their visual appeal and uniqueness. The comfortable transportation, multilingual guide, and flexible meeting options make it accessible and convenient, especially for those unfamiliar with the area or language.

It’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning or self-driving. The focus on scenery and the ease of logistics make this an excellent option for families, couples, or solo explorers seeking a scenic winter escape.

If you’re craving stunning views and a smoothly run, guided experience, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments in Hokkaido.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, you can opt for hotel pickup if your accommodation is within 3 km of JR Sapporo Station. Be sure to be ready in the lobby 10 minutes before departure.

What languages are guides available in?
The driver-guide speaks Chinese, English, and Japanese, making the tour accessible for a variety of travelers.

How long do I spend at each stop?
The schedule allows approximately 2 hours at Asahiyama Zoo, 20 minutes at the Tree Spot, 30 minutes at Shirahige Falls, 20 minutes at Blue Pond, and a brief rest, with the rest of the time allocated for travel and brief stops.

Are tickets included?
Yes, entrance tickets to Asahiyama Zoo are included, so you won’t need to worry about buying them separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The stops are fixed, but the guide may adjust the sequence or timing depending on traffic or weather conditions for the best experience.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, gloves, and comfortable shoes suitable for winter weather, as some stops are outdoors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Infants do not have reserved seats.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon drop-off.

What if I want to skip a stop?
The schedule is fixed; skipping stops isn’t typically possible, but the guide may make adjustments based on conditions.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size and organized nature make it a good option for solo travelers wanting a structured sightseeing day.

This guided adventure in Hokkaido combines scenic beauty with convenience, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a stress-free, scenic winter day in Japan’s northernmost island.

You can check availability for your dates here: