Exploring Hokkaido’s winter wonderland doesn’t get much better than the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour. This well-rounded excursion takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s renowned attractions, from the whimsical Asahiyama Zoo to the picturesque Shirahige Waterfall. With a delicious local lunch and insightful cultural commentary from professional guides, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the true highlight may just be witnessing the enchanting landscapes that make Hokkaido a true winter paradise.
This experience made it into our ranking of the 5 best tours in Asahikawa.
Key Points
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This 10-hour tour departs from Sapporo and visits Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace, allowing guests to explore Hokkaido’s winter attractions.
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The tour includes 1.5 hours of free time at Asahiyama Zoo, 20 minutes at Shirahige Waterfall, and a 1-hour local buffet lunch.
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The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Professional guides provide insights into Hokkaido’s culture, and guests praise their knowledge and enthusiasm, making for an immersive winter experience.
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Asahiyama Zoo is closed from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and the tour may be subject to changes due to weather conditions or natural disasters.
Tour Overview
The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, priced from $51.98 per person.
This 10-hour tour is accessible for wheelchair users and available in English, Chinese, and Japanese. Guests can choose small group options and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour visits Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace, with a 1-hour local buffet lunch.
Transportation is provided by bus, with meeting points and drop-off locations in Sapporo. Professional guides offer insights into Hokkaido’s culture and attractions throughout the tour.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing from either the Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel or the Sapporo Tourist Information Center, the tour first takes guests to Asahiyama Zoo, where they’ll enjoy 1.5 hours of free time to explore the zoo’s renowned penguin walk and interactive exhibits. Next, the group visits Shirahige Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder particularly beautiful in the winter. The tour then continues to Ningle Terrace, a fairy-tale-like village filled with artisan shops. Depending on the itinerary, the group will also stop at either the Seven Stars Tree or the Ken & Mary Tree before enjoying a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring local specialties.
| Destination | Duration |
|---|---|
| Asahiyama Zoo | 1.5 hours |
| Shirahige Waterfall | 20 minutes |
| Ningle Terrace | N/A |
| Seven Stars Tree or Ken & Mary Tree | N/A |
| Lunch | 1 hour |
Transportation and Logistics
Guests embark on the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour via bus transportation from Sapporo.
The tour departs from either the Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel or the Sapporo Tourist Information Center, depending on the booking option. At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off at the same starting locations.
It’s important to adhere to the schedule, as the tour won’t wait for late arrivals. The itinerary may be subject to changes due to weather conditions.
For minibus or hiace tours, the driver will provide commentary instead of a dedicated guide.
Customer Experience
Professional guides provide insights into Hokkaido’s culture and attractions, enhancing the customer experience.
Guests praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, such as Lisa, for their enthusiasm and expertise in local food and sights.
The comprehensive nature of the tour is also a highlight, allowing visitors to experience a variety of Hokkaido’s winter wonders, from the mesmerizing Shirahige Waterfall to the enchanting Ningle Terrace.
The included buffet lunch featuring local specialties is another welcomed addition, providing a chance to savor the region’s culinary delights.
The tour offers a well-rounded and immersive exploration of Hokkaido’s winterscape.
- Knowledgeable guides
- Comprehensive itinerary
- Local cuisine experience
- Insightful cultural commentary
Important Information
Although the Asahiyama Zoo is a highlight of the tour, guests should be aware that the zoo will be closed from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025, for scheduled maintenance. Travelers should also be prepared for the possibility of tour cancellations or itinerary adjustments due to natural disasters or severe weather conditions. In such cases, the tour company will work to provide alternative arrangements or refunds as necessary.
| Potential Disruptions | Impact |
|---|---|
| Attraction Closures | Asahiyama Zoo closed Dec 30, 2024 – Jan 1, 2025 |
| Natural Disasters | Tours may be canceled or adjusted |
| Severe Weather | Tours may be canceled or adjusted |
Guests should also note that the tour format may vary, with driver-led commentary on minibus or hiace tours instead of a dedicated guide.
Booking and Reservations
To book the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour, travelers can select from various starting location options.
The tour offers convenient pickup points, including:
- Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel
- Sapporo Tourist Information Center
Reservations can be made online or by contacting the tour operator directly. Customers should provide their preferred pickup location and any dietary requirements for the included buffet lunch.
The tour has a small group size option, and wheelchair accessibility is available. Booking in advance is recommended, as spaces are limited, especially during peak travel seasons.
What to Bring
When packing for the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour, visitors should dress warmly in layers to prepare for the chilly Hokkaido weather. Here are some essential items to bring:
| Item | Importance |
|---|---|
| Warm Coat | Crucial for staying comfortable in the cold |
| Gloves | Keep hands protected from the elements |
| Hat and Scarf | Trap body heat and shield face from the wind |
| Sturdy Boots | Provide traction on snow and ice |
| Portable Charger | Ensure your camera and phone stay powered |
| Snacks and Water | Fuel up during the day’s activities |
Plus, bringing a small backpack or daypack can help carry these essentials while keeping your hands free.
Additional Recommendations
On top of the essential items, visitors may find several additional recommendations useful for their Asahiyama Zoo winter adventure.
These include:
- Hand and toe warmers to combat the cold temperatures
- A portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day
- A waterproof or water-resistant outer layer to protect against the elements
- Binoculars to enhance the wildlife viewing experience at the zoo
Packing these extra items can help ensure a comfortable and memorable tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the winter wonderland of Asahiyama Zoo.
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Things To Know
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
There’s no specific dress code for the tour. Visitors are advised to dress warmly with layers, as the weather can be cold, especially during the winter months. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
Is There Any Free Time for Exploring Sapporo on My Own?
The tour provides free time at Asahiyama Zoo, allowing visitors to explore the zoo’s exhibits like the penguin walk. However, there is no dedicated free time for exploring Sapporo on your own during this guided day trip.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some tours may have specific policies or lunch arrangements included in the itinerary.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Limited Mobility?
The tour is accessible for those with limited mobility, as it’s wheelchair-accessible. The itinerary includes stops with facilities and features catered to visitors with special needs, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Extra Activities?
The tour offers a standard 10-hour itinerary, but there doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the duration or add extra activities. Travelers should plan accordingly, as the schedule appears fixed based on the provided information.
Sum Up
The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Hokkaido’s winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Asahiyama Zoo, marvel at the Shirahige Waterfall, and explore the charming Ningle Terrace, all while enjoying a delicious local buffet lunch. With professional guides and hassle-free transportation, this tour provides an accessible and unforgettable exploration of Hokkaido’s enchanting landscapes.