Nestled in the heart of Sapporo, Asahiyama Zoo offers a truly unique winter experience. Visitors can marvel at the captivating Aoi-Ike Pond, a serene oasis amidst the snowy landscape. From observing the playful antics of cold-weather species to taking in the tranquil views from the pond’s observation decks, this zoo provides a delightful escape from the bustling city. With its enchanting atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Asahiyama Zoo promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
Key Points
- Immerse in the winter wonderland of Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its cold-weather species and innovative enclosures for close encounters with animals.
- Observe the captivating synchronized swimming of penguins, playful frolicking of polar bears, and interactive seals in their icy habitats.
- Explore the serene Aoi-Ike Pond within the zoo grounds, home to diverse waterfowl and offering picturesque winter landscape views.
- Enjoy a hassle-free, air-conditioned transportation service from Sapporo Station North Square to the zoo and back.
- Expect a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 15 travelers, though tour times may be subject to change due to real-time conditions.
Here's some other tours and experiences nearby that we've reviewed.
About Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo, nestled in the heart of Sapporo, Japan, is a premier wildlife attraction renowned for its impressive collection of cold-weather species.
Home to a diverse array of penguins, polar bears, seals, and more, the zoo offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these captivating creatures in a snowy, winter wonderland setting.
With its innovative enclosures and engaging exhibits, Asahiyama Zoo provides an up-close and personal experience, allowing guests to marvel at the adaptations and behaviors of the Arctic and sub-Arctic animals that call this remarkable facility home.
Winter Wonderland at Asahiyama Zoo
Nestled amidst Sapporo’s snowy landscape, Asahiyama Zoo transforms into a captivating winter wonderland, offering visitors a chance to experience the arctic and sub-arctic animals in their natural, snow-covered habitats. During the winter months, the zoo showcases the intriguing behaviors of its penguin, polar bear, and seal residents as they thrive in the icy conditions. Visitors can marvel at the penguins’ synchronized swimming, watch the polar bears frolic in the snow, and observe the seals’ playful interactions. The winter tour provides a unique opportunity to witness these fascinating creatures in their element.
| Wildlife | Behavior | Exhibits |
|---|---|---|
| Penguins | Synchronized Swimming | Penguin Parade |
| Polar Bears | Frolicking in Snow | Polar Bear Forest |
| Seals | Playful Interactions | Seal Lagoon |
Highlights of the Zoo
As visitors explore the sprawling grounds of Asahiyama Zoo, they’ll discover a captivating array of animal exhibits that highlight the region’s diverse wildlife.
Guests can marvel at the playful antics of penguins and seals, observe polar bears roaming in snowy enclosures, and catch glimpses of Japan’s iconic red-crested cranes.
The zoo’s unique underground tunnels allow for close encounters with some of the animals.
From the penguin parade to the seal show, Asahiyama Zoo offers a truly immersive experience that celebrates the beauty of its northern landscapes and the resilience of its animal inhabitants.
Visiting the Aoi-Ike Pond
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the serene Aoi-Ike Pond, located within the Asahiyama Zoo grounds. The peaceful body of water is home to various waterfowl, including swans and ducks, which visitors can observe up close.
The pond’s reflective surface creates a picturesque scene, especially when the surrounding trees are adorned with snow in the winter. Visitors can pause at the observation decks to admire the tranquil landscape and snap memorable photos.
The Aoi-Ike Pond offers a relaxing respite from the bustling zoo, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the winter wonderland.
Transportation and Meeting Details
For the Asahiyama Zoo tour, the air-conditioned vehicle picks up travelers from the Sapporo Station North Square.
The tour ends at the same location, making it convenient for visitors. The transportation is stroller-accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Being near public transit options, the meeting point is easily accessible. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
However, tour times may change due to real-time conditions, and delays can occur without compensation.
It’s essential to confirm booking details within 48 hours if reserved close to the travel date.
Tour Inclusions and Costs
The admission fee for Asahiyama Zoo is included in the tour cost. While lunch at the zoo’s facilities is at the customer’s own expense, the tour provides a hassle-free experience. Though an English interpreter is available, no sightseeing explanation is offered. Infants 2 and under can join the tour for free, but a seat is required for older children.
| Tour Details | Cost |
|---|---|
| Admission | Included |
| Lunch | Not Included |
| English Interpreter | Available |
| Children 2 and under | Free (no seat) |
Important Information and Conditions
Confirmation is received at booking, or within 48 hours if booked within 3 days of travel.
Delays due to traffic or weather are possible, but no compensation is provided. Staying times at each spot may change based on real-time conditions. The tour may be canceled due to bad weather.
The maximum group size is 45 travelers. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and customers can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
The approximate return time is 18:00.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
The Asahiyama Zoo tour can accommodate a maximum of 45 travelers. Booking and cancellation policies provide flexibility for visitors. There’s a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for more planning convenience. The return time for the tour is approximately 6:00 PM.
| Booking and Cancellation Policy | |
|---|---|
| Maximum Travelers | 45 |
| Free Cancellation | Up to 24 hours before start |
| Reservation | Reserve now, pay later |
| Return Time | ~6:00 PM |
| Confirmation | Within 48 hours if booked 3 days prior |
More Of Our Reviews In This Region
- Sapporo: Bibai Snowland, Otaru & Shiroi Koibito Park Trip
- Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei, Ningle Terrace Full-Day Trip
- Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Ningle Terrace Tour
- Sapporo: Guided Lunch Tour in Nijo Market in Sosei East
- Japanese Buckwheat Noodle Making Experience in Sapporo,Japan
- Hokkaido Tour❘Otaru,Shiroikoibito Park,Snowland From Sapporo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Food or Drink Available for Purchase at the Zoo?
Food and drinks are available for purchase at Asahiyama Zoo. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the zoo’s cafeteria during their tour. However, the tour package does not include lunch, so it’s at the customers’ own expense.
Can We Extend Our Stay at the Zoo Beyond the Tour?
Travelers can’t extend their stay at the zoo beyond the tour time. The tour is a fixed itinerary, and participants must return to the end point at the scheduled time. There’s no option to explore the zoo further on your own.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions, but infants 2 and under can attend for free without a seat. Older children require a paid seat. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
Is It Possible to Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks to the Asahiyama Zoo tour. Lunch at the zoo is available at the customers’ own expense, but bringing outside food and beverages is permitted during the self-guided zoo visit.
Can We Request a Different Pickup or Drop-Off Location?
Yes, you can request a different pickup or drop-off location in downtown Sapporo. The tour provides air-conditioned vehicle transport and will accommodate your request, though the main meeting point is at Sapporo Station North Square.
WEe've also reviewed these experiences happening neaby
- SkyExpress Private Transfer: Sapporo to Furano (8 Passengers)
- Private Ski and Snowboard Lesson in Sapporo or Otaru With a Coach
- Hokkaido Day Trip From Sapporo Biei, Aoike, Furano Sea of Flowers
- SkyExpress Private Transfer: Sapporo to Rusutsu (8 Passengers)
- Snow View Sauna in Naganuma
- NEW Icebreakers GARINKO GO Ⅲ CRUISE and SOUNKYO ICE FALL FESTIVAL
- [Shibazakura / Tulip] Going by Private Car, Shibazakura Takinoue Park and Kamiyubetsu Tulip Park (From Sapporo)
- Chitose River Wildlife Watching Rafting and Moor Hot Spring Bath
- Snow Venture in Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill
- Private Transfer From Sapporo Hotels to Muroran Cruise Port
- Horse Riding
- Private Transfer From Sapporo Hotels to Otaru Cruise Port
- Private Day Trip to Asahiyama Zoo and Biei Blue Pond
- 7 Hour Day Trip Otaru From Sapporo by Public Transportation
- Private Transfer From Sapporo City Hotels to Otaru Cruise Port
The Sum Up
Asahiyama Zoo and the serene Aoi-Ike Pond offer a unique winter experience. Visitors can marvel at the captivating cold-weather species and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the reflective pond. With easy transportation and inclusive tour packages, it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a rejuvenating escape in Sapporo’s snowy landscape.