We Rank The 7 Best Tours In Asahikawa

Asahikawa might not be as famous as Sapporo or Hakodate, but it holds a special place for travelers who want to experience Japan’s northern charm in a more authentic and less crowded setting. What makes Asahikawa stand out? Its unique wildlife encounters at Asahiyama Zoo, stunning winter landscapes, and local cultural spots. For instance, a tour exploring the Blue Pond combined with wildlife watching offers a memorable blend of nature and animal fun. Many visitors love the opportunity to see polar bears and penguins, especially since Asahiyama Zoo is known for its innovative enclosures that bring animals to life in naturalistic habitats. We particularly recommend the Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue pond Tour with Local Guide, which combines wildlife, scenic beauty, and expert guidance for a well-rounded day.

If you’re after winter adventure or cultural insights, Asahikawa has options too. The tours cover everything from drift ice cruises to local sake tastings, making it a versatile base for exploration. This guide will walk you through each of the top seven tours, helping you find the perfect match for your interests and schedule.

Quick Overview

Our list includes wildlife-focused trips, scenic tours in autumn and winter, multi-day adventures, and private festival experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or luxury traveler, you’ll find options that suit your style. Here’s a quick snapshot:
– Wildlife and nature: Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue pond Tour
– Snowy landscapes & waterfalls: Hokkaido Tour: Snowy Landscapes & Polar Animals & Waterfalls
– Winter wildlife & icebreaker: Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo & Icebreaker GARINKO GO Sunset Tour
– Autumn foliage & scenic views: Kurodake Ropeway & Asahiyama Zoo Autumn Leaves Tour
– Multi-day exploration: 3-Day Small-Group Tour: Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano & Otaru
– Day trip from Sapporo: Sapporo: Asahikawa, Biei and Furano day Tour
– Festival experience: Heiwa-dori Ice Festival Private Day Tour

Now, let’s look at each tour in detail.

1. Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo& Biei Blue pond Tour with Local Guide

This tour offers a fantastic combination of wildlife and scenery, making it perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded day. For just $69 per person, you’ll visit Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its inventive animal enclosures that allow close-up views of polar bears, penguins, and seals. The zoo is especially engaging for families or wildlife enthusiasts who love seeing animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The tour also takes you to Shirogane Blue Pond, a site renowned for its tranquil, otherworldly beauty. The vivid blue water against the surrounding trees is a sight to behold, especially if you’re visiting during the mid-May to September window when the all-you-can-eat melon buffet is available—an unexpected treat that adds local flavor to your experience.

Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour offers reassurance and insight into the region’s natural wonders. The combination of animal encounters and scenic landscapes makes this a top choice for those wanting a relaxed yet enriching day. The value is excellent considering the mix of activities and the guided experience.

Bottom Line: A family-friendly, scenic, and wildlife-focused tour that balances fun with cultural insights. It’s perfect for travelers who want both animals and stunning natural scenery.

2. Hokkaido Tour: Snowy Landscapes & Polar Animals & Waterfalls

At number 2, this full-day adventure offers a well-curated experience, departing from Sapporo and covering multiple highlights like Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Waterfall, and the iconic Seven Star Tree or Ken & Mary Tree in Biei. The tour emphasizes winter landscapes and polar wildlife, making it a great choice for those visiting in the colder months.

During the visit to Asahiyama Zoo, you’ll witness the penguin walk show, a highlight for many visitors. The waterfall is especially stunning in winter, with ice and snow creating a magical scene. The stops at Biei’s unique trees provide excellent photo opportunities, especially for who love landscape photography. The itinerary is thoughtfully paced, with a buffet lunch included, ensuring you stay energized amidst the sightseeing. The bus transportation makes the journey comfortable, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the views.

The tour has a 4.6/5 rating, with travelers praising the seamless logistics and array of sights. If you’re keen on seeing polar animals and winter scenery, this tour offers memorable sights and engaging stops.

Bottom Line: Ideal for winter travelers wanting a mix of wildlife, waterfalls, and striking scenery, all with the convenience of a guided bus tour.

3. Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, Icebreaker GARINKO GO Sunset Tour

For those craving a winter wildlife experience combined with a thrill on the ice, this 13-hour tour is a standout. Starting at Asahiyama Zoo, you’ll get to observe animals like polar bears and penguins in their thoughtfully designed enclosures. The zoo visit is about two hours, giving you ample time to explore and enjoy the exhibits.

The highlight, however, is the icebreaker cruise aboard GARINKO GO III, where you’ll sail through breathtaking drift ice fields. With luck, you’ll spot eagles, gulls, and curious seals up close, making it a photographer’s dream. The sunset cruise provides extraordinary views of the icy landscape, offering a peaceful, almost surreal, end to your day.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to combine animal observation with a unique Arctic-style boat ride. It’s a long day with a price tag of $159 but offers a rare, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Guests comment on the “unforgettable experience of drifting through the ice,” making it clear this tour leaves a lasting impression. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long days and cold weather.

Bottom Line: A spectacular, adventurous option for winter travelers eager to combine wildlife viewing with icy sea journeys.

4. Kurodake Ropeway, Asahiyama Zoo Autumn Leaves Tour

This seasonal tour is perfect for autumn travelers wanting to see Hokkaido’s famous fall foliage. It combines a ride on the Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway—which offers panoramic views of vibrant autumn colors—with a visit to Asahiyama Zoo. The zoo’s exhibits will be lively with polar bears, penguins, and other animals, providing a nice contrast to the quiet, colorful landscape outside.

Additional highlights include a visit to Otokoyama Sake Park, where you can learn about local brewing techniques and sample some of Hokkaido’s best sake. The tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Although no review ratings are available, the price of $111 per person suggests good value, especially if you love autumn scenery and local sake.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers visiting in fall, this tour combines scenic mountain views with wildlife and a taste of regional sake culture.

5. 3-Day Small-Group Tour: Sapporo, Asahikawa, Furano & Otaru

This comprehensive 3-day tour offers a deep dive into Hokkaido’s key destinations. Staying in Sapporo each night makes logistics easier and allows for more relaxed exploration. Highlights include the famous Lake Shikotsu, the adorable animals at Asahiyama Zoo, and the romantic Otaru Canal. The itinerary balances nature, wildlife, and cultural sights, making it ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without rushing.

The tour emphasizes a small group setting, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable ride through snowy or scenic routes. The driver is experienced, and the tour includes free time for exploring on your own. The trip is suitable for those who prefer an immersive experience over a quick visit, with plenty of opportunities for photo opportunities and local cuisine.

Guests note the well-organized schedule and friendly guides, with reviews highlighting the value of a multi-day itinerary that covers both rural and city highlights.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed exploration of Hokkaido’s best spots over several days.

6. Sapporo: Asahikawa, Biei and Furano day Tour in small group

This 10-hour day trip from Sapporo offers a flexible way to see Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano. The tour features carefully curated itineraries catering to various interests, whether you’re into flower fields, scenic mountain views, or cute rural towns. The small-group format (max 9 guests) means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the comfortable van makes the drive pleasant even in winter.

Highlights include visits to Shirahige Waterfall, the Seven Stars Tree, and the local forests. You’ll also enjoy a lunch break and time to explore Otokoyama Sake Park or other sites. The flexible schedule makes it suitable for travelers who want to see the highlights without a multi-day commitment.

This tour has a 4/5 rating, with reviews mentioning the expert driver and beautiful scenery. However, due to the winter schedule, some guides may speak Chinese/Japanese instead of English, which is worth considering.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a full day of scenic sightseeing with a small group, ideal for those staying in Sapporo who want a taste of Asahikawa and beyond.

7. Sapporo: Heiwa-dori Ice Festival Private Day Tour

If you prefer a personalized experience, this private day tour offers the chance to explore the Asahikawa Winter Festival at your own pace. You’ll marvel at giant snow sculptures, slide down a 100-meter ice slide, and walk through a snow maze. The private aspect means it’s customizable, perfect for families or groups wanting an intimate look at the festival.

The tour also includes a visit to the Heiwa-dori Shopping Park, where you can sample local snacks like Asahikawa Ramen. With a flexible schedule and dedicated guide, this option is especially good for travelers who want an exclusive experience during Japan’s winter festivals.

Reviews are limited, but the focus on festival highlights and private access makes this a unique option. It’s ideal for those looking for a customizable, immersive festival experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for festival fans who want a tailored, private day trip with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

How to Choose

When selecting the right tour in Asahikawa, consider your interests and schedule. If wildlife and scenic landscapes are your top priority, the Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue pond Tour offers excellent value and variety. For winter adventure seekers, the Icebreaker GARINKO GO Sunset Tour provides a thrilling experience on ice.

Travelers with more time might prefer the 3-day multi-destination trip, while those wanting a personalized festival experience should consider the Heiwa-dori Ice Festival Private Tour. Budget, activity level, and whether you want guided comfort or independence will help narrow your choices.

Booking early, especially for popular winter tours, is advisable to secure your spot. Also, check the weather conditions, as winter and spring seasons influence what’s possible.

Final Thoughts

Asahikawa offers a rich variety of tours suited for many types of travelers. From wildlife and scenic beauty to winter adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for all. For families, the zoo-based tours are perfect, while adventure lovers will enjoy the icebreaker cruise. If you’re after a more relaxed or private experience, the festival tours fit the bill.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a multi-day trip, these tours can help you make the most of your time in this charming city. Remember, booking early will give you the best chance to enjoy these unique experiences in Asahikawa.