Day Tour to Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls With Lunch

For those seeking an immersive exploration of Hokkaido’s natural wonders, this comprehensive day tour presents an unparalleled opportunity. Witness the captivating "penguin march" at Asahiyama Zoo, bask in the mesmerizing azure hues of the Blue Pond, and marvel at the breathtaking Shirahige Falls. With convenient transportation and a delightful local lunch, this tour seamlessly combines Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes and wildlife into a truly unforgettable experience. Nature enthusiasts and sightseers alike will find this tour an excellent choice, leaving them eager to uncover the secrets that lie ahead.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Sapporo.

Key Points

• This comprehensive full-day tour takes visitors to Hokkaido’s renowned natural attractions, including Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, and Shirahige Falls.
• The tour includes a delectable lunch and provides comfortable transportation, with pickup and drop-off at the iconic Sapporo TV Tower.
• Highlights of the tour include witnessing the famous ‘penguin march’ at Asahiyama Zoo and admiring the mesmerizing blue hues of the Blue Pond.
• Lunch in Sapporo offers an opportunity to sample local cuisine, such as Sapporo-style ramen and fresh Hokkaido seafood.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 45 travelers and may not be wheelchair accessible, but the operator ensures inclusive participation to the best of their abilities.

Overview of the Tour

Spanning a full day, this comprehensive tour whisks visitors to some of Hokkaido’s most renowned natural attractions – Asahiyama Zoo, the ethereal Blue Pond, and the cascading Shirahige Falls, complemented by a delectable lunch.

Guests will be picked up from the iconic Sapporo TV Tower in the morning and embark on a comfortable journey to explore these captivating destinations.

At Asahiyama Zoo, they’ll witness the fascinating penguin parades, a winter-exclusive highlight.

Next, the tour will unveil the mesmerizing Blue Pond, renowned for its vivid blue hues, before concluding at the serene Shirahige Falls.

Throughout the day, travelers will savor a delightful lunch, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Highlights of the Itinerary

This tour offers visitors a chance to explore some of Hokkaido’s most captivating natural wonders, starting with the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. Here, guests can witness the renowned ‘penguin march,’ a winter-exclusive event where the graceful birds parade through the zoo.

Next, the tour takes guests to the serene Blue Pond, a mesmerizing body of water famous for its striking blue hue.

Lastly, the group will visit the breathtaking Shirahige Falls, where they’ll be treated to a delightful lunch amidst the stunning natural scenery.

Throughout the journey, travelers will be immersed in Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, creating unforgettable memories of their time in this captivating region of Japan.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour begins with a pickup from the Sapporo TV Tower, located at 1 Chome Odorinishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0042, Japan, with a scheduled departure time of 07:40 a.m.

The transportation for the day is provided, ensuring a hassle-free journey. Guests will be picked up from the meeting point and transported to the various destinations throughout the tour.

The return trip at the end of the day also starts from the Sapporo TV Tower, the same as the pickup location. This convenient arrangement allows participants to focus on enjoying the sights and experiences without worrying about logistics.

Asahiyama Zoo Admission

The tour includes admission to Asahiyama Zoo, allowing visitors to explore the diverse collection of wildlife housed within its expansive grounds.

As one of Hokkaido’s premier attractions, the zoo is renowned for its innovative enclosures and unique animal behaviors. Visitors can witness the famous penguin parade, where the flightless birds march in a synchronized display.

Other highlights include the polar bear exhibit, where these majestic creatures swim gracefully underwater, and the chimpanzee house, offering a glimpse into the social dynamics of our closest genetic relatives.

With admission included in the tour package, guests can make the most of their time at Asahiyama Zoo, seeing the wonders of the natural world.

Lunch in Sapporo

After exploring the wonders of Asahiyama Zoo, the tour includes a lunch stop in Sapporo, allowing participants to sample the local cuisine and refuel for the remainder of the day’s activities.

The lunch provides a chance to experience Sapporo’s vibrant food scene. Highlights may include:

• Trying the famous Sapporo-style ramen, known for its rich, creamy broth and tender noodles.
• Savoring the fresh seafood that Hokkaido is renowned for, such as succulent crab or sashimi.
• Indulging in Hokkaido’s renowned dairy products, like the region’s creamy, delectable ice cream.

This lunch break offers a delicious and rejuvenating interlude as the tour continues on to the stunning Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls.

Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls

Following the tour’s lunch in Sapporo, the day takes visitors to two breathtaking natural wonders – the ethereal Blue Pond and the majestic Shirahige Falls.

The Blue Pond, known for its vibrant blue hue, is a picturesque man-made pond located in the town of Biei. Visitors are captivated by the pond’s unique coloration, which is created by the natural minerals in the water.

Next, the tour heads to Shirahige Falls, a stunning two-tiered waterfall that cascades over a towering rock formation. Surrounded by lush greenery, the falls offer a serene and peaceful setting for visitors to admire the power of nature.

Both the Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls provide an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the region.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Should the tour be canceled due to insufficient travelers, a full refund will be provided. Travelers may also request a refund if they need to cancel their participation, subject to the tour operator’s policies.

The tour operator’s cancellation and refund policy is as follows:

1. Confirmation of the tour is subject to availability and will be provided within 48 hours of booking.
2. The tour may be canceled if there are insufficient travelers, in which case a full refund will be issued.
3. Travelers who need to cancel their participation can request a refund, but this is subject to the tour operator’s policies.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. The itinerary is also subject to change based on operating hours and conditions.

Tour Capacity and Accessibility

The tour has a maximum capacity of 45 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most participants can join the activities.

This day tour is designed for mobile travelers who can comfortably navigate the various sites and activities.

While the Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, and Shirahige Falls may have some uneven terrain or stairs, the tour operator ensures that everyone can participate to the best of their abilities.

Itinerary changes may occur due to operating hours and weather conditions, but the tour remains flexible to accommodate all guests.

With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, this tour give you an enjoyable experience for a wide range of travelers within the specified group size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Special Diet for the Lunch?

Yes, travelers can request special dietary requirements for the lunch. The tour operator is typically able to accommodate various dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, if notified in advance.

Is Photography Allowed at the Asahiyama Zoo?

Photography is generally allowed at Asahiyama Zoo, though visitors should follow any posted rules or staff instructions. Visitors can capture photos of the animals and exhibits, but must avoid disturbing the animals or disrupting the zoo’s operations.

Can I Extend My Stay at Any of the Destinations?

Unfortunately, the tour does not provide the option to extend your stay at any of the destinations. The tour is a scheduled day trip with a fixed itinerary and return time. Extending your visit would require making separate arrangements.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour provider offers discounted rates for seniors and children. Seniors aged 65 and above receive a 10% discount, while children aged 6-12 years old get a 5% discount off the regular tour price. Advance booking is required to receive these special rates.

How Much Free Time Is Allowed at Each Attraction?

The tour provides approximately 60-90 minutes of free time at each attraction, allowing visitors to explore the sights at their own pace. The duration may vary depending on operating conditions and the group’s needs.

Recap

This comprehensive Hokkaido day tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the captivating natural wonders of the region.

Travelers will be enchanted by the iconic penguin march at Asahiyama Zoo, the mesmerizing Blue Pond, and the breathtaking Shirahige Falls.

With convenient transportation, a delightful local lunch, and hassle-free arrangements, this tour caters perfectly to nature enthusiasts and sightseers alike, delivering an unforgettable Hokkaido experience.