Hokkaido Highlights of Flower Blossom, Asahiyama Zoo & Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’!

Hokkaido, Japan’s northern island, boasts a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy vibrant flower carpets, from lavender fields to canola blooms, set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Pond and Daisetsuzan National Park. Exploring the renowned Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its Penguin Walk and Polar Bear House, offers a chance to witness the playful antics of beloved wildlife. Meanwhile, engaging with local artisans through cottage workshops provides a glimpse into the region’s traditional Ainu crafts and the opportunity to create personalized souvenirs. This comprehensive tour promises to unveil the best of Hokkaido’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Key Points

• This tour showcases the stunning natural beauty of Hokkaido, including vibrant flower carpets, the unique Blue Pond, and the captivating Asahiyama Zoo.
• Visitors can explore a variety of colorful floral displays, such as lavender, canola, and wildflowers, during the different seasons.
• The tour includes a visit to the Asahiyama Zoo, where guests can witness the Penguin Walk, Polar Bear House, and other wildlife exhibits.
• The Blue Pond, with its striking azure blue color and reflective surface, is a must-see natural wonder on the tour.
• The tour also features visits to local cottage workshops, where travelers can interact with artisans and learn about traditional crafts and culture.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, a driver/guide, and all activities, as well as lunch at the Asahiyama Zoo.

Travelers can expect to experience the natural beauty around Sapporo, including carpets of colorful flowers in season, the iconic Blue Pond, and visits to cottage workshops and famous trees.

The tour is suitable for families, with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and infants are welcome to sit on laps.

While no detailed sightseeing guidance is provided, the tour promises to deliver a comprehensive Hokkaido highlights experience.

With a maximum of 45 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of this natural wonderland.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, and the end point is the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. The tour starts at 7:50 am.

This convenient pickup and drop-off arrangement allows guests to easily access the tour from their accommodations and return to the city center afterward.

The tour utilizes an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey as participants explore the natural wonders around Sapporo.

This tour is highly accessible, being wheelchair and stroller friendly, and located near public transportation.

While the schedule may change due to traffic or other incidents, the tour operator strives to provide a seamless experience for all travelers.

Sapporo Scenic Highlights

Hokkaido Highlights of Flower Blossom, Asahiyama Zoo & Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’!

Sapporo Scenic Highlights

After being picked up at the Sapporo hotel and dropped off at the city’s main station, travelers on this tour can expect to witness Sapporo’s scenic highlights.

From colorful floral displays to unique natural formations, the tour showcases the region’s diverse natural beauty. Visitors will be awed by the stunning Blue Pond, which gets its vibrant hue from the mineral-rich water.

They’ll also have the chance to visit famous trees and cottage workshops, offering a glimpse into the local culture. Whether it’s the lush greenery of the Asahiyama Zoo or the seasonal blooms, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Sapporo’s natural wonders.

Colorful Flower Carpets

Vibrant carpets of colorful flowers adorn the scenic landscapes throughout Hokkaido’s warmer months, captivating visitors with their natural beauty. From fields of lavender and canola to meadows of vibrant wildflowers, the region’s diverse flora paints a breathtaking picture. These flower-filled vistas offer the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking, photography, or simply taking in the serene surroundings.

Flower Variety	Bloom Season	Location
Lavender	June-August	Furano
Canola	May-June	Biei
Wildflowers	July-September	Daisetsuzan National Park

Exploring Hokkaido’s vibrant flower carpets is a must-do for any visitor, providing a truly unforgettable and enchanting experience.

Asahiyama Zoo Adventure

Hokkaido Highlights of Flower Blossom, Asahiyama Zoo & Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’!

Nestled amidst Hokkaido’s natural wonders, Asahiyama Zoo captivates visitors with its diverse array of animal inhabitants and immersive exhibits.

The zoo’s highlight attractions include:

• The Penguin Walk, where visitors can observe the playful antics of penguins as they navigate their enclosure.
• The Polar Bear House, offering a rare opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment.
• The Chimpanzee House, where guests can observe the intelligent and social behaviors of our closest genetic relatives.
• The Kamuy Forest, a lush, forested area home to a variety of indigenous Hokkaido wildlife.

Asahiyama Zoo’s commitment to conservation and education makes it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts exploring the region.

Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’

Hokkaido Highlights of Flower Blossom, Asahiyama Zoo & Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’!

Blue Pond ‘Aoi-Ike’

Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido’s lush forests, the Blue Pond, or ‘Aoi-Ike’ in Japanese, captivates visitors with its mesmerizing hue of azure blue.

Fed by mineral-rich spring water, the pond’s vibrant color comes from the presence of aluminum hydroxide in the water.

Visitors can stroll along wooden boardwalks and take in the pond’s stunning reflections, surrounded by the verdant beauty of the forest.

Though the pond is particularly famous for its spring-time thaw, when the water takes on an otherworldly glow, it remains a breathtaking sight throughout the year.

Truly a natural wonder, the Blue Pond is a must-see destination for any Hokkaido adventure.

Cottage Workshop Visits

Along the Hokkaido tour, visitors will also have the chance to explore several charming cottage workshops.

These quaint, locally-owned businesses offer a glimpse into the region’s traditional craftsmanship and artisanal skills.

Visitors can:

1. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of making Ainu-inspired woodcarvings and textiles.
2. Browse handmade ceramics, glassware, and other unique souvenirs to take home.
3. Participate in interactive workshops and try their hand at creating their own traditional crafts.
4. Interact with the friendly local artisans and learn about the cultural significance of their work.

These intimate cottage visits provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with Hokkaido’s rich heritage and support the local community.

Tour Schedule and Accessibility

Starting at 7:50 am, the tour departs from the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo and concludes at the Sapporo Station Bus Terminal. Accommodating families, the air-conditioned vehicle is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though infants must sit on laps.

Given potential traffic or other unforeseen incidents, the schedule may change, and the location of floral displays may shift depending on the season.

The tour features natural attractions like the Blue Pond and Asahiyama Zoo, where lunch is provided. With a maximum of 45 travelers, the experience offers limited sightseeing guidance.

Bookings made within 3 days receive confirmation within 48 hours, and the tour is located near public transportation options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and drinks. However, a lunch is already included at the Asahiyama Zoo, so additional meals may not be necessary unless there are specific dietary requirements.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour has a set itinerary and schedule that can’t be changed. If travelers want to spend more time at certain sites, they’ll need to book a private tour or explore on their own.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any senior or student discounts. However, they may offer discounts for certain groups – it’s best to check with them directly about any available offers.

Can We Make Any Changes to the Pre-Set Itinerary?

The tour has a pre-set itinerary, but customers can inquire about making changes. Availability and feasibility of modifications would depend on the tour provider’s policies and schedules. It’s best to discuss any requested changes directly with the tour company.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Flower Fields?

The best time to visit the flower fields is during the peak blooming season, typically from late May to early August. The lush, colorful carpets of flowers are most vibrant and picturesque during this prime time.

Recap

This guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Hokkaido’s natural wonders.

Visitors can enjoy vibrant flower landscapes, discover the renowned Asahiyama Zoo, and marvel at the Blue Pond’s ethereal beauty.

The tour also provides opportunities to engage with local artisans and culture, creating a well-rounded experience that showcases the highlights of this captivating region.