Hokkaido’s autumn season is a captivating symphony of vibrant foliage and natural wonders. This tour promises to immerse visitors in the stunning autumnal splendor, offering a chance to soar above the vibrant landscapes on the Kurodake Ropeway and witness the delightful antics of animal families at the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. With inclusions such as ropeway tickets and zoo admission, this well-rounded experience ensures a seamless and enriching journey. However, what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to fully appreciate Hokkaido’s autumn beauty through a unique blend of natural and wildlife encounters. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into the itinerary and uncover the hidden gems that await.
Key Points
- The autumn leaves tour in Hokkaido showcases the vibrant hues of the region, including stunning views from the Kurodake Ropeway and the charming Asahiyama Zoo.
- The tour includes Kurodake ropeway tickets, Asahiyama Zoo admission, and guide service, but is not suitable for those with certain health conditions or accessibility needs.
- Participants can enjoy diverse lunch options at the zoo, but the itinerary is subject to change due to weather and road conditions, with no refunds for canceled tours.
- Visitors are advised to dress appropriately in layers and bring necessary accessories to enhance their autumn experience and ensure their safety and comfort.
- Guidelines for animal viewing at Asahiyama Zoo include maintaining a safe distance, avoiding disturbance, and refraining from feeding the animals to preserve their habitats.
Tour Highlights
Travelers to the Hokkaido region can look forward to an autumn adventure filled with the vibrant hues of the changing foliage. The tour highlights the stunning Kurodake Ropeway, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the autumn leaves.
Another captivating stop is the Asahiyama Zoo, where guests can witness the charming antics of the zoo’s new animal families. The tour also promises a beautiful contrast of red, yellow, and green autumn leaves, creating a picturesque landscape that will leave a lasting impression.
With a comprehensive itinerary and inclusive offerings, this tour offers a well-rounded experience to savor the beauty of Hokkaido’s autumn splendor.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Asahikawa
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins at the ANA Crown Plaza Hotel Sapporo, from where you will embark on their Hokkaido autumn adventure.
First, they’ll enjoy the scenic Kurodake Ropeway, which takes around 1.5 hours.
Next, they’ll visit the renowned Asahiyama Zoo to see the new animal families and the beautiful contrast of autumn foliage for about 2 hours.
The tour ends at Sapporo Station North Exit. The package includes Kurodake ropeway riding tickets, Asahiyama Zoo admission, bus fares, and an English/Chinese guide. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with heart problems, wheelchair users, people over 95, or the hearing-impaired. Lunch at the zoo is on participants’ own.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes the Kurodake ropeway riding ticket, Asahiyama Zoo admission ticket, bus fare, and an English/Chinese guide fee. However, the tour isn’t suitable for:
- People with heart problems
- Wheelchair users
- People over 95 years
- Hearing-impaired people
Travelers should also note that lunch is on their own at the zoo, and the itinerary may change due to weather and road conditions. Plus, no refunds are provided if the tour is canceled due to weather or other factors, and visitors are advised not to get close to the animal cages beyond the fence.
Suitability Restrictions
Who shouldn’t join this tour? This tour may not be suitable for certain individuals.
Those with heart problems, wheelchair users, people over 95 years old, and the hearing-impaired are advised not to participate. The physical demands of the tour, such as the Kurodake Ropeway, may be challenging for these groups. Plus, the zoo environment may pose risks for those with hearing difficulties.
The organizers have carefully considered the tour’s suitability to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Prospective travelers should carefully review the restrictions before booking to ensure the tour aligns with their abilities and needs.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyDining and Refreshment
Lunch is on your own at Asahiyama Zoo, allowing participants to explore the various dining options available within the zoo’s premises.
The zoo features several restaurants and cafes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences:
- Penguin Restaurant – Offers hearty meals and panoramic views of the penguin exhibit.
- Siberian Tiger Café – Serves light snacks and beverages in a cozy setting.
- Polar Bear Diner – Features a menu of local Hokkaido specialties and international dishes.
- Elephant Snack Bar – Ideal for quick bites and refreshments between animal exhibits.
Participants can enjoy a leisurely lunch break and fuel up for the remainder of the tour’s activities.
- Asahikawa Airport To/From Sounkyo Private Transfer
- Hokkaido: Asahikawa Airport Mobile WiFi Rental
- Asahikawa Airport To/From Asahikawa City Private Transfer
- Asahikawa Airport To/From Biei Town Private Transfer
- Asahikawa: Immersive 1-day Culture and Culinary Tour
- Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Tour With Melon Buffet Option
Schedule Changes and Cancellations
This tour’s itinerary may change due to unpredictable weather and road conditions beyond the organizers’ control. The tour may be canceled if severe weather or other factors make the planned activities unsafe or inaccessible. In such cases, no refunds will be provided.
Participants should come prepared with their own rain gear, as the tour company doesn’t offer umbrella rentals. Plus, visitors must follow all safety guidelines and avoid getting too close to the animal enclosures at Asahiyama Zoo.
Though schedule changes are rare, flexibility is essential when exploring the natural wonders of Hokkaido during the autumn season.
Recommended Attire and Accessories
Travelers’ comfort and safety are paramount when embarking on the Kurodake Ropeway and Asahiyama Zoo autumn leaves tour. To ensure an enjoyable experience, visitors are advised to dress in layers and wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
Plus, the following accessories are highly recommended:
- Weatherproof jacket or coat to protect against potential rain or wind.
- Warm hat, scarf, and gloves to stay cozy in the cooler autumn climate.
- Compact, foldable umbrella in case of unexpected showers.
- Sunglasses to reduce glare and enhance the vibrant autumn scenery.
Animal Viewing Guidelines
Animal-viewing etiquette is crucial for maintaining the well-being and comfort of the creatures at Asahiyama Zoo. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from the animal enclosures and avoid reaching over the fences or tapping on the glass.
Making loud noises or sudden movements can also disturb the animals, so it’s best to keep voices low and actions calm. Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited, as this can upset their delicate diets and habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food to the Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own food on this tour. Lunch is not included, and you’ll need to purchase food on your own at the Asahiyama Zoo during the 2-hour visit there.
How Will I Get to the Starting Point Hotel?
The tour includes bus transportation, so travelers will be picked up from the starting point hotel, the ANA Crown Plaza Hotel Sapporo, and transported to the tour’s other destinations throughout the day.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
There is no mention of any discounts for seniors or students in the provided information. The tour package only includes the listed tour highlights, transportation, and guide fees without any additional discounts.
Can I Take Pictures of the Animals up Close?
Guests are advised not to get too close to the animal cages at Asahiyama Zoo, as this could disturb the animals and is not permitted. Photography should be done from the designated viewing areas for the safety and well-being of the animals.
What Is the Cancelation Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a strict no-refund policy if canceled due to weather or other factors beyond the organizer’s control. Participants are advised to review the cancellation terms before booking the tour.
Recap
This autumn foliage tour of Hokkaido offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and wildlife encounters. Soar above the vibrant foliage on the Kurodake Ropeway and learn about the delightful antics of the animal families at the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. With seamless inclusions and thoughtful guidance, this experience allows you to fully savor the stunning autumnal splendor of Hokkaido.
You can check if your dates are available here: