Sapporo, Hokkaido’s largest city, offers a wealth of natural wonders just waiting to be explored. From the captivating Asahikawa Zoo to the serene Shirahige Waterfall and the charming Ningle Terrace, this 10-hour tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can witness thrilling dolphin performances, encounter diverse wildlife, and enjoy the region’s vibrant arts and crafts scene. With expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and a delightful buffet lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Hokkaido’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. What further delights await those who embark on this journey?
Key Points
- Guided 10-hour tour visiting Asahikawa Zoo, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace in Sapporo, providing insights on Hokkaido’s natural wonders.
- Asahikawa Zoo features captivating dolphin performances and diverse wildlife, with educational commentary on animal behaviors and habitats.
- Shirahige Waterfall offers a picturesque photo stop, allowing visitors to appreciate the serene and graceful movement of the cascading waters.
- Ningle Terrace is a charming arts and crafts market showcasing the vibrant creative culture of Hokkaido, with ample time for leisurely browsing.
- Tour includes comfortable transportation, buffet lunch, and is rated 3/5 based on customer feedback, with some accessibility limitations.
Touring Sapporo’s Natural Wonders
What better way to explore Sapporo’s natural wonders than through a guided tour showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes?
This 10-hour excursion takes visitors to Asahiyama Zoo, where they can watch dolphins and sightsee.
Next, they’ll visit the picturesque Shirahige Waterfall for a photo stop.
The final destination is Ningle Terrace, an arts and crafts market offering a glimpse into local culture.
Along the way, an expert guide shares insights, and seasonal changes enhance the scenery.
With comfortable transportation and a buffet lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Furano
Asahikawa Zoo: Dolphin Encounters and Wildlife Sightings
As visitors step into Asahikawa Zoo, they’re greeted by the captivating performances of the resident dolphins. The zoo’s dolphin shows are a highlight, showcasing the creatures’ intelligence and agility. Guests can observe the dolphins up close, marveling at their graceful movements and playful antics.
Beyond the dolphin enclosure, the zoo boasts a diverse collection of wildlife, including bears, snow monkeys, and the iconic Hokkaido red fox.
Traversing the winding paths, visitors enjoy the sights and sounds of Hokkaido’s natural wonders. The Asahikawa Zoo offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s diverse ecosystem.
Shirahige Waterfall: A Picturesque Photo Stop
The picturesque Shirahige Waterfall cascades down the cliffs, creating a breathtaking sight for visitors.
This 20-minute photo stop offers an opportunity to capture the waterfall’s natural beauty against the surrounding landscape. Tumbling over the rocky outcrop, the waterfall’s waters flow into a serene pool below.
Visitors can admire the waterfall’s graceful movement and take in the serene atmosphere. The stop provides a peaceful respite from the day’s activities, allowing travelers to appreciate Hokkaido’s natural wonders.
An ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike, Shirahige Waterfall is a highlight of the tour.
Ningle Terrace: Exploring Hokkaido’s Arts and Crafts
After marveling at the natural beauty of Shirahige Waterfall, the tour moves on to explore Ningle Terrace, a charming arts and crafts market nestled in the heart of Hokkaido.
Visitors browse the quaint wooden cabins showcasing a variety of handmade goods – from pottery and textiles to wooden carvings and artisanal foods.
The relaxed atmosphere invites guests to leisurely stroll, interact with local artisans, and enjoy Hokkaido’s vibrant creative culture.
The 40-minute stop provides ample time to peruse the unique offerings and discover the region’s craftsmanship before continuing the scenic journey.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySeasonal Highlights and Landscape Changes
Throughout the year, Hokkaido’s landscapes transform, offering visitors an ever-changing tapestry of natural beauty.
The tour showcases these seasonal highlights:
-
Spring: Cherry blossoms adorn Ningle Terrace, casting a pink hue over the quaint artisan shops.
-
Summer: Lush green foliage surrounds the majestic Shirahige Waterfall, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere.
-
Autumn: Vibrant fall foliage paints the Asahikawa Zoo’s grounds in a warm, golden glow.
-
Winter: The Ningle Terrace chalets are blanketed in snow, creating a cozy, winter wonderland experience.
These dynamic landscapes enhance the tour’s immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness Hokkaido’s natural beauty throughout the year.
Guided Tours and Expert Insights
Although the tour operates on a daily basis, expert guides lead the excursions and provide valuable insights into each destination.
The guides, fluent in both English and Japanese, share their deep knowledge of Hokkaido’s natural wonders and cultural attractions. At the Asahiyama Zoo, they explain the behaviors and habitats of the animals, enhancing the viewing experience.
At Shirahige Falls, they point out the unique geological formations and the cultural significance of the site. Likewise, at Ningle Terrace, they introduce the local artisans and the traditions behind the crafts.
The guides’ expertise enriches the overall tour experience.
Dining and Accessibility Considerations
The tour provides a buffet lunch at the Herb Garden Furano, offering seasonal dishes that showcase the region’s fresh produce. Menu items are subject to change based on ingredient availability.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, catering to guests with mobility needs. However, it isn’t suitable for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people over 70 years old.
Guests are advised to bring comfortable clothing and shoes, as well as cash for any personal expenses. At each stop, participants must adhere to boarding times to avoid delays and potential need for self-arranged transportation.
The key amenities and accessibility considerations are:
- Buffet lunch at Herb Garden Furano
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Not suitable for certain demographics
- Items to bring for the tour
Important Details and Customer Feedback
Guests must arrive at the designated pickup locations, such as Sapporo TV Tower or Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel, 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Adhering to boarding times at each stop is crucial, as delays may require self-arranged transportation.
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, clothes, and cash.
Smoking, alcohol, drugs, and outside food/drinks aren’t allowed on the vehicle.
The tour has an overall rating of 3/5 based on 3 reviews, with comments on the tour guide’s assistance and experiences at the visited locations.
Guests should review the important details and feedback before booking this tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, you’re not allowed to bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour information states that "Not allowed: Smoking, alcohol, drugs, food/drinks in the vehicle" to maintain a comfortable experience for all participants.
Is It Possible to Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel Less Than 24 Hours in Advance?
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to get a full refund if you cancel less than 24 hours in advance. The tour policy states that cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the tour for a full refund.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Special Needs?
The tour can accommodate certain dietary restrictions and special needs with advance notice. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant women, babies under 1 year, or people over 70 years. Guests should contact the tour provider for more information.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the duration, but customers could inquire with the tour operator about the possibility. Extending the tour may incur additional costs and would need to be arranged in advance.
How Much Free Time Is Allocated at Each Stop During the Tour?
The tour allocates 1.5 hours at Asahiyama Zoo, 20 minutes at Shirahige Waterfall, and 40 minutes at Ningle Terrace. The itinerary is subject to change based on seasonal variations, allowing for flexible experiences.
The Sum Up
This captivating 10-hour tour of Sapporo’s natural wonders offers a diverse and memorable experience. From the Asahikawa Zoo’s thrilling dolphin performances to the serene beauty of Shirahige Waterfall and the charming Ningle Terrace, this guided tour promises to immerse visitors in Hokkaido’s stunning landscapes. With expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and a delightful buffet lunch, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to explore the best of Sapporo’s natural attractions.
You can check if your dates are available here: