Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo and Shirahige Falls Trip /w Pickup

Taking a day trip from Sapporo to experience Hokkaido’s winter magic can be a highlight of your trip. This guided tour, offered by Hakuu Co Ltd., promises a mix of wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and charming rural stops—all wrapped up in a comfortable, small-group setting. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a scenery enthusiast, or simply seeking a hassle-free way to see some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic spots, this tour has a lot to offer.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances the best seasonal highlights without making you feel rushed. The inclusion of professional guidance and hotel pickup helps make it accessible and stress-free. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the itinerary can be a bit tight, especially if traffic slows down or weather impacts the route.

If you’re visiting Sapporo and want a comprehensive, scenic day that showcases both iconic wildlife and lesser-known gems, this trip could be just right. However, keep in mind that the tour is quite active and involves some walking and exposure to cold winter weather. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day outdoors and who enjoy a mix of nature, animals, and rural scenery.

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary covering wildlife, scenic spots, and charming local stops
• Comfortable transportation with optional hotel pickup for convenience
• Stunning winter scenery including the famous Blue Pond and farmland views
• Authentic experiences like animal feeding and interaction, plus photo opportunities
• Knowledgeable guides contribute to a smoother, more insightful day
• Good value for the price considering the variety of stops and included transportation

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Attractions

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour departs from Sapporo Station’s North Exit or nearby hotels within 3 km. The ride north through Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes is about 70 minutes, during which you can start to feel the anticipation of a winter wonderland. The coach is described as comfortable and well-maintained, making it easy to relax before the day’s adventures. For travelers staying outside the pickup zone, the option to meet at Sapporo Station with a partial refund offers flexibility.

Asahiyama Zoo: The Main Wildlife Highlight

The zoo is the star of this trip—Japan’s northernmost and arguably most beloved zoo. We loved the way the zoo’s design lets you get close to the animals, especially in winter when penguins waddle through the snow in their famous parade. The 120-minute visit allows plenty of time to explore exhibits such as seals gliding through glass tunnels and monkeys huddling together for warmth.

Animals are the main attraction, and the zoo’s winter parade of penguins is a real treat for families and wildlife fans alike. The reviews highlight how well the zoo’s layout facilitates up-close viewing, making it a memorable experience. Note that the zoo is closed from December 30 to January 1, but the tour will substitute other attractions.

Scenic Stop at Seven Star Tree

Next, a quick 10-minute stop at the iconic Seven Star Tree offers a chance for photos and appreciation of Hokkaido’s rural scenery. This solitary oak tree has appeared on cigarette packaging since the 1970s, making it a quirky, recognizable symbol of the countryside. It’s a perfect snapshot stop, but travelers should respect farmland boundaries and stay on paved paths.

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Winter-Transforming Shikisai-no-Oka or Fureai Farm

Depending on your travel date, the stop at Shikisai-no-Oka (before Jan 10) transforms into a snow-covered playground where you can try snowmobiling, sledding, or simply enjoy panoramic shots of the white fields and farm life. The farm is also known for its friendly alpacas, which you can meet in winter.

After Jan 10, the trip switches to Fureai Farm in Biei, where animal encounters become the main focus. Feeding and interacting with fluffy alpacas, sheep, and goats provides heartfelt moments and fun photo ops. Some guests may choose to try a snowmobile ride for an additional fee, adding an adventurous twist.

The Enchanting Ningle Terrace

The trip then takes a peaceful turn with a visit to Ningle Terrace near Furano. This collection of glowing log cabins is a fairy-tale scene in winter, especially at dusk. Each cabin is a small shop selling artisanal crafts—think glasswork and lavender products—that make perfect souvenirs. The cozy, romantic atmosphere makes this stop a highlight for those who appreciate craftsmanship and a bit of local charm.

Return Journey

After a full day of exploring, the comfortable coach whisks you back to Sapporo, arriving in the evening. The journey takes about two hours, giving you time to reflect on the day’s stunning sights and experiences.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Highlights from Reviews

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make the day flow smoothly. One reviewer from Japan mentions how the driver was “super nice and friendly,” creating a relaxed atmosphere. Others highlight the stunning views—from the zoo’s animal exhibits to the snowy farmland and Blue Pond—that make the trip worth every minute.

A Swiss traveler appreciated the clear pickup instructions and on-time service, noting it made the start smooth. Several reviews emphasize the value for money, especially considering the variety of stops and the included transportation.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with a mix of guided and self-guided exploration at each stop. The small-group setting (with some multilingual support) means you’ll get a more personal experience, but note that English skills among drivers may be limited. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those over 75, given the active nature and outdoor exposure.

Remember to dress warmly—this is Hokkaido in winter, after all—and bring cash for optional activities and souvenirs. Food and drinks are not allowed on the bus, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to see a wide slice of Hokkaido’s winter landscape without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. It’s ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, especially those eager to witness the penguin parade, and for anyone who loves scenic rural stops like the Blue Pond or Biei’s snow-covered fields.

Families will appreciate the animal encounters and easy pacing, while couples seeking romantic winter landscapes will enjoy the fairy-tale atmosphere of Ningle Terrace. The tour offers great value for those who want a curated taste of Hokkaido’s seasonal charms.

Those on a tight schedule might find the itinerary a bit packed, but for most, it provides a well-rounded and memorable day out. If you’re after authentic scenery, wildlife, and the chance to relax while someone else handles the logistics, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

This tour from Sapporo to explore Hokkaido’s winter highlights offers a practical, scenic, and family-friendly way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights. You’ll love the chance to see penguins waddle in snow, capture photo-worthy views of the Blue Pond, and enjoy interactions with animals at Fureai Farm or Biei’s farm.

The comfort of organized transportation and knowledgeable guides makes the experience accessible and enjoyable, especially if you prefer to avoid the unpredictability of winter driving or local navigation. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, combining wildlife, scenic photography, and local crafts, giving a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido.

While some may find the schedule a bit brisk, the variety and quality of experiences make it a worthwhile day trip. It’s especially suited for those who want a blend of nature, wildlife, and rural charm, with the ease of hotel pickup and small-group intimacy adding to the appeal.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with the journey from and back to Sapporo taking roughly 3 hours in total.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from Sapporo Station or hotels within 3 km is included. If your hotel is outside this zone, you can meet at Sapporo Station with a partial refund.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly for winter weather, and bring cash for optional activities like snowmobiling or shopping.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included, and food or drinks are not allowed on the bus. There may be opportunities to buy food at some stops.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The itinerary involves walking and outdoor exposure, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What happens if the weather is severe or a stop is canceled?
Some activities or stops may be canceled due to weather, but the tour will try to offer alternatives or adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Is there an age limit?
Children under age 2 can join for free without a seat. The tour is not recommended for travelers over 75 due to the active nature.

How many people are in each group?
Small groups are typical, with a driver-guide and limited English support, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if I want to book a private tour?
The provider offers private options, which might be more flexible but at a different price point. Contact them for details.

This tour offers a balanced, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Hokkaido’s winter season. Whether you’re after wildlife, stunning landscapes, or charming local crafts, it packs a lot into a single day—making it a valuable addition to your Hokkaido itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby