Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour

Sapporo’s Asahiyama Zoo is a winter wonderland, renowned for its captivating "penguin walk." This 1-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, transporting visitors to the heart of Hokkaido’s natural beauty. From the majestic Shirahige Waterfall to the enchanting Ningle Terrace, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the region’s charm. With a delectable buffet lunch and accessibility features, this meticulously curated tour caters to a diverse range of travelers. Prepare to be enchanted as you learn about the wonders that await.

Key Points

• A 10-hour tour departing from Sapporo that includes a 1.5-hour visit to Asahiyama Zoo, showcasing the "penguin walk" attraction.
• Stops at Shirahige Waterfall and Ningle Terrace, with a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring Hokkaido’s local cuisine.
• Available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, with wheelchair accessibility and small group options.
• Offers photo stops at scenic locations and a refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Potential changes to the itinerary due to weather conditions or temporary zoo closures should be considered.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience, providing an opportunity to explore the renowned Asahiyama Zoo and other captivating attractions in the Hokkaido region.

Priced from €50.00 per person, the 10-hour tour is available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can choose from small group options.

The tour includes a 1.5-hour visit to Asahiyama Zoo, stops at Shirahige Waterfall and Ningle Terrace, and a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring local specialties.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Main Attractions

One of the main highlights of the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour is the 1.5-hour visit to the renowned Asahiyama Zoo. Guests can witness the captivating "penguin walk" where the birds waddle through the zoo’s snowy paths. The tour also includes a stop at the Shirahige Waterfall, a scenic 20-minute viewpoint, and the enchanting Ningle Terrace, a 40-minute visit to the charming wooden cabins adorned with winter illuminations.

Attraction	Duration	Highlights
Asahiyama Zoo	1.5 hours	Penguin walk
Shirahige Waterfall	20 minutes	Scenic viewpoint
Ningle Terrace	40 minutes	Winter illuminations

The itinerary also features a 1-hour buffet lunch showcasing local Hokkaido specialties, as well as photo stops at scenic locations throughout the tour.

Lunch Experience

What better way to refuel during the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour than with a 1-hour buffet showcasing Hokkaido’s local cuisine?

The buffet features a diverse selection of regional specialties, from hearty miso soup and grilled seafood to freshly prepared sushi and seasonal vegetables. Theres some good the flavors of Hokkaido, savoring the rich, creamy dairy products and the renowned Genghis Khan-style lamb.

The buffet provides a welcome respite and a chance to energize before continuing the day’s adventures. It’s a delightful culinary experience that complements the tour’s highlights.

Photo Opportunities

Where else on the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour can guests capture stunning photographs?

The tour makes brief photo stops at scenic locations around Sapporo. Guests can immortalize the breathtaking Seven Stars Tree or the picturesque Ken & Mary Tree, depending on the tour.

Plus, the enchanting Ningle Terrace, with its cozy wooden cottages, provides a magical winter wonderland backdrop for photos.

Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides ensure guests make the most of these photogenic moments, offering tips and assistance to help them capture the essence of Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Starting and Drop-off Locations

The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers two convenient starting locations for guests – the Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel and the Sapporo Tourist Information Center. At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off at the same locations. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Starting Locations	Main Attractions	Drop-off Locations
– Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel – Sapporo Tourist Information Center	– Asahiyama Zoo – Shirahige Waterfall – Ningle Terrace	– Same as starting points

The tour’s strategic starting and drop-off points make it easy for guests to join and depart, minimizing any logistical challenges.

Accessibility and Group Size

The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour caters to a diverse audience, offering accessibility and flexibility in group size.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility challenges to fully participate.

Travelers can opt for a small group experience, providing a more intimate and personalized outing.

Whether you’re exploring the zoo’s interactive penguin exhibits or admiring the scenic landscapes, the tour accommodates a range of needs and preferences.

With its inclusive approach, the Asahiyama Zoo Winter Tour ensures an enjoyable and accessible experience for all.

Cancellation Policy and Refunds

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives customers the peace of mind to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. The cancellation policy is outlined in the table below:

Cancellation Notice	Refund Amount
24 hours or more	100%
Less than 24 hours	No refund

Adhering to the schedule is important, as late arrivals will not be accommodated. The tour itinerary may also change based on weather conditions, and some attractions may be inaccessible in severe weather or natural disasters.

Important Considerations

While the Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, it’s crucial to adhere to the schedule as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

Plus, the tour itinerary may change based on weather conditions, and in case of severe weather or natural disasters, some attractions may be inaccessible.

Travelers should also be aware that Asahiyama Zoo will be closed from December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

Following the tour guidelines and being prepared for potential changes will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Bringing your own food on the tour is generally not allowed. The tour includes a 1-hour buffet lunch featuring local Hokkaido specialties, which is part of the overall experience. Participants are expected to enjoy the provided meals.

How Much Free Time Do We Have at the Zoo?

The tour provides 1.5 hours of free time at Asahiyama Zoo, allowing guests to explore the interactive exhibits, including the popular penguin walks, at their own pace. Visitors can make the most of this dedicated time to see the zoo’s highlights.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The itinerary is fixed at 10 hours, with 1.5 hours allocated for the Asahiyama Zoo visit. Guests should adhere to the schedule, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated.

What Should I Bring to Stay Warm at the Outdoor Sites?

To stay warm at the outdoor sites, it’s recommended to dress in layers and bring warm winter gear like a thermal jacket, gloves, thick socks, and a hat. This will help you comfortably explore the scenic locations.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or children. However, the small group size and accessibility make it suitable for travelers of all ages. Advance booking is recommended to secure availability.

The Sum Up

The Sapporo Departure: Asahiyama Zoo Winter 1-Day Tour offers a delightful adventure, showcasing Hokkaido’s stunning natural beauty and wildlife. With the famous "penguin walk," breathtaking waterfalls, and enchanting illuminations, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Accessibility, small group options, and a delectable buffet lunch make this tour a must for anyone seeking to enjoy the winter wonders of Sapporo.

You can check if your dates are available here: