Hokkaido Day Trip From Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo to Ningle Terrace

Discover the enchanting Hokkaido region with a day trip from Sapporo that combines the wonders of Asahiyama Zoo and the charming Ningle Terrace. This captivating excursion offers a seamless experience, complete with transportation, zoo admission, and a knowledgeable bilingual guide. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an enriching adventure, this flexible tour provides the perfect opportunity to learn about Hokkaido’s natural beauty. But where exactly will this captivating journey take you, and what surprises await along the way?

Key Points

• This day trip from Sapporo includes visits to Asahiyama Zoo and Ningle Terrace, with transportation, zoo tickets, and a bilingual guide provided.
• The tour has a maximum capacity of 45 travelers and is priced at $87.14 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• The itinerary includes in-person guidance, with accessibility to public transportation for participants, though it is not wheelchair accessible.
• In case of Asahiyama Zoo closure, an alternative itinerary with stops at Biei Mangrove, Shikisai no Oka, Biei Green Pond, and Shirasuga Falls is offered.
• The tour excludes food, drinks, accommodation expenses, and other personal consumption expenses, but includes vehicle service fees, fuel costs, tolls, and driver service.

Overview of the Hokkaido Day Trip

The Hokkaido Day Trip from Sapporo offers travelers the opportunity to explore the natural wonders and cultural attractions of the Hokkaido region.

This one-day excursion takes visitors from Sapporo to the renowned Asahiyama Zoo and the charming Ningle Terrace. The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers and is priced at $87.14 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

The trip includes transportation, zoo tickets, and an English and Japanese-speaking guide, though food, drinks, and other personal expenses aren’t covered.

Participants must note the zoo’s seasonal closure dates and any changes to the itinerary.

What’s Included and Excluded

This day trip from Sapporo to Hokkaido includes several key components. The tour covers vehicle service fees, Asahiyama Zoo tickets, fuel costs, tolls, and driver service fees. Plus, in-person English and Japanese guidance is provided. However, food, drinks, accommodation, and personal expenses are excluded.

Included	Excluded
Vehicle service fees	Food and drinks
Asahiyama Zoo tickets	Accommodation expenses
Vehicle fuel costs, tolls, and highway tolls	Local self-funded projects
Driver service fee	Other personal consumption expenses

The tour maximum is 45 travelers, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Select a meeting point is the first step for this Hokkaido day trip from Sapporo. Meeting points are provided upon booking, so you’ll know exactly where to be to start your adventure.

Once you’ve chosen your pickup location, the tour will take care of the vehicle service fees, fuel costs, tolls, and driver service. You’ll have an in-person English and Japanese guide to assist you throughout the day.

The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers, so you’ll explore Hokkaido’s top sights in a small group setting.

Accessibility and Participation Requirements

Although this Hokkaido day trip is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible and located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Most travelers, however, can participate.

Accessibility	Participation
Not wheelchair accessible	Infants must sit on laps
Stroller accessible	Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Near public transportation	Not suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions

Asahiyama Zoo Closure Dates

The Asahiyama Zoo is closed for maintenance on specific dates each year.

In 2024, the zoo will be closed from:

1. April 8 to April 26
2. November 4 to November 10
3. December 30, 2024, to January 1, 2025

If the zoo is closed during your planned visit, the tour will provide an alternative itinerary.

This includes stops at the Biei Mangrove, Shikisai no Oka, Biei Green Pond, and Shirasuga Falls.

Confirmation of the tour details will be provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Alternative Itinerary When Asahiyama Zoo Is Closed

If the Asahiyama Zoo is closed during the tour, the itinerary will be adjusted to include alternative sightseeing spots.

Travelers will visit the Biei Mangrove, a 30-minute stop to explore the unique natural landscape.

Next, they’ll head to Shikisai no Oka, a 50-minute stop to admire the colorful flower fields.

The tour will then visit the Biei Green Pond, a 30-minute stop to see the stunning emerald-colored waters.

Finally, they’ll stop at Shirasuga Falls, a 15-minute waterfall viewing.

This alternative itinerary ensures travelers still have an enjoyable experience even if the zoo is closed.

Booking Confirmation and Availability

Upon booking, travelers receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. This day trip has a maximum capacity of 45 participants.

To secure a spot, travelers should book early as availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons. The confirmation provides details on:

1. Meeting point selection.
2. Inclusions and exclusions.
3. Accessibility and participation requirements.

If the Asahiyama Zoo is closed on the scheduled date, an alternative itinerary will be offered, visiting locations such as Biei Mangrove, Shikisai no Oka, Biei Green Pond, and Shirasuga Falls.

Exploring Ningle Terrace

After exploring the Asahiyama Zoo, the day trip continues on to Ningle Terrace, a charming village nestled in the forests of Hokkaido.

Ningle Terrace is a unique artisan village, featuring quaint wooden cabins housing local craft shops and cafes. Visitors can browse an array of handmade products, including pottery, glassware, and textiles.

The serene forest setting provides a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolling and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

With its traditional architecture and artisanal offerings, Ningle Terrace offers a delightful cultural experience beyond the zoo, completing the Hokkaido day trip from Sapporo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Overall Day Trip?

The overall day trip duration is not explicitly stated. However, the activity is said to end back at the meeting point, suggesting a full-day tour. The specific start and end times are not provided.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of $87.14 per person, regardless of age or student status. There’s no indication of special pricing for these groups.

Can We Make Additional Stops During the Tour?

The tour itinerary is fixed, but customers can request additional stops, subject to the tour operator’s approval and availability. Any extra stops would incur additional costs not included in the original tour price.

Is There a Guide Available to Provide Commentary During the Trip?

Yes, the tour includes in-person English and Japanese guidance to provide commentary throughout the trip. The guide accompanies travelers and offers insights during the various stops along the itinerary.

What Is the Best Way to Get to the Meeting Point?

Meeting points are provided upon booking. Travelers can reach the meeting point by various means, such as public transportation, taxi, or driving their own vehicle, depending on their location and preferences. The tour guide can assist with directions if needed.

The Sum Up

This Hokkaido day trip from Sapporo offers an immersive experience at Asahiyama Zoo and the charming Ningle Terrace. With transportation, zoo tickets, and a bilingual guide included, it’s a convenient and enriching adventure for nature enthusiasts. Though food and drinks are not provided, the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior makes it an accessible option for a small group exploration of Hokkaido’s natural wonders.