Winter in Hokkaido! Visit Asahiyama Zoo, the Frozen Ice Sea and Sunset Cruise

Hokkaido’s stunning winter landscape offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the natural world. From the captivating polar bears and red pandas at Asahiyama Zoo to the breathtaking views of the Frozen Ice Sea, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Witness the beauty of a Hokkaido sunset aboard the Garinkogo II ice crusher, as you learn about the region’s enchanting winter environment. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable winter getaway, this itinerary guarantees an experience that will leave you in awe.

Key Points

Discover Hokkaido’s winter wonderland with must-see attractions like Asahiyama Zoo, Frozen Ice Sea, and a breathtaking sunset cruise.
Observe arctic animals like polar bears, arctic foxes, and red pandas at the Asahiyama Zoo.
Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Garinko II ice crusher for stunning views of the frozen landscape.
The tour includes admission to Asahiyama Zoo and the Garinko III cruise, with an optional seafood bento box for lunch or dinner.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, near public transportation, and has English and Japanese-speaking staff available for assistance.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour allows visitors to discover Hokkaido’s winter wonderland, including must-see attractions like the Asahiyama Zoo, the Frozen Ice Sea, and a sunset cruise.

At the zoo, travelers can witness polar bears, arctic foxes, and red pandas in their natural habitats.

The sunset cruise on the Garinkogo II ice crusher offers breathtaking views of the winter terrain.

Travelers ride in an air-conditioned vehicle for maximum comfort throughout the day.

This comprehensive tour showcases the best of Hokkaido’s wintry landscapes and wildlife, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

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Tour Details

This winter tour in Hokkaido starts at the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, located in Kita 3-Jo, Nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo.

The tour ends at Sapporo Station, Kita Ward, Sapporo. It runs from 8:50 AM to 10:00-10:30 PM.

The maximum number of participants is 45 travelers.

The tour includes admission to Asahiyama Zoo and the Garinko III cruise.

Lunch is on your own at the zoo. An optional seafood bento box from the Sea of Okhotsk is available for around 2,000 yen.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation.

Inclusions and Dining Options

This winter tour in Hokkaido includes admission to the Asahiyama Zoo and the Garinko III cruise.

At the zoo, you’ll need to purchase your own lunch. For dinner, there’s an optional seafood bento box from the Sea of Okhotsk, costing around 2000 yen. If you don’t want the bento, you can bring your own food.

The tour provides English and Japanese-speaking staff to assist you throughout the experience.

Accessibility and Participation Guidelines

Wheelchair users can access the tour, as it’s situated near public transportation.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, though pregnant individuals may want to reconsider.

No detailed participation guidelines are provided, so interested parties should inquire about any specific needs.

English and Japanese-speaking staff are available to assist.

The key points are:

Wheelchair accessible
Near public transport
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Most travelers can participate
English and Japanese-speaking staff available

Conditions and Refund Policy

Weather may affect drift ice visibility, and refunds are available for cancellations – 3,000 yen for adults and 2,000 yen for children.

There may be delays due to traffic, so the tour isn’t recommended on the last day of a Hokkaido trip.

Passengers will need to provide their passport number for boarding the Garinko cruise, and no refunds are given for issues with drift ice visibility.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

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Exploring Asahiyama Zoo

Visitors to the Asahiyama Zoo can expect to see an array of fascinating Arctic animals.

At this renowned zoo, travelers will observe:

Polar bears frolicking in their icy enclosure
Arctic foxes scurrying across the snowy terrain
Red pandas munching on bamboo in the lush forests
Seals gliding effortlessly through the chilly waters
Reindeer grazing peacefully in their natural habitat

The Asahiyama Zoo offers a unique opportunity to witness these captivating creatures up close and personal, providing an immersive winter experience in the heart of Hokkaido.

Cruising the Frozen Ice Sea

After exploring the wonders of Asahiyama Zoo, travelers embark on a captivating sunset cruise aboard the Garinko III ice crusher.

The cruise takes them through the frozen Okhotsk Sea, providing stunning views of the icy terrain and drift ice formations. Travelers can spot seabirds soaring overhead and seals lounging on the ice.

The Garinko III’s powerful ice-breaking capabilities allow it to navigate the frozen waterways, offering a unique perspective of Hokkaido’s winter landscapes.

This scenic cruise is a highlight of the tour, capping off a day of winter adventure in the northernmost island of Japan.

Witnessing the Stunning Sunset

As the Garinko III cruises through the frozen Okhotsk Sea, travelers are treated to a breathtaking sunset display.

The sky illuminates in a spectrum of vibrant hues:

Fiery oranges and reds paint the horizon.
Soft pinks and purples reflect off the crisp, white ice.
Deep blues and indigos blend seamlessly overhead.
Golden sunlight glimmers across the icy surface.

The dramatic, ever-changing scenery leaves visitors in awe.

This unforgettable sunset cruise offers a truly magical experience, capping off a day of winter adventures in Hokkaido.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour details state that there are no dinner purchase options, so bringing your own food is allowed.

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code, but visitors should dress warmly for the cold weather. Comfortable, layered clothing and waterproof boots are recommended to stay cozy during outdoor activities.

Are Audio Guides Available at the Asahiyama Zoo?

Audio guides are not mentioned in the tour details. However, the tour provides English and Japanese-speaking staff who can assist visitors at Asahiyama Zoo. Visitors can likely ask staff for any needed guidance.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Frozen Ice Sea?

Unfortunately, the tour does not allow travelers to extend their stay at the Frozen Ice Sea. The tour has a fixed schedule, and participants must return to Sapporo at the designated time, which is between 10:00 PM and 10:30 PM.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Sunset Cruise?

The tour does not have a minimum age requirement for the sunset cruise. Travelers of all ages can participate in the cruise, which provides views of the winter terrain. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children.

The Sum Up

Discover the enchanting winter wonderland of Hokkaido. Observe majestic polar bears, playful arctic foxes, and captivating red pandas at Asahiyama Zoo. Marvel at the breathtaking Frozen Ice Sea and witness a stunning sunset on a scenic cruise. This unforgettable adventure offers a perfect balance of wildlife encounters and picturesque scenery, making it a must-visit destination for winter enthusiasts.