Enjoy the wonders of the Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo, where majestic polar bears and captivating wolves roam. This captivating 10-hour tour begins in Sapporo, leading you through a scenic drive to the renowned zoo. Along the way, you’ll discover the enchanting Shirogane Blue Pond and the charming Patchwork Road, before indulging in a delectable Japanese lunch with an optional all-you-can-eat Hokkaido melon buffet. Prepare to be captivated by the diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes that make this experience an unforgettable adventure. What secrets does the Asahiyama Zoo hold, waiting to be unveiled?
Key Points
- This comprehensive day tour from Sapporo takes visitors to Asahiyama Zoo, featuring polar bears, wolves, big cats, and penguins.
- The tour includes stops at scenic locations like Shirogane Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, Patchwork Road, and Seven Stars Tree.
- Lunch at Omoide no Furano restaurant in Furano offers an optional all-you-can-eat Hokkaido melon buffet.
- Convenient starting points at Sapporo TV Tower or Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel, with a flexible cancellation policy.
- The tour has received an overall 5/5 rating from guests, praising the knowledgeable guides and memorable wildlife encounters.
Tour Overview
This Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Tour with Melon Buffet Option offers a comprehensive day-long excursion to explore the natural wonders of Hokkaido’s Asahiyama Zoo and surrounding scenic landscapes.
Priced from $76.11 per person, this 10-hour tour is available in Chinese, English, and Japanese, catering to a diverse audience.
Wheelchair-accessible, the tour features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to book with confidence.
Highlights include viewing polar bears, wolves, big cats, and penguins at the Asahiyama Zoo, admiring the unique azure waters of the Shirogane Blue Pond, and capturing scenic shots along the Patchwork Road and at the Seven Stars Tree.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off at either the Sapporo TV Tower or Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel, where guests board a comfortable bus for the journey to the renowned Asahiyama Zoo.
During the 2.17-hour drive, they’ll stop to admire the azure waters of the Shirogane Blue Pond, capture photos of the picturesque Shirahige Waterfall, and savor the scenic beauty of the Patchwork Road and Seven Stars Tree.
Once at the zoo, guests spend 1.5 hours exploring exhibits featuring polar bears, wolves, big cats, and penguins.
The tour then continues to Omoide no Furano, where a delightful Japanese lunch awaits, with an optional all-you-can-eat Hokkaido melon buffet.
Starting Locations
Guests can choose between two convenient starting locations for the Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Tour – the iconic Sapporo TV Tower or the centrally located Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel.
The Sapporo TV Tower, a famous landmark offering panoramic views of the city, serves as an easily recognizable meeting point.
Alternatively, the Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel provides a more central departure location, making it accessible for those staying in the area.
Both options ensure a seamless start to the day’s adventure, allowing travelers to embark on their Hokkaido exploration with ease and convenience.
Key Attractions
The tour’s key attractions showcase the diverse natural wonders of Hokkaido. First, guests will visit the Asahiyama Zoo, a captivating wildlife park known for its innovative animal exhibits. Here, they’ll marvel at the antics of polar bears, wolves, big cats, and playful penguins. Next, the tour heads to the Shirogane Blue Pond, renowned for its otherworldly azure waters. A quick photo stop at the Shirahige Waterfall follows, before reaching the picturesque Patchwork Road and the iconic Seven Stars Tree – prime spots for stunning landscape photography. The day culminates with a delicious Japanese lunch at Omoide no Furano, with an optional all-you-can-eat Hokkaido melon buffet.
| Attraction | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Asahiyama Zoo | 1.5 hours | Polar bears, wolves, big cats, penguins |
| Shirogane Blue Pond | 30 minutes | Unique azure waters |
| Shirahige Waterfall | 20 minutes | Photo stop |
| Patchwork Road (Biei) | 15 minutes | Scenic views, photography |
| Seven Stars Tree | 15 minutes | Iconic landmark |
Lunch Options
A delightful culinary experience awaits guests on this Hokkaido tour, as they indulge in a Japanese lunch at the picturesque Omoide no Furano restaurant.
Set amid the stunning natural beauty of Furano, this charming hotel offers a menu featuring regional specialties. Guests can savor the fresh flavors of traditional Japanese dishes, complemented by the serene surroundings.
An optional all-you-can-eat Hokkaido melon buffet adds a sweet and refreshing touch to the meal, allowing diners to indulge in the renowned sweetness of this local fruit.
This leisurely lunch break provides a perfect opportunity to recharge and take in the authentic gastronomic delights of Hokkaido.
Transportation Details
The journey to Asahiyama Zoo and back is undertaken by comfortable bus or coach, providing a seamless transportation experience.
Traveling to the zoo takes approximately 2 hours and 17 minutes, while the return trip is around 3 hours and 8 minutes.
The tour’s pick-up and drop-off locations are the same, either at the Sapporo TV Tower or the Sapporo Tokyu REI Hotel, ensuring convenience for participants.
Travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic countryside views as they’re whisked away to the wildlife park and back to their starting point.
The transportation arrangements are designed to make the overall tour as effortless and enjoyable as possible.
Important Information
Arriving at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure ensures guests are ready to embark on their Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo adventure.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for flexibility in their travel plans.
Though the itinerary is carefully curated, it remains subject to potential changes due to factors like traffic, weather, or facility closures.
Guests booking the same package will dine together during the included Japanese lunch, while those with different packages will make separate dining arrangements.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on a single review, this tour promises an informative and enjoyable experience exploring the wonders of Hokkaido.
Customer Experience
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on a single review, this Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo tour promises an informative and enjoyable experience for travelers seeking to explore the wonders of the region.
One guest, Matthew from the United States, praised the tour as "very informative", attesting to the wealth of knowledge and insights shared by the guides.
The tour’s focus on key attractions like the Asahiyama Zoo, Shirogane Blue Pond, and Patchwork Road ensures visitors enjoy Hokkaido’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Whether it’s catching a glimpse of polar bears or admiring the azure waters of the Blue Pond, this tour offers an unforgettable day of discovery and sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photos and Videos Allowed Inside the Zoo?
The zoo generally permits visitors to take photos and videos inside, allowing them to capture the magnificent animals and their habitats. However, it’s always best to check with the staff upon arrival for any specific rules or restrictions.
Is There an English-Speaking Guide for the Tour?
Yes, an English-speaking guide accompanies the tour, providing insightful commentary and assistance throughout the day’s activities. Guests can expect a seamless, informative experience exploring the zoo and other attractions with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?
Participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the melon buffet lunch is part of the package. The tour operator encourages guests to fully enjoy the scenic sights and wildlife experiences without the need to pack a heavy lunch.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with approximately 1.5 hours spent at the Asahiyama Zoo and shorter visits to the Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall. Guests can expect to walk around 2-3 miles during the day’s activities.
Can I Extend My Stay at the Blue Pond or Patchwork Road?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary is fixed and doesn’t allow visitors to extend their stay at the Blue Pond or Patchwork Road. The tour schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing while keeping the overall duration within 10 hours.
Recap
The Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Tour offers an unforgettable experience, immersing visitors in the beauty of Hokkaido’s natural wonders. From up-close encounters with captivating wildlife to the serene splendor of the Shirogane Blue Pond and Patchwork Road, this day-long adventure promises to leave lasting memories. With the option to indulge in a delectable Hokkaido melon buffet, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the rich natural and culinary delights of this stunning Japanese prefecture.
