Hokkaido 1-Day Trip: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei and Ningle Terrace

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ID: GYG872093-1373592
Category:
Country: Japan

Duration: 10:00 hours


Description

Discover Hokkaido’s winter magic: visit Asahiyama Zoo to see penguins in the snow, explore the iconic Ken & Merry Tree, and enjoy the snowy beauty of Shirahige Waterfall and Ningle Terrace.
08:00 - Sapporo
◆Start your beautiful journey today.
Meet at the Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Stop. Address: 3-1, Kita 7 Jo Nishi, Chūō-ku, Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido. (For pick-up and drop-off service.)

◆10:30-Asahiyama Zoo (Approx. 120 minutes, including free time for lunch)
Asahiyama Zoo is located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, and is Japan's northernmost zoo. It has become the most visited zoo in Japan. During the winter months, you can enjoy watching penguins walk in the snow, mischievous raccoons climbing overhead, seals swimming in clear glass tubes, and monkeys cuddling for warmth. The zoo maximizes animal freedom while offering visitors close-up views.
Penguin Walk (Expected to run from December to March; the time may vary depending on snow conditions, and it may be canceled due to weather.)
(closed from Nov 4-10, 2024, and Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025).
If the zoo is closed, the tour will visit the Ken & Merry Tree, Biei Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace. The guide will adjust the schedule based on weather conditions for an optimal experience.

◆ 13:00 - Biei
Ken & Merry Tree (Seasonal from December 1st to March 31st – vehicle sightseeing, no stop to get off the bus)
The Ken & Merry Tree is famous for appearing in a 1972 Nissan commercial. This towering white poplar tree became an iconic backdrop for the commercial, and the area is surrounded by Christmas trees, creating a charming setting.

◆13:50 - Furano
Shikisai-no-oka (Approx. 40 minutes, Seasonal from December 1st to March 31st )
During winter, Shikisai-no-oka becomes a snowy playground. You can enjoy snowmobile rides, sledding, and other winter activities. Even beginners can fully enjoy the snow and nature. You can also choose to visit the alpaca farm.
Note: Snow activities are at your own expense.

◆14:40 - Furano (Approx. 30 minutes)
Ningle Terrace, inspired by a character from Japanese writer Kōbō Abe's novel, is a charming collection of small handcrafted shops. The tiny cabins sell unique handmade items, such as glass and paper crafts, lavender products, and more. The lights at dusk create a magical and romantic atmosphere.

◆Furano Wine ( if Ningle Terrace is closed, Nov.4th-29th)
Furano Wine is made from locally grown grapes, produced by the Furano Grape and Vine Research Institute. The area has a history of over 50 years of winemaking, promoting local agriculture. Taste the region’s signature wine here.

◆15:40 - Return
Return to Sapporo City, finishing your day with happy memories!

◆18:10 - Arrival and Dissolution
Arrive at Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Stop.

Highlights

  • Visit Asahiyama Zoo, famous for its unique penguin walks in winter.
  • Explore Biei's iconic Ken & Merry Tree and Blue Pond.
  • Experience the magical Ningle Terrace with handmade crafts.
  • Enjoy local treats and hot drinks at Furano's Herb Garden.
  • Flexible itinerary with weather-based adjustments for optimal sightseeing.

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. If the zoo is closed (from Nov 4-10, 2024, and Dec 30, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025), the tour will visit the Ken & Merry Tree, Biei Blue Pond, Shirahige Waterfall, and Ningle Terrace. The guide will adjust the schedule based on weather conditions for an optimal experience.
2.Ningle Terrace closed from Nov.4th to 29th, will go to Furano Wine
3.By about 9p.m.the night before the trip,you’ll receive an email with the driver, guide,and vehicle details.It may land in your spam folder,so please check there as well. Also,ensure your phone is on and accessible.
4. Because of heayy traffic during apanese holidays and weekends, the return time may be after 8 p.m.Our company will cover any extra fees for the driver and guide, This could also mean less time atattractions, changes to the schedule, or cancellations. We apologize for the inconvenience and recommend not planning any other activities or transport after the tour to avoid issues.
Pick-up time and location: 8:00 AM Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Stop, Address: 3 Chome Kita 7 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0807 Japan. The tour guide is holding a yellow flag at the meeting point.Tell the guide the name you booked under to join.Please come 15 minutes ahead of time. Refunds will not be given for late or missed arrivals.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.