Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue Pond Day Trip in Hokkaido

Enhance your visit to Hokkaido with an unforgettable full-day tour to two of the region’s most iconic attractions: Asahiyama Zoo and the Biei Blue Pond. This carefully planned day trip offers an ideal way to experience Hokkaido’s natural beauty and unique wildlife without the stress of arranging transportation or navigation.

Start your day at Asahiyama Zoo, located in Asahikawa, renowned throughout Japan for its innovative animal enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals in a variety of dynamic, close-up views. Unlike typical zoos, Asahiyama features specially designed exhibits such as the glass tunnel through the penguin pool, where you can watch penguins swimming overhead. Other popular animals include polar bears, wolves, big cats, seals, and various species of primates. The zoo emphasizes natural behavior and active animals, providing a lively and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

After exploring the zoo, your tour continues to Biei’s Blue Pond (Aoi-ike), located near the Shirogane Onsen hot spring area. The Blue Pond is famous for its striking blue color, caused by natural minerals dissolved in the water. Surrounded by serene forest and featuring hauntingly beautiful tree stumps emerging from the water, this pond offers a picturesque and peaceful atmosphere ideal for photography and quiet reflection. The Blue Pond’s appearance changes subtly with the seasons and weather, making every visit unique.

Important Details

• Duration: Full day (approximately 9-10 hours, including travel time)
• Transportation: Comfortable air-conditioned coach bus with professional driver and English-speaking guide
• Departure: From ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo by IHG in central Sapporo
• Group Size: Typically small to medium groups to ensure a comfortable experience
• Accessibility: Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking involved at zoo and pond
• Meals: Lunch is not included; participants can bring snacks or purchase food at designated stops
• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, camera, water bottle
• Weather: Tour may be modified or rescheduled in cases of severe weather or road closures

Additional Information

• The zoo is open year-round, but animal viewing experiences may vary by season. Winter visitors can enjoy watching animals in snow-covered habitats, while summer offers lush surroundings.
• The Blue Pond’s vibrant blue is most vivid on sunny days but remains beautiful throughout the year.
• This tour is ideal for travelers without a rental car or those who prefer not to drive in rural areas.
• Guide commentary includes detailed information about the animals, Hokkaido’s natural environment, and local culture.
• Restroom stops are provided during the journey.

Package Options

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Departure Location

ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo by IHG
Address: Kita 3-Jo, 1 Chome-2-9 Nishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0003, Japan

Please arrive at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before departure for check-in and briefing.

Reviews from Participants

• “Organizing transportation in Hokkaido can be complicated without a car, so this tour was invaluable. The smooth transport and expert guide made the day relaxing and informative.”
• “The snow-covered landscape at Asahiyama was breathtaking. Although the weather was cold, the experience was memorable and well worth the long travel times.”
• “The guide was very friendly and provided useful tips and background information. Before setting off, we appreciated the reminder to prepare snacks and use facilities, which made the trip more comfortable.”

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