Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Biei 10-Hour Private Taxi Day Tour

Overview

Experience the ultimate central Hokkaido day trip with a 10-hour private taxi tour combining the world-famous Asahiyama Zoo and the breathtaking landscapes of Furano and Biei. This tour offers a unique blend of heartwarming wildlife encounters—like the iconic Penguin Walk in winter or seals swimming in their cylindrical tank—followed by a stunning scenic drive through the colorful Patchwork Road and vibrant flower fields.

A private chartered taxi is the only way to efficiently link these three distinct areas (Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano) in a single, comfortable day. You will avoid the restrictive schedules of group buses, allowing for optimized time at the zoo to catch the popular “Mogumogu Time” (feeding sessions) and sufficient time in Biei/Furano to appreciate the natural beauty.

Travel in premium comfort with the Toyota Alphard or Toyota Hiace, minimizing the fatigue of a long day and maximizing your enjoyment of Hokkaido’s natural beauty and adorable animals. This customizable journey is perfect for families, animal lovers, and nature photographers.

Highlights

• Unique Animal Encounters: Visit the innovative Asahiyama Zoo to see animals in custom, natural enclosures, including the Penguin House underwater tunnel, the Polar Bear House dome, and the seasonal Penguin Walk (winter-only).
• Biei Scenic Views: Explore the iconic rural beauty of Biei, driving the Patchwork Road to see famous lone trees (like the Ken & Mary Tree) and the multi-hued Shikisai no Oka flower hills.
• Flower Field Immersion: In summer, visit a key Furano flower farm (like Farm Tomita) to experience the vast, fragrant lavender and rainbow-colored strips of flowers that define the region.
• Natural Wonders Circuit: Seamlessly access Biei’s natural gems, including the mystical Blue Pond (Aoiike) and the dynamic Shirahige Falls, both famous for their captivating blue waters.
• Ultimate Comfort & Efficiency: Cover the extensive travel distance between Asahikawa, Biei, and Furano in the private luxury of an executive taxi, ensuring a relaxed, stress-free, and highly personalized itinerary.

Complete Details

The Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Biei 10-Hour Private Taxi Day Tour is a meticulously planned chartered service covering the three major attractions of central Hokkaido, utilizing the taxi’s speed and efficiency to fit the sites into one comfortable day.

Asahiyama Zoo Focus: Given the zoo’s limited operating hours (especially 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM in winter), the tour prioritizes an early arrival at Asahiyama to spend approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Visitors can focus on the popular “behavioral exhibits,” such as the Seals House (Marine Way) and the Polar Bear House (Seals Eye dome), and try to catch a scheduled Mogumogu Time (animal feeding demonstration). The famous Penguin Walk is a highlight held during the snowy winter season.

Biei and Furano Transition: After the zoo, the taxi makes the swift transfer to Biei and Furano. The itinerary includes the essential natural sights of the Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls before moving into the agricultural heartland.

Seasonal Scenery: In the summer months (June to August), the tour focuses on the Patchwork Road and visits major flower farms like Shikisai no Oka or a prominent lavender field in Furano. In the winter, the focus shifts to the serene snowscapes of Biei’s hills and, potentially, an evening viewing of the illuminated Blue Pond or Ningle Terrace (depending on hours and itinerary). The taxi ensures easy access to local culinary delights, such as fresh local vegetables and the famous Asahikawa ramen.

Vehicle Options:

• Toyota Alphard (6-7 passengers): Premium minivan with luxurious, comfortable seats, perfect for families and smaller groups prioritizing a quiet, relaxed ride over the long distances.
• Toyota Hiace/Wagon (10 passengers): High-capacity model with exceptional luggage space, ideal for larger groups or those carrying significant winter gear and ski equipment.

All services include complimentary amenities to enhance the comfort of your journey.

Booking with Jasumo

For booking this private 10-hour Asahiyama Zoo, Furano, and Biei Day Tour, or to arrange any custom tour departing from Sapporo or Asahikawa, you can contact us directly with your requirements and preferred vehicle. You can contact us using the Contact Us Form to begin your reservation and specify your group size, luggage needs, and any bespoke destinations you wish to include.

FAQs

What is the best time of day to visit Asahiyama Zoo on this tour?

It is highly recommended to arrive at the zoo near its opening time (9:30 AM in summer, 10:30 AM in winter) to maximize your time. This allows for the best chance to see the animals when they are most active and to catch the popular “Mogumogu Time” feeding sessions before heading to Furano.

Can we see the famous Penguin Walk at Asahiyama Zoo during this tour?

Yes, the Penguin Walk is a major winter event, typically held once or twice daily from late December to mid-March, depending on snow conditions. If your tour is scheduled during this period, your driver will plan the itinerary to ensure you are at the zoo to witness the parade.

Since this is a long tour, how is lunch accommodated in the itinerary?

The tour allocates time for a quick and convenient lunch, usually at or near Asahiyama Zoo, or at a recommended dining spot along the route to Biei. Options range from quick-service meals inside the zoo to local restaurants specializing in Asahikawa ramen or Biei-Furano local cuisine.

If I visit in the spring or autumn, what scenery will I see instead of summer flowers?

In the spring (May to early June), you will see flowers like tulips and moss phlox in Biei’s fields. In the autumn (late September to October), the scenery shifts to beautiful golden-yellow harvest colors, deep red Kochia bushes, and the first signs of autumn foliage in the Biei mountains.

Which vehicle is better for a family of five with substantial luggage?

For a family of five, the executive Toyota Alphard provides superior seating comfort and luxury, which is ideal for a long 10-hour trip. While both vehicles can handle luggage, the Alphard offers a more spacious and relaxing ride experience for a family, ensuring a comfortable journey between the distant sites.

Location