Discover the winter wonders of Hokkaido on this thrilling day trip from Sapporo. Begin your journey with a visit to Asahiyama Zoo, Japan's northernmost zoo and a winter favorite. Spend around 1.5 hours exploring the zoo, where the animals thrive in the cold. Watch penguins take a charming snow walk (from December to March), seals swim through glass columns, raccoons playfully climb, and monkeys huddle for warmth. If the zoo is closed, alternative attractions will be arranged.
From April to November, explore Biei’s Blue Pond with its vivid blue waters and Shirahige Falls, known for its striking white streams cascading down rocky crevices. From December to March, visit the iconic Ken & Merry Tree and enjoy winter activities like snowmobiling and sledding at Four Seasons Hill, a snowy wonderland perfect for beginners.
End your day at the enchanting Ningle Terrace in Furano, a charming village of wooden chalets and shops inspired by Japanese author Satoshi Kuramoto.
Starting point:
Minami 8 Jonishi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0808, Japan
Asahiyama Zoo is a popular zoo located in Higashi Asahikawa, in the town of Kuranuma, near Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Japan. It's renowned for its innovative enclosures designed to closely mimic the animals' natural habitats, providing visitors with unique viewing experiences. Asahiyama Zoo is particularly famous for its penguin parade, where visitors can observe penguins walking freely outside their enclosure. The zoo is also home to a wide variety of other animals, including polar bears, seals, red pandas, and many more. It's a must-visit destination for animal lovers and tourists visiting the Hokkaido region.
Biei-cho is a picturesque town located in Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan. It's renowned for its stunning rural landscapes, including rolling hills, flower fields, and tree-lined roads, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Some of the most iconic sights in Biei-cho include the Patchwork Road (Shikisai no Oka), a scenic route lined with colorful flower fields, and the Blue Pond (Aoiike), known for its striking blue color and beautiful reflections. Visitors to Biei-cho can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the tranquil countryside.
Shiraito Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in Kamiide, Fujinomiya, in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. The falls are renowned for their graceful, almost curtain-like appearance as the water cascades down a series of rock formations, resembling white threads ("shiraito" translates to "white threads"). The waterfall is fed by the melting snow from Mount Fuji, which adds to its charm and purity. Surrounded by lush greenery, Shiraito Falls is not only a natural wonder but also a popular spot for relaxation and photography. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the designated paths to admire the falls from various viewpoints and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding forest. Shiraito Falls is a must-visit destination for those exploring the scenic beauty of Shizuoka Prefecture or making a pilgrimage to Mount Fuji.
You will make your own way to the meeting points
The night before your trip, you will receive an email regarding important information such as the phone number of the tour guide and the license plate number of the car.