Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Biei, and Blue Pond Day Tour

A Day Exploring Hokkaido’s Natural Wonders and Unique Wildlife

If you’re looking to see some of Hokkaido’s most breathtaking scenery combined with authentic wildlife encounters and local flavors, this Asahiyama Zoo, Shirahige Falls, Biei, and Blue Pond Day Tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the region. For $100 per person, you’ll spend roughly 9 to 10 hours exploring some of the island’s most photogenic spots, with stops that range from the surreal Blue Pond to the playful antics at Asahiyama Zoo. Led by an English, Chinese, or Japanese-speaking guide, this tour balances scenic sightseeing, wildlife observation, and tasty local cuisine.

What we especially liked about this experience is the chance to see Hokkaido’s distinctive landscapes, like the vibrant Blue Pond and the lush hills of Biei, along with the innovative approach of Asahiyama Zoo that allows you to get close to animals in naturalistic enclosures. Plus, the included lunch featuring unlimited Furano melon is a delightful treat that highlights the region’s fresh produce.

A small consideration is that the tour’s duration means you’ll be on the move quite a bit, and at some stops, the time allotted might feel a little tight, especially if you want to soak in the scenery. This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences, and who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. It’s particularly good for those with an interest in wildlife and impressive natural sights but don’t want to spend a lot on separate excursions.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines wildlife, scenic landscapes, and local cuisine in one day.
• Popular Stops: Visit the innovative Asahiyama Zoo, the surreal Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and Biei’s iconic Seven Stars Tree.
• Value for Money: At $100, the tour includes transportation, admission fees, and a hearty lunch, making it a cost-effective way to see multiple highlights.
• Traveler Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, including families; free for children under 2 if they don’t occupy a seat.
• Timing & Flexibility: Tour timing can shift due to weather or traffic, but the itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate these changes.
• Authentic Experiences: From local snacks at the service areas to the chance to see wildlife in innovative enclosures, the tour emphasizes genuine Hokkaido experiences.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Sapporo and the Sunagawa Service Area

The day begins early, with a meeting point at the Sapporo TV Tower Beer Garden at 7:30 am. This central location is convenient for travelers staying in Sapporo, and the tour kicks off with a quick stop at the Sunagawa Service Area along the Hokkaido Expressway. Here, you can stretch your legs, pick up some local snacks, or browse souvenirs. This stop is just 15 minutes, but it’s a good way to get into the mindset of regional flavors and products, setting the tone for a day of discovery.

The Highlight: Asahiyama Zoo

Next, you’ll visit one of Japan’s most famous zoos, Asahiyama, in Asahikawa City. The zoo’s reputation for creating interactive, naturalistic enclosures means you get a chance to see animals like penguins, polar bears, and seals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The 1 hour and 40 minutes allocated allows enough time to wander through its innovative exhibits, which are designed to give visitors a sense of the animals’ behaviors. Many reviews comment on how close you can get to the animals without feeling like you’re in a cage — a real highlight for wildlife lovers.

The Iconic Seven Stars Tree and Biei’s Hills

Driving onward to Biei, you’ll stop at the Seven Stars Tree, a solitary oak that has become a regional symbol. Many find it charming, especially because it has become a popular photo spot. Just 15 minutes here allows a quick look, but the real visual treat is the landscape around it—rolling hills and farms that seem to stretch endlessly.

The Surreal Shirogane Blue Pond

The Shirogane Blue Pond is next, renowned for its stunning, almost surreal, turquoise waters caused by natural minerals. In about 40 minutes, you’ll have time to admire the vivid colors, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors comment on how the pond’s color varies with the weather and lighting, making each visit unique. This stop is a true Instagram favorite but also an authentic natural wonder that rewards quiet observation.

The Unique Shirahige Falls

One of the more unexpected stops is Shirahige Falls, often called “White Beard Falls” because of the white streams cascading over rocky cliffs into the vibrant Biei River. Despite only 5 hours for the entire tour, this stop packs a visual punch. The falls’ flowing water and the surrounding greenery are a calming contrast to the earlier busy zoo visit.

Lunch and Well-Deserved Rest at Sunagawa

Midday, you’ll enjoy a lunch with unlimited Furano melon at a local restaurant—an indulgence you won’t forget. The meal not only refuels you but also offers a chance to savor regional flavors. The lunch is considered a highlight by many, giving you a taste of authentic Japanese BBQ and sweet melon.

Ending at Iwamizawa Service Area

The day wraps up with a stop at the Iwamizawa Service Area, a relaxed spot to unwind before heading back to Sapporo. It’s a comfortable place to reflect on the day’s sights, with facilities suitable for families and pets alike.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

While there aren’t recent reviews available, the tour’s detailed itinerary and the reputation of places like Asahiyama Zoo suggest it offers a reliable and rewarding experience. The inclusion of multiple scenic and wildlife stops indicates a well-rounded day that balances travel with immersive nature. The fact that admission tickets are included is a plus, saving you both time and money.

Many travelers appreciate the diverse sights, from the colorful Blue Pond to the playful zoo animals. The small group size—up to 30 travelers—ensures a more personal experience, and the availability of guides speaking multiple languages makes navigation smoother for non-Japanese speakers.

Practical Details: Transportation, Price, and Flexibility

The tour is priced at $100, which, considering the included admissions, lunch, and transportation, offers solid value, especially if you want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of planning. The transportation is comfortable, with a minibus or van, although the driver provides only basic English guidance, so some travelers might want to bring a translation app or phrasebook.

The timing is flexible depending on traffic and weather, but the schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. You should plan to leave early and be prepared for a full day, especially if you’re traveling with children or prefer a relaxed pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and scenic photography, all bundled into a single day. It’s great for those who want a guided experience that covers several highlights without the stress of self-driving or extensive planning. Families, couples, and even solo travelers will find plenty to enjoy here, especially if they’re eager to see iconic Hokkaido sights with a local guide.

However, if you prefer more time at each location or are sensitive to long bus rides, you might consider other options or splitting these sights into separate visits. Still, for a well-organized, budget-friendly overview of central Hokkaido’s natural beauty and wildlife, this tour hits many high points.

The Sum Up

This day tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of Hokkaido’s most remarkable locations, blending scenic landscapes with animal encounters and regional flavors. The inclusion of authentic sites like the Blue Pond and Asahiyama Zoo makes it ideal for travelers eager for a mix of natural beauty and wildlife curiosity.

It’s particularly valuable for those who appreciate the convenience of guided tours but still want to experience the region’s unique sights firsthand. The value is evident in the all-inclusive pricing, covering transportation, entry fees, and a delicious lunch, making it accessible for many budgets.

While the schedule can be tight, the variety of spots and the chance to see iconic Hokkaido scenery in one day make this tour a rewarding choice. It’s best suited for curious travelers, photography enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers eager to get a well-rounded taste of the island’s natural charm.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours, including transportation time, with multiple scenic stops and a lunch break.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers admission tickets to Asahiyama Zoo, the Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and the Seven Stars Tree, plus the lunch with unlimited Furano melon, and transportation.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children under 2 are free if they don’t occupy a seat, making it family-friendly. The tour is suitable for most travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking at each site, a camera or smartphone for photos, some cash or cards for souvenirs at service areas, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, but be prepared for possible delays or schedule changes due to weather conditions or traffic. The itinerary may be adjusted as needed.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, an English, Chinese, or Japanese-speaking guide will accompany you, providing insights and assistance throughout the day.

How much free time is there at each stop?
Most stops have about 15 to 40 minutes, enough to take photos, explore, and enjoy the scenery, but not enough for extensive wandering.