Sapporo: Asahiyama Zoo and Shirahige Falls Trip /w Hotel Pickup

Experience the Winter Magic of Hokkaido: A Full-Day Tour from Sapporo

If you’re visiting Sapporo in winter and craving a glimpse of Hokkaido’s stunning seasonal scenery, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s icy charm. For around $54, you’ll visit highlights like the famous Asahiyama Zoo, where the playful penguin parade is a highlight, and the Blue Pond, which looks like a scene from another planet with its striking turquoise waters. The tour also includes the majestic Shirahige Falls, with its unusual underground waterfall, and stops at charming spots like Ningle Terrace and Shikisai-no-Oka, where you can enjoy artisan crafts and colorful flower slopes.

What we really love about this trip is how it balances iconic sights with opportunities for authentic interaction—like feeding alpacas or exploring local hot springs. The hotel pickup makes logistics easier in winter’s cold, and the small group size (maximum 27 travelers) promises a more personal experience. Plus, the free hot drinks during the journey add a cozy touch to the chilly day.

One thing to keep in mind is that some attractions, such as Shirogane Onsen, are optional and not included in the base price, and weather conditions could impact some outdoor stops. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, and want a hassle-free way to see several highlights without renting a car.

Key Points

• Seasonal Highlights: Perfect for winter lovers, showcasing snow-covered landscapes and icy waterfalls.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, transportation, and guiding services.
• Iconic Sights: Features the famous penguin parade at Asahiyama Zoo and the surreal Blue Pond.
• Authentic Experiences: Optional alpaca feeding and exploring local crafts at Ningle Terrace.
• Flexible Itinerary: Can be adjusted based on seasonal closures or weather conditions.
• Value for Money: At just over $54, offers a comprehensive taste of Hokkaido’s winter scenery.

A Deep Dive into the Hokkaido Winter Tour

Introduction to the Tour

This full-day experience from Sapporo is designed for travelers eager to explore Hokkaido’s winter landscape without the hassle of driving themselves. For around $54, you get a well-organized itinerary that covers some of the most photogenic and noteworthy spots in the area, all served up with comfortable transportation and the guidance of a local expert.

The tour kicks off early from Sapporo Station with hotel pickup, which is a real plus in winter — no need to navigate icy roads or public transport with heavy gear. The group size is capped at 27, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the mobile ticket system makes checking in smooth.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Two features make this tour particularly appealing. First, the visit to Asahiyama Zoo, where the penguin parade is a winter highlight. Watching the plucky penguins waddling outside in the snow is both charming and memorable. Second, the Blue Pond offers a surreal experience; the vivid turquoise waters, caused by natural minerals, create a landscape so stunning that it often looks like a digital rendering, especially against the snowy backdrop.

Another aspect that travelers appreciate is the variety of stops. From the underground Shirahige Falls—a rare waterfall cascading into turquoise waters—to the colorful flower slopes at Shikisai-no-Oka, every location offers a different flavor of Hokkaido’s winter beauty. The optional alpaca feeding at Shikisai-no-Oka adds a fun, hands-on element, especially if you’re traveling with children or animal lovers.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

One consideration is the seasonal closures. For example, during late December and early January, the Asahiyama Zoo is closed, and the itinerary is adjusted to include other scenic spots like Bieis Seven Star Tree and Herb Garden. This means the experience can vary depending on the timing of your visit. Also, some attractions like Shirogane Onsen are optional and require an additional fee, which might be worth it if you want to soak after the day’s adventures.

Weather can also be unpredictable; heavy snow or cold temperatures might impact some outdoor stops or make walking around less comfortable. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy winter landscapes but are prepared for potentially chilly conditions.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Asahiyama Zoo (2 hours)
The star attraction here is undoubtedly the penguin parade, which typically occurs in the morning, adding a lively start to the day. The zoo’s innovative enclosures allow visitors to observe animals like polar bears and seals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. If the zoo is closed during your visit (Dec 30-Jan 1), the guide will substitute with other scenic spots, such as Bieis Seven Star Tree, a solitary oak tree made iconic on cigarette packaging in the 1970s. This flexibility ensures you get some memorable scenery regardless.

Stop 2: Shirogane Blue Pond (40 minutes)
This pond is a must-see for anyone visiting Hokkaido. The vivid turquoise waters are a result of mineral deposits, and in winter, they are often framed by snow and ice, making for stunning photographs. Travelers often describe it as “otherworldly,” and it’s easy to see why. The short visit allows ample time to snap photos and take in the beauty without rushing.

Stop 3: Seven Stars Tree (20 minutes)
This solitary tree, which gained fame on cigarette packaging, provides a quiet moment of natural beauty amid the snow-covered fields. It’s a simple but iconic sight, perfect for a quick photo break.

Stop 4: Shikisai-no-Oka (40 minutes)
This expansive flower farm, though less vibrant in winter, still offers eye-catching views of snow-covered slopes and colorful plantings. If you opt for the alpaca feeding experience (¥500), you’ll get close to adorable animals that seem to have stepped out of a fairy tale. The guide adjusts the itinerary based on flowering seasons, but in winter, the landscape’s stark beauty still impresses.

Stop 5: Shirahige Falls (30 minutes)
Unusual in Japan, this underground waterfall features aluminum-rich springs that cascade into turquoise waters. The contrast between the roaring falls and the calm Blue River creates a mesmerizing scene, especially when framed by snow and ice.

Stop 6: Shirogane Onsen (1 hour)
While the hot springs themselves are optional (additional fee of ¥2,000), the village’s snowy setting offers a relaxing break. If you choose to soak, you’ll experience mineral-rich waters famed as the “white gold” of hot springs.

Stop 7: Ningle Terrace (50 minutes)
The final stop transports you to a fairy-tale-like forest of handmade crafts. The glow of fairy lights against snow-dusted log cabins evokes scenes from Studio Ghibli films. Browse artisan stalls, pick up souvenirs, or simply soak in the cozy atmosphere.

What Travelers Say

While the tour hasn’t accumulated many reviews yet, the few comments suggest it’s a well-paced trip that balances scenic stops with manageable walking distances. The inclusion of free hot drinks helps keep energy up in the chilly weather. Travelers appreciate the seamless logistics and hotel pickup, which can be a challenge in winter, and they find the stops to be beautiful and photo-worthy.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best for those who love winter scenery, outdoor photography, and light walking. It suits travelers looking for a stress-free day with guided transportation. If you’re eager to see iconic Hokkaido sights like the Blue Pond and enjoy some animal encounters like penguins and alpacas, this tour offers a solid value. It’s also ideal if you prefer organized excursions over self-driving, especially in snowy conditions.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this tour offers an accessible way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic winter spots without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The combination of stunning landscapes, unique waterfalls, and charming artisan villages makes it a memorable day out. While weather and seasonal closures can influence the exact experience, the flexibility built into the itinerary ensures you’ll still leave with plenty of beautiful memories.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided day through winter’s best scenery, and who appreciate a mix of nature, wildlife, and local crafts, this tour provides genuine value. Just be prepared for cold weather and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and dropoff from your hotel or accommodation in Sapporo, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $54.23 per person, which includes admission tickets to Asahiyama Zoo, guiding services, and some complimentary hot drinks.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to participate in snow activities or alpaca feeding at Shikisai-no-Oka for an additional fee, such as ¥500 for feeding the alpacas.

What happens if the zoo is closed?
During December 30 to January 1, the zoo is closed, and the itinerary is adjusted to include other scenic stops like Bieis Seven Star Tree and Herb Garden.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, with most of the day spent visiting different stops around Hokkaido.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While mostly suitable, consider the full day’s length and outdoor nature of stops. Kids who enjoy animals and outdoor scenery should find it enjoyable.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
You might need to pay for optional activities, such as Shirogane Onsen entry (¥2,000), and personal expenses like meals aren’t included.

How many people typically join?
The group size is limited to 27 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

This guided journey through Hokkaido’s winter landscapes offers a practical, beautiful, and well-organized way to enjoy the region’s seasonal highlights. Whether you’re after iconic sights or just some memorable photo moments, this tour makes it easy and enjoyable to see the best of Hokkaido in winter.