Asahiyama Zoo, Christmas Tree, Fairy Terrace Day Tour | Hokkaido

Traveling through Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido offers a unique blend of striking landscapes and fascinating wildlife encounters. This full-day tour from Sapporo promises a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural wonders, combined with up-close animal viewing at Asahiyama Zoo.

It also features some of the most photogenic spots in Biei, like the Shirogane Blue Pond and the Christmas Tree, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking a mix of nature, relaxation, and memorable photo opportunities.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the innovative design of Asahiyama Zoo allows visitors to observe animals comfortably in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Second, the spectacular scenery in Biei, especially the luminous Blue Pond and the charming Christmas Tree, provides countless photo opportunities.

However, a note of caution: the tour’s pace means you’ll be on the move most of the day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some sightseeing fatigue.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Hokkaido’s highlights, whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• Efficient Full-Day Itinerary: Combines wildlife, nature, and scenic spots in one well-organized day.
• Unique Animal Encounters: At Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its innovative enclosures.
• Photo-Ready Locations: The Blue Pond, Christmas Tree, and Shirahige Waterfall are must-see sights.
• Value for Price: At $100, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with included transfers and admission, though lunch is not included.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.
• Early Start: Meeting at 7:30 am means an early, but rewarding, start to your day.

Starting Early: A Good Choice for Maximal Sightseeing

The tour kicks off promptly at 7:30 am at Kushidori, near the JR Sapporo North Exit. This early start is typical for full-day excursions in Japan, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy each stop. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, making it convenient even if you’re not staying right in central Sapporo.

Transportation & Group Size

With round-trip transfers included, you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or figuring out public transit between dispersed sights. The group is limited to 30 participants, which strikes a balance between social camaraderie and avoiding the feeling of being lost in a crowd. Given the duration—eight to nine hours—comfortable transportation really enhances the overall experience.

Asahiyama Zoo: A Wildlife Encounter Like No Other

The tour’s highlight for many is the Asahiyama Zoo, which has earned a reputation across Japan for its innovative enclosures. Unlike traditional zoos where animals are behind bars far away, this zoo’s design allows visitors to get closer, observing animals in habitats that mimic their natural surroundings.

Expect to spend roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes here. The review from Maria indicates she enjoyed “unusual enclosures” that make animals more accessible. She also notes the zoo features some “unusual animals for those from the tropics,” hinting at the diversity of species you might see. Remember, admission is not included, but tickets can be purchased on-site, usually at reasonable prices.

This stop provides a fantastic chance to see animals like polar bears, penguins, or perhaps otters—species well-adapted to the cooler climate. It’s a real treat for kids and adults alike, especially if you’re excited about wildlife in an environment designed to foster closer views.

Scenic Biei: Christmas Tree, Shirahige Falls & Blue Pond

After the zoo, the journey continues into the heart of Biei, a region famed for its remarkable landscapes. The Christmas Tree, a solitary, uniquely shaped tree that resembles a Christmas tree, makes for a charming photo spot. The tour includes 30 minutes here, enough to snap some memorable shots and appreciate its quirky charm.

Next, the Shirahige Waterfall offers a more natural spectacle. Flowing gracefully between cliff gaps, it’s an ideal place to enjoy the tranquility of Biei’s landscapes. The 40-minute stop allows for a brief walk and some pictures of the cascade.

The Shirogane Blue Pond might be the highlight of the day for many travelers. Famous for its surreal, vivid blue color, the pond’s striking appearance is a result of volcanic erosion control. During the 30-minute visit, you’ll get a chance to marvel at the color—an ideal backdrop for photos or simply to enjoy nature’s artistry.

Practical Tips & Considerations

While the tour offers a wonderful overview, keep in mind that the schedule is fairly packed, with each stop being relatively brief. That means you’ll need to be ready to move efficiently and prioritize what you most want to see or photograph. Also, lunch isn’t included, and recommendations for where to get on-the-go options might be helpful, especially at busy spots like the zoo.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues might find the tight schedule a challenge. The timing ensures you see the highlights but also means you won’t have time for extended exploration at each site.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Maria’s review provides practical insight: she appreciated the accessibility of animals at the zoo and the unusual enclosures. Her suggestion about better informing guests on lunch options highlights a common challenge in full-day tours—timing and meal logistics.

In terms of value, at $100 per person, the tour offers an efficient way to see several key attractions of Hokkaido without the hassle of planning individual transport or tickets. The inclusion of round-trip transfers and the zoo admission adds to the overall value, particularly for those unfamiliar with local logistics.

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines wildlife, nature, and iconic scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photography—the Blue Pond and Christmas Tree alone are worth the effort—and for families or groups seeking a well-organized, hassle-free way to experience Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want more time at each site, this might feel rushed. It’s also a good choice for travelers who appreciate innovative zoo designs and close animal encounters, as well as those eager to see some of Japan’s most scenic landscapes.

This tour provides a rich snapshot of Hokkaido’s diverse offerings — from its wildlife to striking natural landscapes. The well-structured itinerary ensures you hit the highlights without feeling overwhelmed, giving you a taste of the region’s best views and animal experiences.

While it’s packed, the value for the price is clear—especially considering the included transportation and admission fees. The early start may seem intense, but it pays off with more time to enjoy each location. Whether you’re a wildlife fan, a photography enthusiast, or someone eager to explore iconic Hokkaido scenery, this tour offers a memorable window into the island’s natural wonders.

In short, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a balanced, engaging, and well-organized day exploring one of Japan’s most scenic regions.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transfers are included, making it easy to move between locations without worrying about public transit or driving.

How long do we spend at each stop? The total tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, with approximately 2 hours at Asahiyama Zoo, and shorter stops of 30 to 40 minutes at the scenic spots.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but the tour guide can suggest places to get on-the-go options nearby.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (it can be chilly in Hokkaido), and your camera for photos.

Are all ages suitable for this tour? Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the early start and the walkability at each site.

Can I see animals close up at the zoo? Yes. The zoo’s innovative enclosures are designed to allow visitors to observe animals more directly than traditional zoo layouts.

What makes the Blue Pond special? The pond’s vibrant, otherworldly blue color is caused by volcanic activity and erosion control, creating a scene that’s perfect for photos.

This full-day tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Hokkaido’s most iconic sights, especially if you’re after a mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and picture-perfect landscapes. It’s a smart choice for those eager to pack in a lot of memorable experiences in one day, all conveniently organized from Sapporo.