Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue Pond Day Trip in Hokkaido

If you’re looking to add a meaningful and scenic experience to your Hokkaido adventure, this day trip offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, nature, and rural beauty. We’ve reviewed this tour to help you understand what makes it stand out—and what to consider before booking.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see spectacular wildlife at Asahiyama Zoo, witness the stunning blue hue of Biei’s iconic pond, and enjoy vibrant flower gardens—all in one day. The cost of $88 per person is quite reasonable for a guided tour that covers diverse highlights, especially considering the included admission tickets and transportation. That said, a possible drawback is the service only being offered in Japanese, which might require some translation help if you don’t speak the language. This tour is ideal for travelers keen on exploring rural spots, nature lovers, and those wanting an authentic experience of lesser-visited Japan.

Good To Know

• Affordable value covering multiple attractions with included tickets
• Comfortable transportation with clear sightseeing routes
• Wildlife encounters at Asahiyama Zoo, including unique viewing tunnels
• Scenic landscapes of patchwork farmland and colorful flower gardens
• Limited language support, mainly in Japanese, with translation options
• Seasonal variations affecting some experiences like the penguin walk

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An In-Depth Look at Your Hokkaido Day Trip

Convenience and Planning

Starting from the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo, the tour begins early at 7:35 AM with a prompt meet-up. This early start is a plus if you enjoy making the most of your day, but it also means you’ll need to wake up a bit earlier to get ready. The group departs at 7:45 AM, heading straight into the scenic countryside of Hokkaido. The well-organized itinerary promises a full day of exploration, with the tour ending back at the starting point, making logistics easier for travelers staying nearby.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be transported on a sightseeing bus, which keeps the journey comfortable while allowing you to take in the patchwork farmland scenery from the window. As the bus moves through rural landscapes, you’ll get glimpses of Japan’s agricultural heartland—an aspect many travelers find fascinating, especially if they enjoy photography or simply want to see the “real Japan” beyond tourism hotspots.

While the exact group size isn’t specified, guided tours like this typically keep groups manageable to ensure a more personable experience. The inclusion of a Japanese-speaking guide is a bonus for those comfortable with or interested in cultural insights, but note that services are primarily in Japanese, which might limit interaction for non-Japanese speakers unless translation tools are used.

Asahiyama Zoo: A Wildlife Wonder

Our first major stop is the Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to see animals from multiple angles. For wildlife enthusiasts, this zoo is a highlight—featuring polar bears, wolves, big cats, and apes. The star attraction for many is the glass tunnel penguin pool, where visitors can watch penguins dance underwater—a delight for kids and adults alike.

From reviews, visitors mention the “spectacular views of animals from different angles” and appreciate the admission ticket included in the tour price. One reviewer highlighted that “the zoo’s design really lets you get close to the animals in a natural setting,” making it worthwhile even for those not typically zoo enthusiasts. A seasonal note: the penguin walk only happens during the snow-covered months, so if you visit outside that period, you’ll miss that particular experience, but the zoo remains impressive year-round.

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Biei Blue Pond: Nature’s Masterpiece

Next, the journey takes you to Biei’s Blue Pond, a place that often draws photographers and nature lovers alike. The vivid blue color of the pond, set against the surrounding forest, is truly striking. The scenery looks like a painted landscape, and the view can be appreciated from the bus window or with a short walk around the area.

Visitors have praised the scenic beauty here, describing it as “a must-see for anyone visiting Hokkaido,” and noting that “the view is even more impressive in person.” Keep in mind that the pond’s color can vary depending on the weather and season; sunny days will intensify the blue, while overcast days might mute it slightly. The tour’s timing usually allows about 50 minutes at this stop, giving enough time for photos and a quick stroll.

Flower Gardens and Farm Tomita

Finally, the trip includes a visit to Farm Tomita, one of the most famous flower farms in Hokkaido. Depending on the season, you’ll see fields of lavender, poppies, or other vibrant blooms. This part of the tour provides a peaceful break and an opportunity to buy local products or take more photos.

The duration of stay here varies—about 30 minutes in early season (April to May) and up to 50 minutes during summer (June to September)—so plan to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. One guest shared that “the flowers were breathtaking, and it’s a perfect spot for some memorable pictures.” It’s a lovely way to end your day with a splash of color and tranquility.

Additional Considerations

While most of the tour emphasizes scenic and wildlife attractions, it’s worth noting that meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase at each stop. Also, personal expenses are on you, including souvenirs or extra refreshments. The tour’s insurance coverage offers peace of mind, but as always, check the cancellation policy—rescheduling or refunds are possible if weather or unforeseen events disrupt plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Hokkaido’s natural beauty and unique wildlife without the hassle of planning multiple transports or tickets. It suits those comfortable with Japanese language services or those willing to use translation tools, as the guide primarily speaks Japanese. The tour’s pace is moderate, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and its value for money is good considering the included admission tickets and transportation.

It’s a fantastic choice for nature lovers, families, and anyone eager to discover the less touristy sides of Japan’s northern island. If your schedule allows only a day in Hokkaido, this tour packs a lot of highlights into one seamless, guided experience.

Final Thoughts

The Asahiyama Zoo & Biei Blue Pond Day Trip offers a balanced blend of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural charm. The early start ensures you cover a lot of ground, and the included tickets make it a smart value. While language support could be better, the attractions themselves speak for themselves—beautiful, interesting, and memorable.

This tour is especially valuable for those who want a straightforward, guided way to explore some of Hokkaido’s most photogenic and wildlife-rich spots. It’s a well-rounded day, perfect for travelers looking to see a different side of Japan—one where rural landscapes and animal encounters take center stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation on a sightseeing bus, making travel between the attractions comfortable and convenient.

What is the meeting point and time?
You meet at the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo at 7:35 AM, with departure at 7:45 AM. It’s important to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Are the services provided in English?
No, the guide mainly offers services in Japanese. Travelers may need translation tools to assist with communication.

How long is the tour?
The full day tour runs approximately from early morning until you return to the meeting point later in the day, with specific stops lasting between 30-50 minutes.

Can I see the penguin walk?
The penguin walk is seasonal, happening only during snowy months. Outside that period, you’ll enjoy the zoo’s other exhibits, which are still impressive.

What should I bring?
Bring snacks, water, and possibly a camera. Since meals aren’t included, you might want to purchase food at the stops or pack your own.

This tour provides a fantastic way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most scenic and wildlife-rich spots without the stress of planning multiple independent visits. Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking beautiful landscapes, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day in Japan’s northern island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby