Asahiyama Zoo & Bibai Snow Land Snow Play Experience

Traveling to Hokkaido in winter offers a chance to see a landscape blanketed in snow, full of unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. This 9.5-hour tour combines the charm of Asahiyama Zoo’s special winter animal exhibits with the playful thrill of Bibai Snow Land‘s snow activities. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or just looking for fun in a winter paradise, this tour aims to deliver both in one day.

Three things that caught our eye are the exclusive winter-only animal action exhibits, especially the Penguin Walk, the opportunity to drive snowmobiles across pristine snowfields, and the chance to capture stunning winter scenery. That said, keep in mind that some snow activities, like snowmobiling and buggy riding, cost extra and require additional fees. This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of wildlife and winter adventure, perfect for families, nature lovers, and curious travelers alike.

One consideration is the timing, as the Penguin Walk depends on snow conditions and penguins’ health, which might mean missing out if the weather is uncooperative. Still, even without that highlight, the rest of the day offers plenty of memorable moments. This experience is well-suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, authentic animal encounters, and snowy outdoor fun.

Good To Know

• Wildlife up close: Experience the Action Exhibits at Asahiyama Zoo in winter, observing animals in behaviors close to their natural environment.
• Unique winter event: The Penguin Walk is a rare opportunity to see penguins’ natural movements on snow, weather permitting.
• Guided insights: The tour includes in-depth commentary from knowledgeable guides, enriching your understanding of the animals and environment.
• Snowland adventures: Bibai Snow Land offers a variety of snow activities—mini snowmobiles, four-wheel buggies, and sledding—that are perfect for all ages.
• Flexible options: Some snow activities require extra fees, so budget accordingly if you want to partake.
• Transport and timing: Comfortable bus transfers make the long day manageable, with clear schedules to maximize your sightseeing time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Meet-Up and Transport

The tour begins early, with a meet-up at the hotel lobby at 7:50 am, ready to depart at 8:00 am. The coach ride from the meeting point to Bibai takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the scenery. The bus is a comfortable way to cover the distance, especially after a chilly morning, while guides provide helpful commentary along the way.

Bibai Snow Land: Snow Play in a Winter Wonderland

Arriving in Bibai, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to enjoy the snow. Bibai Snow Land is described as a play paradise—a vast, snowy expanse perfect for kids and adults alike. The pristine snow and clear winter skies make a perfect backdrop for all kinds of activities. You can expect to slide down powdery slopes, race with family and friends, or try driving mini snowmobiles and four-wheel buggies across the snowfields.

From reviews, we know that sliding down the snow beneath a bright winter sky is exhilarating—a chance to feel like a child again. The snowmobile rides, although optional and involving extra costs, allow you to traverse the snow in a more adventurous way. These activities add a layer of fun and physical engagement, making Bibai Snow Land a highlight for thrill-seekers.

Asahiyama Zoo: Wildlife Encounters and Special Exhibits

After lunch (which you’ll need to arrange yourself), the tour heads to Asahiyama Zoo for about 2 hours. Here, the winter-exclusive Action Exhibits are the star of the show. These exhibits aim to replicate the animals’ natural behaviors—so instead of static displays, you get to see animals swimming, leaping, and hunting in environments that mimic their natural habitat.

A standout feature is the Penguin Walk, usually held from late December to mid-March, when snow cover is sufficient. Visitors get an up-close look as the penguins waddle out on snow, displaying their natural movement patterns. The guides provide detailed commentary, making it an educational experience as well.

Authentic insights from previous reviews note that the guides are very knowledgeable, adding depth to the experience. One reviewer appreciated the way the guides explained animal behaviors in a simple yet engaging manner, enhancing the sense of connection with the wildlife.

The zoo also highlights polar bears and other Arctic animals, giving visitors a clear view of adaptations to cold climates. The photo stops and shopping opportunities ensure you can capture memories and pick up souvenirs. The entrance fee to the zoo is included, offering good value considering the quality of the exhibits.

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Return Journey and Final Stops

After exploring the zoo, you’ll have another brief stop in Bibai for sightseeing and photo opportunities. The bus then makes its way back, with a 1.5-hour ride to conclude the day. Expect to arrive at your original pickup point by late afternoon or early evening, depending on traffic and weather.

The Value of This Tour

This experience packs a lot into a single day. The entrance fee to Asahiyama Zoo is included, which by itself offers a comprehensive view of winter behaviors in Arctic species—an excellent value for animal lovers. The Bibai Snow Land admission is also included, although some snow activities cost extra; this allows you to choose which adventures suit your budget and interest.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of wildlife and snow play—a true reflection of Hokkaido’s winter appeal. The guides’ expertise and commentary elevate the experience, providing context that deepens your appreciation of the animals and environment.

While the Penguin Walk is a highlight, its occurrence depends on snow conditions and penguins’ health. This unpredictability means you should be flexible with expectations but also appreciate the other unique aspects of the day.

The tour offers a balanced mix of education, adventure, and cultural insight. It’s especially suitable for families or groups that want a full, active day outdoors without the hassle of planning each component separately.

Who Would Love This Experience

This tour is perfect for families with children, thanks to the engaging animal exhibits and snow activities. It’s also well-suited for nature and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Arctic animals in action. If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor winter fun but prefers guided arrangements, this experience offers both ease and excitement.

Those interested in learning more about animal behaviors will find the guided commentary particularly valuable. It’s also a good choice if you want a full-day adventure that combines wildlife, snow play, and cultural insights—all in one package.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Do I need to pay extra for snow activities at Bibai Snow Land?
Yes, activities like Snow Rafting, Mini Snowmobile, and 4-Wheel Buggy require additional fees, which are not included in the main tour price.

What should I bring for the snow activities?
Warm clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, and hats are recommended to enjoy snow activities comfortably. You might also want to bring a camera for winter photos.

Will I see the Penguin Walk every visit?
Not necessarily. The Penguin Walk is held when snow cover is sufficient and is subject to the penguins’ health. It usually occurs from late December to mid-March, but dates may vary each year.

How long is the bus ride between stops?
The bus ride between the meeting point and Bibai or Asahiyama Zoo is approximately 1.5 hours each way, providing a comfortable rest period.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the zoo or Snow Land.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Chinese and English, with the possibility of app-guided commentary if participant numbers are low.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Hokkaido’s winter charm, combining wild animal encounters with snow-filled adventures. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops make it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive day without stressing about logistics. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of snowmobiling, the cuteness of penguins, or simply stunning winter scenery, this experience delivers.

While some activities involve extra costs and the Penguin Walk’s timing can vary, the overall value lies in the diversity of experiences and expert-guided insights. It’s an excellent pick for families, wildlife lovers, and anyone eager to embrace Hokkaido’s winter magic in a relaxed but exciting way.

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