Hokkaido: Asahiyama Zoo Biei Ningle Terrace Day Tour

Exploring Hokkaido’s Unique Charm in a Day

If you’re after a full day of diverse experiences in Hokkaido, the “Asahiyama Zoo Biei Ningle Terrace Day Tour” offers a well-rounded taste of everything from wildlife to stunning scenery and local crafts. While it’s not a guided commentary-heavy tour, it excels in seamless logistics, comfort, and the chance to explore some of the island’s most iconic sights at your own pace.

What really makes this tour stand out are the adorable penguins at Asahiyama Zoo, the surreal beauty of Blue Pond, and the handcrafted treasures at Ningle Terrace. It combines nature, art, and relaxation — perfect for travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural charm. That said, it’s a long day, and some stops are brief, so pace and weather considerations are worth keeping in mind.

This experience is best suited for those who value well-organized transportation, enjoy seeing nature’s most picturesque spots, and prefer exploring independently rather than in a guided tour with commentary. It’s ideal for travelers who want to make the most of a single day in Hokkaido without the hassle of driving or planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Comfort and Convenience: Modern, clean bus transportation with optional hotel pickup.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up views of penguins and other active animals.
• Stunning Landscapes: Blue Pond, Seven Star Tree, and snow-covered scenery.
• Artisan Shopping: Unique handmade crafts at Ningle Terrace.
• Relaxation: Hot spring visit options to unwind after sightseeing.
• Flexible Experience: Options for your departure and pickup locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Itinerary Unfolds

This tour starts early in Sapporo, with departures around 8:00 AM, offering a full 10 hours of exploring without feeling rushed. It’s tailored for comfort and efficiency, with detailed planning ensuring you hit each highlight smoothly.

Departure and Transportation

You’ll be picked up either from Sapporo Station or your hotel if within 3km of the station. The journey to Asahiyama Zoo takes about 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to settle in and enjoy the scenery en route. The bus is described as modern and clean, a point appreciated by travelers who dislike cramped or outdated transport.

Asahiyama Zoo: Penguins and More

The main highlight is Asahiyama Zoo, widely praised for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to see animals like polar bears, seals, and raccoons in action. The star attraction is, of course, the penguins, who seem to enjoy their snowy parade, a truly heartwarming sight. Visitors have noted the zoo’s unique approach to animal exhibits, making it more engaging than typical zoos.

Reviewers commend the thoughtful organization, with Alain from France mentioning that the driver, Chen, was “highly experienced and professional,” dropping guests right at each site and providing clear pickup instructions. The two hours allocated here include time for lunch, which is convenient, though some might find it a bit rushed given the zoo’s charm.

The Seven Star Tree

Next, a quick stop at Seven Star Tree offers a snapshot of Hokkaido’s landscape. Travelers get about 15 minutes here to snap photos of this iconic, star-shaped tree, which has become a symbol of the region’s rugged beauty. Some reviews mention that this stop is brief, but it’s enough to capture a memorable shot.

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Biei’s Blue Pond and Waterfalls

Depending on the season, the itinerary shifts slightly, but typically includes the Blue Pond, famous for its surreal turquoise waters, and Shirahige Falls. The Blue Pond’s vivid colors are mesmerizing, and it’s a favorite among photographers. It’s especially striking in winter, when snow adds to the scene’s fairy-tale feel.

Ningle Terrace: Handcrafted Delights

In the afternoon, the focus is on Ningle Terrace, a quaint village of log cabins showcasing handmade crafts like glass art, dried flowers, or hand-painted illustrations. Reviewers mention the special ambiance created by evening light displays, making it an especially romantic spot. The shops are small but filled with unique, high-quality items, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

If Ningle Terrace is temporarily closed for maintenance, the tour alternative is Shiragane Onsen, where you can relax in a natural hot spring. Many reviewers commented positively on the hot spring experience, noting it’s a lovely way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.

Additional Stops and Flexibility

Other sites like Shikisai no Oka (flower fields) or Herb Garden are sometimes included depending on the season and weather conditions. Some reviews mention that the flower field in winter turns into a snowmobile or sled area, with limited time and full rentals, which might not appeal to everyone.

Return to Sapporo

The tour wraps up with a bus ride back to Sapporo, arriving around 6-7 PM, giving travelers time to relax after a full day. The group size is limited (up to 9 guests), ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between structured itinerary and flexibility. The price reflects the convenience of having transportation, entry to key sights, and some snacks included—like complimentary hot drinks at certain stops. The small group size enhances comfort and allows for more personalized interactions, which many reviewers appreciated.

While the tour doesn’t include guided commentary, detailed itineraries are shared beforehand, and the driver, speaking multiple languages, is available for questions. Punctuality is emphasized, with strict departure times and no waiting for late arrivals—a common practice in well-organized group tours.

Travelers should pack weather-appropriate clothing, especially in winter, as many stops are outside. The limited luggage space on the bus means light packing is recommended.

Reviews on Value and Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its beautiful sights and smooth logistics. Vivianne from Singapore called it an “absolutely magical” day, highlighting the variety of locations and the quality of the food and scenery. Alain appreciated the clean, comfortable transport and the professionalism of the driver, while others noted the brief stops, which can feel rushed but are enough to get a good sense of each site.

The tour is not aimed at those looking for a guided commentary or extensive explanation but suits travelers who prefer to explore independently with a reliable transport backbone.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want to capture iconic Hokkaido scenes without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also great for those seeking cultural magic at Ningle Terrace and relaxing hot springs. It suits travelers who appreciate well-organized logistics, comfortable transportation, and the freedom to explore at their own pace.

It’s less ideal for older travelers over 80 or those who want in-depth guided storytelling, but the overall comfort and flexibility make it attractive for most other travelers.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an excellent way to see a diverse slice of Hokkaido in one day. From the playful penguins and surreal Blue Pond to handcrafted art and relaxing hot springs, it combines nature, culture, and comfort in a neat package. The small-group format, reliable transport, and carefully curated stops give it a high value for those wanting an efficient yet memorable experience.

You’ll leave with stunning photos, new crafts, and maybe even a warm soak to end your day. Perfect for travelers who prioritize convenience but still crave authentic, picture-perfect moments.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour? Yes, if your hotel is within 3km of Sapporo Station, pickup can be arranged. You need to provide your exact hotel address during booking.

What should I bring for the day? Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, especially in winter. Pack light due to limited luggage space, and bring your camera or smartphone for photos.

How long do we spend at each site? Typically, the tour allocates about 2 hours for Asahiyama Zoo, 15 minutes at Seven Star Tree, an hour at Shikisai no Oka or Blue Pond, and 30 minutes at Ningle Terrace, with some flexibility based on the day.

Are meals included? Lunch is not included, but the tour provides a hot drink and the option to buy food at the stops. Reviewers praised the quality of food available locally.

Is this tour suitable for children? Kids under 3 can join for free but must sit on a guardian’s lap. The tour is generally family-friendly but involves outdoor stops and walking.

How punctual is the tour? The tour departs strictly on time; late arrivals cannot be accommodated without forfeiting the booking.

Are guides offering commentary during the stops? No, the tour isn’t guided in the traditional sense, but the driver speaks multiple languages and provides clear instructions.

What if some sites are closed or weather is bad? The itinerary may change, and alternative stops like Shiragane Onsen will be arranged if certain sites are inaccessible.

In summary, this day tour provides a seamless way to experience some of Hokkaido’s most beloved sites. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and local crafts, all without the stress of planning each step.

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