Small Group Hokkaido Sapporo Abashiri 9-Guest 2-Day Tour

Planning a winter escape to Japan’s northernmost island often feels overwhelming—there’s so much to see, do, and experience, especially in Hokkaido. This 2-day tour from Sapporo offers a well-rounded taste of Hokkaido’s icy charm, combining wildlife, history, and spectacular winter scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What’s particularly appealing? First, the chance to visit a working farm and get hands-on with animals—rare in winter. Second, the famous Asahiyama Zoo, renowned for its engaging habitats and the adorable penguin walk. Third, the seasonal thrill of the Aurora drift ice cruise, which offers some of the most awe-inspiring views you’ll find in Japan’s winter landscape.

That said, it’s important to note that the drift ice experience is seasonal and only runs roughly from January to March, depending on ice conditions. A potential downside is that the tour involves quite a bit of moving around, so it’s suited best for travelers comfortable with early mornings and variable winter weather. But if you love nature, wildlife, and unique cultural sights, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience is most ideal for adventurous travelers keen on authentic, scenic winter adventures, families with older children, or anyone seeking a compact but immersive peek into Hokkaido’s icy world.

Good To Know

• Seasonal Adventures: The drift ice cruise is a highlight, but only available during winter months.
• Authentic Encounters: Visiting a local farm offers genuine animal interactions absent in standard sightseeing.
• Wildlife Highlight: Asahiyama Zoo’s innovative habitats and penguin walk are a memorable part of the journey.
• Historical Insight: The Abashiri Prison Museum provides a meaningful look into regional history.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off within designated areas make logistics straightforward.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups of 9 ensure a personalized experience and more freedom for questions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Hokkaido Tour

Day 1: From Sapporo to Abashiri via Biei and the Farm

The adventure kicks off bright and early with pickup from your Sapporo hotel, a process that generally involves confirmation the night before via WhatsApp or LINE. The tour keeps the group small—just 9 guests—meaning you’ll get more attention and flexibility.

First stop is the Chiyoda Interactive Farm in Biei, a charming spot where you can interact with farm animals and even feed them. During winter, farms like this are surprisingly lively, with contented animals and scenic snowy backgrounds that make for great photos. We loved the way the farm is set up for hands-on fun, offering a break from typical sightseeing.

Lunch is included and features local specialties, which give you a taste of Hokkaido’s hearty, regional flavors—think fresh dairy, local vegetables, and perhaps some locally cured meats. Many travelers mention the lunch as a highlight, especially those who appreciate authentic, home-style Japanese fare.

Next, it’s on to the famous Asahiyama Zoo. Known for its innovative enclosures that mimic natural habitats, the zoo is a standout for visitors. The penguin walk, which usually takes place seasonally, is a crowd favorite. Reviewers say, “Seeing the penguins waddle in the snow was adorable,” and many appreciate the chance to see these animals in a more naturalistic setting.

As evening approaches, the group heads to Abashiri, where you’ll stay overnight independently. The tour includes transportation but does not cover accommodation, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred stay.

Day 2: Ice, History, and Festival Magic

The second day begins with an early start, crossing into the realm of winter’s most stunning sights. The Aurora drift ice cruise (available Jan-Mar) is the tour’s star attraction. The boat glides through floating ice chunks, offering panoramic views of the vast, icy sea—an experience that reviewers describe as “breathtaking” and “unlike anything else in Japan.” Keep in mind, weather and ice conditions can affect the cruise, so it’s worth checking seasonal updates.

After the cruise, you’ll visit the Abashiri Prison Museum, a fascinating site where you can learn about the area’s history. Many visitors mention that the museum is surprisingly engaging and offers a respectful look into the region’s past. As part of the visit, you’ll sample a traditional prison meal—a unique culinary experience that adds authenticity to your understanding of local life.

The tour wraps up at the Sounkyo Ice Waterfall Festival, which is particularly stunning at night when the sculptures and waterfalls are illuminated. The ice art, combined with the crisp winter air, makes for a truly magical scene, perfect for photography and creating lifelong memories.

Finally, the group is transported back to Sapporo, completing a memorable winter circuit of Hokkaido’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

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Small Group Dynamics

With only 9 guests, the tour offers a more intimate environment, allowing for personalized attention from guides. Reviewers appreciated how this small group size made it easier to ask questions and customize parts of the day, especially at busy spots like the zoo or during meals.

Seasonally Limited Experiences

The drift ice cruise and the Ice Waterfall Festival are highly seasonal, so timing your trip from January to March is crucial if you want to experience these highlights. Some reviewers noted that the cruise can be affected by ice conditions, but when it runs, it’s a bucket list moment.

Authenticity and Comfort

The inclusion of a farm visit, local cuisine, and a historical prison museum ensure you get a well-rounded view of Hokkaido’s rural, wildlife, and cultural landscapes. The transportation is comfortable, and pickup is reliable, which is essential for tight schedules in winter.

Knowledgeable Guides

Guides fluent in multiple languages (Chinese, English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese) help bridge language barriers, making the experience smoother. Reviewers often mention the guides’ friendliness and willingness to share inside tips.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Timing

The tour uses a private coach that departs promptly, ensuring you maximize your time at each stop. The early start and quick transitions mean you’ll see a lot but need to be comfortable with winter travel logistics.

Cost and Value

While not explicitly stated, the inclusion of meals, transportation, and key experiences like the zoo and museum suggests good value, especially considering the small-group approach. The tour is designed for travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free experience rather than DIY wandering.

Flexibility and Cancellation

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change. Payment is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, adding some breathing room to your travel planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want a concentrated, authentic taste of Hokkaido’s winter without the stress of planning every detail. It’s well suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy nature, wildlife, and seasonal festivals. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and unpredictable weather, you’ll find it rewarding.

The Sum Up

This small-group 2-day tour from Sapporo offers a great balance of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and stunning winter scenery. The inclusion of local farm activities and the chance to see the penguins in their snowy habitat makes it a genuinely memorable trip. For travelers seeking a compact yet immersive experience that highlights Hokkaido’s icy charm, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s especially valuable if you’re visiting in the winter months when seasonal experiences like the drift ice cruise and ice festival are in full swing. The small-group format keeps things personal, while the well-paced itinerary ensures you see the best of Abashiri and beyond without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a winter adventure that combines natural beauty, history, and fun wildlife moments, this tour will check most boxes. Just remember to dress warmly and prepare for a day or two of scenic exploration in some of Japan’s coldest, most captivating landscapes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, guides are fluent in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Traditional Chinese, making communication smooth regardless of your language.

What if the drift ice cruise isn’t available?
The cruise is seasonal and depends on ice conditions, typically running from January to March. If unavailable, the tour will focus on other highlights like the prison museum and Ice Waterfall Festival.

Are meals included?
Yes, both days feature included meals—lunch on Day 1 with local specialties and a traditional prison meal on Day 2, giving you authentic regional flavors.

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Guests are advised to wait in the hotel lobby 5-10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, and the guide will confirm details the night before.

Can I join if my hotel is outside the pickup zone?
Yes, you can meet the guide at Tokyo Station with a partial refund of 3,200 JPY, but confirm with the provider beforehand.

What should I wear?
Layered winter clothing, waterproof gear, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes are essential to stay comfortable during outdoor activities and the boat cruise.

This 2-day tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized window into Hokkaido’s winter wonderland—perfect for those looking to experience Japan’s icy north in a manageable, engaging way.

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