Winter Asahiyama Zoo and Blue Pond Aoi-Ike 1 Day Bus Tour

Discover the enchanting winter wonderland of Asahiyama Zoo and the captivating Blue Pond Aoi-Ike on this one-day bus tour from Sapporo. For just $87.80 per person, you’ll enjoy admission to the zoo, where you can witness the penguin walk, and explore the stunning turquoise waters of the Blue Pond. With a comfortable ride, delicious lunch, and knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. But there’s more to uncover about this magical excursion.

Key Points

• A one-day winter tour that combines visits to Asahiyama Zoo and Blue Pond (Aoi-Ike) in Sapporo, Japan.
• Priced at $87.80 per person, with a maximum capacity of 46 travelers.
• Includes admission to Asahiyama Zoo, air-conditioned transportation, and a provided lunch.
• Tour is stroller-friendly but not wheelchair accessible, suitable for most travelers.
• Highlights include the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo and the serene beauty of Blue Pond.

Tour Overview

This one-day winter tour offers visitors a chance to explore the captivating Asahiyama Zoo and the serene Blue Pond (Aoi-Ike) in Sapporo, Japan.

Priced from $87.80 per person, the tour accommodates up to 46 travelers. Guests will be picked up from the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo at 8:30 AM and dropped off at Sapporo Station North Square around 5:30 PM.

The tour includes admission to Asahiyama Zoo, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a provided lunch. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.

Reviews praise the tour’s organization and the friendly guide who made the penguin walk a highlight.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins with a morning pickup at the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo.

Travelers will meet the guide at 8:20 AM and depart at 8:30 AM.

The tour ends at Sapporo Station North Square around 5:00 PM.

During the journey, guests will travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

Infants must sit on laps, but the tour is otherwise accessible, with stroller access and proximity to public transportation.

With a maximum of 46 travelers, this small-group tour ensures a personalized experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes admission to the Asahiyama Zoo, allowing visitors to marvel at the diverse array of wildlife during the winter season. Along With the zoo, travelers will enjoy an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. Lunch is also provided, catering to the needs of the group.

Inclusions	Details
Asahiyama Zoo admission	Experience the wonders of the zoo in winter
Air-conditioned vehicle	Travel in comfort
Lunch	Refuel during the day
Tour Guide	Knowledgeable and friendly

With these inclusions, the tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of the region.

Accessibility

Although the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, making it suitable for families with young children.

The tour is also near public transportation, so getting to the meeting point is convenient.

While infants must sit on laps, most travelers can participate in this tour.

The accessibility information ensures that potential guests can determine if this tour fits their needs and travel preferences before booking.

With these details, travelers can make an informed decision and set proper expectations for their winter adventure in Sapporo.

Reviews

Guests who’ve experienced this winter tour of Asahiyama Zoo and Blue Pond speak highly of it.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.3/5 based on 3 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.

Reviewers highlighted:

1. The friendly and knowledgeable tour guide.
2. The well-organized nature of the tour.
3. The penguin walk as a trip highlight.
4. The convenience of having admission and transportation included.

Travelers found the tour to be an excellent way to experience Asahiyama Zoo and the stunning Blue Pond in the winter, with rave reviews for the value and seamless execution.

Highlights of the Tour

One of the standout highlights of this winter tour is the penguin walk at Asahiyama Zoo. Visitors can observe the zoo’s colony of adorable penguins as they waddle and play in their outdoor enclosure.

The tour’s friendly guide provides insightful commentary, sharing fascinating facts about the penguins’ behavior and habitat.

Another highlight is the serene Blue Pond, with its striking turquoise waters and stunning backdrop of snowy mountains.

Travelers are enchanted by the pond’s natural beauty and often remark on the well-organized flow of the tour, which allows them to make the most of their time in this picturesque winter wonderland.

Exploring Asahiyama Zoo

As visitors step into the winter wonderland of Asahiyama Zoo, they’re immediately captivated by the array of snow-capped enclosures and the lively antics of the animal inhabitants.

The zoo’s main attractions include:

1. The penguin walk, where visitors can witness the adorable penguins waddling through the snow.

2. The polar bear exhibit, where these majestic creatures frolic in their icy habitat.

3. The wolf zone, where visitors can observe the pack’s dynamic behaviors from a safe distance.

4. The snow monkey enclosure, where the adorable Japanese macaques soak in the natural hot springs.

Visiting the Blue Pond Aoi-Ike

After the exhilarating visit to Asahiyama Zoo, the tour takes visitors to the captivating Blue Pond, also known as Aoi-Ike. This stunning natural wonder is renowned for its vibrant blue hue, a result of the high mineral content in the water. Visitors can explore the serene surroundings and marvel at the picturesque views of the pond and the surrounding mountains.

Feature	Description
Location	Hokkaido, Japan
Elevation	Approximately 1,000 meters (3,280 feet)
Water Source	Snowmelt from the nearby mountains
Mineral Composition	High in aluminum and calcium
Seasonal Changes	The pond’s color can vary throughout the year

The Blue Pond is a true natural gem, offering a peaceful respite from the day’s activities and a chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of Hokkaido.

Since You Asked

What Time Does the Tour Return to Sapporo Station?

The tour ends at the Sapporo Station North Square around 6:00 PM, according to the provided information. Travelers can expect to arrive back at the drop-off point by this time after their day trip.

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

You’re welcome to bring your own food on the tour, but the tour includes a provided lunch. So you don’t necessarily need to bring your own, unless you have specific dietary requirements or preferences.

How Long Is the Drive Between Sapporo and the Zoo?

The drive between Sapporo and the zoo is about 1.5 hours each way. The tour includes round-trip transportation, so travelers won’t need to worry about the commute and can just enjoy the sights during the journey.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. The 1-day tour appears to be the only option available. Guests should plan their schedules accordingly and make the most of the time provided on the tour.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Zoo or Blue Pond?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs at both the Asahiyama Zoo and the Blue Pond Aoi-Ike. The tour includes time to explore the gift shops and pick up unique mementos from your visit.

The Sum Up

This one-day bus tour from Sapporo offers a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting Winter Asahiyama Zoo and the stunning Blue Pond Aoi-Ike. With admission, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a hassle-free way to explore Japan’s breathtaking winter landscapes. Whether you’re captivated by the penguin walk or mesmerized by the turquoise waters, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.