Asahiyama Zoo (Admission included) Asahiyama Zoo Closure Dates: April 8–26, 2024; November 4–10, 2024; December 30, 2024 – January 1, 2025. Should the zoo be closed, your itinerary will shift to: Instagram-famous Christmas Tree (15 minutes) + Blue Pond (30 minutes) + Shirahige Falls (20 minutes) + Motoyukishirogane Onsen (approximately 120 minutes). If the onsen is temporarily closed, an alternative onsen of the same type will be provided. Note that zoo closure days may result in adjusted sequence and timing based on road conditions at the time of your visit. We appreciate your understanding. Asahiyama Zoo sits in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, holding the distinction of being Japan's northernmost zoo while commanding the highest visitor numbers nationally. Winter visits challenge the misconception that zoo animals become dormant or sluggish in cold months. A snowy day at Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido delivers an unexpectedly engaging wildlife experience. Hokkaido Instagram-famous Christmas Tree This tree stands on a sloped area in Biei Town, situated southeast of Asahikawa City. Its name stems from various theories—its silhouette echoing a Christmas tree or its peak resembling a star among them—linking it to the concept of an unadorned, natural evergreen. Visitors find it striking throughout the year and at any time of day, establishing it as one of Biei's most treasured tree landmarks. Biei Blue Pond Formed when volcanic sediment was dammed along the Biei River's left bank in Hokkaido, this body of water gleams brilliant blue under sunlight, accounting for its designation. National Geographic photographer Kent Shiraishi captured an image of Blue Pond that Apple Inc. later acquired, installing it as a standard macOS wallpaper. Shirahige Falls This 30-meter cascade in Furano, Hokkaido, sits at 600 meters elevation within the Shirogane Onsen area near Biei Town. Its name translates to "White Beard Falls," inspired by water streaming through rock gaps that resembles flowing white whiskers. Groundwater hitting stone produces a blue-tinted mist. Summer brings verdant foliage to the surroundings, while winter transforms the landscape under heavy snow, each season offering distinct visual contrast for visitors.
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※ Dear guests, please be advised that the tour will depart strictly on schedule and cannot wait for latecomers. Therefore, we strongly recommend arriving at the meeting point at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Asahiyama Zoo Closure Dates: April 8–26, 2024; November 4–10, 2024; December 30, 2024 – January 1, 2025. If the zoo is closed, the itinerary will be changed to: Instagram-famous Christmas Tree (15 minutes) + Blue Pond (30 minutes) + Shirahige Falls (20 minutes) + Motoyukishirogane Onsen (approximately 120 minutes). If the onsen is temporarily closed, another onsen of the same type will be arranged.
The Christmas Tree is located on a gentle slope in Biei Town, southeast of Asahikawa City. There are several explanations for the origin of its name, such as its shape resembling a Christmas tree or its treetop resembling a star—in short, it is associated with an undecorated, natural Christmas tree. This tree, beautiful in all seasons and at all times of day, is one of Biei's most beloved tree sights.
Located on the left bank of the Biei River in Hokkaido, it was formed by the damming of volcanic ash sediment. Under sunlight, the pond water displays a brilliant blue hue, hence its name. The Blue Pond was photographed by National Geographic photographer Kent Shiraishi, and the image was later purchased by Apple Inc., becoming one of the default wallpapers for the macOS operating system.
Shirahige Falls in Furano, Hokkaido, has a drop of 30 meters and is situated at an altitude of 600 meters within the Shirogane Onsen area of Biei Town. Its name, meaning "White Beard Falls," comes from the water cascading through rock crevices, resembling a flowing white beard. The water, emerging from underground, crashes against the rocks, creating a blue-hued spray. In summer, the area is lush.
The return time is an estimate only. Please note that we may return earlier than scheduled due to factors such as efficient progress of the itinerary or favorable traffic conditions.
※ Actual timings vary with road conditions on the day.
5 questions
The tour runs 1 day with 5 scheduled stops laid out hour by hour.
Pickup at Sapporo Station North Exit Group Bus Parking Lot. Once your booking is confirmed we'll email the GPS map plus detailed directions.
Min 1 guest. If the minimum isn't reached we'll contact you before departure to suggest an alternate date or issue a full refund.
Our partner offers packages in: English, Chinese, Japanese. If you need a dedicated Vietnamese-speaking guide, please leave a note at booking so we can arrange one (surcharge applies).
Cancellation terms vary by tour — see the "Additional Information" tab above. Most tours allow free cancellation up to 7 days before departure.

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