Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo Biei Blue Pond Terrace Day Trip

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the famous penguin walk and observe polar bears swimming overhead in Asahiyama Zoo's innovative enclosures.

• Stroll through the enchanting, snow-covered wooden cabins of Ningle Terrace in Furano, which inspired a beloved Japanese fairy tale.

• Marvel at the striking, vibrant blue waters of the Biei Blue Pond surrounded by snow-draped larch trees.

• Enjoy a stress-free journey with a knowledgeable local guide who shares insider stories about Hokkaido's culture and hidden gems.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the subtle, warm illumination of Ningle Terrace just as the winter twilight sets in, creating a truly magical fairy-tale atmosphere before the main evening crowds arrive.

• Ask your local guide to point out the Shirahige Waterfall near the Blue Pond, a stunning hidden cascade that glows blue when illuminated at night during winter.

• Visit the lesser-known seal enclosure at Asahiyama Zoo where you can watch them dart through a transparent cylindrical tunnel right in front of your face.

What Makes it Special

• Guaranteed daily departures even for solo travellers, ensuring you never miss out on this quintessential Hokkaido winter experience.

• A curated combination of Hokkaido's three iconic highlights: cute wildlife, miraculous natural scenery, and a magical forest village.

• Led by a professional, English-speaking local driver-guide who provides reliable, considerate service and deep insights into Japanese customs.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The absolute best time to experience this tour is during the peak winter months of December to February when the snow is deepest and the Asahiyama Zoo penguin walks are active. For the most magical lighting at Ningle Terrace and the Blue Pond, the late afternoon twilight offers a stunning contrast between the snow and the illuminated cabins or glowing blue water. Weekdays generally offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds compared to weekends and Japanese public holidays.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the Biei Blue Pond during the late afternoon when the low winter sun enhances the vibrant blue hues of the water against the stark white snow and dead larch trees.

• Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of the penguins during their famous winter walks, and get low to the ground for a more engaging, eye-level perspective.

• Turn off your camera flash when photographing the animals at Asahiyama Zoo and the delicate illuminated cabins at Ningle Terrace to respect the wildlife and preserve the ambient atmosphere.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese culture highly values consideration for others, so please keep your voice down when observing the animals at the zoo and avoid tapping on the glass enclosures. When visiting the small, artisan shops at Ningle Terrace, it is polite to handle the handcrafted goods gently and refrain from haggling, as prices are fixed to support local craftsmen. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so a simple, polite arigatou gozaimasu is the best way to show appreciation to your guide and local vendors.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Asahiyama Zoo Penguin Walk is a highly anticipated daily winter event where king penguins waddle through the snow right past visitors.

• Ningle Terrace hosts special evening illuminations during the peak winter season, transforming the forest village into a glowing, romantic wonderland after sunset.

• The Biei Blue Pond often features spectacular night illumination events during the winter months, casting dramatic, colourful lights onto the frozen landscape and dead trees.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Wear slip-resistant, waterproof winter boots, as the pathways around the Blue Pond, Ningle Terrace, and the zoo can become extremely icy and slippery.

• Stay strictly on the marked paths and boardwalks, especially near the Biei Blue Pond, as the banks can be unstable and the water is freezing.

• Keep a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife, and never attempt to feed the animals or throw objects into their enclosures at Asahiyama Zoo.