Hokkaido Asahiyama Zoo + Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike) + Shirahige Waterfall + Ningle Terrace 1-day tour Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the famous penguin walk and observe polar bears swimming overhead in the transparent tunnels at Asahiyama Zoo.

• Capture stunning photographs of the vibrant, mineral-rich waters of Shirogane Blue Pond framed by lush larch trees.

• Stroll through the romantic, illuminated wooden cabins of Ningle Terrace, perfect for picking up unique Hokkaido handicrafts.

Hidden Gems

• The Shirahige Waterfall is one of the rare underground waterfalls in Japan, glowing with a mystical blue tint that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery.

• Ningle Terrace is especially magical just before sunset when the fairy lights turn on, creating a storybook atmosphere that most day-trippers miss if they rush.

• Keep an eye out for the resident red foxes and deer that occasionally wander near the edges of the Blue Pond walking trails.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy a stress-free journey with round-trip transportation from Sapporo, bilingual guide services, and pre-arranged Asahiyama Zoo tickets included in your package.

• The tour dynamically adapts to your group size, offering an intimate driver-guide experience for smaller groups or a spacious coach with dedicated staff for larger parties.

• You can bring one piece of baggage of any size for free, making it incredibly convenient for travelers moving between hotels or carrying winter gear.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The Blue Pond and waterfalls are spectacular year-round, but the lush greenery of summer and the illuminated snowscapes of winter offer the most dramatic photo opportunities. Asahiyama Zoo's famous penguin walk typically occurs during the winter months, making December to March an ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts. Arriving early in the morning at the zoo helps you beat the crowds and see the animals when they are most active.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• For the best reflections at Shirogane Blue Pond, visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the wind is calm and the sunlight filters softly through the trees.

• Use a polarizing filter on your camera lens to cut through the glare on the water's surface and enhance the striking blue hues of the pond and waterfall.

• When photographing the animals at Asahiyama Zoo, use a fast shutter speed and avoid using flash, especially near the nocturnal houses and glass enclosures.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese culture places a high value on quiet respect in public spaces, so keep your voice down when observing animals at the zoo and walking through the serene forest trails of Ningle Terrace. Tipping is not customary in Japan and is already covered by your tour's included gratuities, so a simple bow and a polite thank you to your guide is the perfect way to show appreciation. Please stick to designated pathways and avoid picking any flora or disturbing the natural environment around the Blue Pond.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Asahiyama Zoo's famous winter Penguin Walk occurs daily when snow accumulates, offering a unique chance to see the birds marching through the snow.

• Ningle Terrace hosts magical winter light-ups from late November to March, transforming the forest cabins into a glowing winter wonderland.

• The Biei area is famous for its vibrant lavender and sunflower blooms in July and August, offering a stunning colorful backdrop to the Blue Pond.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• The pathways around Shirogane Blue Pond and Shirahige Waterfall can become slippery, especially after rain or during the snowy winter months, so wear shoes with excellent grip.

• Stay strictly behind the safety barriers at the zoo and never attempt to feed or touch the wildlife, as this can be dangerous for both you and the animals.

• During winter tours, be mindful of black ice on shaded walking paths and utilize the provided winter equipment or walking aids if necessary.