Hokkaido one-day tour Asahikawa Zoo & Four Seasons Color Hill & Christmas Tree & Elf Terrace Small Group Optional Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

• Watch the famous penguin walk and observe polar bears in their naturalistic habitats at Asahiyama Zoo.

• Stroll through the vibrant, sprawling flower fields of Shikisai-no-Oka and enjoy the scenic countryside views.

• Capture the perfect Instagram-worthy photo at the iconic solitary Christmas Tree set against the vast Hokkaido sky.

• Wander through the enchanting, fairy-tale-like cabins of Ningle Terrace nestled peacefully in the forest.

Hidden Gems

• The view of the Christmas Tree is exceptionally magical during the golden hour just before sunset when the shadows stretch across the rolling hills.

• Ningle Terrace transforms into a glowing winter wonderland at dusk, but arriving slightly earlier lets you enjoy the peaceful forest ambiance before the evening crowds gather.

• Shikisai-no-Oka offers a lesser-known walking trail at the back of the main flower fields where you can find quiet spots for uninterrupted photography.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy a premium light-luxury experience with a strict no-shopping policy, ensuring your time is spent purely on sightseeing and relaxation.

• Benefit from real-time communication and support via a dedicated WeChat group, alongside expert commentary from a Mandarin-speaking driver-guide.

• Travel in an intimate small-group setting that provides a more personalized, comfortable, and flexible journey compared to crowded coach tours.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The tour is spectacular year-round, but summer offers the most vibrant flower blooms at Shikisai-no-Oka, while winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland perfect for the penguin walk at the zoo. Early morning departures are ideal to beat the midday crowds at Asahiyama Zoo and to capture the best natural lighting at the outdoor scenic spots.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a polarizing filter or lens hood when photographing the Christmas Tree and Shikisai-no-Oka to reduce glare and make the blue Hokkaido sky pop.

• For the best shots at Ningle Terrace, wait until the late afternoon or early evening when the cabin lights turn on, creating a warm, magical contrast against the surrounding forest.

• At Asahiyama Zoo, use a fast shutter speed and continuous shooting mode to capture the quick movements of the seals and penguins in the underwater and glass viewing tunnels.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the local shops and cafes in Biei and Furano, it is polite to greet the staff with a simple 'Konnichiwa' and to queue patiently, as Japanese culture highly values orderliness. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply express your gratitude to your guide and drivers with a sincere 'Arigato gozaimasu' instead of leaving a gratuity.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Asahiyama Zoo Penguin Walk is a highly anticipated winter-only event where King Penguins waddle through the snow.

• Shikisai-no-Oka hosts stunning seasonal flower festivals, with lavender peaking in July and vibrant cosmos and sunflowers blooming in late summer.

• Ningle Terrace is beautifully illuminated during the winter holiday season, often featuring special snow lantern festivals and romantic evening light-ups.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay on the marked paths and boardwalks at Shikisai-no-Oka and Ningle Terrace to avoid tripping on uneven terrain or damaging the delicate flora.

• Keep a safe distance from the animals at Asahiyama Zoo and never attempt to tap on the glass enclosures or feed the wildlife.

• During winter months, wear slip-resistant footwear and walk carefully, as the pathways around the outdoor attractions can become icy and slippery.