Hokkaido Scenic Highlights: Asahiyama Zoo, Biei Blue Pond & Seasonal Farm Tomita | 1-Guest Guaranteed Departure Day Tours

Must Do Experiences

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

• Capture the stunning, otherworldly reflection of the Biei Blue Pond, especially striking when the surrounding larch trees are dusted with snow or bathed in summer sunlight.

• Wander through the expansive, colourful lavender and seasonal flower fields at Farm Tomita, and treat yourself to their famous lavender soft-serve ice cream.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the hidden Shirahige Waterfall just a short distance from the Blue Pond, where underground cobalt-blue water cascades down the cliff face.

• Visit the Asahiyama Zoo Beast House to see the Amur leopards and wolves from unique, eye-level viewing angles that most casual visitors rush past.

• Seek out the quiet, traditional flower fields at the back of Farm Tomita, which offer beautiful photo opportunities away from the main crowds.

What Makes it Special

• Guaranteed departure for even a single guest, meaning your meticulously planned Hokkaido itinerary will never be cancelled due to low turnout.

• Includes a complimentary limited-edition Hokkaido postcard to capture and share your scenic journey with loved ones back home.

• Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Sapporo with a dedicated tour guide and child safety seats available for families.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The tour is spectacular year-round, but mid-July is the absolute peak for Farm Tomita lavender blooms, while winter offers the magical sight of the famous Asahiyama penguin walk in the snow. Early morning departures are standard for this tour to maximize daylight hours, so expect crisp, cool mornings even in summer. Winter visitors should prepare for heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures, which make the Blue Pond illuminated evening views truly breathtaking.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• For the best photos of the Biei Blue Pond, use a polarizing filter on your camera or smartphone lens to cut through the glare and enhance the vibrant cobalt water.

• At Asahiyama Zoo, position yourself at the very front of the polar bear and seal underwater viewing tunnels early to capture unobstructed, eye-level shots of the animals swimming.

• When shooting the vast flower fields at Farm Tomita, use the rule of thirds and include the rolling Tokachi hills in the background to give your photos a sense of scale and depth.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese culture values quiet respect in public spaces, so keep your voice down when observing the animals at the zoo and avoid using flash photography. When purchasing snacks or souvenirs at the farm stalls, hand your money to the cashier using both hands or place it in the provided coin tray as a sign of politeness. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so a simple, polite bow and a sincere arigato gozaimasu is the best way to thank your tour guide and local vendors.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Asahiyama Zoo Penguin Walk typically runs from mid-December to mid-March, allowing visitors to watch the adorable birds waddle through the snow.

• Farm Tomita hosts its spectacular Lavender Festival in July, featuring peak blooms, special floral arrangements, and exclusive seasonal lavender treats.

• The Biei Blue Pond is often illuminated with stunning light-up events during the winter and autumn evenings, transforming the frozen or foliage-framed pond into a magical nightscape.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always stay behind the designated safety barriers and viewing glass at Asahiyama Zoo, and never attempt to feed the animals or tap on the enclosures.

• During winter months, the pathways around the Blue Pond and Farm Tomita can become extremely icy, so wear footwear with excellent grip and consider attaching crampons for stability.

• Keep a close eye on young children at all times, especially near the water edge at the Blue Pond and in the busy, crowded walkways of the zoo.