Asahiyama Zoo, Christmas Tree & Ningle Terrace Tour from Sapporo

Asahiyama Zoo is one of Japan’s most popular and unique zoological parks, located in Asahikawa, Hokkaido. Renowned for its innovative enclosures that allow visitors to observe animals up close in environments that replicate their natural habitats, the zoo offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Highlights include the iconic glass tunnels through the penguin pool, underwater viewing domes in the polar bear and seal exhibits, and interactive feeding sessions that reveal animal behaviors. Open year-round, the zoo showcases both native species like Hokkaido deer and red foxes, as well as exotic animals including lions, giraffes, and orangutans. Whether you're a family, wildlife enthusiast, or casual visitor, Asahiyama Zoo offers an immersive encounter with nature in the heart of Hokkaido.

The Christmas Tree Tree is a charming and uniquely shaped solitary tree located in Biei, Hokkaido, that has become a beloved photo spot for visitors year-round. Named for its resemblance to a classic Christmas tree, this picturesque spruce stands gracefully in the middle of a wide-open field, offering a stunning backdrop against the rolling hills and seasonal landscapes of Biei. The tree is especially enchanting in winter, when it’s surrounded by snow-covered scenery, evoking a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere. A favorite among photographers and nature lovers, the Christmas Tree Tree is a must-visit for those exploring Hokkaido’s famous rural beauty.

Shirahige Waterfall, located in the scenic town of Biei in Hokkaido, is a breathtaking natural attraction known for its cascading streams that flow gracefully from between the gaps in a cliff face. Unlike traditional waterfalls, Shirahige—meaning “White Beard” in Japanese—gets its name from the thin, white streams of water that resemble a flowing beard. The waterfall feeds into the vivid blue waters of the Biei River, creating a striking contrast that’s especially beautiful when viewed from the nearby Blue Pond Bridge. Surrounded by lush greenery in summer and a snowy wonderland in winter, Shirahige Waterfall offers a peaceful and photogenic stop for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone exploring Hokkaido’s natural beauty.

Shirogane Blue Pond, located in Biei, Hokkaido, is a mesmerizing natural attraction famous for its vibrant, otherworldly blue color. Formed as part of a volcanic erosion control project, the pond gets its striking hue from natural minerals in the water, which reflect sunlight to create a vivid blue tone that changes subtly with the seasons and weather. Standing still in the pond are partially submerged larch and birch trees, adding to its mystical and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you visit in the lush greenery of summer, the colorful autumn, or the snow-covered winter, Shirogane Blue Pond offers an unforgettable and ever-changing scenic experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.