When you think of Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo and the Blue Pond are the most popular tourist spots. This 1 day bus tour will take you there and turn out quite economical and enjoyable.
Getting on the expressway, we will head toward Asahiyama Zoo. Enjoy the scenery and interesting stories from the local guide during your trip. We will have 150 minutes at Asahiyama Zoo including time for lunch.
Afterwards, we will go to the Blue Pond. The Blue Pond, with its milky blue color, and dead pine trees standing in the water, creates a mysterious atmosphere. After we visit the Blue Pond we will had for Farm Tomita (Jun 27 – Jul 31), and Shikisai-no-oka Hill (Jun 10 – 26, Aug 1 – Oct 10). At Farm Tomita we will see the spectacular field of about 15 hectares planted in lavender and other flowers. Shikisai-no-oka Hill uses the fields that make up Biei’s Patchwork Hills, and are planted with anywhere between 30 to 40 varieties of flowers. It is an vast entertainment garden full of Hokkaido flair.
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“Experience the majestic beauty of water “Lake Shikotsu” and the spectacular nature of Lake Tōya”Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
“Lake Shikotsu” is well known for the clarity of its water and was once listed on “the Best Water in Japan” by the Ministry of Environment.
This is a caldera lake, the remains of a very large volcanic eruption a hundred thousand years ago. The rich nature surrounding the lake provides habitat for many fauna and flora.
For lunch we will dine at the Toya Kohantei hotel located on the Toyako lakeside (independent dining on April 26 – May 6, May 17, Jun 27 – Jun 29, July 8, July 9, July 15, July 16, Aug 9 – Aug 17, Oct 8), and enjoy the refreshing view of the lake side. After lunch we will then head to Mt. Usu, the first mountain area in Japan to be designated as a Global Geopark in August 2009, by Global Geoparks Network supported by UNESCO. There are 58 Global Geoparks in 18 countries and Toya Caldera and Usu Volcano Geopark is recognized as the 59th of these. We will view Mt. Usu from the windows of the ropeway.
This is a reasonable 1-day tour which allows you to experience two famous lakes of Hokkaido.
Farm Tomita, Shikisai-no-Oka and Blue Pond Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
*Farm Tomita : Enjoy the history of lavender and flowers in season at Farm Tomita, a tourist lavender farm in Japan. In the gift shops on site seasonal flowers, soaps, perfume and other original products made of lavender.
*Shikisai-no-Oka Hills: The vast fields of flowers that bloom over the hills of Shikisai-no-Oka make up the beautiful patchwork scenery of Biei. Between 30 to 40 varieties of flowers are planted in the fields that were once owned by farmers, which bloom every year between May and late October. Peak season is between late July and late September. The sight of rolling hills covered in colorful flowers is absolutely spectacular! The first Alpacas to be raised in Hokkaido, are being raised on Shikisai-no-Oka. They are quickly becoming popular mascots to children who visit from all over the world.
*Blue Pond : In recent years, the Blue Pond has become a super popular site in the Biei area. The dead Japanese larch trees that stand amidst the milky blue water of the pond create a mysterious atmosphere.
*Furano Wine House: The Furano Wine House is located on a hill overlooking the city of Furano, the lavender fields, vast pastoral landscapes and the panoramic view of the Tokachidake Mountain Range. It is a “”local production for local consumption,”" restaurant where guests can enjoy delicious Western food while taking in the amazing view. The 100% Furano Grape Juice, the brainchild of wine-making experience, products made with lavender, and many other original items are sold.
Lunch menu consists of Furano Wine House famous “”Petite Fondue + Hamburger Steak + Rice + Coffee or Tea.
Highland Furano, Farm Tomita and Blue Pond Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
●Highland Furano: A large hot spring and accommodation facility situated near vast forests and lavender fields. Visitors can enjoy views of the impressive Tokachidake Mountain Range and a bright purple “sea of lavender.” A footpath leads through the forest, where visitors can enjoy “forest bathing,” bird-watching and viewing wildflowers. For lunch we will enjoy petite fondue + hamburger steak + rice * coffee or tea. We especially recommend the petite fondue.
●Farm Tomita: The oldest and most historic lavender farm in Japan. Discover the history of lavender and seasonal flowers. At the gift shop on site, you can purchase seasonal flowers, soaps, perfumes and other original items made from lavender.
●Blue Pond: One of the most popular sights of Biei in recent years. The mysterious pond appears blue on the surface, with dead pine trees creating an eerie and fantastic atmosphere.
【Sapporo Afternoon Tour】The Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
Travel in comfort aboard a bus equipped with a multilingual guidance system in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. We will introduce you to some of Sapporo’s most distinctive highlights in a short amount of time.
Discover Sapporo’s top attractions with this well-rounded itinerary, which features scenic city views from the bus and guided stops at two major highlights: Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and the Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill.
From the elevated vantage point of the bus, take in sweeping views of Odori Park—the green corridor running east to west through the heart of the city—the stately Hokkaido Governor’s Official Residence nestled among trees, the Toyohira River beloved by locals and host to summer fireworks displays, and the striking Sapporo Dome with its graceful, silver, curved silhouette.
Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium, an active venue on the eastern slope of Mt. Okura at an elevation of 307 meters. From the summit observation deck, take in a sweeping panorama of central Sapporo and the vast Ishikari Plains beyond, framed dramatically by the steep approach slope below. Gazing down from the ski jump start point, the 145.0-meter hill record distance is truly breathtaking. See the scale for yourself and experience the thrill from above.
Sapporo Hitsujigaoka Observation Hill is home to the famous statue of Dr. William S. Clark, depicted with his right arm outstretched toward the horizon. In summer, sheep graze across the lush green lawn, with the cityscape of Sapporo stretching out in the distance, a scene that captures the very spirit of Hokkaido. Strike the same post beside Dr. Clark and snap a memorable photo as you embrace his inspiring message, “Boys, be ambitious.”
Let our scheduled sightseeing bus take you to the iconic landmarks that every visitor to Sapporo wants to see.
【Sapporo Morning Tour】Shiroi Koibito Park, the Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium and Central Wholesale Market Tour (Multilingual Audio Tour)
Travel in comfort aboard a bus equipped with a multilingual guidance system in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. We will introduce you to some of Sapporo’s most distinctive highlights in a short amount of time.
Our first stop is the Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium. Often associated with Prince Chichibu Yasuhito, affectionately known as the “Prince of Sports,” the facility traces its origins to 1932, when Baron Kishichiro Okura commissioned its design from Lieutenant Helsel of Norway at the Prince’s suggestion. In 1970, it was renovated in preparation for the Sapporo Olympic Games and later served as the venue for the 90-meter ski jumping competition at the 11th Winter Olympic Games in Sapporo 1972.
From the observation deck at the 307-meter starting point of the jump hill, enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view stretching beyond the approach slope to the cityscape of Sapporo and across the vast Ishikari Plain.
Once we depart Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium, our journey continues to Shiroi Koibito Park. This popular attraction features the Chocotopia Factory, where visitors can observe the production process of Hokkaido’s iconic confection, Shiroi Koibito, as well as the Tudor House, a charming recreation of medieval English architecture.
In summer, the park’s Rose Garden comes alive with vibrant English roses and old garden varieties in full bloom. Adjacent to the park is the Miyanosawa Shiroi Koibito Soccer Stadium, where onlookers may even catch a glimpse of FC Consadole Sapporo’s training sessions.
Following our visit to Shiroi Koibito Park, we continue to our final stop, the Sapporo Central Wholesale Market, Outer Market. Here, seafood, vegetables, and fruits from across Hokkaido are gathered in one lively marketplace. Numerous local eateries serve fresh seafood bowls and set meals made with the day’s best catch, and lunch is at your leisure.
After enjoying delicious cuisine and picking up plenty of souvenirs, guests may choose to disembark at one of Sapporo’s most iconic landmarks, the Sapporo Clock Tower, conveniently located near Odori Park.
Though compact in duration, this course is rich in experiences and reasonably priced, a satisfying and efficient way to explore Sapporo aboard a scheduled sightseeing bus.
Asahiyama Zoo One-Day Tour (Excluding Multilingual Audio System)
Located in Asahikawa City, near the heart of Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is Japan’s northernmost zoo and a beloved destination for visitors from across the country and around the world. About 150 km from Sapporo, this attraction is easily reached by direct scheduled sightseeing bus.
The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but with engaging commentary from your professional guide, the time will fly by. Enjoy fascinating insights into Hokkaido’s history, scenic views, and fun local trivia that make the ride itself part of the experience.
Asahiyama Zoo is renowned for its creative enclosures designed to showcase animals in their most natural and dynamic forms.
At the Seal House, watch seals swim gracefully through a towering cylindrical tank. At the Polar Bear House, witness powerful dives up close. In the Penguin House, a glass tunnel offers a unique underwater perspective, where penguins appear to soar overhead as if flying through the sky.
Beyond these highlights, the zoo features around 30 animal habitats, including the Red Panda House, Orangutan House, and Beast House. Popular programs such as the lively “”Mogu Mogu Time,”" when visitors can observe animals during feeding, along with informative talks by zookeepers, add to the experience. With so many opportunities to connect with the animals, it’s no wonder this beloved zoo welcomes many repeat visitors.
On the return journey, enjoy a relaxing break at Sunagawa Highway Oasis, a popular stop where fine products from across Hokkaido come together in one place. Browse for souvenirs at Oasis Plaza, featuring renowned local sweets, regional sake, and specialty gourmet items, or explore Sorachi Market, a farmers’ market offering fresh produce and artisanal goods from the Sorachi region. The site is also home to the very first shop of the beloved confectionery brand Kitakaro, where visitors can savor exclusive menu items available only here.
With ample time scheduled for our visit to Asahiyama Zoo, this course allows guests to explore the park at a relaxed pace, rather than rushing from one sight to the next.
Why not take advantage of this comfortable, convenient, scheduled sightseeing bus and set out to meet the zoo’s lively, charming animals?
