The Blue Pond is the star of this Hokkaido day trip, but the route gives you much more: a major zoo, open farm country, a flower garden, and a long look at rural Hokkaido from a coach window. It is a useful way to reach several far-flung sights without renting a car. I like the … Read more
Asahiyama Zoo is the main event here, with clever animal displays that bring you close to polar bears and penguins. The route then sweeps through Hokkaido scenery to Biei’s blue pond, Furano’s tiny craft cabins, and a hill of seasonal flowers. I like the wide mix of sights and the fact that zoo admission, fuel, … Read more
The Penguin Parade is the star here. At Asahiyama Zoo, these charming birds walk close to the path in a winter event made possible by the zoo’s northern setting. Later, you visit Shirogane Blue Pond, where snow and seasonal lighting create a pale, dreamlike scene. I like the easy air-conditioned bus ride from central Sapporo, … Read more
Asahiyama Zoo, Biei’s startling blue pond, and Furano’s little forest craft village make this a big day out from Sapporo. You get three very different sides of Hokkaido: close animal viewing, volcanic scenery, and handmade goods in a quiet woodland setting. I like the wide mix of sights and the included zoo ticket, which remove … Read more
