3 Zoos Tours in Japan That Earn the Train Fare

1.【Private Car】Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 60 reviews Our pick

Travel from Sapporo by private car to four northern Hokkaido sights in 8 to 10 hours. You get a driver, expressway costs, flexible pacing, and pickup, but not a formal guide or included meals and admission. English ability varies by driver, with translation apps often used. Drivers such as Kate, Masaru, Tommy, and Kishimoto have earned especially warm praise.

“Our trip highlights are many but what made the difference is our driver safe driving and his services.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

2.Sapporo Winter : Asahiyama Zoo (Penguin Fun & Snowmobile)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 9 hours - 1 day · from $58Best value

Spend nine hours in Hokkaido’s winter country, with penguins at Asahiyama Zoo, snowy Furano stops, and an optional snowmobile ride. A heated bus, English or Chinese service, and guides such as Hong and Sunny make the long day easier. Zoo admission is included, but lunch and snowmobile fees are extra.

“Hong is a great tour guide. clear and considerate. polite and mindful. keeps us up to date about travel plans.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

3.Penguin Fun & Snowmobile : Sapporo Winter (Asahiyama Zoo)

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 14 reviews · 9 hours - 1 day · from $58

You’ll travel from Sapporo by heated coach to Ningle Terrace, Shikisai-no-oka, the Ken and Mary Tree, and Asahiyama Zoo. The $58 tour includes transport, a live English or Chinese guide, and zoo admission. Snowmobiling costs extra. Guides such as Mr. Lin and Mr. Hong are praised for helping with photos, penguin parade timing, and winter logistics.

“The day was very well planned and we enjoyed a lot during this trip. The guide was highly professional and courteous.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →