Asahikawa & Northern Hokkaido Winter Itineraries
One of the snowiest cities in Japan
Home to Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido’s most popular winter zoo
Why Visit Asahikawa in Winter?
Asahikawa is the gateway to Northern Hokkaido, known for its deep winter snow, unique wildlife attractions, mountain scenery, and legendary ice festivals. From the famous Asahiyama Zoo to the dramatic winter landscapes of Sounkyo Gorge and Asahidake, the region offers some of the most authentic winter experiences in Japan.
Asahikawa is one of the snowiest cities in Japan, also home to Asahiyama Zoo, Hokkaido’s most popular winter zoo, famous for its penguin walk show. If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner! or contact us directly. Feel free to ask us any question, specially if it is your first time visiting Hokkaido.
Some places/events listed here may be unavailable to be visited due to unforeseen changes.
❄️ 1-Day Asahikawa Winter Itinerary
Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers. This plan focuses on the most iconic attractions that can be easily completed in a day. Total hours: 8 – 10 hour
Asahiyama Zoo
Famous for its penguin parade, polar bear exhibit, and seal aquarium. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 2-3 hours
Asahidake Ropeway
Panoramic views over Japan’s largest national park — magical with thick snow. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
Sounkyo Gorge
Home to dramatic frozen waterfalls and hot springs. Illuminated at night (Jan–Mar). DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1-2 hours
Heiwa Shopping Street
End the day by shopping in Asahikawa’s most famous shopping street, Heiwa Street. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing, shopping
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
❄️ 2-Day Asahikawa & Sounkyo Itinerary
Perfect for: Travelers wanting nature + culture. Best time to visit: January/February for its peak beauty. Consider staying in Asahikawa or Sounkyo for a night.
❄️ Day 1: Asahikawa City
Asahiyama Zoo
Famous for its penguin parade, polar bear exhibit, and seal aquarium. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 2-3 hours
Asahikawa Ramen Village
As the name suggest, if you love ramen, you must visit this place. DETAIL
Things to do: dining
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
Sounkyo Gorge
Home to dramatic frozen waterfalls and hot springs. Illuminated at night (Jan–Mar). DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1-2 hours
Heiwa Shopping Street
End the day by shopping in Asahikawa’s most famous shopping street, Heiwa Street. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing, shopping
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
❄️ Day 2: Sounkyo & Daisetsuzan National Park
Ryusei Waterfall
You can enjoy an amazing winter scenery here. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1 hour
Otokoyama Sake Breweries
Learn sake-making and enjoy free tasting.. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
Daisetsuzan Kurodake Ropeway
Visit this place for its stunning view from the top. DETAIL
Things to do: sightseeing
Recommended stay: 1 – 2 hours
If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner! or contact us directly. Feel free to ask us any question, specially if it is your first time visiting Hokkaido.
