I joined a memorable 1-day winter tour to Asahikawa and Furano, experiencing some of Hokkaido’s most iconic attractions in a single trip. My day started at Asahiyama Zoo, where I watched the famous Penguin Walk and observed animals up close through the zoo’s unique behavioral enclosures. I then headed to Yuma Dog Sledding, where I rode a dog sled across snowy fields led by energetic huskies — easily one of the most exciting winter activities I’ve tried. I ended the tour at Ningle Terrace in Furano, a magical forest village of glowing wooden cottages filled with local crafts. The illuminated snow scenery made the perfect finale to an unforgettable Asahikawa–Furano winter day trip. There are many places in Hokkaido that are waiting to be explored, do not forget, If you need help arranging private tour in Hokkaido, you can use our trip planner!

We departed from Sapporo and Ms. Cho was the designated driver and she is an experienced driver, the ride was really smooth as usual. We were lucky that the weather was relatively good that day.

First Destination: Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo is one of Japan’s most famous zoos, located in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, and is especially popular during winter. The zoo is known for its seasonal Penguin Walk, where penguins parade freely through the snow, offering visitors an unforgettable Arctic-like experience in northern Japan.

There was a long line when we arrived in Asahiyama Zoo. But good things Ms. Cho prepared the online booking so we did not need to wait too long in the line. We paid online and then showed the QR codes to the front gate and we could go through.

We arrived just in time for the infamous Penguin walk, so after taking pictures in the front gate, we proceeded directly to the penguin walk venue. There were a lot of people lining up already by the time we arrived. To be honest, there were less penguin than I expected, but they look cute and adorables!

After watching the penguin parade, we strolled a bit to check all the animals inside the zoo. Here are some of the pictures I took that include polar bears, tigers, wolf, and other winter animals.

Second Destination: Christmas Tree

After Asahiyama Zoo, we went straight to Christmas Tree no Ki, which is one of Biei’s most photographed landmarks, famous for its solitary spruce tree standing gracefully in the middle of rolling hills. Often called the “Xmas Tree” because of its perfect triangular shape, the tree becomes especially picturesque in winter when surrounded by snow-covered fields and soft blue skies. Its minimalist landscape and seasonal beauty make it a popular scenic stop on Furano–Biei tours and a favorite spot for photographers visiting central Hokkaido.

We did not expect many visitors on that day, but it was crowded with visitors. And even there were some traffic officers who were doing crowd control. To be honest, this one single tree is impressive, since it can attract many visitors.

Well, we stayed only less than 10 minutes for these amazing photoshoots. Hopefully our clients got their perfect photoshoots.

Third Destination: Shirahige Waterfall

Shirahige Falls, located in the Shirogane Onsen area of Biei, is one of Hokkaido’s most striking waterfalls. Known as the “White Beard Waterfall,” it features streams of mineral-rich groundwater cascading through rocky cliffs into the vivid blue waters below, creating a dramatic contrast. The falls are beautiful year-round but especially magical in winter when the flowing water freezes into icy formations and the nearby illumination lights up the snowy landscape.

Well, it was a frozen waterfall viewed from a bridge. Here are some pictures I took. It was great view for sure. And the bridge was packed with tourists.

Fourth Destination: Yuma Farm Dog Sledding

Yuma Dog Sledding in Furano offers an authentic winter adventure where visitors can experience traditional dog sledding across Hokkaido’s snowy landscapes. The farm also provides opportunities to interact with the dogs, making it a popular stop for travelers seeking hands-on snow activities and memorable photo moments during a Furano day tour.

Once we arrived in Yuma Farm, I could immediately smell the farm odor mixed with dog odor from the entrance. I grew up around dog kennel, so the smell really brought back memory from the childhood. Ms. Cho seemed to be afraid of dog, so it took her a while to convince her to get inside the farm.

Not only dogs, but there was also a mini pony horse there!

I tried interacting with the dogs, but they ignored me. I guess Huskies are different from Belgian Malinois (my dogs back home). I also saw a Saint Bernard dog sleeping inside a wooden house.

Finally it was our turn, and I managed to take some good pictures here. Apparently it was not only husky dogs, but there was also a black Labrador pulling the sled. I really hope the farm is taking great care of the dogs, and our money is being used properly not only for the human staffs but also the dogs!

Finally we were able to convince Ms. Cho to take pictures with the dogs!

Fifth Destination: Ningle Terrace

Ningle Terrace is a charming forest shopping village in Furano, made up of small wooden cottages connected by lantern-lit boardwalks. Inspired by the stories of Japanese author Soji Shimada, the terrace features artisan craft shops selling handmade glass, candles, and local souvenirs. Surrounded by trees and softly illuminated at night, it creates a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere that makes it one of Furano’s most photogenic and romantic evening spots.

We arrived a couple of minutes early for the light up, thanks to Ms. Cho amazing driving skill. We were a bit hungry so we first moved to the coffee shop in Ningle Terrace.

We only ordered few things in the coffee shop, and after eating and drinkin a bit, we proceeded to explore Ningle Terrace more.

Ningle Terrace is definitely a beautiful place for photoshoot. Here are some pictures from Ningle Terrace.

Sixth Destination: Sapporo Snow Festival 2026

We arrived back in Sapporo exactly at 7pm, Ms. Cho was really exhausted after long day of driving, so she went back home first. I was still sober so I decided to stay longer to guide our clients to the infamous Sapporo Snow Festival

Here are some pictures from the Snow Festival. We first visited the International Snow Festival and thank you to my lovely Sister-in-law, we were lucky enough to interact with Indonesian and Mongolian snow sculptor team!

Here are some other pictures from Sapporo Snow Festival 2026

Here is the video of this 1-day tour if you are interested to see.