2 Day Tour to Icebreaker Mombetsu and Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido
Winter Exclusive Package! Depart from Sapporo Station to explore Monbetsu, the Okhotsk Sea, Sounkyo, and Asahikawa! Enjoy a two-day, one-night trip with an overnight stay at a Sounkyo hot spring hotel. Experience the breathtaking views of endless drift ice on the icebreaker ship and join the heartwarming penguin walking activity at Asahiyama Zoo, where you'll meet adorable seals and penguins for a delightful time.
Of course, we won't miss out on delicious cuisine! Indulge in Hokkaido's specialty, Robatayaki, paired with a mini seafood donburi, savoring the freshest seafood from the northern seas. Additionally, relish a Japanese fine dining experience at Hanatsuki Kaikan in Asahikawa.
Let's embark on a captivating journey to the enchanting winter wonderland of the North!
ItineraryDay 1: DAY 1 Asahiyama ZooStop At: Asahiyama Zoo, Higashi Asahikawacho Kuranuma, Asahikawa 078-8205 Hokkaido
Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, is a popular and unique destination known for its "active display" concept, showcasing animals' natural behaviors. Tips on maximizing your visit and avoiding crowds will be shared.
At 11:00, there will be a penguin walking activity within the zoo (subject to weather conditions and the decision of the zoo authorities).
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Stop At: Otokoyama Sakezukuri Museum, 7-1 Nagayama2jyo, Asahikawa 079-8412 Hokkaido
Menyama is a renowned sake from Asahikawa, Hokkaido, brewed with pristine local water. It made history by winning the world's first Monde Selection Gold Award for Japanese sake in 1977. Over the past 40 years, it has continuously earned numerous gold medals at national and international spirit competitions, showcasing its exceptional quality deeply rooted in the northern lands.
Duration: 30 minutes
Meals included:
• Lunch: Asahikawa Hanatsuki Kaikan - Exquisite Japanese Set Lunch.
• Dinner: Buffet Dinner at the Onsen Resort Hotel.
Accommodation included: SOUNKAKU MOUNTAIN RESORT 1923 or similar
Day 2: Hokkaido Icebreaker ExpeditionStop At: Ryusei Falls, Kamikawa-cho, Kamikawa-gun 078-1700 Hokkaido
"Both the 'Ryuusei' and 'Ginga' waterfalls are listed in the 'Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls' selection, making them must-visit destinations. The 'Ryuusei Falls' rush with majestic power, exuding a masculine aura, while the 'Ginga Falls' flow delicately like white silk, displaying a graceful beauty akin to a woman. Hence, they are fondly referred to as the 'Male Waterfall' and 'Female Waterfall,' respectively."
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Okhotsk Tower, 1 Kaiyokoen, Monbetsu 094-0031 Hokkaido
The world's first ice-sea underwater observation tower is built approximately 1 km away from the coastline at a depth of 10 meters. This unique structure consists of four above-water levels and one underwater level, providing stunning views of the sea. When covered by drift ice, it transforms into an "Ice-in Tower," allowing visitors to observe the area beneath the floating ice. Not only can visitors witness drift ice during the winter, but they can also observe various marine ecosystems and sea creatures throughout the year. Additionally, the tower offers the opportunity to observe the fascinating underwater world at night.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Ocean Communication Hall Garinko Station, 1, Ocean Park, Monbetsu 094-0031 Hokkaido
The icebreaker ship boldly advances through the drift ice using its two large propellers at the bow, creating an exhilarating ice-breaking experience. As the ship smashes through the floating ice, the vibrations transmit throughout the entire vessel, giving you a direct encounter with the drifting ice. Witnessing the broken ice sinking into the sea and then resurfacing from the ship's sides is truly a sight to behold!
During the journey, you might even catch glimpses of seals resting on the ice or majestic Steller's sea eagles and white-tailed eagles soaring above. Shortly after departing, a white horizon appears on the azure sea. Gradually, the drift ice approaches, and the moment it comes into view is incredibly moving. Despite the chill on the second deck, the unparalleled scenery makes it all worthwhile.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Okhotsk Tokkari Center, 1 Kaiyokoen, Monbetsu 094-0031 Hokkaido
This is the only domestic marine mammal conservation facility where seals are being raised and cared for.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Ice Breaker Garinko II, 1-番地 Kaiyōkōen, Mombetsu, Hokkaido 094-0031, Japan
The "GARINKO II" bravely marches forward without fear of the drift ice that surges into the Monbetsu sea area. During the peak season of drift ice sightseeing in February, it is always popular with tourists from home and abroad, and it is very lively. In summer, it also operates as a sightseeing fishing boat around Monbetsu Port, so you can enjoy sightseeing and fishing.
Take a boat trip to the Sea of Okhotsk, the northernmost point in Japan, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of drift ice shaped by nature on the sea from the boat. The front end of the icebreaker is equipped with an "Archimedes-style spiral" to experience the thrill of spinning ice. Jump on the "GARINKO II" to seize the opportunity to see the cute figures of seals, Steller's sea eagles, and white-tailed eagles!
On January 9, 2021, the third generation "Gariko III IMERU" will officially debut! "Imeru" means "light" in the Ainu language and will also move forward without fear in the drift ice!
Duration: 1 hour
Meals included:
• Lunch: Seafood Robatayaki (Japanese charcoal grill) + Mini Seafood Donburi"
• Breakfast: Hotel Breakfast
No accommodation included on this day.
Informacion Adicional
"Not wheelchair accessible"
"Stroller accessible"
"Near public transportation"
"Infants must sit on laps"
"Most travelers can participate"
"This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund"
"This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund"
"This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability"
Start Time:
08:00 AM
Duration: 2 Days
Start location: Sapporo Station, 3 Chome-4 Chome Kita 6 Jonishi, Kita Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0806, Japan
Cancellations and refunds:
If you cancel at least 7 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
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