• Asahiyama Zoo is popular for its behavioral exhibits, and the spectacular sunset cruise on the icebreaker "Garinko-go III" is a special event only available during this time of year!
• [Important] Your passport number is required when boarding the Garinko. Please make sure to bring your passport with you on the day or write down your passport number.

• Asahiyama Zoo

Asahiyama Zoo's 'behavioral display' is designed to convey the 'greatness,
beauty, and preciousness of animals.' Through these displays, you can enjoy
watching animals in an environment as close to nature as possible, observing
their natural behaviors such as moving, swimming, jumping, and hunting up
close. The greatest appeal is the sense of realism and dynamism that you
cannot experience anywhere else.

Recommended Point: [Polar Bear]

They are famous for jumping into the pool, but they actually do that because
they are hot. Winter is an active season for them! Their large white bodies
look cool against the white snowy landscape! A female polar bear cub was born
in December 2021 and became an instant hit! You can see her adorable
appearance and watch her running around energetically at the Polar Bear House.

Recommended Point: [Penguin Walk]

The 'Penguin Parade' is synonymous with winter at Asahiyama Zoo, held to
ensure the penguins get enough exercise when there is heavy snowfall. Because
it is the northernmost zoo in Japan, you can see the penguins walking in a way
that is closer to their natural state.

• Please note that you may not be able to see the penguin walk if the bus arrives late due to road conditions or other factors.

Recommended Point: [Naruhodo Guide (Insight Guide)]

The zookeepers who watch over the animals every day explain their
characteristic behaviors. The explanations, which use specimens and photos
that you rarely get to see, are easy to understand and full of surprises and
new discoveries.

Recommended Point: [Information Boards]

There are handmade information boards by the zookeepers all over the zoo. They
are truly adorable, and I always find myself wondering how many different
kinds there are. Looking at them from a different perspective, you can really
feel the love the zoo staff has for the animals.

• Drift Ice Icebreaker Ship Garinko-go III IMERU

This is an impressive cruise ship that uses two large screws on its bow to
'crunch' through the drift ice. You can feel the sound and vibration of the
ice breaking even while on deck, and the sight of the crushed ice rising from
the sides of the ship is spectacular. Another highlight is being able to see
the drift ice up close. It is a winter tradition that represents Hokkaido!
Experience the mystery and excitement of the drift ice!

• The Appeal of the New Drift Ice Icebreaker Ship Garinko-go III IMERU

The power of moving through the 'drift ice,' a mysterious sight that washes
ashore in the Sea of Okhotsk, the northernmost sea in Japan, while leaving a
wake behind you, is simply breathtaking. Forget the cold and the time, and
fully enjoy this unknown experience that will leave you moved! If you are
lucky, you might encounter flocks of birds such as Steller's sea eagles,
white-tailed eagles, and slaty-backed gulls resting on the drift ice, or cute
seals peeking out from between the ice floes. Please enjoy the sunset cruise
where you can see the drift ice dyed in orange.

What is the Drift Ice Icebreaker Ship Garinko-go III IMERU, a Hokkaido
Heritage site? Designed for drift ice sightseeing, this tourist ship has a
gross tonnage of 370 tons and a capacity of 235 passengers. It is an
icebreaker equipped with air-conditioned cabins, vending machines, and a shop,
allowing you to enjoy a comfortable drift ice cruise.

• Please note that you may not be able to see the drift ice depending on weather and ice conditions.

■ Regarding Drift Ice Conditions and Alternatives/Refunds in Case of Garinko-
go Cancellation ■

1) If the drift ice icebreaker is canceled due to weather, etc.

.. A refund of 5,000 JPY for Adults / 4,000 JPY for Child will be provided. As
an alternative, we will visit the Okhotsk Sea Ice Museum of Hokkaido (Giza).

2) If we are unable to reach Mombetsu due to road conditions

.. A refund of 5,000 JPY / 4,000 JPY for Child will be provided, and we will
visit the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival as an alternative. (Includes admission to
the Sounkyo Ice Fall Festival)