▲ [Asahiyama Zoo] Located in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is renowned for its revolutionary "behavioral exhibition" design. Moving away from traditional cages, the zoo allows visitors to observe animals in dynamic settings—polar bears diving gracefully, penguins parading in formation, and snow leopards leaping across rocky cliffs—through immersive viewing windows. The winter-exclusive penguin snow walks and the twilight lantern displays at the Forest Elf Terrace elevate human-animal interactions into a vibrant artistic experience.
▲ [Ken & Mary Tree] (Drive-by Viewing) This towering poplar tree stands proudly on the hills of Biei in Hokkaido, famous for being the meeting place of the protagonists Ken and Mary in a 1972 Nissan "Skyline" commercial. It has become not only an iconic symbol of advertising art but also a representation of Japan's idyllic countryside. The tree's appearance transforms with the seasons—lush green in spring, deep blue-green in summer, golden yellow in autumn, and snow-covered in winter. Its solitary stance against the vast landscape perfectly captures Hokkaido's tranquility and romance, drawing countless travelers to experience its timeless solitude and poetic beauty.
▲ [Shirahige Waterfall] Shirahige Waterfall is a iconic landmark in Sounkyo, Kamikawa Town, Hokkaido. Its unique charm lies in the two crystal-clear streams gushing from the cracks of columnar joint cliffs, resembling white beards cascading down the rock face—hence its name. In winter, part of the waterfall freezes into mesmerizing blue ice, creating a striking contrast against the black cliffs and pristine snowscape. Illuminated by subtle lighting, the scene transforms into a mystical and dreamlike winter wonder, making it a photographer's paradise for capturing breathtaking winter vistas.
▲ [Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)] Located in the southeastern part of Biei, Hokkaido, the Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike) is a natural wonder formed by volcanic activity and human intervention. After the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi, a dam was built to prevent mudslides, which intercepted underground water veins. The aluminum particles in the water refract light, creating a dreamy cobalt-blue hue. The withered larch and birch tree trunks standing in the pond, combined with the crystal-clear water, form a surreal aquatic landscape that is captivating in all seasons—especially during the winter illumination when the snow-covered blue pond and frost-covered trees create a scene reminiscent of an isolated frozen fairyland.
▲ [Forest Elf Terrace] The Forest Elf Terrace is located next to the New Furano Prince Hotel in Hokkaido. Designed by Japanese writer Sō Kuramoto, it's a magical cluster of wooden cottages hidden among white birch trees. Visitors can enjoy hands-on craft experiences, savor hot cocoa, and immerse themselves in the enchanted nights of Hokkaido's forests.
