Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo (Asahiyama Zoo) in Hokkaido is a popular tourist spot that you should definitely visit when traveling to Asahikawa, Biei, Furano, etc. It is famous for being able to observe lively animals up close, with activities such as seals swimming in the cylindrical aquarium "Marine Way," munching time, and penguin strolls.

This time, we will introduce in detail the must-see animals and events at Asahiyama Zoo, as well as tips for a time-saving and efficient tour, and convenient access.

You can watch penguins swim as if they are flying in the sky

Asahiyama Zoo is the northernmost zoo in Japan, having opened in 1967. Visitor numbers had previously been stagnant, but it became extremely popular after it began offering "behavioral exhibits" in 1997. It has now become a famous tourist spot representing Hokkaido, with a constant stream of tourists, and is visited by approximately 1.4 million people from both Japan and abroad every year.

Watching the polar bears swim is a big hit

Behavioral exhibits are an exhibition method in which animals are kept in a natural environment that is comfortable for them. They are not just exhibits that show the animals' appearance, but also exhibits that show their behavior and lifestyle. You can see lively animals, such as polar bears diving into an aquarium right in front of your eyes and red pandas crossing a suspension bridge overhead.

The way they eat their food looks adorable

It's not just the behavioral exhibits that are popular. Other popular exhibits include the "Symbiosis Exhibit," where animals from similar habitats are kept in the same space, and "Mogu Mogu Time," where zookeepers feed the animals and explain their ecology. The zoo is also easily accessible by public transport, about 40 minutes by bus from JR Asahikawa Station and about 35 minutes from Asahikawa Airport, making it a great place for tourists to visit.

The famous Penguin Walk

Asahiyama Zoo has a lot to offer! You can see animal behavior exhibits all over the zoo, and there are also many guided tours such as "munching time" and "penguin walks." While all of these are highlights, we've carefully selected the exhibits and events that we recommend you see first when visiting Asahiyama Zoo for the first time.

The zoo has a variety of animal behavior exhibits where you can observe lively animals. Here we will introduce some of the animals in the most famous behavior exhibits.

A seal passes through the marine way

The Seal House, which exhibits spotted seals and slaty-backed gulls, is a must-see when visiting Asahiyama Zoo. In particular, the sight of the seals going up and down on the marine way in front of you inside the zoo is a must-see! Along with swimming in the large tank, you can enjoy watching the seals swimming energetically up close. As they frequently pass by the marine way, there are plenty of photo opportunities. (Note: Flash photography is not permitted when taking photos.)

An outdoor exhibit that resembles a fishing port

The outdoor area is designed to resemble a fishing port in Hokkaido, and in order to recreate the life of wild seals, they even keep injured Slaty-backed gulls that can no longer fly. You can enjoy watching the seals lazily loitering or swimming energetically.

You can see it from directly below

Penguins are as popular as seals at Asahiyama Zoo. At the Penguin House, you can observe four types of penguins - King penguins, Gentoo penguins, Humboldt penguins, and Rockhopper penguins - both indoors and outdoors. Also not to be missed are the feeding times, "munching time," and the "penguin walks" that take place during the snowy winter months.

Semicircular underwater tunnel

Inside the aquarium, there is a glass tunnel that runs through the penguin tank, allowing you to observe the penguins swimming energetically, as if you were walking underwater. In stark contrast to the penguins lazing about on land, the sight of many penguins gliding back and forth in the water is a spectacular sight, almost as if they are flying in the sky. Outside the aquarium, you can observe the adorable penguins right in front of you, which is sure to make your heart flutter.

Red panda crossing a suspension bridge

The Red Panda House, where the red pandas are kept, is a hugely popular attraction, as visitors can see the red pandas crossing the suspension bridge that spans overhead on the observation path. There are 3.5-meter-high suspension bridges between the enclosures on either side of the observation path and the trees, allowing visitors to watch the red pandas scurry across the bridge from directly below.

Taking a relaxing break at the end of a suspension bridge?

There are also bay windows, allowing you to observe them eating and sleeping from up close. You can see the red pandas' impressive athletic ability as they climb trees and cross bridges, and you'll find every movement endearing. You can get a better view of them crossing the suspension bridge from a little distance away than directly underneath.

Asahiyama Zoo has many features that allow you to enjoy the animals in the behavioral exhibit in a more dynamic way. Here we will introduce three animals that you can enjoy watching in a dynamic way, as if you can hear the animals' breathing.

The polar bears are very impressive!

The Polar Bear House, which keeps polar bears, has an enclosure with a huge pool that can be observed from indoors, and an enclosure without cages that uses a moat. Indoors, you'll be amazed at the spectacular sight of the polar bears diving into the pool from land! You can observe the huge, pure white bodies swimming underwater from right next to the pool, and you can clearly see their faces, the movement of their limbs, and even their fur fluttering in the water.

Capsule-shaped Seals Eye

Along with the indoor pool, another popular observation spot is "Seal's Eye," where you can observe polar bears from the perspective of a seal being hunted. This is a capsule-shaped observation window in the middle of the cage-free enclosure, which uses a moat. You can stick your head inside Seal's Eye from under the enclosure and look up to observe.

Even when viewed from the facility's window, it seems to be right in front of you.

Seeing the polar bear's paws approaching right above your head makes you feel so nervous that you think you might get trampled, even though you know you're in a safe place. There may be a line of people waiting to observe at the area where you can observe one by one, but this is definitely a viewing spot you'll want to experience.

Snow leopards so close

The "Moujukan" zoo, which houses snow leopards and other animals, is a facility where you can observe the powerful beasts up close from various angles, such as directly beside or directly below them. In addition to snow leopards, the zoo also houses Amur leopards, lions, and Amur tigers.

Amur leopard

The part of the cage that juts out into the air allows you to observe from directly below, and when you look down from directly below, you can clearly see the pads of the snow leopards and Amur leopards' paws. The area where you can observe the snow leopards right next to the cage is so close and impressive that there is even a sign that says, "Pee will fly! Be careful if you turn your rear end towards them!" You can enjoy a thrilling observation of the wild animals.

You might get a little startled if your eyes meet.

Wolf Forest, where the gray wolves are kept, is an exhibition facility modeled after the nature of Hokkaido 100 years ago, with Ezo deer kept next to the cages. Incidentally, Ezo wolves lived in Hokkaido until around the 19th century, but became extinct around 1900 due to extermination efforts and other factors.

The wolf in the snow is also dignified.

At the Wolf Forest enclosure, you can watch the wolves bathing in the stream and howling on the rocky mountains from the observation hall or outdoors. One place to pay attention is the dome-shaped observation area called "Hare's Eye" in one corner of the observation hall. Watching the wolves pass right beside you through the glass is so powerful it's almost frightening. It's a place you definitely want to experience.

Asahiyama Zoo's ingenious display methods allow you to enjoy the animals' cute behavior and impressive appearances, while also stimulating your intellectual curiosity and making you feel a little smarter. Each exhibit facility offers a sense of profound knowledge and social background, but we will introduce three facilities that are particularly noteworthy.

Geoffroy's spider monkey and capybara

The Spider Monkey and Capybara House is one of Asahiyama Zoo's representative symbiosis exhibits. Spider monkeys and capybaras, which live in Central and South America, are exhibited in the same cage, and the facility is designed to separate the animals' habitats above ground and above ground. As spider monkeys live in the trees of the forest, ropes are stretched from pillars about 7 meters high to create the image of a jungle. On the other hand, there is a pool above ground for capybaras, who spend their daytime hours in the water.

Active spider monkeys

Spider monkeys move around with deft control of their tails, almost like hands, and hop across the sky like members of a circus troupe. You'll also find it soothing to watch the capybaras, the world's largest rodents, lazing about beneath the facility. It's a strange feeling to be able to observe different animals in the same space, but this is as close to their natural state as possible. This is a facility where you can feel as if a variety of animals are living in the same environment.

It feels like you've encountered it in the forest

The Ezo Brown Bear House is a facility where you can observe the impressive appearance of Ezo brown bears and also learn about the relationship between humans and animals. The outdoor enclosure is a deep, spacious space planted with native Hokkaido trees, giving the atmosphere of peeking into a Hokkaido forest. In the indoor enclosure, you can observe the impressive appearance of the bears from up close, even though it is through glass.

An outdoor enclosure with a warning sign for animals

Inside the facility, there is a picture scroll that conveys the brown bear problem in Shiretoko, created in collaboration between the Shiretoko Foundation, a public interest incorporated foundation, and a picture book author living in Shiretoko, as well as a panel exhibit illustrating the ecology of wild Ezo brown bears. In recent years, Hokkaido has seen many news reports of incidents and accidents involving Ezo brown bears. The exhibits are captivating, as they explain the current state of the Ezo brown bear's habitat and the boundary between it and human habitats.

On the left is an indoor enclosure seen through glass. On the right is an exhibit by the Shiretoko Foundation and others.

In fact, the Ezo Brown Bears kept here were originally mother and cubs who had been living together but had wandered into human settlements, and were exterminated, leaving behind cubs. In 1999, Asahiyama Zoo began protecting the bears. The Ezo Brown Bear House is a facility where you can enjoy their impressive appearance as well as think deeply about coexistence with animals.

Hokkaido Animal House

The Hokkaido Animal House is a facility that exhibits many of Hokkaido's birds and small animals. It is designed to give you the feeling that you are in a Hokkaido forest observing the animals and birds, and you can feel the richness of Hokkaido's natural forests and mountains.

Steller's sea eagle with wings spread

White-tailed eagles, Steller's sea eagles, and mountain hawk-eagles are on display in a large bird cage that incorporates several trees, and around the bird cage there are a variety of birds, owls, and mammals, including owls, woodpeckers, Hokkaido squirrels, Hokkaido raccoon dogs, and Siberian hare.Even though they are inside the bird cage, the sight of white-tailed eagles and Steller's sea eagles with their large wings spread is truly majestic.

A fluffy Ezo raccoon dog

However, this facility also houses animals that are not native to Hokkaido. There are comparative exhibits of invasive species and species native to Hokkaido, such as raccoons and Siberian raccoon dogs, and Japanese martens and Siberian sable martens. This is also a place that gives you an opportunity to think again about the problem of invasive species that disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.

Asahiyama Zoo hosts a variety of guided tours and events throughout the year. Some are held every day, while others are only available on certain days of the week or during certain seasons. Here we will introduce some of the most famous and must-see events.

Giraffe eating

During "munching time," zookeepers will explain the animals' distinctive behavior while feeding them. There are some impressive sights to see, such as a polar bear diving towards the food thrown by the zookeeper, or a giraffe sticking out its long tongue and grazing on grass. During "Naruhodo Guide," there is no feeding, but just like during "munching time," the zookeepers will explain the animals' distinctive behavior.

The polar bears' munching time is a must-see!

The explanations by the zookeepers in both shows are interesting and entertaining, and there are many "aha!" moments. Both are held daily for about 10-15 minutes at a time, and are held in many animal enclosures. The time and animal for which the show will be held varies from day to day, and is decided on the morning of the day. The information is announced on Asahiyama Zoo's official website and on bulletin boards within the zoo every morning around 10:00, so be sure to check it out when you visit.

The park lit by ice candles

Asahiyama Zoo extends its opening hours until night for about a week around Obon and for about three days in the middle of winter. In summer, it is called the "Night Zoo" and is open until 9pm (last entry 8pm), and in winter, it is called the "Snow Light Zoo" and is open until 8:30pm (last entry 8pm), and with the exception of some facilities, you can visit the zoo just like during the day. There are only a few days throughout the year when you can enter the zoo at night, so this is a rare opportunity.

The polar bears seen at night are also quite impressive

The appeal of visiting the zoo at night is that you can enjoy the lively appearance of nocturnal animals. For example, hippos tend to stay still during the day, but at night they can often be seen actively walking around their enclosure. Lions also tend to rest in the shade during the day, but at night they become active and show signs of nocturnal hunting habits.

A must-see in winter! Penguin Walk

The "Penguin Walk" is a winter tradition at Asahiyama Zoo. Many people visit just to see this, and the sight of a group of penguins strolling across the snow is so adorable and charming that it's hard to resist! It's also great to see them sliding and running freely across the snow. If you're visiting Asahiyama Zoo in the winter, this is an event you definitely want to see.

You can observe it from a very close distance

The Penguin Walk is usually held twice a day at 11:00 and 14:30 during the snow season (late December to mid-March) (only once in the morning in March). Starting from the Penguin House, the penguins march about 500 meters around the park, returning to the Penguin House after about 30 minutes. Visitors gather on both sides of the route the penguins take, forming double or triple-layered crowds. Some people even set up a spot and wait well before the penguin walk begins.

The penguins are full of energy as they walk and slide around on their bellies.

By the way, the Penguin Walk is not an event that was started for visitors, but is actually a project that began to alleviate the penguins' lack of exercise and to build up their physical strength for breeding. It is not just a spectacle event, but also a way of exhibiting animals that takes into consideration their natural ecology. (*The event may be suddenly canceled or changed depending on the condition of the penguins and the course conditions.)

Asahiyama Zoo viewed from the east gate

If you're visiting Asahiyama Zoo, be sure to learn some tips and efficient ways to get around. This will help you have a more enjoyable and fulfilling time. Which entrance gate is best to use? What is the best route to take around the zoo? These are especially important points for those who have limited time and want to make the most of their time.

Asahiyama Zoo has three entrances: the main gate, the west gate, and the east gate. The main gate and west gate are relatively close to each other, but the east gate is located directly opposite the main gate. Which entrance you use depends on your transportation method and the priority of the animals you want to see.

Asahiyama Zoo's main gate

If you are traveling by bus or taxi, it is common to use the main gate or east gate.

Asahiyama Zoo's west gate

The West Gate is closest to each animal house, and the Seal House is particularly close to the West Gate. If you have limited time and want to see everything efficiently, or if you don't want to walk too much, the West Gate is the best choice. Asahiyama Zoo also has many parking lots near each gate, but the West Gate has the most parking spaces, making it easy to find a spot. However, parking near the West Gate is paid (500 yen per day), while parking near the Main Gate and East Gate is free (some parking lots near the Main Gate are paid).

Asahiyama Zoo's East Gate

Asahiyama Zoo itself is a facility located on the slope of a mountain, with the main gate at the bottom of the mountain and the east gate at the top of the slope. If you use the east gate, you may not mind the downward stairs and slopes when entering, but be aware that you will have to climb stairs and slopes when leaving. There is also a free shuttle bus that runs to the east gate stairs, so even those with weak legs can enjoy the zoo with peace of mind.

When visiting, it is best to look around counterclockwise, no matter which gate you enter through. The entrances to each animal enclosure and the signs are designed to be viewed efficiently if you go around counterclockwise. Unless you have a special reason, such as moving to coincide with munching time, you should go around counterclockwise.

Part of the schedule published on the Asahiyama Zoo's official website

If you want to get around efficiently and save time, it's essential to check the guide's schedule, especially the "Mogu Mogu Time" that is announced every morning around 10am! Check what time the events for animals you absolutely want to see are taking place, and check the park map to make sure your travel schedule is not too tight. If you plan where and when to go, you'll waste less time and you won't waste time running back and forth.

Here we will introduce some useful information for enjoying Asahiyama Zoo, including information on food and souvenirs, opening hours, admission fees, and access without a car.

Asahiyama Zoo Central Cafeteria

There are several restaurants and souvenir shops within the park. They are mainly located between the main gate and the west gate, as well as on the second floor of the east gate building. There are also food, drink, and souvenirs with motifs of the animals in the park. The menus at restaurants vary depending on the establishment, but you can mainly enjoy meals such as noodles like ramen, curry, rice bowls, and fast food like minced meat cutlets and french fries.

Restaurants tend to be quite busy during lunch hours. Make sure to prioritize time to see the animals you want to see, such as munching, and plan your lunch time accordingly, so you can use it efficiently. Souvenir shops tend to be busy in the afternoon, especially as the park closes. If you're using the bus, be sure to pay attention to the departure time and enjoy your shopping.

Asahiyama Zoo is open for two periods: summer and winter. Summer generally runs from late April to early November, and winter runs from mid-November to early April. The zoo is closed during the transition between summer and winter periods in mid-April and mid-November. Be sure to take note of the zoo's closing dates when planning your trip. Opening and closing times may vary depending on the season.

The ticket office is located to the right of the main gate.

Admission fees can be purchased at the counters at each gate, or in advance online or at convenience stores. If you don't want to wait in line at the counter, we recommend purchasing in advance. When purchasing at the counter, cash, credit cards, and major cashless payment methods are accepted.

If you are traveling to Asahiyama Zoo by car, such as a rental car, the nearest highway entrance/exit is Asahikawa Kita IC. It takes about 35 minutes from the highway exit. However, if you are coming from Sounkyo, Kitami, Abashiri, or Monbetsu, the Aibetsu IC on the Monbetsu Expressway is closer and more convenient.

There are buses to Asahiyama Zoo that depart from Asahikawa Station and Asahikawa Airport. The bus stop at Asahikawa Station is bus stop number 6, right in front of the station.

Asahiyama Zoo is one of Hokkaido's most popular tourist destinations, and is always bustling with visitors. Along with the adorable and heart-stoppingly impressive lively animals, the zoo's appeal lies in its ingenious exhibits that stimulate intellectual curiosity. Make sure to efficiently explore the zoo within your limited travel time and enjoy meeting these wonderful animals.

*Event content and times are subject to change (2026)

Asahiyama Zoo

■Location: Asahiyama Zoo, Kuranuma, Higashiasahikawa-cho, Asahikawa City ■Opening hours (2026) January 2nd (Friday) - April 7th (Tuesday) 10:30-15:30 (Last entry 15:00) April 29th (Wednesday) - October 15th (Thursday) 9:30-17:15 (Last entry 16:00) October 16th (Friday) - November 3rd (Tuesday) 9:30-16:30 (Last entry 16:00) November 11th (Wednesday) - December 29th (Tuesday) 10:30-15:30 (Last entry 15:00) ・Special opening: February 7th (Sat) - February 9th (Mon) 10:30-20:30 (Last entry 20:00) August 10th (Monday) - August 16th (Sunday) 9:30-21:00 (Last entry 20:00) ■Admission fee: High school students and above 1,000 yen / Special price for city residents 700 yen / Free for junior high school students and below For more information on Asahiyama Zoo, click here

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