Maruyama Zoo opened in 1951 as the first zoo in Hokkaido. Its origin lies in the successful hosting of a traveling zoo from Tokyo's 'Ueno Zoo' in Sapporo. The Polar Bear House opened in March 2018, and the Elephant House opened in March 2019. Furthermore, new facilities are opening one after another and attracting attention, with 'Orangutans and the Forest of Borneo' opening in June 2024.

At the 'Polar Bear House,' you can observe polar bears swimming dynamically from an underwater tunnel. The pool is divided for polar bears and seals, and if the timing is right, you might see a polar bear trying to hunt a seal.

'Orangutans and the Forest of Borneo' is a notable new facility that opened in May 2024, aiming to create a living environment where arboreal orangutans can live comfortably even during the cold season. It reproduces the environment of the island of Borneo, where orangutans live, in an indoor space with a maximum height of 8 meters. Orangutans, which have the longest child-rearing period after humans, are affectionate and intelligent animals. 'Borneo Orangutan Guides' are held, where you can hear from the zookeepers about their ecology, episodes at the zoo, and other initiatives.

The 'Elephant House,' which opened in March 2019, is a facility where you can learn about the adorable appearance and ecology of parent and child elephants. Its features, which excite not only children but also adults, are a popular topic. The indoor watering hole, where you can see elephants swimming right before your eyes, is a must-see. There are many highlights, such as exhibits and a touch theater where you can enjoy learning about their ecology.

In addition, the Asia Zone features a lineup of popular animals such as the cute lesser pandas and Amur tigers. Animals that inhabit cold regions, like the Amur tiger, can be seen in their active state during the winter.