Asahikawa City Asahiyama Zoo

The charm of Asahiyama Zoo lies in the “behavioral exhibits” that bring out the natural ecology and behavior of animals. Each facility in the park is designed to make the animals feel comfortable, and you can observe their natural appearance up close.

For example, at the Penguin House, you can see penguins swimming freely in the underwater tunnel, and at the Azarashi Museum, you can observe seals going up and down the cylindrical tank up close. At the Polar Bear House, you will be amazed by the powerful polar bears that jump into the pool, and at the Orangutan House, you will be amazed by the sight of orangutans moving lightly through the 17-meter-high tower. In addition, you can see hippos swimming directly below at the Kabakan, and you can see the lively lives of animals unique to Hokkaido at the Crane House, Ezo Deer Forest, and Hokkaido Animal House. At “Ezo Higuma Hall,” which opened in 2022, you can observe Hokkaido’s representative brown bears right in front of you in an indoor facility modeled after Shiretoko.

Must-see events: “Mogumogu Time” and seasonal events

“Mogumogu Time”, where you can see the natural eating scene of the animals, is an event that you should not miss. The schedule for the day is decided in the morning, so check the bulletin board or official website in the park before planning your route.

Asahiyama Zoo also hosts special seasonal events. During the summer Obon period, the “night zoo” that opens at night has become a summer tradition. You may be able to hear nocturnal animals moving actively or the howls of wolves. When snow accumulates in winter, the “penguin walk” begins. The adorable appearance of the penguins waddling along the unfenced course will be the best memory unique to Asahiyama Zoo in winter.