Complete Guide to Asahiyama Zoo | Top Attractions, Admission Fees & Access Information in Asahikawa, Hokkaido

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What is Asahiyama Zoo? Japan's Northernmost Popular Zoo %3Cdiv%20style%3D%22left%3A%200%3B%20width%3A%20100%25%3B%20height%3A%200%3B%20position%3A%20relative%3B%20padding-bottom%3A%2056.25%25%3B%22%3E%3Ciframe%20src%3D%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fembed%2FCFwT-Miu3YM%3Frel%3D0%22%20style%3D%22top%3A%200%3B%20left%3A%200%3B%20width%3A%20100%25%3B%20height%3A%20100%25%3B%20position%3A%20absolute%3B%20border%3A%200%3B%22%20allowfullscreen%20scrolling%3D%22no%22%20allow%3D%22accelerometer%20*%3B%20clipboard-write%20*%3B%20encrypted-media%20*%3B%20gyroscope%20*%3B%20picture-in-picture%20*%3B%20web-share%20*%3B%22%20referrerpolicy%3D%22strict-origin%22%3E%3C%2Fiframe%3E%3C%2Fdiv%3E Asahiyama Zoo is Japan's northernmost zoo, located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido. It became nationally famous for its unique "behavioral exhibition" method and once recorded the highest number of visitors in Japan, surpassing even Ueno Zoo in Tokyo.

Through exhibition methods that bring out the natural behaviors and abilities of animals, the zoo maximizes the appeal of its animals to visitors. The greatest attraction is being able to observe lively animals typical of northern regions, such as penguins, seals, and polar bears, up close.

Top 5 Must-See Attractions at Asahiyama Zoo 1. Penguin Walk (Winter Only)

The most popular attraction at Asahiyama Zoo is the winter-only "Penguin Walk." The adorable sight of penguins freely walking on the snow captivates many tourists. This program, which began as exercise for the penguins, has now become a beloved winter tradition at Asahiyama Zoo.

2. Seal House "Marine Way"

The cylindrical aquarium "Marine Way" is a popular spot where you can observe seals swimming vertically from a 360-degree view. You can enjoy the mysterious sight of seals appearing to fly through the air.

3. Polar Bear House

You can observe polar bears swimming dynamically in a huge pool from an underwater tunnel. You can see various expressions of polar bears - their powerful appearance on land and their graceful swimming underwater.

4. Feeding Time (Mogu Mogu Time) During "Mogu Mogu Time" held at various exhibition facilities, zookeepers feed the animals while providing detailed explanations about their characteristics and ecology. It's a valuable opportunity to learn while watching the animals' mealtime.

5. Penguin House Underwater Tunnel

Walking through the underwater tunnel, you can look up at penguins swimming as if you were in the ocean. The sight of penguins gracefully swimming as if flying through the sky is spectacular.

Admission Fees Adults (High school age and older) : ¥1,000

Children (Junior high school age and younger) : Free

Annual Passport : ¥1,400 (Valid for 1 year from purchase date)

Special rates for residents and group discounts are available. By joining the Zoo Club (supporter membership), you receive an annual passport and various benefits.

Official Website : https://www.city.asahikawa.hokkaido.jp/asahiyamazoo/

Operating Hours & Closed Days Summer Season (2024 Example) Period : April 27 - October 15

Hours : 9:30 AM - 5:15 PM (Last admission 4:00 PM)

Closed : None

Winter Season (2024 Example) Period : November 11 - April 7 (following year)

Hours : 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM (Last admission 3:00 PM)

Closed : December 30 - January 1

*Operating hours vary by season. Please check the official website for the latest information before your visit.

Access Information By Car From Asahikawa Airport : Approx. 30 minutes

From Sapporo : Approx. 2 hours (via expressway)

From Asahikawa Station : Approx. 30 minutes

Free parking is available with capacity for over 500 vehicles.

By Public Transportation From Asahikawa Station : Asahikawa Denki Kido Bus "Asahiyama Zoo Line" approx. 40 minutes

From Asahikawa Airport : Asahikawa Denki Kido Bus "Asahiyama Zoo Line" approx. 35 minutes

During summer, the frequency of direct buses increases, making public transportation access convenient.

Tips for Enjoying Asahiyama Zoo Choosing When to Visit Summer (April - October) : All animals are visible and all facilities are open. You can enjoy the animals' active behavior in a lush green environment.

Winter (November - April) : The Penguin Walk is only available during this period. The sight of animals in the snowy landscape is also charming. Be sure to dress warmly for your visit.

Efficient Route Planning The zoo grounds have slopes, and it takes 2-3 hours to see everything. Check the Mogu Mogu Time schedule in advance and plan your route around the feeding times of animals you want to see. Check the Mogu Mogu Time schedule on the park map you receive at admission.

Clothing & What to Bring Summer : Strong sunlight requires a hat and sunscreen. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Winter : Hokkaido winters are extremely cold, so you'll need warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and non-slip shoes. Hand warmers are also useful.

Nearby Tourist Attractions When visiting Asahiyama Zoo, we recommend enjoying nearby tourist spots as well:

Asahikawa Ramen Village : Enjoy Asahikawa's famous soy sauce ramen

Asahikawa Science Center : A northern science museum enjoyable for both children and adults

Hokuchin Memorial Museum : A facility where you can learn about Asahikawa's history

Summary Asahiyama Zoo is a representative tourist spot in Hokkaido where you can observe animals' natural behaviors up close through its unique "behavioral exhibition" method. Each season offers different attractions: animals actively moving in a lush green environment in summer, and the Penguin Walk in a snowy landscape in winter.

The zoo is enjoyable for families, couples, and friends alike for an entire day. When traveling to Hokkaido, be sure to visit Asahiyama Zoo