Located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is widely regarded as one of Hokkaido's top family-friendly attractions and a must-visit destination for independent travelers exploring Asahikawa.
Watch seals glide effortlessly through the water, polar bears dive dramatically into the pool to the delight of visitors, and red pandas gracefully leap among the treetops. Every moment feels worthy of a magazine cover. During winter, the limited-time Penguin Parade is the zoo's signature attraction and an absolute must-see. Whether you're traveling with your family or exploring on your own while capturing unforgettable wildlife moments, this Asahiyama Zoo travel guide will help you enjoy a fun, relaxing, and well-planned visit, adding even more wonderful memories to your Hokkaido adventure.
About Asahiyama Zoo
Located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is Japan's northernmost zoo. It has transformed the traditional zoo experience through its innovative "Behavioral Exhibits," allowing visitors to observe animals displaying their natural behaviors rather than simply viewing them in static enclosures. Every season offers unique attractions, but the winter-only Penguin Parade is especially popular, drawing countless visitors from around the world. It is not only one of Hokkaido's top family attractions but also a key reason why many travelers include Asahikawa in their winter Hokkaido itinerary.
Asahiyama Zoo Ticket Information
Address: Kuranuma, Higashi Asahikawa-cho, Asahikawa, Hokkaido
Phone: +81-166-36-1104
Opening Hours: Summer 09:30–17:15 / Winter 10:30–15:30
Night Opening: Until 21:00 in summer and until 20:30 in winter (limited dates)
Admission: Adults ¥1,000; Free for children under 12
Discount Tickets: KKDAY | KLOOK
Recommended Visit Duration: Approximately 2–4 hours
Transportation: Take a bus (Routes 41, 42, or 47) directly from JR Asahikawa Station
Official Website: Asahiyama Zoo
How to Get to Asahiyama Zoo
By Rental Car:
It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from downtown Asahikawa. Simply use your smartphone navigation or enter the Asahiyama Zoo MapCode: 79 358 840*66 into your car's GPS. Free parking is available at the entrance, making driving the most flexible and convenient transportation option.
By Public Transportation:
From JR Asahikawa Station, take the Asahikawa Electric Railway Bus. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. For detailed schedules, please visit the official Asahiyama Zoo website.
Must-See Attractions at Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo's exhibits focus on ecology and education, showcasing animals' natural behaviors in thoughtfully designed habitats that captivate visitors of all ages. Here are some exhibits you definitely shouldn't miss.
Seal House
Watch Chubby Seals "Fly" Underwater
The transparent cylindrical viewing tank is one of the zoo's signature attractions. Visitors can watch spotted seals gracefully swim through the water, creating the illusion that they are flying underwater. This unique design replicates natural ice holes, providing both an entertaining viewing experience and a deeper understanding of seal behavior.
Polar Bear House
Witness Giant Polar Bears Dive Up Close
Asahiyama Zoo's Polar Bear House allows visitors to observe these Arctic giants from above, below, and at ground level. Watching a polar bear leap dramatically into the water is an unforgettable sight. Informative displays also explain their natural habits, making this both an educational and exciting experience.
Red Panda House
Adorable Masters of the Treetops
The red pandas here love climbing high branches and crossing suspended rope bridges. They sometimes even "cross the street" directly above visitors, making this one of the zoo's most popular photo spots. Animal lovers won't want to miss these irresistibly charming creatures.
Wolf Forest
Experience the Spirit of the Wild
The Gray Wolf exhibit is one of the zoo's most impressive natural habitats. Elevated walkways and large viewing windows allow visitors to safely observe wolves interacting, running, and even hear their haunting howls, offering a powerful glimpse into the wilderness.
Ezo Brown Bear House
The King of Hokkaido's Forests
The Ezo Brown Bear is one of Hokkaido's native large mammals. In 2022, Asahiyama Zoo opened a dedicated observation area where visitors can safely watch these magnificent bears catching fish in the water or relaxing during a nap. The exhibit cleverly highlights both their immense power and surprisingly gentle side.
Children's Farm
Get Up Close with Friendly Animals
Designed especially for families, the Children's Farm is one of the zoo's most heartwarming attractions. Children can feed sheep, rabbits, and goats while learning about their habits from knowledgeable staff, making it both educational and interactive.
Winter Highlight: The Penguin Parade
The winter-exclusive Penguin Parade is Asahiyama Zoo's most famous attraction. Interestingly, it originally began simply as a way to give the penguins more exercise during winter, but it quickly became a huge success. Watching the King Penguins waddle slowly across the snowy paths under the guidance of their keepers is both adorable and heartwarming.
Parade Schedule: Approximately 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM daily (subject to weather and penguin conditions)
Recommendation: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing and photography spot.
Important Notes: Do not touch or frighten the penguins, and flash photography is prohibited.
The parade lasts approximately 20–40 minutes depending on the penguins and weather conditions. It is one of the most heartwarming winter scenes in Hokkaido and remains one of the region's most iconic winter experiences that you definitely shouldn't miss.
Popular Food Inside the Zoo
Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some unique food at the zoo's restaurants and snack stands. Although Asahiyama Zoo focuses on education and conservation, its food offerings are surprisingly creative, especially the limited-edition animal-themed treats.
Animal-Themed Curry Rice: Curry dishes shaped like polar bear faces or penguins are especially popular with families.
Asahiyama Milk Soft Serve Ice Cream: Made with rich Hokkaido milk, offering a creamy yet refreshing taste.
Hot Dogs and Hot Soup: Winter favorites that quickly warm you up and replenish your energy.
Best Souvenirs to Buy at Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo offers creative souvenirs that are both collectible and practical. From stationery to plush toys, there's something for visitors of all ages.
Penguin Plush Toys: Limited-edition penguin plushies in various sizes and expressions are among the most popular souvenirs.
Polar Bear Mugs and Lunch Boxes: Stylish, practical, and perfect as memorable keepsakes.
Animal-Themed Socks and T-Shirts: Fun, fashionable, and ideal as gifts or personal souvenirs.
Exclusive Postcards and Stickers: Great collectible items, especially for stationery enthusiasts.
"Behavioral Exhibits" Photo Books and Picture Books: Perfect for families who want to relive their unforgettable zoo experience together.
Through its innovative "Behavioral Exhibits," Asahiyama Zoo has completely redefined the traditional zoo experience by allowing animals to naturally express their behaviors. It has become one of Hokkaido's most iconic family attractions and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Asahikawa.
From the famous Seal House cylinder tank and spectacular polar bear dives to the winter-exclusive Penguin Parade, adorable red pandas, and the interactive Children's Farm, every attraction brings visitors closer to wildlife while creating unforgettable memories. With convenient transportation, excellent dining options, and a wide selection of unique souvenirs, Asahiyama Zoo is well worth a 2–4 hour visit. If you're planning a trip to Hokkaido, this zoo deserves a place on your itinerary for its perfect combination of education, entertainment, and outstanding photography opportunities.