Asahiyama Zoo

Zoo
★ 4.8 (5K+ reviews) • 73K+ booked
Nestled in the scenic hills just outside of central Asahikawa City in Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo stands as Japan's northernmost zoo and a beloved destination for animal lovers and families. Since its opening in July 1967, this remarkable zoo has captivated millions with its innovative and interactive animal exhibits. Known for its unique enclosures that offer immersive viewing angles, Asahiyama Zoo provides an intimate and engaging experience, bringing visitors closer to the animals than ever before. Whether you're a family with children or a solo traveler with a passion for wildlife, this zoo promises an unforgettable adventure, making it one of the most popular and must-visit zoos in Japan.
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Kuranuma, Higashiasahikawacho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, Japan

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Make it a getaway

Trend Hotel Asahikawa

Trend Hotel Asahikawa

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★ 3.8
From £ 41.57
Learch Asahikawa

Learch Asahikawa

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From £ 115.04
Asahikawa Koen Guesthouse - Hostel

Asahikawa Koen Guesthouse - Hostel

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★ 4.8
From £ 97.88
THE PRESTIGE

THE PRESTIGE

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★ 4.7
From £ 238.44

More to explore

Sapporo Asahiyama - Tomamu Shuttle Bus
£ 26.95

Why people love Asahiyama Zoo

4.8 /5
5K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Frederick *****
5 days ago
The Asahiyama zoo is truly amazing with great views though I wish the time allocation for this stop could have been slightly longer. Guide delivers mainly in Chinese and sufficiently in English and Japanese.
Klook 用戶
5 days ago
Thank you Shaosang tour guide for your warm reminder and professional yet humorous explanation. I recommend everyone to take a look.
劉 **
5 days ago
The service of the tour guide is very good. She is very attentive and attentive. She reminds everyone of the urgency of time. This itinerary is very compact. The time spent at each scenic spot may be limited to the urgency of time. It is a bit short. Green Pond is 30 minutes and Longxu Waterfall is 15 minutes. Minutes, Forest Elf Terrace 30 minutes, Zoo 120 minutes, the advantage is that you can enjoy four scenic spots in one day.
pyb ******
5 days ago
"This day tour was absolutely amazing! Each stop was unique and beautiful, making it a well-rounded experience. Asahiyama Zoo was a treat, especially the adorable penguins and polar bears. The enclosures allow for close-up viewing, and the staff provided lots of interesting information about the animals. Shirahige Falls was breathtaking, with its cascading waters set against a stunning natural landscape. The Blue Pond in Biei was another highlight—its vivid blue color in the summer is truly mesmerizing. In winter, the Forest Fairy Terrace creates a magical snowy wonderland, adding to the charm. Our guide spoke both Chinese and English fluently and was knowledgeable, friendly, and organized, making the tour enjoyable and hassle-free. Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Hokkaido! It’s the perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and unique scenery.
WU *********
6 days ago
A great itinerary package👍👍We visited several well-known attractions in Hokkaido😍😍You don’t have to worry about transportation problems if you choose this package itinerary👍👍👍👍👍The tour guide Rita is very careful and responsible
2+
Klook User
1 Nov
Worth it! Enjoyed Asahiyama more than I expected. The time spent in each place was exactly right. Sophia (tour guide) was so good humored and everyone in the tour was friendly and sociable.
Klook User
6 days ago
It's my first time to book a bus tour and i had a great experience. Thanks to our guide Sofia 👍👍it's a 10/10. It's really worth it.
2+
Wong *
29 Oct
Assemble at the hotel entrance. In just one day, you can go to the zoo, forest balcony and different attractions. The tour guide's explanation is very detailed and the service is very good.

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FAQs about Asahiyama Zoo

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Are there any special exhibits at Asahiyama Zoo during winter?

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What to know before visiting Asahiyama Zoo

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Penguin Aquarium

Dive into the enchanting world of the Penguin Aquarium at Asahiyama Zoo, where you can stroll through an immersive environment surrounded by the delightful antics of Gentoo, Humboldt, King, and Rockhopper penguins. Watch in awe as these charming birds waddle and glide through the water, offering a captivating glimpse into their aquatic lives. This exhibit promises a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, making it a must-see attraction during your zoo adventure.

Seal Aquarium

Prepare to be mesmerized by the Seal Aquarium, a unique exhibit that allows you to observe seals as they gracefully navigate through a vertical tube. This innovative design provides a 360-degree view of these playful marine mammals, showcasing their agility and charm from every angle. Whether you're a marine life enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and engaging experience, the Seal Aquarium is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Polar Bear Aquatic Park

Step into the world of the majestic polar bears at the Polar Bear Aquatic Park, where you can witness these magnificent creatures in their element. The specially designed aquatic park offers a rare opportunity to see polar bears swim and play, with underwater views that reveal their graceful movements beneath the surface. This exhibit not only highlights the beauty and power of polar bears but also provides an educational experience about their natural behaviors and habitats.

Culture and History

Asahiyama Zoo is a treasure trove of Hokkaido's native wildlife, featuring majestic deer, soaring eagles, and elegant cranes. A visit here is not complete without witnessing the enchanting penguin walks, a winter tradition that has been captivating visitors for years.

Local Cuisine

While exploring Asahiyama Zoo, treat yourself to the culinary delights of Hokkaido. The region is celebrated for its fresh seafood, rich dairy products, and distinctive flavors. Indulge in local specialties like ramen and creamy ice cream, which promise to be a feast for your senses.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Since its inception in 1967, Asahiyama Zoo has been a beacon of innovation in animal care and exhibit design, thanks to the visionary leadership of Mayor Kōzō Igarashi. Recognized as one of Japan's premier zoos, it offers a unique and intimate animal viewing experience, making it a cultural gem in Hokkaido.