Tucked just outside the bustling city of Asahikawa in Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo offers a refreshing twist on the classic zoo experience, drawing travelers into Japan’s northernmost wildlife haven. Opened in 1967, this 37-acre sanctuary is home to over 700 animals across 120 species, with a focus on cold-climate creatures like polar bears, penguins, and Amur leopards. Enjoy the zoo's innovative “behavioral exhibits”— glass tunnels where penguins seem to soar overhead, or domes that plop you eye-to-eye with seals and wolves. The zoo’s crown jewel, the Penguin Walk, waddles into action each winter. Marvel as these tuxedoed birds strut through the snow, a spectacle born from the zoo’s mission to mimic natural habitats.

Getting there is a breeze—hop on a 40-minute bus ride from Asahikawa Station, or take a quick 30-minute drive if you’ve got wheels. Once inside, the layout invites exploration: start at the East Gate for a downhill stroll, catching feeding frenzies at “Mogu Mogu Time." Or catch the polar bears diving into their aquatic playground. Summer brings the Night Zoo, a rare peek at nocturnal life under Hokkaido’s starry skies, while the surrounding Asahiyama Yuki-no-Mura offers winter thrills like snow rafting and local ramen to warm your soul. Compact yet brimming with creativity, this zoo isn’t just a pit stop—it’s a window into Hokkaido’s wild heart.

• Unique Animal Encounters: Witness animals in motion through innovative enclosures like glass tunnels and domes.
• Popular Penguin Parade: Watch penguins waddle through the snow in the zoo’s iconic winter parade.
• Immersive Exhibits: Get close-up views of polar bears, seals, red pandas, and more in naturalistic habitats.
• Seasonal Experiences: Enjoy different attractions in summer and winter, including snow-covered landscapes.
• Family-Friendly Fun: A perfect outing for all ages with educational displays and interactive exhibits.