The Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa is a popular sightseeing destination, known for its innovative animal enclosures that allow visitors to observe wildlife up close in environments that mimic their natural habitats. The zoo is especially famous for its interactive exhibits and the seasonal Penguin Parade, which takes place during the winter months. Asahiyama Zoo can easily be reached from Sapporo by train, bus, or car.
Asahiyama Zoo’s Penguin Parade in the winter
The Main Attractions
The Penguin Parade is a highlight of the winter season at Asahiyama Zoo. During this event, penguins waddle along a designated path within the zoo grounds, allowing visitors to see them up close. The parade typically takes place twice daily from late December to mid-March, depending on snowfall. It’s a 5-minute walk from the zoo entrance.
The Seal Observation Bubble is an innovative exhibit where seals swim through a vertical tube, and visitors can watch them from an underwater glass dome. This design offers a unique 360-degree view of the seals as they glide past. The exhibit is located near the central area of the zoo, about a 10-minute walk from the entrance.
Asahiyama Zoo’s Seal Observation Bubble
The Polar Bear Enclosure allows visitors to observe polar bears from both above and below the water surface. Special glass tunnels and viewing areas provide an intimate look at these majestic creatures as they swim and play. The enclosure is a 12-minute walk from the entrance.
The Polar Bear Enclosure
The Orangutan Trapeze features cables stretched high above the ground, enabling orangutans to swing and move freely, showcasing their natural agility. Visitors can watch from below as the orangutans navigate the aerial pathways. This exhibit is located near the zoo’s eastern section, about a 15-minute walk from the entrance.
The Wolf Forest simulates the natural habitat of Hokkaido’s native Ezo wolves. Though the wolves are now extinct, the exhibit educates visitors about their history and impact on the ecosystem. The Wolf Forest is adjacent to the Polar Bear Enclosure.
Zoo Shops and Cafes offer a variety of souvenirs, snacks, and meals. You can find plush toys, animal-themed merchandise, and local specialties. The main shop is near the entrance, and several cafes are scattered throughout the zoo.
Admission Fees and Hours
- Admission: 1,000 yen for adults, 720 yen for high school students, and free for children junior high school age and younger.
- Hours: Open daily from 9:30 am to 5:15 pm during the summer season (late April to mid-October), and from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm during the winter season (mid-November to early April). Closed for maintenance in late April and early November; check the official website for exact dates.
Asahiyama Zoo animals welcome passengers at Asahikawa Station
How to Get There
Asahiyama Zoo can be reached from Sapporo by train, bus, and car. The fastest way to travel between these cities is by train, but taking a bus or driving offers scenic views of Hokkaido’s countryside.
Asahikawa Station
By Train
To travel from Sapporo Station to Asahikawa Station, take the JR Limited Express Kamui or Lilac train.
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Cost: Around 4,810 yen one-way
- Frequency: Trains depart approximately every 30 minutes
From Asahikawa Station, transfer to the Asahiyama Zoo Bus operated by Asahikawa Denki Kido Bus.
- Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
- Cost: 450 yen one-way
- Frequency: Buses depart every 30 minutes during peak seasons
The Limited Express Kamui train
By Bus
The Highway Bus operates direct services from Sapporo Station Bus Terminal to Asahiyama Zoo during peak tourist seasons.
- Departure Times: Buses depart at 7:30 am and 9:30 am
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes
- Cost: 2,200 yen for a one-way trip
- Reservations: Recommended, especially during holidays
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Sapporo to Asahikawa Station and then transfer to the local bus to the zoo.
By Car
To travel from Sapporo to Asahiyama Zoo by car:
- Route: Take the Hokkaido Expressway northbound towards Asahikawa.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes
- Toll Fees: Around 4,930 yen
- Directions: Exit at Asahikawa Takasu Interchange and follow local roads to the zoo.
Driving allows flexibility to explore at your own pace and visit attractions along the way. For more information on local driving, check our article on Car Rental in Sapporo.
Asahiyama Zoo images can be found everywhere in Asahikawa
Whether you’re interested in unique wildlife encounters, educational exhibits, or enjoying a family-friendly outing, a day trip to Asahiyama Zoo from Sapporo offers an engaging experience that highlights the natural wonders of Hokkaido.
Article by Maria Fukuda. Photos by Daikegoro/pixta (1), hassaku/pixta (2), Angkana Unthaya (3,5,6,7), gandhi/pixta (4). All rights reserved.
