Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, is Japan's northernmost zoo, opened in 1967. It rose to national fame through its 'behavioral exhibits,' which show animals living and moving naturally rather than merely on display, and now draws around 1.4 million visitors a year. Its winter-only 'Penguin Walk' and the 'Mogu-Mogu Time' feeding sessions are signature attractions.
Behavioral exhibits let you watch polar bears and seals swim at eye level through cylindrical tanks and glass tunnels
Winter-only 'Penguin Walk': king and gentoo penguins waddle about 500 m along a snowy path, often within arm's reach (typically late December to mid-March)
'Mogu-Mogu Time' feeding sessions, where keepers feed and explain the animals, showing them at their most active year-round
A distinctive experience of watching animals amid deep Hokkaido snow at Japan's northernmost zoo
Easy bus access from Asahikawa Station, making it a good half-day trip combined with Sapporo or Biei
Good to know
SeasonThe 'Penguin Walk' is a winter-only event that runs only after enough snow accumulates and may be canceled or changed by season, weather, or course conditions; always check the official site for your visit date.
RulesDuring the Penguin Walk, flash photography is prohibited, and visitors must not enter the walking course, touch the penguins, or throw snow.
SafetyThe grounds have many slopes and can be icy and slippery in winter, so bring non-slip shoes or crampons and prepare for snowy footing.
SafetyWinter in Asahikawa is bitterly cold; dress in layers with functional base layers, fleece, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell, plus gloves and a hat.
MannersThe Penguin Walk and front-row spots are very popular, and people often stake out places 30–60 minutes early; don't monopolize the front row and share space courteously.
RulesWinter hours are short (last admission around 3 pm) and animal events are tightly packed, so verify fees, opening hours, and event times before you go.
Practical info
Standard admission is around ¥1,000, free for junior high students and younger (verify latest). Hours vary by season—summer (roughly late April to mid-October) 9:30–17:15, winter (roughly mid-November to early April) 10:30–15:30—with long closures between seasons and over New Year; confirm on the official site. About 40 minutes by zoo-bound bus from Asahikawa Station.
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