Asahiyama Zoo is a zoo in Asahikawa, Hokkaido. It is one of the most popular zoos in Japan.
It is especially famous for its display style, which lets visitors see animals in a more natural way.
The zoo does not only line up animals for people to look at. Instead, it uses creative displays so visitors can watch how animals actually move and live. For example, visitors can watch penguins swim through the water like they are flying, and they can also see polar bears move in a powerful way.
Because of this, the zoo is popular not only with families with children, but also with adult travelers.
Why Asahiyama Zoo is special
The behavior-based displays are unique
The biggest feature of Asahiyama Zoo is its behavior-based displays.
This display style helps visitors see the way animals move and act in nature more clearly.
For example, visitors can see:
- seals swimming up and down through a vertical tank
- penguins swimming at high speed
- orangutans moving across high places
Because of this, the zoo feels a little different from a typical zoo. It gives visitors the feeling of watching how animals actually live.
The penguin walk in winter is famous
In winter, the penguin walk is one of the most famous attractions at Asahiyama Zoo.
Visitors can watch penguins walk across the snow at close range. Therefore, this event is also popular with international travelers.
It also matches the snowy scenery of Hokkaido very well. Because of that, it is a good choice for travelers who want a winter experience in Japan.
However, the penguin walk does not always happen every day. The zoo may change or cancel it depending on the weather and the animals’ condition.
The zoo is easy to visit in half a day or one day
Asahiyama Zoo is not as large as a huge theme park. Therefore, it is easy to visit in half a day or one full day.
It also works well as part of a travel plan, such as sightseeing in Asahikawa in the morning and visiting the zoo in the afternoon.
Where is Asahiyama Zoo?
Asahiyama Zoo is in Asahikawa, Hokkaido.
It is possible to visit from Sapporo, but the distance is not short. Therefore, it is easier to stay one night in Asahikawa or visit it together with other places in the Asahikawa area.
Visitors can also take a bus from Asahikawa Station. Because of this, the zoo is a good option for travelers who do not use a car.
▶ Official Website: Asahiyama Zoo
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Why it is a good place for international travelers
Visitors can enjoy Hokkaido-style animals and scenery
Asahiyama Zoo is especially nice in winter.
Seeing animals in the snow can leave a strong impression, especially for travelers from warm places.
It is good for photos and videos
The displays make animal movement easier to see. Therefore, it is also easier to take photos and videos.
Because of this, the zoo is a good place for travelers who want to keep travel memories.
It is good for families and adults
Families with children can enjoy the zoo, but adults can also enjoy it very much.
Some travelers may think zoos are mainly for children. However, Asahiyama Zoo is a place that many adults also enjoy.
Things to know before visiting
Winter is very cold
Winter in Hokkaido is very cold.
Visitors spend a lot of time outside, so gloves, a hat, warm shoes, and winter clothing are necessary.
Opening hours may change by season
Opening hours and operating periods may change depending on the season.
Therefore, checking the official website before visiting is a good idea.
There are slopes inside the zoo
The zoo has some uphill and downhill paths, and visitors need to walk a lot.
Because of this, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
＼ Visiting Asahiyama Zoo? ／
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