Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo in Japan: The Ultimate Guide
For an offbeat experience in Japan travel from Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo in Hokkaido prefecture.
Whether you’re coming for the famous Asahikawa Penguin Parade or to see polar bears up close, this guide will help you plan your visit to this iconic Asahikawa Zoo.
Getting from Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo
Reaching Asahiyama Zoo from Asahikawa is simple. If you’re starting at Asahikawa Station, you can hop on the Asahikawa Zoo Bus for a 45-minute ride.
The bus ride costs 500 yen one way and is hard to miss—it’s decorated with animal posters, setting the tone for your adventure. The zoo is the last stop on the route, making it easy for first-time visitors.
Admission Fee and Timings
The Asahikawa zoo ticket costs 1,000 yen per person.
The zoo is open from 9:30 AM and closes by 4:15pm.
Best Time to Visit: Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo
The best time to visit the Hokkaido zoo is around 2 pm on a weekday. The timing ensures smaller crowds and enough daylight to enjoy the surroundings.
In September and October, the autumn foliage adds stunning natural beauty to the zoo’s scenic setting. Remember the sun sets by 4:30 pm, so try to get as much light as you can before that.
If you are traveling from Sapporo, you can get a guided tour to Asahiyama Zoo.
Maps and Accessibility
A detailed map is available at the entrance, making it easy to find all attractions. The zoo is well-organized, with signs and pathways leading you to different animal enclosures.
Attractions at Asahiyama Zoo
The Hokkaido Zoo in Asahikawa is famous for its innovative design that lets visitors see animals up close. Here’s a guide to the must-see attractions:
1. The Penguin Parade
One of the zoo’s highlights is the Asahikawa Penguin Parade, usually held during the winter months.
You can even get to see the penguins during October, just before winter hits. It is hard to see penguins in the Hokkaido zoo during summer.
The different species of penguin here are:
King penguin
Southern Rock Hopper penguin
Gentoo penguin and more
2. Polar Bear Pavilion
Next up, the polar bears! The pavilion offers incredible views of these majestic animals, whether they’re lounging on the rocks or diving into the water. Glass panels allow you to see them up close, making it a favorite spot for kids and adults alike.
3. Red Panda Walkway
The red panda exhibit features an overhead walkway where these cute animals can climb and stroll. It’s a charming sight to see them moving above your head.
4. Lions, Tigers, and Fierce Animals
The zoo’s collection of fierce animals includes lions, tigers, and leopards. These exhibits are designed to provide a safe but thrilling close-up view of the predators
5. Seal Dome
The Giant Seal Pavilion is another crowd-pleaser. A glass tube lets visitors watch seals swim gracefully around them, offering a 360-degree view of their underwater acrobatics.
6. Hippopotamus Habitat
The hippo exhibit is another standout feature. These fascinating creatures can be seen underwater through large viewing panels, giving visitors a unique look at their aquatic lifestyle. Watching them swim and interact is a calming yet captivating experience.
7. Domesticated Animals
For those who love cute and cuddly animals, the zoo has a special section with domesticated animals like deer and rabbits. Children especially enjoy interacting with these gentle creatures, making it a delightful stop for families.
How to Get to Asahikawa
You can reach Asahikawa by taking a flight from cities like Tokyo or Osaka.
City | Time taken | Cost in yen |
Tokyo | 1 hr 55 min | 6,000 |
Osaka | 11 hr (1 stop at tokyo) | 14,000 |
International flights to Tokyo are frequent. You can flights from major international cities like New Delhi ( India), London (UK), New York( US), Seoul (South Korea), Beijing (China) etc.
When in Asahikawa, keep 1 day aside to trek to Asahidake mountain and get stunning views.
Why travel from asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo
Asahiyama Zoo is not just about animals; it’s about creating unforgettable moments. The close-up enclosures and interactive designs make it stand out among other zoos in Japan.
Whether you’re watching the penguins dive, the red pandas climb, or seals swim, you’ll leave with lasting memories. Plus, the surrounding nature, especially in autumn, makes it a visually stunning destination.
FAQ
How many hours do you need at Asahiyama Zoo?
You can easily spend around 2.5 to 3 hours in the Asahiyama Zoo, Asahikawa. It's best to come around 2 pm so you can wrap up your trip by 4:30 - 5:00 pm, when the sun is about to set.
Which train station is the closest to Asahiyama Zoo?
The Asahikawa train station is closest to the Asahiyama Zoo.
You can take a bus from Asahiyama zoo, right outside the main entrance and go to the Asahikawa bus station, that is right next to the Asahikawa train station.
Conclusion
A trip from Asahikawa to Asahiyama Zoo is a great way to enjoy Hokkaido’s wildlife. With affordable tickets, easy access, and unique attractions, it’s fun for all ages, especially in autumn!
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this Asahikawa Zoo promises a day of adventure and awe. Add it to your itinerary and experience the magic of one of Japan’s best zoos!
