Asahiyama Zoo Winter Opening Notice｜Transportation + Park Map

Hokkaido is not only famous for its snow, but also for the popular Asahiyama Zoo in Asahikawa. Here, you can witness the adorable winter penguin walk and the charming polar bears. Save this post for all the information on transportation, activities, tickets, and more!
| 🗺️Asahiyama Zoo Guide |
Asahiyama Zoo
One of the most popular zoos in Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo is home to many animals that thrive in cold climates. Due to its high latitude, the zoo showcases the animals in their most natural habitats.
⏰Opening Hours:
① 9:30-17:15 Summer (April 27 - October 15)
② 9:30-16:30 Late Summer (October 16 - November 3)
③ 10:30-15:30 Winter (November 11 - April 7)
🎫Ticket Prices:
① Adults 1000 yen/person
② Annual Pass 1400 yen/person
③ Free for junior high school students and younger
| 🎁Asahiyama Zoo Activities |
🐧Penguin Walk
The Penguin House provides detailed information about the growth and habitats of various penguin species. The Penguin Walk starts right outside.
📅Activity Time: 11:00-14:30, twice daily (mid-December to mid-March)
🐻Visit the Polar Bears
The Polar Bear House, located near the Penguin House, is also a must-see. You can watch polar bears swim indoors and see them being fed outdoors.
⏰Feeding Time: 13:30
| 🚇Transportation |
Getting to Asahiyama Zoo can be a bit complicated, requiring a JR train ride followed by a bus transfer, which takes a considerable amount of time. It is recommended to opt for a chartered car for convenience.
Transportation 1⃣️: 🚌JR + Bus
Sapporo → Asahikawa
Step ①: Take the JR train from "Sapporo Station" to "Asahikawa Station," approximately 1.5 hours, fare 5220 yen/person
Step ②: Upon arrival at Asahikawa Station, transfer to bus No. 41 or 47 directly to "Asahiyama Zoo," approximately 1.5 hours, fare 500 yen/person
Transportation 2⃣️: 🚗Chartered Car
Due to the high number of visitors in winter, it is recommended to use a chartered car for a convenient and flexible trip.
| 🚘Recommended Itinerary |
Asahikawa and Biei Day Trip
🚩Route: Sapporo → Asahiyama Zoo → Biei Christmas Tree → Shikisai no Oka → Forest Elf Terrace → Return
⏰Duration: 2 hours
📌Tips: The map of Asahiyama Zoo is attached on page 2