CityBuddy
Asahiyama Zoo
Best time to visit
Morning hours right at opening avoid crowds and reveal active animal behavior before midday heat slows them down.
Budget tips
Admission costs about 1,000 yen for adults and discounts apply for children; consider a combo ticket with nearby attractions to save more.
Recommended for
Families with children, Wildlife photographers, Nature lovers, Animal behavior enthusiasts
Plan your visit
3-4 hours
About
Quick facts: Penguins parade along a glass tunnel that lets you see their underwater acrobatics up close. The zoo houses around 700 animals from 120 different species, each observed through uniquely designed enclosures.
Highlights: Visitors can watch polar bears swim through a transparent tube overhead, an immersive experience rare in zoos worldwide. The creative enclosures allow animals to engage naturally while guests enjoy up-close, 360-degree views.
Insider tips
- Wear waterproof shoes for the penguin underwater tunnel area.
- Bring a zoom lens for capturing playful animals without disturbance.
- Skip weekdays for a peaceful walk, especially outside holiday seasons.
- Head to the walrus feeding session mid-morning for exciting animal interaction.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Asahikawa, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
