CityBuddy
Noboribetsu Bear Park
Best time to visit
Late morning or early afternoon on clear days offers the best light and bear activity to enjoy both the viewing platforms and ropeway rides fully.
Budget tips
Admission is typically around 1,300 yen, with discounts for children and seniors; check for combined passes including nearby hot springs to save on entry fees.
Recommended for
Animal lovers, Families, Nature enthusiasts, Adventure seekers
Plan your visit
2-3 hours
About
Quick facts: Bears here are cared for in spacious enclosures overlooking a scenic valley that changes dramatically with the seasons. Visitors can observe the native Hokkaido brown bears engaging in natural behaviors from a safe viewing platform.
Highlights: The park offers a thrilling ropeway ride that ascends the mountain for panoramic views and close-up bear watching from above. Feeding shows let you see the bears' impressive strength and agility in action, a powerful demonstration few zoos provide.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven paths and varying terrain.
- Bring a camera with zoom to capture bears from safe distances without disturbing them.
- Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Avoid the midday heat in summer for better bear activity and more pleasant walking conditions.
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 Noboribetsu, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
