Frequently Asked Questions
English answers are machine-translated from the property's Japanese information. Please confirm important details with the property directly.
Or browse the answers we’ve already prepared below.
These answers were written by AI from the property's official website. The property has not checked them. Collected on May 31, 2026. Prices and times may be out of date, so please confirm anything important with the property.
Access (1)
How do I get here from Asahikawa Station?
Take the Asahikawa Electric Railway bus (Asahiyama Zoo Line 41 or 47) from platform 6 at Asahikawa Station Bus Touch for about 40 minutes. The fare is 450 yen for adults. By car, it's about 30 minutes from Asahikawa Station or about 20 minutes from Asahikawa Kita IC on the Doo Chuo Expressway.
Tickets (1)
Can you buy tickets in advance?
Admission tickets can be purchased in advance online (official website) or at convenience stores. With a web ticket, you can enter smoothly through the ticket gates. When purchasing multiple tickets, all visitors must enter together on the day of visit.
Pets (1)
Can pets (dogs, etc.) enter the zoo?
Due to the nature of the zoo, pets cannot be brought in. Service dogs (guide dogs, mobility assistance dogs, and hearing assistance dogs) are permitted.
Opening hours (1)
What are the opening hours and closed dates?
Regular hours are 9:30–17:15 (admission until 16:00). Hours may be shortened depending on the season. In August, the zoo stays open until 21:00 for nighttime viewing. Closed 4–10 November, 30 December–1 January.
Traveling with children (1)
Is it good for families with children? Are there child-friendly facilities?
Middle school students and below enter free and it is very popular with families. The behaviour exhibits where animals can be seen up close are especially enjoyed by children. There are multiple rest areas and gift shops throughout the zoo, and you can also enjoy food like soft serve ice cream.
Time needed (1)
How long should I plan to spend here?
For visiting all facilities, allow about 2–3 hours. If you only want to see the main animals like polar bears and penguins, 1.5–2 hours is enough. If you'd like to enjoy Mogumugu Time or other events, add another hour or so.
Prices (1)
How much is admission to Asahiyama Zoo?
Adults (high school students and above) are 1,000 yen, and middle school students and below are free. Special rates apply for Asahikawa residents. An annual pass can be purchased for the regular admission price plus 400 yen and allows unlimited visits for one year.
Highlights (2)
When does the penguin walk happen in winter?
During the snowy winter season (typically January to March), a penguin walk is held where king penguins and others waddle across the snow. For specific dates and times, please check the official website.
What is Mogumugu Time?
An event where you can watch animals eating while a keeper provides commentary. The schedule is announced each morning on the official website, X (formerly Twitter), and notice boards around the grounds. Polar bear Mogumugu Time is particularly popular, so we recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
Rainy days (1)
Can you enjoy it on a rainy day?
There are many indoor facilities including the Penguin Hall, Seal Hall, Polar Bear Hall, and Big Cat Hall, so you can enjoy the zoo thoroughly even on rainy days. The behaviour exhibits offer plenty to see even indoors.
Meals (1)
Can you eat inside the zoo?
There are multiple rest areas and shops inside the zoo. A restaurant operates in summer, offering Hokkaido specialties like soft serve ice cream and light meals.
Parking (1)
Is there parking? Is it free?
Free parking is available at the main and east entrances. During busy times, nearby private paid parking is also available.
Other (6)
When is it closed?
4–10 November, 30 December–1 January
How do I get there?
From platform 6 at JR Asahikawa Station bus terminal, take Asahikawa Electric Railway buses (lines 41 or 47) for about 40 minutes. By car, it is about 20 minutes from Dōō Expressway Asahikawa Kita IC. Free parking is available at the main and east gates.
What are the opening hours?
9:30–17:15 (admission until 16:00). Hours vary by season. In August, the zoo stays open until 21:00 for night visits.
Is there parking available?
Yes, parking is available. Please check the official information for details.
What is the admission fee?
Adults (high school and above): 1,000 yen. Children (middle school and below): free
What is your address?
Kurashio, Higashi-Asahikawa, Asahikawa, Hokkaido