Best Zoos in Japan — Our Top 5

1.【Private Car】Asahiyama Zoo, Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, Ningle Terrace (from Sapporo)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 60 reviews Our pick

Travel by private car from Sapporo to four Hokkaido highlights in 8 to 10 hours. Spend about two hours at Asahiyama Zoo, then see Biei’s Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls before browsing Ningle Terrace in Furano. Drivers such as Kate, Masaru, Tommy, and Yuki have earned praise for safe driving and flexible help.

“Our guide Mr. Masaru Tanerani was at our hotel for pickup right on time. He drove safely despite the harsh weather. He was very mindful of the different ages people traveling with us. He guided us well on our entire trip. Highly recommend!”

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2.Very popular in Harajuku♡Animal petting zoo

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 39 reviews · 1 hour · from $16Best value

Spend time with four kinds of small animals in Harajuku at Kyun Kyun, a clean, photo-friendly petting zoo with English, Chinese, and Korean staff. Entry costs $16, children under 3 are free, and you can stay without a strict time limit during opening hours.

“We had a wonderful time playing with the animals. I do think it was quite expensive and there wasn’t much information about the experience it self when I booked. I think for $25 per person that should include food to feed the animals instead of that being extra. However the experience was wonderful, the staff were amazing and my kids (5 and 6) loved it! The facility was very clean and tidy and not over crowded. I did book online but didn’t realise we could have also just walked in. The animals were beautiful and so well looked after. Thank you for a lovely morning!”

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3.Hokkaido Highlights of Flower Blossom, Asahiyama Zoo& Blue pond「Aoi-ike」!

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 34 reviews · from $87

Leave Sapporo at 7:35 a.m. for Farm Tomita, Biei’s Blue Pond, famous countryside trees, and Asahiyama Zoo. This 12-hour group tour includes transport, entry fees, and a driver-guide. English support can vary, so expect a mainly Japanese tour with translation.

“Blue pond very picturesque. Zoo nice but hard to get around in the heat. Nice ending of the day at Farm Tomita”

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4.Sapporo Winter : Asahiyama Zoo (Penguin Fun & Snowmobile)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 9 hours - 1 day · from $58

Ride a heated bus from Sapporo to Furano and Asahiyama Zoo, with snowy stops at Ningle Terrace, Shikisai-no-oka, and the Ken & Mary Tree. Your guide, possibly Hong or Sunny, handles the day while you enjoy penguins, winter crafts, and an optional snowmobile ride.

“Hong is a great tour guide. clear and considerate. polite and mindful. keeps us up to date about travel plans.”

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5.Penguin Fun & Snowmobile : Sapporo Winter (Asahiyama Zoo)

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 14 reviews · 9 hours - 1 day · from $58

You’ll ride a heated bus from Sapporo to snowy Furano and Biei, see penguins at Asahiyama Zoo, browse Ningle Terrace, and photograph the Ken and Mary Tree. English and Chinese guides, including guides such as Mr. Hong and Mr. Lin, lead the day. Snowmobiling costs extra.

“As a must-visit in Hokkaido, Asahiyama Zoo exceeded all expectations! The penguin parade was absolutely magical—watching these cute creatures waddle across the snow made my kids scream with joy. The zoo is well-maintained, with clear English signage and friendly staff who happily answered our questions. Don’t miss the polar bear exhibit—their playful antics against the winter backdrop were unforgettable. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves animals! 5/5 stars without a doubt."”

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