Asahiyama Zoo has been open since 1967 and works as two different places depending on when you come. It has a summer opening period and a winter opening period, and some of what matters to families belongs to only one of them.
The penguin walk is a winter programme, held during the snow season. The free pushchair loans at the gates, and the free wheelchair loans, are summer-only; wheelchairs go to whoever asks first and can’t be reserved. That is the trade-off to plan around: the season with the penguins on parade is the season you’ll need to bring your own pushchair.
The park map shows two children’s farms, and times for keeper-led events such as Mogumogu Time and the Naruhodo Guide are posted on boards at each gate and near the support center. Please don’t use flash when photographing the animals.
If you’re staying overnight in Asahikawa, there’s a two-day ticket for guests of city accommodation that lets you in from noon on the first day until noon the next.
Family FAQ
How much does Asahiyama Zoo cost?
An adult ticket is ¥1,000; an annual Asahiyama Zoo Passport is ¥1,400.
Is there baby changing at Asahiyama Zoo?
The nursing room in the central free rest area beside the seal house has a changing table, electric kettle and microwave.
