Maruyama Zoo: Hokkaido's First Zoo with Unique Exhibits

Maruyama Zoo in Hokkaido, the first zoo in the region, features a polar bear pavilion and the largest elephant house in Japan. Opened in 1951, Maruyama Zoo is the first zoo in Hokkaido and is a rare example in Japan of a zoo rich in ecological diversity. Just a 10-minute drive from the center of Sapporo, it offers close encounters with animals and is beloved by the locals. In recent years, the zoo has been committed to providing a natural habitat for the animals, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors. The 'Zoo no Mori' (Zoo Forest) recreates the nature of Sapporo from 50 years ago and is a rare example in Japan of a zoo rich in ecological diversity. Additionally, there is a polar bear pavilion that simulates the habitat of polar bears, and the largest elephant house in Japan, where visitors can see different exhibits from other zoos, appealing to both adults and children. Maruyama Zoo is divided into dozens of sections according to different animal characteristics, with both indoor and outdoor exhibits. There are hundreds of animals, ranging from tropical to polar species, including those that fly in the sky and swim in the sea, all of which are very cute. Operating Hours (March-October) 9:30-16:30 (last admission at 16:00) (November-February) 9:30-16:00 (last admission at 15:30) Closed Days The 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month (if it's a holiday, the following day is closed) April, November: Monday-Friday of the week containing the 2nd Wednesday December 29-31 Winter operating hours are shorter, closing at 4 PM Tickets are not sold 30 minutes before closing, and as it gets dark early in Hokkaido, this is something to be mindful of. Cost Admission: Adults 800 yen, free for junior high school students and younger Transportation Walking: About 15 minutes from Maruyama Koen Station on the subway Driving: About 30 minutes from Sapporo Kita IC on the Sasson Expressway