Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Located within lush Maruyama Park and just about 30 minutes from central Sapporo, Maruyama Zoo offers easy access and a nature-filled escape. Established on Children’s Day in 1951, it was the first zoo in Hokkaido, born out of the huge success of a traveling zoo event held in Sapporo.

Home to about 170 species, the zoo is known for its intimate layout that brings visitors surprisingly close to the animals. In recent years, the zoo has been gaining attention for its newly opened, state-of-the-art facilities.

One of the top highlights is the Polar Bear Pavilion, where you can watch majestic polar bears swim dynamically through water. From the underwater tunnel, it looks as if the polar bears and seals—though in separate pools—are swimming together.

Another must-see is the Elephant House, where adorable elephant families live in a spacious and thoughtfully designed environment that allows visitors to observe their natural behavior. It even features Japan’s first indoor pool for elephants, letting you watch them swim up close—a rare and unforgettable sight!

Don’t miss the popular “Exciting Encounters for Everyone (みんなのドキドキ体験)” sessions, where zookeepers provide insightful commentary during feeding times. You can also enjoy various hands-on experiences, such as forest walks and feeding squirrel monkeys—these change daily, making each visit unique.

The spacious grounds also offer plenty of dining options, including cafeterias and cafes. On sunny days, spreading out a picnic blanket on the lawn for cherry blossom viewing or a relaxing outdoor lunch is highly recommended.