Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

The zoo is conveniently located within 30 minutes from the center of Sapporo, in the lush green Maruyama Park. Following the great success of a mobile zoo held in Sapporo, the zoo was opened as the first zoo in Hokkaido on Children's Day in 1951.

The attraction of Maruyama Zoo, which breeds and exhibits approximately 170 species of animals, is its close proximity to the animals. In recent years, new facilities have opened one after another, attracting much attention.

Among them, the Polar Bear Pavilion, where visitors can observe polar bears swimming dynamically, is a must-see. Through the underwater tunnel, polar bears and seals in separate pools appear to be swimming together.

The “Elephant House,” where adorable elephants live with their parents and offspring, is full of innovations that allow visitors to observe elephants in their natural habitat. Visitors can even get a close-up look at elephants swimming in the indoor pool, the first of its kind in Japan!

The “Doki-Doki Experience” where you can listen to the keeper's commentary on how the elephants are fed is also popular. Visitors can enjoy a variety of daily activities, such as a walk in the forest and feeding the squirrel monkeys.

The spacious park also has a variety of gourmet spots, including a cafeteria and a cafe. On fine days, spread out leisure sheets on the lawn and enjoy cherry blossom viewing or picnicking.