Obihiro Zoo

Located in the scenic Midorigaoka Park, Obihiro Zoo is the second oldest zoo on the island of Hokkaido. Founded in 1963, this cozy corner of nature is home to 400 animals across 70 different species. Here, Japan showcases its biological diversity, from exotic tropical inhabitants to unique endemics of the northern latitudes.

Obihiro Zoo. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The zoo takes particular pride in its collection of "Ezo" species found exclusively in Hokkaido, such as the Ezo sika deer, mountain hares, and charming flying squirrels. The zoo is famous as a pioneer in keeping heat-loving animals in cold climates—it was the first place in the country where lions and reticulated giraffes began to thrive among snowy landscapes, making winter observations a truly unique spectacle.

Beyond meeting the fauna, visitors can enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere thanks to the Showa-era retro attractions. Here, you can rise above the city on a 36-meter Ferris wheel or take in views of the Hidaka Mountains. This combination of an educational center and an amusement park makes it an ideal destination for family vacations year-round.

To plan your visit and get the latest information, you can use the official contact details provided below. Zoo staff are always ready to provide details regarding seasonal events.

The main attraction at the zoo is observing Hokkaido's unique "Ezo" species alongside exotic animals. Don't miss the Mogu-tto Feeding Guide—an interactive program where you can watch the lions being fed. Visitors also have the rare opportunity to personally feed the reticulated giraffes and the powerful Banba horses, which is always a delight for children.

For those seeking an atmospheric experience, the Night Zoo program is held on summer weekends (July–August). During this time, the park remains open until late evening, with enclosures softly illuminated to reveal the active lives of nocturnal inhabitants like owls and red pandas. It’s an ideal time for a romantic stroll or a unique family evening.

Be sure to stop by the retro amusement zone. Rides on the Ferris wheel, offering views of the Tokachi Plain, or the classic carousels are very affordable (tickets cost only 100–200 yen). As the zoo grounds are hilly, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes to easily explore all the playgrounds and the petting zoo areas, where you can interact with friendly goats.

The zoo is located at 2 Midorigaoka, Obihiro, within the pleasant Midorigaoka Park. Reaching the park from the city center is quite simple: a taxi or public transport ride takes very little time. Buses run regularly from Obihiro Station to the park, making the site accessible even for those traveling without a car.

For those who enjoy walking, the journey from some central Obihiro hotels takes about 25 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the trip across the flat roads of the Tokachi Plain is very comfortable. There is on-site parking for visitors, which is convenient when planning a full-day family outing.

A trip to the zoo can easily be combined with visits to other iconic city landmarks, such as the famous Banei Horse Racing Track. Convenient transport links also allow for quick travel to Obihiro from neighboring tourist hubs like Kushiro or Furano via Hokkaido's expressways.

The history of Obihiro Zoo began in 1963 (the 38th year of the Showa era), making it the second oldest zoo in Hokkaido after the famous Maruyama Zoo in Sapporo. Since its founding, it has served as a site for bold experiments: it was here that innovative methods for caring for tropical animals in cold climates were first introduced in Japan.

The development of the zoo has gone hand-in-hand with the growth of Obihiro itself. Known for its agricultural traditions and horse breeding, the city's character is reflected in the zoo's concept. The integration of local animal species and the preservation of Showa-era retro attractions create a unique historical layer that allows visitors to experience the atmosphere of Japanese leisure in the 1960s.

Today, located in Midorigaoka Park, the zoo is not only a home for animals but also an important cultural center. Situated next to the local art museum, it forms a unified space for relaxation and education, constantly evolving and introducing modern interactive programs while maintaining its historical charm.

A full visit to Obihiro Zoo usually takes about 3–4 hours. This is plenty of time to leisurely stroll past the enclosures, watch the animal feedings, and spend some time enjoying the retro rides.

If you are traveling as a large family with children, it is better to plan for a half-day visit. This will allow you to visit the petting zoo area with goats, ride the Ferris wheel, and take a break to relax in the scenic Midorigaoka Park without feeling rushed.

Obihiro Zoo welcomes visitors daily during the following hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. This schedule applies every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays. Please note that entry to the grounds closes at 4:00 PM, so plan your visit in advance to ensure you have time to see all the exhibits.

During the summer period, particularly in July and August, the Night Zoo special events can extend weekend hours until 9:00 PM. This is a great chance to see the animals at night, but you should check the official website for specific event dates before your trip.

Exploring the surroundings of Midorigaoka Park can significantly enrich your visit to Obihiro. Near the zoo, you will find numerous historical locations and sites reflecting the industrial and cultural past of the Tokachi region.

Most of these attractions are within walking distance or a short drive, allowing you to create a full and varied day-trip itinerary.