City: Hokkaido
Top Things to do in Hokkaido
What to do and see in Hokkaido, Japan: The Best Zoos & Aquariums
Hokkaido (北海道, Hokkaidō, literally "Northern Sea Circuit") (Japanese: [hokkaꜜidoː] ( listen)), formerly known as Ezo, Yezo, Yeso, or Yesso, is the second largest island of Japan, and the largest and northernmost prefecture. The Tsugaru Strait separates Hokkaido from Honshu. The two islands are connected by the undersea railway Seikan Tunnel. The largest city on Hokkaido is its capital, Sapporo, which is also its only ordinance-designated city. About 43 km north of Hokkaido lies Sakhalin Island, Russia, whereas to its east and north-east are the disputed Kuril Islands.
Restaurants in Hokkaido
1. Dobutsu Fureai Land
2. Asahiyama Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,761 reviews
Reviewed By carlbrown1 - Kaminoyama, Japan
I thought that we were going along to some small zoo in a small town in Hokkaido. Turned out to have many exhibits with most animals seemingly enjoying themselves despite there being snow on the ground - even the African ones. Usually one expects animals to be sleeping all the time but here they were up and about. Loved the different viewpoints for the "dancing hippo" and of course the penguin walk in the snow right in front of you. Well worth the trip - we actually took time off specifically to visit i.e. not a stopover for something to do, as we had seen a Japanese drama story based on the zoo
3. Maruyama Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 772 reviews
An amusement park and penguin pool make this zoo a popular spot for children.
Reviewed By Junteng63 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Went on a weekday, not crowded at all. Entrance fees 600yen for adults and children under 12 is free on charge. It was a snowing day and the zoo provide umbrella to all visitors. 15mins walk from the station. There r so much to see in the zoo. But due to cold weather, some animals might be keep indoor. So dont be surprise that some area/cage r empty. It will be a nice exercise for those who seldom walk.
4. Noboribetsu Marine Park Nixe
5. Bear Mountain Sahoro
6. Kushiro City Tanchozuru Nature Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 248 reviews
Reviewed By MaximeLecl - France, null
We went on October 22nd early morning when it opens at 9am. Our advice is to come when the center opens because we had the morning light, less tourists, and the cranes were the most active (2 of them flew and came on the visitors path and 2 others were showing off for pride to each other, doing their famous danse and call more or less). Cranes are free to fly away if they want to. There are behind a protective wired fence. Some holes allow you to photograph them properly without the fence. We believe the cranes are being taken care of and the ones that are ill are receiving treatment in an outside area visitors can see from afar but cannot visit. Also saw red kites and black woodpecker in the trees next to the cranes. Directions: take bus number 30 from Kushiro bus terminal to go and come back. Beware though that the number of buses going and coming is highly limited (2 per morning depending on season). You can also take the bus to airport terminal and walk 30 minutes on the road, it's ok but I don't really recommend this option
7. Salmon Hometown Chitose Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 252 reviews
Reviewed By B138877 - Queensland, Australia
Lot of displays. Plenty of interactive displays. They have a window to the local river so you can see the wild fish.
8. Obihiro Zoo
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 98 reviews
9. Otaru Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 412 reviews
Reviewed By ambamb8 - Hong Kong, China
Given Otaru is a very small city in Hokkaido, it's unrealistic to expect a very cool aquarium. Frankly, having its own aquarium is already amazing. The closest encounter one can get:- - winter in snow, penguins walking next to you. - dolphin show with dolphin only 3m away. - touching the octopus and "sucks" by it. Great fun day for kids and parents.
